--- Forwarded Message from Derek Roff <[log in to unmask]> --- >Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2002 09:51:41 -0700 >From: Derek Roff <[log in to unmask]> >To: LLTI-Editor <[log in to unmask]> >Subject: Re: #6914.5 Language lab design question (!) >In-Reply-To: <[log in to unmask]> >References: <[log in to unmask]> My experience supports Jack's conclusions. We thought that monitors-under-glass was a great solution, but having lived with it for several years, I would not do it again. In addition to the serious problems that Jack mentions, we have found several additional annoyances: Heat build-up can be significant from the CRT. Smudges and fingerprints are a constant problem, and scratches in the glass build up fairly quickly, leading to a more frequent need for replacement than we imagined. Derek >> From: Jack Burston <[log in to unmask]> > > On the matter of keeping video displays below the line of sight, > unless you have something else in mind, this requires recessing the > units below the desktop with some type of (plexi)glass covering. > In the labs where I've seen this type of installation, those using > it would not recommend it (or equivalently do it again themselves) > because of two major problems. The first (with CRT displays at > least) was light glare, even when the units are fitted with > protective hoods. The second problem was that of ergonomics. > Recessed screens are quite a distance away and, worse, the downward > viewing angle can be quite tiring. I've never seen this done with > LCD monitors, though I wouldn't image the problem would be any > less. I also ran into the problem of my legs banging into the > under-desk well that housed the monitor. Presumably this would be > less of a problem with LCD monitors. If you, or other colleagues, > have found a good solution to these difficulties, I'd love to hear > from you. Jack Burston Derek Roff Language Learning Center, Ortega Hall Rm 129, University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM 87131 505/277-7368, fax 505/277-3885 Internet: [log in to unmask]