Many of us remember that one kid in elementary school who just couldn’t keep himself from bringing his cool toys into the classroom even though he knew good and well that, if discovered, it would spend the rest of the year in the teacher’s desk drawer. That kid never changed. He just moved on to the office environment. In fact, he might be sitting in the cubicle next door.

Big Boys, Little Toys

Employers are not much more forgiving than the teacher was, but some of the USB-driven gizmos that now litter that kid’s desk are almost funny enough to be overlooked as a terminable offense. When you have a miniature missile launcher (complete with targeting software) plugged into your computer, you’ve evolved into something more than the class clown. USB accessories are hot items these days, and are trending upward in popularity.

A Microcosm of Fun

The USB-powered miniature refrigerator is just big enough to keep a beer nicely chilled – a handy thing to have when the clock strikes 5:01. If that’s not enough to make people stop by your desk, then perhaps the USB mini disco ball will do the trick. Or the USB plasma sphere (like the one that used to take up space on your dresser, right next to the lava lamp). Or even the microscope with a Universal Serial Bus connection – see what’s been growing under your fingernails.

This is not to suggest that USB accessories aren’t a vital part of today’s business structure, just as are computers, with external memory and audio-video applications being the tip of the iceberg. Even something as seemingly minor as an oversize roll-up Qwerty keyboard, if it motivates an employee somehow, can lead to a more productive workplace. Sometimes it’s the kids with the sense of humor who can accomplish the most.