Wire & Cable Solutions Help Power Remote Work

In the workplace, you’re bound to have countless social interactions. Both working and personal relationships form naturally as you collaborate with your colleagues, share lunch breaks, borrow supplies, and make plans for the annual holiday party or monthly happy hour. For many people, those social interactions are the highlight of a busy workday; they help you build a network where you can vent, celebrate, and feel like part of a team.

At least, that’s what it’s usually like, but there’s nothing “usual” about the current situation. Among the workers who were able to keep their jobs, 62% of them were working from home in April. Even in manufacturing facilities, where remote work isn’t possible, colleagues who used to work next to each other are now required to practice social distancing. All of this diminishes opportunities for building relationships.

Maintaining those connections is as important as getting the work done—and connecting is often essential for getting the work done in the first place. As more people move to a remote working situation—some of them permanently—we’re more reliant than ever on the wire and cable solutions that power the equipment we need to work and socialize.

 

What Do You Need to Work From Home?

Successful remote work relies on a properly equipped home office. The standing desk, calendar white board, and inspiring artwork are part of that, of course, but we’re really talking about the hardware that will keep you connected. Your company should issue some guidelines or requirements to help you get started.

Computer:It all starts here. You probably already have one, but you’ll need to make sure you have the appropriate amount of memory and a large enough screen to do your job.

High-Speed Internet: Hard-wired Internet is often more reliable than wireless, which is why some companies feel better about having you literally plugged in. However, that requires different equipment, so talk to your local Internet provider to get what you need. You can’t afford any dropped calls or lost connections when you’re doing business.

Noise-Canceling Telephone or Headset With a Microphone: Depending on your job, you may have to make and receive phone calls, and depending on your unique home office, there may be noise you need to block out. This is an investment that can save you from a lot of distraction.

External Webcam: Your computer might already have one, but if not, you can buy one that easily plugs into the USB port. Even if you’ve never used one before, you may find yourself needing it for virtual meetings.

Printer and Scanner: Our paperless world still uses a lot of paper. Hopefully your employer will provide you with the scanner/printer; if not, your life will be easier if you pick one up.

And More: A wireless keyboard and mouse, dual monitors, an external hard drive, and a USB hub may not be necessary, but they’re nice to have. You don’t want to find yourself in a frustrating situation where you think, “This would be so much easier if I only had the right tools.”

 

Wire & Cable Powering Working From Home

While you need all the equipment listed above, all that equipment needs wire and cable! Without it, working from home wouldn’t be an option.

Consolidated Electronic Wire & Cable is a one-stop source for all your wire and cable needs. From standard and custom electronic wire to power supply cords, molded cable assemblies, wiring harnesses, and more, we’ve got what you need for your specific application. For more than 100 years, we have been serving customers in nearly every industry and market—wire and cable is needed everywhere—and we’ve got the experience and skills to tackle even the most challenging performance requirements.