MichaelO Desktop

I have been using computers since the Apple IIGS so I have seen my share of various setups and components. I settled with PC because of their ease of customization, affordable prices and user-friendliness. This system evolved over a number of years and has seen many upgrades. The monitor on the left is a separate computer that use for email and music. It is a simple system that I bought at a thrift store for $60. Since its only function is to run Outlook, Winamp and Rhapsody, it does not need to be high tech.

The 2 monitors in the middle are a dual monitor setup for my main computer – a quadcore with 6GB RAM. The monitors are 24” Dell UltraSharp. The graphics card is top-of-the-line which I needed in order to rotate both monitors 90 degrees. I prefer the vertical orientation of the monitors on this computer because most of the artwork I create is vertical. Call me stubborn but I still use Windows XP and Photoshop CS2. I prefer very plain and simple components that do the work I need them to do without the extra bells and whistles that I will never use. The operating system is even running in ‘classic mode’ with a plain gray wallpaper.

The monitor on the right is obviously a TV. Sometimes I get sick of listening to music while working so turn the TV on instead, although, I try not to do that too often because it is distracting.
The desk was custom built. I designed it to fit perfectly in my office using 3D Studio Max. It was built by a local craftsman.

Lastly, you will see that I do not use a tablet. I do have one but I have not found a use for it outside of making long strokes (like painting hair). I really do not know how people can stand using them all the time.