Computer And Sofa Are Uniting

In another sign of the computer’s growing stature in American culture, homeowners are rearranging their furnishings to give PCs a more prominent spot.

A new study shows that 53 percent of online households have moved their furniture around to make the computer and Internet more accessible.

That finding is part of the third annual Cyberstudy, commissioned by America Online Inc. and conducted by Roper Starch Worldwide, a market research firm.

“It says how important the computer and the Internet have become,” said Marshall Cohen, AOL senior vice president.

The study also found that:

* People seemed willing to shake up their living space to accommodate their computer, though the survey did not elaborate why.

* Most respondents were receptive to the idea of accessing the Net using mobile phones and televisions.

* Fifty-one percent said they would be interested in checking e-mail through the television and 54 percent said they would like to use a small device to gain Internet access in every room in the house.

The findings are based on a random phone survey of 1,004 adults who have in-home Internet access.

When you’re not busy rearranging the furniture, check out these new, entertaining or helpful Web sites:

* Help for desk jockeys: Workers with sedentary jobs requiring long periods of staring into computer monitors are prone to various physical problems.

This new Web site bills itself as a guide to fitness, nutrition, safety and relaxation for just such people.

Topics range from where to find tiny weights to pump up your finger muscles, to the use of laser pointers to treat carpal tunnel syndrome and the best snacks for your desk drawer stash.

http://www.healtheoffice.com

* Disgruntled housewives unite: Using Eisenhower-era fonts and design, this is a cornucopia of kitsch celebrating the bored, trapped young housewife.

Check out the latest dish on men, see Queenie’s advice on problems with men and read about products you should be using at home or should be buying with the paycheck that is burning a hole in your pocket.

http://disgruntledhousewife.com