Full Desk

Desk Top Unit

What is it?

• whole desk that can be adjusted to suit standing or sitting
• can be relocated (sometimes limited by existing office layout configuration)
• ideal for refurbishments

• a platform that sits on an existing desk and supports hardware for computer workstation i.e. monitors, keyboard and mouse
• usually a cheaper option, can be used on desks where dimensions are suitable
• easier to relocate to another desk however can be heavy

Work tasks

• no limitation to work tasks
• enables items such as phone, PC accessories, paperwork to be close at hand for your work at all times
• able to support multiple screens

• may have a limited work area i.e. only fit one monitor, keyboard and mouse
• some are able to support two monitors with larger work surface or extra monitor supports

Posture

• allows user to have their preferred posture in both sitting and standing positions
• allows for forearm support to reduce strain on the neck and shoulders
• check that the desk can be adjusted to suit shorter and taller workers when standing (it is recommended that the desktop be raised to at least 1200 mm from the floor to suit taller workers)

• some models result in a compromise between preferred sitting and standing postures (due to the nature of the table top design)
• taller workers may not be able to position the monitor at their preferred height or distance away due to the limited depth of table top equipment
• check there is adequate space for keyboard and unrestricted use of mouse
• some models do not offer enough space for forearm support and others do not tolerate pressure from resting forearms
• check that the total height of the desk and unit suits shorter and taller workers
• some table tops still require raising the height of existing desks in order for taller workers to comfortably use
• adjusting unit height may require awkward posture

Ease of use

• mechanical or electric operation to enable height adjustment available

• various methods including gripping/squeezing to adjust height of workstation  
• the workstation can become very heavy to adjust with more items stored on it and increases the risk of injury - the larger the model the greater the risk
• use of a wireless keyboard and mouse avoids cords being caught in height adjustment mechanism
• stability can vary, some cannot tolerate resting forearms on the keyboard area while in the standing position
• some only allow computer based work in standing position
• check there is enough work space and room for the storage of desk items

Installation

• requires trained installer
• may require technical support to ensure computer cables extend the full height range of the desk when lifted
• electric models require power to operate
• may require redesign and reconfiguration of existing workspace resulting in additional costs to purchaser.

• some models can be simply installed, others require a trained installer to assemble
• some models are portable but heavy to move around

Costs (check warranty period)

• costs vary, electric models are usually more expensive than manual adjustable models
• check installation and delivery costs
• while a height adjustable desk model may be more expensive, the additional cost may be worth it given the functionality
• generally cheaper
• check installation and delivery costs