Cooler Master already have an extensive range of notebook coolers and pads, and I did initially wonder what this new product would bring to the party... On paper it is a very capable and fully-featured device, combining the best of a traditional notebook stand with Cooler Master\'s extensive active cooling experience, and the decision to install such a beast of a fan has paid handsome dividends! The added features such as the 4-port USB hub, and the cable management system only serve to reinforce the initial impression that this device gives – it means business!

On looks alone Cooler Master have crafted a winner with the NotePal ErgoStand, but under testing I would say that it\'s performance was nothing short of superb. The fan on our test sample was almost totally inaudible until it had been ramped up to very nearly full speed where it was little more than right on the edge of hearing anyway, and the fine control possible with the wheel adjuster means that every user can easily find their sweet spot of cooling vs fan noise. In just about any environment the ambient background noises would more than cover the fan at full tilt!

The USB hub gives so much extra flexibility to this device too, allowing for the connection of peripherals such as a mouse and keyboard, or USB memory stick for example. I can see it almost becoming a \'lite\' docking station where you could leave peripherals attached to the stand on your desk and simply remove the laptop as and when required elsewhere. I would however suggest that external hard disk drives should be connected directly to the laptop\'s remaining USB\'s though as they will usually require a bit more power.

As for the cooling performance the results speak for themselves really, in a word – superb!



For professionals, students and home users alike, if you are in the market for some seriously silent and powerful laptop cooling with added bells\'n\'whistles... the Cooler Master NotePal ErgoStand is definitely one to look out for!

The Cooler Master NotePal ErgoStand is a deserving winner of Vortez Hardware\'s Gold Award!