One of the realities of using any computer is that they produce heat. When its a desktop, it’s not as noticeable. However, when it comes to notebooks it may be quite uncomfortable when using on your lap. Beside the discomfort to your legs, a computer that is hot requires the fan to run faster. This intern uses more energy and therefore drains the battery in a shorter amount of time.
As with most problems, there is usually a solution. Some enterprising folks at Rain Design Inc. have siezed the opportunity to create a solution for this heat problem. They have a product called iLap, which you see above. It helps to keep the notebook and your legs cool. My wife uses one of these with much satisfaction. It is light weight, comfortable to hold on your lap, gives a little more support to your wrists and raises the computer closer to eye level.
These things aren’t cheap, running from $49.90 to $69.90, but well worth the money if you use your notebook on your lap frequently and for long periods of time. These can be ordered directly from Rain Design Inc. or purchased at a local Apple store. They come in different sizes to fit the 13″ MacBook and 15″ & 17″ MacBook Pros. If you own a 12″ PowerBook, they have an iLap for you too.