Cold hands at the keyboard

I've hunted for a solution for years, and finaly found one. So, I
thought I would post about in case someone else goes Googling for a
solution. I've see the USB powered gloves, but really didn't feel
this was a satisfactory solution because of the tether.

What I settled on was a reptile heat lamp from a pet supply store. I
settled on a 60 watt reflective bulb by ESU Reptile. Also here is
another brand I found online http://www.petguys.com/-097612330500.html

Note that the type I purchased is coated so that very little visible
light comes out. The biggest challenge was finding a fixture that
wouldn't take up a lot of space. I ended up using a clip-on light
from K-Mart, but I can't find it listed online to show you. The main
features that made me choose it, ceramic socket and a metal shade (as
opposed to plastic).

The 60 watt reflector bulb I used didn't make the outside too hot to
touch, and in fact I wrap my fingers around it to give them some extra
warmth when I come in from the outside cold. I don't think the round
bulb type would be good for that unless you got a lower wattage (like
25 watts).

My desk has a pull-out keyboard tray, which is where I keep mine
clipped to. But on a regular desk, I imagine you can just clip it to
a piece of wood cut to fit under your keyboard. (the lamp I choose has
a metal clip, which is thinner than a plastic one, so you can do this)

Another arrangment I was considering was to purchase a picture-frame
fixture (like those used for music stand lights), and then fabricate
an alternative base.

Joe Dunfee

 

Joe, just type faster.