If there’s one thing more useful than a helping hand, it could be an extra arm. Ergotron, a manufacturer of computer and video display mounting equipment, has launched just such a tool to increase the flexibility of the workplace. The Ergotron LX Notebook Arm is a mounting solution that enables users to set up their notebook display as their main PC screen and thus eliminate the cost of buying an extra LCD in situations where it is necessary to use two monitors.
Taking a leaf out of Bill Gates’ productivity book by using multiple monitors simultaneously, I tested the arm in a dual-monitor configuration, mounting the notebook side-by-side with the existing LCD. This configuration enables the viewing of multiple documents simultaneously, ensuring increased productivity and accuracy in the work environment. I find that keeping a space available for work on your main LCD and your email in another window creates a very user-friendly environment.
In addition to being pretty useful, the LX Notebook Arm is pretty to look at. Silver and sleek, it reclaims valuable physical space by raising the notebook off the desk. It also adds flexibility and ergonomics to any workplace, as it positions the notebook screen to relieve eye, neck and back strain. The Ergotron LX Notebook Arm is compatible with any notebook, with or without docking station, weighing up to 5.5 kg. That means it can handle even the heaviest desktop replacement laptops and their docking stations.
The setup was fairly painless once I had consulted the instruction manual. The arm’s most immediately noticeable feature is it sheer weight and sturdy build, which should calm any worries about placing an expensive machine on the mounting shelf. The device is also extendable to hold other devices from it main arm, so it could be used to hold the LCD screen in the configuration mentioned above.
An additional benefit of the system is that it kept my laptop running cooler than it would have done sitting on the desk – no bad thing in this age of hot-running processors. I also found the arm provided a comfortable working environment. Having moved from a laptop placed on top of an old in-basket to this two-screen configuration, I would have difficulty going back to working the old way.
Axis Office Supplies (richard.kelly@axis.ie)
Features
Patented Constant Force lift-and-pivot motion technology
33cm height adjustment range
+75° to -5° up/down tilt and 180° to 360° right/left pan (notebook pans 180°; arm pivots 360°)
61cm extend /retract motion
Velcro kit, clips and non-slip pad included for securing the notebook on bracket
Compatible with most notebooks, with or without dock
Weight capacity 1.1-5.5 kg
Internal cable management
VESA compliant
Five-year warranty
Price: €219 ex VAT
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