Many times on Tech Tuesdays, we highlight some of the newest and greatest technology that you can install in your PC. This week, the “tech” has nothing to do with hardware, but how you put the hardware in your machine. One of the biggest problems that I have when I’m building a machine or making upgrades is that I cannot see exactly what I’m doing inside the case. This is especially problematic in deeper cases and where there isn’t any additional natural light to take advantage of. Holding a flashlight never works as you need both hands, so what’s the answer? Go hands free with your flashlights.

Use a Tripod Flashlight

Stanley has a new LED tripod flashlight which provides a sturdy, steady base to hold your light up. The newest version even has three lights that you can aim at one location, or adjust them to point in upto three different directions. The legs are adjustable and it even works on a angle to get light deep into the corners of your case.

I recently purchased one of these to use around the house and it has quickly become my go to tool for PC repair work. I can’t tell you how often this comes in handy when I’m trying to connect wires deep inside the case. There are a couple of variations that are also available, including a keychain sized version and one that has flexible legs that can wrap around things. Just search for “tripod flashlight” and check out all of the great options available to you.

Get a Clip On Flashlight

Often, when I’m working on a PC, I’ll wear a hat to keep the hair and sweat out of my eyes. I found I could also use my hat to hold a flashlight. I grabbed one of these a few years ago when to use when fishing in the early morning or late evening. I quickly purchased another after I used it while installing a motherboard a few months ago.If you don’t want to or can’t wear a hat, there are also models that will clip on to your collar.

They’re so cheap that its probably a good idea to pick up a couple. They do break occasionally and they do not give off a great amount of light, so you could even use two. Regardless, they’ve become a great tool in my arsenal of repair tips and tricks.