Month: January 2019

Should I use a Surge Protector to Support my Gaming Station – we say yes!

Andrew the Cable NingaLeave a comment

For gamers, there’s nothing more valuable than their console and all the electronics which surround it. Although it’s unlikely, if there’s ever a power outage at home or let’s say your wall outlet is hit with a surge of electricity, you always want to be protected.

 

Surge protectors are not expensive and yet, they carry so much value because of what they protect. When you use a surge protector, you don’t need to worry about your gaming console being at risk in a power outage because it won’t be. Whatever’s plugged into it, rest assured knowing it’s all under heavy protection.

PrimeCables surge protector
PrimeCables surge protector

Surge protectors are always about putting safety first. Power surges can be avoided, to some degree. That said, you never know when it could happen or how that might affect hardware. Anyone with computers, gaming consoles, or similarly expensive electronics, using a surge protector is a necessity.

 

For anyone looking for which surge protector you should buy for your gaming station, we’ve got options. Shop products like your basic 10-outlet surge protector power strip for $14.99 or go with something a little more advanced like a 6-outlet wall mount surge protector with dual USB charging ports for $11.99. Either of these are recommended buys for gamers and customizable according to need. You won’t have to be scared the next time your breaker trips or your power goes.

 

If neither of those possibilities resonate with you, no worries. There are dozens of other surge protectors available, including our 72-watt 10-port USB smart charging station for $39.99, the uniquely designed 6-outlet surge protector side socket with swivel for $9.99, an 8-outlet surge protector power strip in high quality aluminum housing for $12.99, and the massive 12-outlet home office surge protector with 8” power cord for $39.99.

 

Some of the features you’ll find in these surge protectors are heavy cord you can rely on for performance, 450J surge protection, some come with built-in wall mounting features, permission to power multiple devices, and a multi-amp circuit breaker.

 

For cheap, high quality surge protectors, shop with Canada’s own PrimeCables. We offer free returns, a 1-year product guarantee on every surge protector sold, and we also provide free shipping to anywhere in Canada on all orders above $49. Grab your surge protector and a few extras to reach the minimum threshold, and don’t worry about having to pay extra for shipping ‘cause we’ve got it covered. You’ll be thankful you shopped a cheap surge protector with PrimeCables. Visit our catalogue today and take a look!

Why you Don’t Need more than 720p Resolution for Small to Medium Sized TVs

Andrew the Cable NingaLeave a comment

If you’re looking to buy a small to medium sized TV, although you may have your heart set on 1080p or 4K, consumers usually don’t need more than 720p resolution tv . Here’s why.

primecables 32" TV
primecables 32″ TV

1080p resolution is the most popular category of TVs bought today however most TVs being purchased are of a medium to large variety. If you’re looking for smaller TVs, you can find 1080p flat-screens out there however they come at a cost.

 

When looking at smaller screens, you may be pushed towards buying a 4K because of all the great things spoken about it. Although 4K’s amazing, are you really going to be able to see all of that beautiful detail on a smaller screen – absolutely not. As a matter of fact, regarding 1080p, many people mistake 720p signals for 1080p all the time. Especially on smaller screens, picture quality comes very close between 720p and 1080p.

 

Although it’s easy to look down upon 720p resolution, some of the world’s biggest corporations broadcast in it. Do you know what resolution ABC, FOX, ESPN, and Disney broadcast in – you guessed it, 720p. Believe us when we say that you probably won’t notice a difference between 1080p and 720p on flat-screens sized 32 inches or lower.

 

There are a lot of advantages to buying a smaller 720p TV. They’re easy to fit into different parts of the home, are more inexpensive than their larger counterparts, and can be customized according to what you need.

 

If you want it to be a smart TV, you can buy a smart TV box and personalize your flat-screen right there with the apps you need. Also, assuming you want accessories along the lines of a Bluetooth soundbar, an HDTV antenna, or something else, small TVs are compatible with all these and more.

 

Some other advice we can offer in purchasing a 720p resolution TV is to ensure it has an HDMI port. Functionality is still very important, no matter the resolution so be sure to compare specifications and to know what you’re going to be using your flat-screen for.

 

Needless to say, PrimeCables’ small to medium sized  720p TVs have received strong reviews from customers. If you’re looking for a positive experience with an easy-to-use, simple, small, and affordable flat-screen TV, shop it in 720p on discount at Canada’s own PrimeCables. Shop all your favourite home theater accessories, smart TV boxes, and more. Enjoy fast, free shipping to anywhere in Canada on all TV purchases.

Why Curved Monitors continue to be a Major Trend in the Gaming Industry in 2019

Andrew the Cable NingaLeave a comment

Curved monitors have become a favourite among gamers and general consumers, always seeking the latest and greatest in the world of technology. There’s a lot of reasons why curved monitors are preferred by gamers.

Not only are they visually impressive and futuristic to have, curved monitors also come with a more immersive experience at their feet. For gamers, having an immersive, theatrical experience is preferred to sitting in front of the same boring old monitor setup. They’re built well, sleek, and are considered among the best monitors in Canada.

There are several curved gaming monitors on the market and some of which are upgrades on existing flat-screens out there. We challenge anyone to play a game on a flat-screen and then, on a curved monitor. See which you prefer.

Curved monitors are a lot more exciting and a lot easier to stare at for hours on end throughout the day. Using a curved monitor, you’ll likely find lower latency as well which is a huge advantage. No one wants to see their game lag again and again. That’s why curved monitors are meant for gaming. They’re high-tech, wide, and are perfect for almost any multimedia. There’s not a better display out there, we’ll argue.

Some of the features you might want to look for in a curved monitor includes a mountable design, specifications relating to gaming precision and accuracy like a high refresh rate and fast response time, and multiple input options.

Browsing the most impressive curved monitors in Canada, you’ll find one from PrimeCables that suits all these points, coming in a thin aluminum frame. Highly acclaimed from buyers, the 27” 1080p screen is currently on-sale for $309.99. For gamers, it’s won the attention of many with impressive detail that’ll keep you locked into the game at all times.

Even with all these reasons why curved monitors are still a major trend, you may still prefer a flat monitor. That’s understandable. We like what we like. If that’s you, you may want to check out the 27” flat 4K gaming monitor for $329.99 or the 32” 4K slim desktop monitor for $639.99.

For gamers, geeks, and home theater enthusiasts, whether you’re after a flat or curved monitor, no one can deny curved monitors are here to stay. Curved monitors have being purchased by gamers, for home offices, for graphic designers and musicians, and for business. They’re some of the most advanced TV and monitor models available in Canada and as we look towards the future, curved monitors are on track to one day replace their flat screen counterparts.

What are the Characteristics of a Great Anti-Fatigue Standing Mat – read here!

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An anti-fatigue standing mat in Canada should come with a handful of key characteristics, ideal for pairing with a standing desk or a height adjustable sit-standing desk.

 

Browse some of the best anti-fatigue floor mats in Canada from PrimeCables. Combine your mat with a sit-standing desk and you have a winning combination moving forward. Standing desks break up the monotony of prolonged sitting. They keep your body engaged and help you maintain a healthy posture.

 

Throughout this fixation on sit-standing desks, most buyers will pick up a standing desk without purchasing an anti-fatigue standing mat along with it. Nevertheless, you’ll be far more comfortable standing for extended periods on a mat than you will on the cold, hard ground.

 

The first characteristic of an excellent anti-fatigue standing mat is shock absorption. Standing or walking in place, you want to know you’re not going to get fatigued or injured in a similar way to what happens with prolonged sitting. After all, if you’re going to stand and get injured to avoid sitting and getting injured, there’s no point. Thus, shock absorption is a necessity.

 

The second characteristic is a non-slip bottom to keep it from moving underneath you while one stands, leans, or walks. Non-slip is important because standing for extended periods, we get tired. If your mat slips out from underneath you, that’s bound to lead to an embarrassment – if not, a serious injury. For these reasons, having non-slip material underneath the mat to prevent movement is incredibly important.

 

A third characteristic which is important are beveled edges which are designed to reduce tripping. Walking on and off your mat, you don’t want to have a tumble. Anti-fatigue mats are sometimes purchased for warehouse environments where there are more hazards. In these settings, beveled edges are even more important.

 

Some other characteristics that may be valued on an anti-fatigue mat includes whether it’s commercial grade thickness which would indicate how well-made it is, how durable the material used is, and the size.

 

Anti-fatigue standing mats are used in kitchens, garages, offices, and retail. They work well at relieving the pressure that gets put on the heels, lower back, legs, and shoulders. As strain accumulates in these areas while standing, this can lead to some major issues. An anti-fatigue standing mat with a contoured beveled design, no-curl edges, tear-resistant, made from non-toxic materials, and that are easy to clean can be purchased from PrimeCables on-sale today. Upgrade your productivity and protect your body. Buy an anti-fatigue standing mat for your home, office, or warehouse today.

Using a Height Adjustable Desk to Create your Own Ergonomic Workstation

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An adaptable workstation is just a click away with a height adjustable sit-standing desk. Using a height adjustable desk, you get to relieve negative pressure on your body while leaving you with the most comfortable place to work. It’s all a part of the ergonomics movement!

 

For those that haven’t heard of the word before, ‘ergonomics’ is a category of office products used to create the most optimum office experience. To some degree, ergonomics is offices re-imagined. The height-adjustable desk is a great example of this.

 

Prolonged sitting puts a lot of stress on our bodies and leaves them at serious risk of injury. Using a desk where you can adjust height, you may stand when sitting becomes difficult or vice versa. Standing desks are incredibly popular all over the world and a height adjustable sit-standing desk is one iteration.

 

Why they’re usually the most preferred option is because of how adaptable they are to having an active workspace. An office worker doesn’t need to stand, if they don’t want to. All the power is given to them.

 

There are many advantages office workers and home office enthusiasts have found using an adjustable desk like this. In the same way you engage your mind while you work, a desk like this allows you to engage your physical self as well. Say goodbye to all that sitting. Engage your legs, burn more calories, and keep yourself on track with your fitness goals. Another great benefit is a height adjustable desk keeps you productive. There have been some reports and studies conducted showing how it improves job performance. If you have a home office, many have purchased these desks to give them some freedom as to how they want to work, which inspires their own productivity.

 

Creating your own ergonomic workstation, feel free to pair your desk with a foot rest, an anti-fatigue standing mat, a monitor desk mount, and all sorts of ergonomic accessories. PrimeCables has a full line of office furniture and accessories that add movement and excitement to the average workspace. It’s also the perfect opportunity to take advantage of these, with ‘free shipping’ applied to any order above $49.

 

All in all, remember, your workspace is your own and thereby, your workspace should reflect your interests and what you need to perform your best. Although a height adjustable sit-standing desk can be a wonderful addition, to get the most benefit, you must make use of it. Shop the different models at PrimeCables and enjoy deals, discounts, and exclusives you won’t find anywhere else!

Tips and Tricks on How to Stay Fit while working an Office Job

Andrew the Cable NingaLeave a comment

When you work an office job, you’re stuck at a desk for literally the better part of the day – if not, the whole day. That’s a lot of sitting. Staying fit is a challenge, especially if you’re off track with your fitness goals, when you’re doing so much sitting.

rocelco ergonomic adjustable table
rocelco ergonomic adjustable table

Thankfully, there are some ways to keep the body engaged while you’re at the desk. A height adjustable desk is one such way. Using a sit-standing desk, you can raise it and lower it as you please. For when you’re tired and you just want to sit and chill, you can. The prolonged sitting however can put strain on the body, reducing blood flow, increasing the risks associated to plaque build-up, diabetes, obesity, depression, and more. So when you want to stand, with a height adjustable desk, you can.

 

If you have to be chained at your desk, there’s no real way around it but products like a sit-standing desk can help change things up. There are also several tips to keep in mind. An hourly reminder that lets you know you need to get up and walk around at least once every year is important. Take the time to make a phone call, grab a drink, or just get up for a quick walk somewhere. These movements can have a positive effect on mood, energy levels, and concentration. We know it’s not always possible to get up and take a walk, hence how a sit-standing desk can help.

 

If you work on a laptop, believe it or not, there is a bicycle desk workstation that can let you engage the body while still being on track. Although expensive and admittedly challenging to complete all at once, a bicycle desk workstation is among the several devices and gadgets catching on in the marketplace. For when you’re too busy to leave your desk, this is the closest thing to combining work with some hardcore fitness. Through a bicycle desk workstation, you’ll keep your legs busy, stay on track with your fitness goals, and can stay engaged with your work.

 

Some of the other ergonomic office accessories you can add to your daily work routine to successfully keep your mind and body on the move include a monitor document clip, an LED lamp, an ergonomic foot rocker, a non-slip adjustable footrest, a laptop and tablet stand, a gas spring desk mount, and so much more. Shop it all at PrimeCables and get it on-sale!

 

How to Install a Monitor Desk Mount for LCD Monitors

Andrew the Cable NingaLeave a comment

Installing a monitor desk mount can be a big upgrade for your desk’s ergonomics. Look around. Your computer setup is likely one that’s taking up a fair bit of space. You may have wires, books, stacks of paper hanging around and making a mess of things. Your current monitor might be sitting on a stack of books to help it rise to your eye’s comfort level. This is a very disorganized way to keep one’s workstation.

a1b28-primecables-cab-ldt13-c012-monitor-desk-mounts-interactive-counterbalance-lcd-vesa-desk-mount-for-most-13-27-lcd-monitors-primecables-

With a monitor desk mount, you lift up your screen off the desk and adjust it according to where you need it. Firstly, this keeps you comfortable, which is important if you’re working long shifts. Secondly, it tidies the place up a bit. You now have more space on your desk, now that your monitor’s been lifted. This can help in keeping your papers organized and keeping yourself razor-focused.

 

PrimeCables specializes in ergonomic office accessories and monitor desk mounts. We have several monitor arms, mounts, and risers which our customers use to elevate their monitor and bring their workstations to the next level. If you suffer from neck strain or eye fatigue, using a mount to adjust your monitor will absolutely help. Adding some height gives your neck a break and can be easily mixed in with other elements of your ergonomic workstation, like if you have a height adjustable desk or chair.

 

For LCD monitors, there are three types of mounts to consider. A monitor riser is a stand-alone unit that rises the monitor to its most comfortable height. If you’re installing a monitor riser, it’s very straightforward. There’s no real monitor riser installation process as it already comes ready to be used. Place it on a desk or table and use it to support your monitor.

 

When discussing desk mounts, there’s also monitor arms which work as an arm to hold up your monitor. A monitor desk mount arm works just like a TV wall mount. A monitor arm screws onto or into the back of the monitor, while the other end attaches to the desk or wall. There are some full-motion monitor desk mounts which can be made to tilt, swivel, and move up and down as needed. These are ideal if you’re looking to adjust positions regularly.

 

There’s also multi-monitor desk mounts, which can be used to support two, three, four, five, or even six monitors. If you’re looking to hold up multiple monitors, you’re going to want a multi-monitor mount and thankfully, there’s no shortage of them out there. Shop single monitor mounts, dual monitor mounts, triple monitor mounts, and more at PrimeCables.

CES 2019 gives Glimpse into the Future of USB Type-C Cables, Devices, and more!

Andrew the Cable NingaLeave a comment

The annual CES show is always a spectacle to behold, with so many new tech gadget and developments. This year, we’ve seen a lot into the future of where the USB standard is headed.

 

PrimeCables USB c cables
PrimeCables USB c cables

 

As we look ahead towards the next generation of headphones, monitors, docks, and gadgets coming down the pike, know USB Type-C cables and devices are not going away any time soon. As a matter of fact, in many ways, USB-C still hasn’t reached the full potential of what it can do. Now that the future’s coming closer towards fulfilling USB Type-C’s potential, we’re excited!

 

Imagine portable monitors which can take video and power from any connected laptop. Imagine docks where the connectors are USB-C laptop ports. Think of the headphones and microphones which are able to make use of a USB-C connection. Although the tech industry has given a lot of pushback to adopting USB-C industry-wide, so many companies and products are beginning to come around in agreement that this is the best connection type going. Throughout the past year and into this one, more products are in development accepting the USB-C standard while others are committing to ditching the Micro USB standard in favor of the aforementioned.

 

At CES 2019, one of the most impressive uses of USB-C ended up being with monitors.  In the next year, laptops will hit the market able to send video data and power to up to two HD displays consecutively. Instead of plugging your monitor into the wall, you can now use your laptop to draw power from. Although this challenges the laptop’s battery to perform, running it down unplugged rather quickly, it’s an interesting concept no doubt.

 

Taking Apple’s lead, Android manufacturers have committed to getting rid of the headphone jack on their smartphone products as well. Now, the headphone industry has made its choice, siding with USB-C and lightning cable-connecting headphones. In a short little while, it’s reasonable to expect to see no more 3.5mm headphones in favor of those switching to USB-C headphones. Although wireless and Bluetooth are more or less an industry standard, for those connections that require a cable, USB Type-C is proving to be a far more reliable standard than 3.5mm audio cable.

 

As we reached its conclusion, we can say with certainty that a big focus of CES 2019 continued to be to push the USB Type-C standard forward. In a period where there’s a lot of competition from wireless solutions, USB-C continues to hold strong. Shop all your USB Type-C cables and accessories from PrimeCables today.

Can I use Over-the-Ear Headphones at the Gym, for Yoga, and while Exercising – Yes!

Andrew the Cable NingaLeave a comment

Being at the gym, on a fitness cycle, in yoga, or on the run, you know what’s going to happen. You’re going to get massively sweaty and as they slide around, you’re going to be finagling with your earbuds trying to keep them in. This ongoing process can put a major damper on your workout vibe, completing ruining a workout if you let it.

PrimeCables headphone Canada
PrimeCables headphone Canada

If that’s you, you’re not alone. So many of us struggle with our earbuds in the middle of a challenging workout. In response, a lot of us have made the switch to over-the-ear headphones. Sure, in-ears are compact, stable, and arguably more breathable. Even so, nothing beats over-the-ear’s fit and the way they send an immediate message to those around that you’re in the zone.

 

If you’re buying over-the-ear headphones for the gym or for exercise, you’re going to want to keep a few things in mind. For example, you don’t want them too heavy or too bulky. For those who can find a comfortable pair though, you’ll often find you can get more battery life, more comfort, more controls, and more features at a decent price point than you can for something similar in an ear bud format. Also, you’re more likely to cancel out the noise around you with over-the-ear headphones.

 

Some over-the-ear headphones you’ll find in the PrimeCables catalogue includes the light weight over-the-ear headphones from Monoprice for $39.99, DJ-style professional headphones for high quality sound also from Monoprice for $35.99, the affordable and premium-style DJ-style headphones direct from PrimeCables for $19.99, the also-affordable Bluetooth wireless over-the-ear headphones for $59.99, and the ultra-comfortable modern retro over-ear headphones for $59.99.

 

These are all some of the best over-ear headphones in Canada and all function tremendously well in fitness environments. Ultimately, it comes down to what you need to feel comfortable in your workout. A lot of fitness enthusiasts may find the wireless Bluetooth option to make the most sense. If you don’t mind carrying a wire however, you can get an amazing set of over-the-ear headphones for just under $20. Also, the great thing about these models is they’re not strictly sports-designated. Use them while you’re commuting or to listen to music around the house.

 

Shop PrimeCables today to browse headphones, retro over-ear headphones, earbuds, Bluetooth headphones, and all types of ear-wear. Tight and comfortable, fit these over your ears and take them out for a jog. See the performance. We’re almost sure you’ll be pleased with what you hear!

An Explainer on Bluetooth and how Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds work

Andrew the Cable NingaLeave a comment

So you’ve just bought yourself a new pair of wireless Bluetooth earbuds. If you’ve never used Bluetooth before though, you might not know how to get your wireless earbuds working. How a Bluetooth headset works is rather easy. Let’s explain.

 

monoprice canada bluetooth earphone
monoprice canada bluetooth earphone

Bluetooth uses radio waves to establish connections between different products. Instead of cables, these radio waves can connect to smartphones, computers, and any device capable of receiving or transmitting data through this method. If you have a Bluetooth-enabled device, it can be synced with your wireless Bluetooth earbuds.

 

Bluetooth itself was developed as a wireless short-range communications method. It’s used in millions of products including headphones, portable speakers, and so much more. Bluetooth earbuds carry with them a small computer chip inside. Said chip has a Bluetooth radio and software which makes connectivity possible.

 

The only other requirement of a Bluetooth connection is for both products to be in close proximity to one another. If they are not close in distance, you can’t connect or pair them.

 

To connect your Bluetooth earbuds to your smartphone, you need to first ensure your earbuds have been fully charged. They need to be plugged in via USB cable to get the battery charged up. From there, turn on your Bluetooth earbuds.

 

Now, go to your smartphone and turn on your Bluetooth. When you do this, your smartphone will start scanning for devices. Your earbuds will show up on the list of devices prepped for pairing. After you pair them, you’re able to listen to music, make phone calls, and do anything audio-wise.

 

What to do if your Bluetooth wireless earbuds are not working is simple. An initial thing to try is turning everything off and trying a second time. If this doesn’t work, ensure your Bluetooth earbuds have been fully charged. Verify that everything’s Bluetooth-enabled. The average Bluetooth earbuds emit a low power radio transmission signal limited to up to 10 meters. Depending on the build however, this can be smaller or larger.

 

There are several wireless Bluetooth earbuds found in the PrimeCables catalogue. Shop the PrimeCables official wireless Bluetooth earbuds with mic and charging case for $49.99, the iHome metal earbuds for $44.99, the SonicSolace active noise cancelling Bluetooth over-ear headphones for $166.99, and the most affordable wireless Bluetooth stereo ergonomic earbuds for $9.99. Select your favourites, accumulate an order of minimum $49, and receive fast, free shipping to anywhere in Canada. Visit PrimeCables today!