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Discussion on: How many monitors do you use when programming?

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nssimeonov profile image
Templar++ • Edited

I used to have 4 monitors:

  • one 30 inch for the code
  • one 24 inch for the app I'm debugging (usually a browser, as lately I was working on web apps)
  • one 24 inch for browser developer tools or for the chats and emails
  • one 22 inch for the database console and anything else like a second browser window with stackoverflow or some documentation

However lately I got neck and back pain from staying a bit "twisted" after looking for a longer period at one of the side monitors, without moving my keyboard and mouse.

Now I keep only one monitor on the side and a big one in front of me and try to avoid looking at the side one for longer time. That + a sit-stand desk and more exercise sort of helps...

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j_mplourde profile image
Jean-Michel Plourde

I always try to center the two bezels of my screen so I alternate between the monitors without pain. And I alternate between sitting, standing or bean bags. Helps a lot

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nssimeonov profile image
Templar++

I'd say taking a rest once in a while and going for a swim helps even more.

My point is, that if you have multiple monitors - try NOT to twist yourself, while looking at a monitor on the side, and while your hands are on the keyboard, which is in front of the center one (basically don't repeat my mistake).

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j_mplourde profile image
Jean-Michel Plourde

Yes. It's good advice and I try to implement that as best as I can.

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nssimeonov profile image
Templar++

Everything was fine - I could torture my body as much as I want..... until I got over 40... then some parts of it reminded about "the credit" and "asked for interest" :)

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j_mplourde profile image
Jean-Michel Plourde

That's definitely why I want to do it right, right now. So I won't pay later