Headphones Information:: wireless headphones, noise canceling headphones, Plantronics Headsets
Why Would You Want to Use Headphones in the Office?
Headphones can be used in conjunction with voice recognition software or to replace the handset of an office telephone. If the telephone is a pivotal part of your workday, you may want to consider purchasing a hands-free headset to replace the handset.
Holding the phone to your ear all day can cause neck or shoulder strain because we typically tilt our heads out of alignment when we talk on the phone. This is especially true if you type while you talk. Headphones can reduce the likelihood of repetitive stress injuries, especially neck and back pain.
Noise canceling headphones are particularly effective, especially with voice recognition software.
Wireless Headphones
If you find the cord to your headphones irksome, you may want to consider wireless headphones. Wireless headphones actually have ergonomic benefits, because they allow you to step away from your computer or your telephone while using them. The downside is that wireless headphones require batteries. While you can use rechargeable batteries, if you are using your headphones for more than a couple hours a day, it is probably more practical to get USB headphones. If you are buying headphones to use with voice recognition software, avoid headphones that plug into a sound card, as they have more trouble with voice recognition.
Plantronics Headsets
Plantronics Headsets are widely preferred because they deliver superior sound and quality. Plantronics Headsets for the computer are available in both analogue (plugs into your sound card) and digital (plugs into your USB port) models. The digital headsets tend to work better. Digital Plantronics Headsets range in price from about $60 to about $110. They are all noise canceling headphones.