Office Equipment You'll Need
for Your Small Business
There is some basic equipment you're going to need for
your business. The bare minimum includes...
Computer
Printer
Telephone
Computers and accessories
Choosing between a desktop or notebook is a
matter of personal preference. The tried-n-true desktop is my favorite when
I'm
in the office, but for everywhere else, you can't beat the flexibility and
portability of a notebook PC.
If your budget is tight, you can still
pick up a top-quality computer. There are a number of websites offering
information and advice about buying a cheap computer. One site I recommend
is cheap-computers-guide.com.
New equipment isn't your only option.
Refurbished computers and peripherals are a great way to stretch your
budget. Refurbished equipment is fully inspected and tested to make sure it
is working properly, and sold with a limited warranty.
Computer Geeks is a supplier that sells
new and refurbished computers and accessories at a discount. If you are a techie,
you'll especially appreciate their
selection of parts to build your own.
Check out the latest & greatest @Geeks.com!
Telephones
Adding a separate telephone line is simple and
relatively inexpensive. In many areas, you can even get a toll-free number
added to your account at no additional charge.*
Despite the fact you work from home,
projecting a professional image to callers is essential. If you have
kids, you know they're not likely to handle business calls properly, so make
sure there is a separate line for customers.
Another reason to install a separate telephone line relates to taxes.
IRS rules say you can't deduct the cost of the primary home phone as a
business deduction.
more on tax deductions
»
A 2-line instrument is a good choice for a home office,
and just about any of the popular brands will do a good job. Many even offer
both corded and cordless options, and are expandable.
Fax machines
If you use a dial-up modem to connect to the Internet, you probably have the
capability to send and receive faxes through your computer. Nevertheless,
you make still want a stand-alone desktop
model.
The multi-task
models that combine a printer, scanner and fax machine offer the best the
value. Just make sure you do some research about maintenance. In some cases,
the toner and repairs can be expensive.
There are now a variety of services offering virtual fax
services. For a nominal monthly fee, you can receive faxes via email. And if
you use dial-up service, you can receive incoming calls and still remain
online.
*Check with your local
telephone service provider for
applicable charges and fees, if any.
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