“Our decision to design an IT desk was based on our research that showed us that many of the existing IT furniture solutions were expensive, inadequate or just too inflexible to accommodate long-term classroom aspirations. Desk8 addresses such issues, bringing an affordable, robust answer that will adapt to future needs.”

Alan Laffoley - Technical Director - Akhter Computers

Adapts to Classroom needs

Diverse approaches to learning and various teaching styles create a need for versatile classroom layout options. Desk8 can be used as single workstations, for exams, or linked together to form numerous shapes such as Octagons, Hexagons or extended tables, supporting project work according to group sizes. Larger size teacher desks can be integrated with Octagons helping to keep a room neat and compact. Schools have reported that the Desk8 System is particularly useful in regaining space in rooms, typically adding to the number of available places in a classroom, which conventional style school furniture would be unable to match.

The Desk8 system is based on individual Trapezoid and Rectangle Desks that interlock to build hundreds of alternative layouts. High durability and versatility ensure that the investment will be a long term one, as the same Desk8 furniture will last years, and then adapt through multiple classroom revamps. Height adjustable feet help desks to fit together seamlessly, even where floors are uneven.

Security for Notebooks, Towers and Monitors

The Desk8 System can provide inbuilt security for Notebooks, Tower PCs and flat screen monitors, in a system that keeps the desktop clear; so ICT classrooms can be comfortably used for non ICT teaching, whenever necessary.

Both Tower or Desktop PCs are housed in Desk8’s security steel cages that expand to accommodate almost all PC case sizes. A robust security bar adjusts to the PC depth securing the computer unit in place. A new “Small Form Factor” case has just been introduced to accommodate the latest thin client PCs.

A VESA compliant flat screen can be attached to Desk8’s Monitor Arm with security fixings that deter theft or tampering, and prevent the screen from accidentally being knocked off the desk.

The monitor arm comes with tilt and swivel allowing students to adjust the monitor to their eye level. This ensures a good viewing angle. Students cannot pull their monitors too close, maintaining a correct viewing distance in line with Health & Safety considerations. As monitors are independently supported the desktop workspace is kept clear, making the desks suitable for standard teaching use.

Desk8 for Notebooks incorporates a lockable security box that holds Notebooks. The box is located out of the way on the backside of the desk. A Kensington compatible lock can be permanently attached to Notebooks, giving added security whenever a Notebook is left out on a desk.

Power Management Simple and Safe

A number of useful special parts help manage power requirements. Desk8’s Wall Link, is a table that connects a Desk8 Octagon to a wall. Cable management under the “Wall Link” enables power to be run to the Octagon group without the need to reposition sockets or run cabling under the floor or through the ceiling. The Wall Link’s surface can be used to support printers, scanners or other shared resources. Octagons can similarly be linked together, enabling power to be run between them too. Schools have the option of an infill for Octagon groups, releasing space in the centre that can be used to support supplies or equipment.

Schools are already using Desk8’s easy flexibility to accommodate regular layout changes.

“The Resource Centre is booked in advance by different groups and Desk8 gives me the flexibility to have different configurations laid out for each booking where required”

Mrs B. Taylor - Learning Resource Manager - Reading School

Tough enough to Last

Durability is a feature of the Desk8 range. It is designed to cope with the challenging demands of a typical school classroom. Desk8 uses robust MIG welded rectangular steel tubes coated with a protective grey epoxy powder coating. The Desk8 work surface is constructed from a high pressure bonded 25mm laminated MDF. A modesty panel is security bolted to the desk legs, adding to the overall structural strength of each Desk. Desk8 is held together with security bolts that require specialist tools, deterring theft and designed to prevent students interfering with the furniture or removing IT equipment.

With Desk8’s IT security desks, all power and cabling is located inside cable management, so that no wires need to be lose or exposed, removing hazard risks. These measures protect the cabling as well as ensuring safety. The worktop’s strength combined with the structural build of Desk8 ensures a safe environment for all students.

Affordable with Total Service

Akhter has made the Desk8 range as affordable as possible, without compromising on important durability, flexibility or functionality. A comparison with typical classroom furniture shows that Desk8 delivers exceptional value for money. A basic non IT desk starts at £149, and with either security for Notebook or Tower PC costs £179, an optional Tilt & Swivel security monitor arm option adds just £59. Both Primary 630mm and Secondary 720mm desk heights are available.

Akhter can manage the entire process as a service to schools and colleges, from surveys, room layout plans, delivery all the way to the classroom and a full installation including PCs, electrical and network data points, so there are no extra pressures on the school to co-ordinate the operation.

Further information on Desk8 can be obtained from Akhter Computers on: 01279 821200

Email sales@akhter.co.uk, or see: www.desk8.co.uk

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