by
May 2nd, 2007

Since last summer I have used a stand for my notebook computer that raises it off my desktop, a stand I reviewed in a column last July. A notebook stand serves two purposes. It keeps it from overheating and it puts my computer screen at a more comfortable eye level, which in turn helps prevent neck and back strain. The stand I have been using is made by LapWorks. This company specializes in lightweight, portable, notebook computer accessories designed to improve posture and ergonomics and reduce heat build-up while protecting the user.

In mid April they came out with a new product and it is a doozy. It is an elegant looking, heat-dissipating brushed-aluminum version of a notebook stand that offers some unique features. The most significant feature is probably the fact that it cools a notebook up to 23 percent to extend its life, according to the company. This claim is backed by an independent university study.

Here are some of the specs.

Stand Adjusted For External Keyboard	Stand Adjusted For Direct Input

In addition to the cooling feature, the stand also features:

• Thin profile is portable and lightweight
• Folds flat for convenient storage or carrying in a computer case
• Elevates viewing screen to eye level
• 45 maximum incline
• Built-in swivel rotates 360
• 6 incline positions to choose from (3 for typing on laptop, 3 for external keyboard use)
• Dimensions: 12 x 9.5 x 5, weight 1 lb. 5 oz
• Includes Neoprene slip cover that acts as a mouse pad
• one year warranty

After using this stand for awhile there are several things that I really like. The first is the height adjustments that allow me to look straight ahead at my screen. I use an external keyboard with my notebook and this is the first stand that has really raised my notebook high enough to allow this.

The second is the foot rests that hold my computer in place, even when it is sitting at a 45 degree angle. There are also 4 rubber buttons (included) that I added to the stand, placed in the most appropriate place for the size of my individual computer size, but the foot rests are great.

The third is the 360 degree swivel. It moves easily with no slippage on the desk surface. Of course, this feature only works well when I don't have numerous peripherals plugged in.

The final feature that I find particularly attractive is the fact that there are height adjustments suitable for those who prefer keying directly on the notebook keyboard and for those who prefer using an external keyboard.

At 12 x 9.5 x 3/8 and weighing 1 pound, 5 ounces, some might not consider this the ideal stand for carrying around. However, the heat absorbing element is very valuable and should be considered into the equation when deciding what stand to use whether on the road or at a primary work station and how much money to spend when making such a purchase.

My bottom line recommendation is that it is worth both the money and the weight. My notebook stays on all the time and I use it a lot. I can discern a definite difference in the temperature using this stand. My 15" G4 feels warm to the touch, not hot. I think the results speak for themselves.

Talking to a generation that remembers what the world was like before there was color, covers issues for people who don't care how their computer works, but rather what their computer and the internet can do for them.

Nancy has a Master's degree in Human Services Administration and prior to her retirement she worked for almost 30 years in field of mental health and mental retardation. She has been a Mac user for 11 years, and has recently developed an avocation of teaching basic computer skills in both group and one-to-one settings.

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