![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray back side view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-back-16MBP-3072-2048x1500.jpg?v=1707074440&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray back view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-back-16MBP-3074-2048x1500.jpg?v=1707074440&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray front side view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-front-16MBP-3067-2048x1500.jpg?v=1707074558&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray top view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-top-16MBP-3198-2048x1500.jpg?v=1707074558&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation silver, gray, dark gray and black front view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-all-colors-front-3220-2048x1500.jpg?v=1707074584&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation silver, gray, dark gray and black front view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-all-colors-front-3161-2048x1500.jpg?v=1707074584&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation silver, gray, dark gray and black back view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-all-colors-back-3148-2048x1500.jpg?v=1707074584&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation silver, gray, dark gray and black front and back views for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-all-colors-3138-3176-3241-2048x1500.jpg?v=1707074584&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation silver front view with max performance pads for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-silver-max-performance-pads-4594-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712374750&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation silver front view with max performance pads for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-silver-max-performance-pads-4628-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712374750&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray front view with max performance pads for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-max-performance-pads-4641-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712374750&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray front view with max performance pads for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-performance-pads-4316-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712374750&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray front view with protective film coupling and max performance pads for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-performance-pads-4503-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712374750&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray front view with max performance pads for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-performance-pads-4417-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712374750&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation silver back view with max performance pads for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-silver-max-performance-pads-back-3458-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712456359&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray back view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-back-3014-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712456359&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray back view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-back-16MBP-2998-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712456359&width=1445)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation dark gray back view for silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling performance with Apple laptop 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air](http://svalt.com/cdn/shop/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-dark-gray-back-16MBP-2991-2048x1500.jpg?v=1712456359&width=1445)
DHCR CONFIGURATIONS
Selecting Product Configurations
SVALT makes products locally with each product hand built to a customer’s selected order configuration. For the new 4th generation DHCR, we offer numerous build configurations to help tailor cooling performance for a particular laptop model and to help meet a customer’s workstation preferences. Please read through the following to learn about each configuration option, and then don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation with new and updated noted cooling features](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-4th-gen-three-features-dagram-1200x.png?v=1707515793)
The new 4th generation DHCR includes extensive improvements for a substantial increase in cooling efficiency with the latest Apple MacBook Pro and MacBook Air laptops, along with comprehensive optimization for the 2021+ MacBook Pro. The 4th gen’s thermally conductive heatsink silently reduces overall laptop temperatures, while the Fx Cooling Fan boosts peak performance potential for sustained heavy workloads. See Features under Product Details to learn about all of the 4th gen (1) conductive cooling, (2) heatsink cooling and (3) airflow cooling improvements.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation diagrams showing standard and performance pad options](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-three-standard-performance-max-pad-options3-1200x.png?v=1711722479)
The heatsink’s padding helps to manage airflow for improved cooling performance. The heatsink is available with the following pad configurations:
- Standard Pads: This pad configuration has been used for the prior three generations of DHCRs and works with any DHCR compatible laptop. Includes the following pads: 1) Standard laptop support pad with 1/16” thickness and straight cut edges. 2) Standard bottom pads with 1/32” thickness and placement along front/back edges.
- Performance Pads: Compared to Standard Pads, this new 4th gen DHCR performance pad configuration improves cooling with any DHCR compatible laptop, and is recommended for the current generation of 2022+ MacBook Air and for other laptop models that do not include a built-in fan cooling system. Includes the following pads: 1) Standard laptop support pad with 1/16” thickness and straight cut edges. 2) Performance bottom pads with increased 1/16” thickness and placement along sides to create an underside open air channel for improved heatsink cooling.
- Max Performance Pads: Compared to Standard and Performance Pads, this new 4th gen DHCR max performance pad configuration improves cooling with any DHCR compatible laptop, and is recommended for the current generation 2021+ MacBook Pro, prior generation MacBook Pros and other laptop models with a built-in fan cooling system. Includes the following pads: 1) Performance laptop pad with increased 1/8" thickness, center cutout to direct airflow into a laptop's central cold air intake vent, and end extensions to protect heatsink from a laptop’s hot exhaust air. 2) Performance bottom pads with increased 1/8” thickness and placement along sides to create an even larger underside open air channel for improved heatsink cooling. 3) Optional user-installed performance insulating side pads to protect heatsink from a laptop’s hot exhaust air.
![SVALT Cooling Dock DHCR 4th gen back view with all anodized aluminum colors](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-all-colors-back-3138-1200x.jpg?v=1705785902)
The aluminum heatsink uses a special finish to improve cooling performance. The body of the heatsink is finished with hand sanding, heavy bead-blasting and a short anodize to produce a deeply-textured micro-porous non-glossy matte finish that increases the active area of the heatsink for higher radiant emissivity cooling and improved conductive cooling from both passive and active airflows. Heatsinks are anodized in weekly batches by color, resulting in different estimated build lead times. The heatsink is available with the following anodize colors as shown in the above image and listed below from left to right (see Specs for details):
- Silver: A clear anodize with light gray color similar to Apple’s Silver finish available on all Mac laptops.
- Space Gray: A gray similar to Apple’s Space Gray finish available on MacBook Pros from 2016 to 2023 and MacBook Airs from 2018 to 2024+.
- Space Black: A nearly black dark gray similar to Apple’s Space Black finish available on MacBook Pros from 2023 to 2024+.
- Black: A full black that pairs well with Apple’s Midnight finish available on MacBook Airs from 2022 to 2024+.
![SVALT Cooling Dock DHCR 4th gen front view with all anodized aluminum colors](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-all-colors-front-3176-3241-1200x.jpg?v=1706649398)
The front of the heatsink has a flat surface that connects (couples) with the back/bottom surface of the laptop. The new 4th generation DHCR uses an extra-large laptop coupling plate for improved conductive heat transfer from the laptop to the heatsink. The coupling plate is specially prepared with a fine hand sanded and polished finish to produce an extra-flat and extra-smooth surface finish for improved laptop coupling and higher conductive heat transfer. The laptop coupling plate is available with the following configurations (see Specs for details):
- Performance Metal Coupling: This is the recommended configuration provided for customers that want maximum cooling performance with the laptop directly contacting the heatsink’s aluminum surface for unrestricted conductive heat transfer. Edge padding wraps around all four sides of the laptop coupling plate for corner impact protection, while the heatsink’s anodized aluminum coupling plate extends slightly beyond the top of the pads to achieve proper metal-to-metal surface contact. The 4th generation DHCR’s aluminum coupling plate edges and corners have been rounded to remove sharp edges for direct metal-to-metal contact.
- Protective Film Coupling: This configuration is provided for customers that do not want the recommended Performance Metal Coupling with direct metal-to-metal laptop coupling, and instead prefer having a non-metal protective surface covering the coupling plate. This protective surface is made from a special assembly of ultra-thin low-impedance thermally conductive materials to minimize impact on performance, however, adding this protective layer reduces performance compared to the direct metal-to-metal heatsink coupling option. This ultra-thin assembly is semi-transparent, which shows surface variations such as areas of lighter, darker or uneven coloring. The underlying anodize color will impact both the resultant color of the assembly and visibility of surface variations. For instance, the lightest anodize color (silver) will result in the lightest yellow assembly color with the least visible surface variations, while the darkest anodize color (black) will result in the darkest orange assembly color with the most visible surface variations. Please note that most assemblies will show at least some surface and color variations, and that this coupling configuration has increased cost and a longer lead time because of the high-end materials used in the assembly and because of the time required to complete the exacting multi-step installation process.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation Fx Cooling Fan diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-Fx-1200x.png?v=1707427336)
Compared to having a fan inside of the heatsink, the separate Fx Cooling Fan design moves more air with less noise, while allowing the heatsink to be as large as possible to create the most thermal mass and the largest cooling surface area. The new 4th generation DHCR design maximizes the Fx Cooling Fan’s boost in heatsink cooling and direct internal processor cooling on 2021+ MacBook Pros.
The Fx Cooling Fan accessory is provided for customers that want maximum cooling performance, especially for customers with the 2021+ MacBook Pro running under sustained workloads. To help customers unlock their 2021+ MacBook Pro’s peak performance potential, the Fx includes a $30 below cost discount when bundled with the 4th gen DHCR. The Fx is available with the following fan configurations (see below for additional fan specs):
- FxR17 w/ B16 and W20: The Fx ships with the R17 fan installed, and includes the B16 and W20 fans for users to exchange to best meet their workstation cooling and noise preferences. The B16 fan can be used for baseline always-on ultra-quiet cooling. The W20 fan offers more aggressive hi-airflow cooling that can be used in less noise sensitive environments or switched on/off as needed. The R17 fan is pre-installed for a good balance between audio and cooling performance.
- FxB22: The Fx ships with the B22 fan installed. The B22 variable speed fan covers the full range of ultra-quiet to hi-airflow cooling performance. The B22 is a high-end Noctua fan that is controlled with Noctua’s dial-variable speed controller.
- All fan configurations include front and back black anodized fan supports, front and back black metal fan screen, mounting fasteners, fan 2/3/4-pin fan adapter, on/off switch, 12 volt power supply (fixed for North America and multi-plug for other locations) and hex key for right-to-repair disassembly. See the Fx Cooling Fan product page for additional details.
![SVALT fans and colors R17, B16, W20, B22](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Fx-fans-R17-B16-W20-B22-1200x.jpg?v=1711722751)
Listed from left to right:
- R17: SilenX 80x80x25mm, 3-pin, 12-volt, 7 red blades and black frame, long life ball bearing. Runs at approximately 1700 RPM with 31 CFM airflow and 17 dB(A) noise level.
- B16: Arctic 80x80x25mm, 3-pin, 12-volt, 5 black blades and black frame, long life fluid dynamic bearing. Runs at approximately 1600 RPM with 21 CFM airflow and 12 dB(A) noise level.
- W20: Arctic 80x80x25mm, 3-pin, 12-volt, 9 white blades and black frame, long life fluid dynamic bearing. Runs at approximately 2000 RPM with 41 CFM airflow and 22 dB(A) noise level.
- B22: Variable-speed Noctua NF-A8 PWM chromax.black.swap 80x80x25mm, 4-pin, 12-volt, 7 black blades and black frame, premium-grade SSO2 bearing. Runs up to approximately 2200 RPM with up to 33 CFM airflow and up to 18 dB(A) noise level via Noctua NA-FC1 PWM dial-variable speed controller. Note that the B22 has the lowest observed motor noise levels of any 80mm PWM fan we’ve tested.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation with upgradeable components including the Fx Cooling Fan diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-upgrade-options-1200x.png?v=1711398677)
The Fx Cooling Fan can be either bundled with the DHCR or can be order separately in the future. The Fx’s bolt and snap modular system allows for easy fan exchange through accessories, and will work with any standard 80x80mm fan. All pads are available individually through accessories so that a customer can purchase them later if they change laptop models, decide to upgrade to a higher performance pad, or need replacements. See upgrades to learn more.
Max Tech YouTube Review Configuration
The 4th generation DHCR in Max Tech’s YouTube video review uses the following configuration: 1) Performance Pads, 2) Dark Gray color, 3) Performance Metal Coupling, 4) FxB22 Cooling Fan.
ORDER AND SHIPPING POLICIES
- SVALT makes products locally with each product hand built to a customer’s selected order configuration. Aluminum parts are hand finished and anodized in weekly batches by color, and estimated build lead times are listed by anodized color.
- SVALT is a local company based in Portland, Oregon. Oregon does not collect sales tax.
- International customers are responsible for paying their country’s import fees and taxes upon delivery, as well as providing a valid email address and phone number for the shipping carrier to contact. International orders are limited to one item per shipment.
- 15-day return and replacement for incorrect or defective items in new, unused and undamaged condition to US customers.
- 1-year limited warranty for defects in materials and manufacture to US customers.
- See SVALT’s company policies page for details and additional policies.
DHCR DESCRIPTION
Silent Conductive Heatsink Cooling for Closed-Screen Laptops
The innovative first-of-kind DHCR Cooling Dock brings best-in-class design to create the ultimate in silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling for Apple's latest laptop designs, such as the 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air, as well as working with all current and prior Apple/Mac laptops of the last decade and most PC laptops with metal enclosures. The new 4th generation DHCR includes extensive improvements for a substantial increase in heatsink cooling efficiency with further optimization for the 2021+ MacBook Pro.
The DHCR's heatsink is carved from solid 6061 aluminum to create 12 thin cooling fins with 11 air channels cut to an incredible 2.6 inch depth by a narrow 1/4 inch diameter end mill, which provides the heatsink with an exceptionally large 143 square inches of cooling fin surface area, 188 of cooling surface area, and 233 of total surface area for optimal heatsink cooling. The DHCR’s 2.6 pound thermal mass is made from solid aluminum with interconnected cooling fins and air channels running continuously from top-to-bottom and front-to-back for improved heat transfer and improved heat flow within the heatsink mass. Compared to typical low-cost bolted-together or die-cast heatsinks, carving the DHCR’s heatsink from a solid block of aluminum requires higher precision, longer CNC milling times and much higher costs.
The machined aluminum heatsink is painstakingly finished by hand with sanding, heavy bead-blasting and a short anodize to produce a deeply-textured micro-porous non-glossy matte finish that increases the active area of the heatsink for higher radiant emissivity cooling and improved conductive cooling from both passive and active airflows. The heatsink’s extra-large laptop coupling plate is specially prepared with a fine hand sanded and polished finish that is protected from the heavy bead-blasting used on the rest of the heatsink body to produce an extra-flat and extra-smooth surface finish for improved laptop coupling and higher conductive heat transfer.
The laptop coupling plate is available with either exposed aluminum for unrestricted and maximized heat transfer through direct metal-to-metal coupling, or as an extra-cost alternative, the coupling plate is available with a special assembly of low thermal impedance materials applied over the aluminum coupling plate to add an additional layer of finish protection. Edge padding wraps around all four sides of the laptop coupling plate for corner impact protection, while the heatsink’s anodized aluminum coupling plate extends slightly beyond the top of the pads to achieve proper metal-to-metal surface contact. The 4th generation DHCR’s aluminum coupling plate edges and corners have been rounded to remove sharp edges for direct metal-to-metal contact. Direct heatsink coupling is a standard configuration with lower cost and short build lead times.
The DHCR not only achieves high levels of silent heatsink cooling efficiency, but uses an integrative design approach to achieve optimal cooling performance with the latest 2021+ MacBook Pro. The DHCR’s heatsink is positioned at the laptop processor location to extract more heat directly from the heat source. The overall support cradle width, the heatsink coupling plate width, and the air channel locations match the laptop’s processor and built-in cooling system layout. The heatsink’s numerous vertical cooling fin air channels extend through the heatsink mass to become through-holes that guide cooling airflow into a front horizontal air channel with curving ends. This cooling airflow supplies the laptop’s center intake vent with cool air and flushes out hot exhaust air from the laptop. The heatsink’s integral design supports more efficient operation of the laptop’s built-in cooling system and helps the laptop maintain peak performance potential.
The DHCR’s heatsink design facilitates silent passive airflow cooling as well as accelerated active airflow cooling from the optional Fx Cooling Fan. The Fx boosts heatsink cooling, flushes out more hot air, and drives cooling airflow into the center intake vent on the 2021+ MacBook Pro for direct internal processor cooling. The heatsink’s front horizontal channel uses a smaller size to concentrate airflow along the laptop’s bottom screen-hinge edge, while numerous thru-hole air channels extend below the laptop’s center intake vent and then angle up to guide cooling airflow into the vent.
The DHCR includes three new heatsink performance pads for maximum cooling performance with a 2021+ MacBook Pro and/or a Fx Cooling Fan. New performance bottom pads feature 1/8” thickness to create a large underside open air channel for improved heatsink cooling. New performance laptop support pad features 1/8” thickness with a center cutout matching the heatsink’s through-holes for improved cooling airflow into a 2021+ MacBook Pro’s central air intake vent, and features side extensions into the horizontal channel’s curving ends. Both of the new 1/8” thick performance pads are designed to work in conjunction with the new performance insulating side pads that protect the heatsink from a 2021+ MacBook Pro’s hot air exhaust vents.
The DHCR and Fx utilize a separated fan design strategy instead of using a built-in fan as this allows the separated fan to be positioned outside of a constraining enclosure so that the fan may more freely operate with optimal airflow efficiency, which in turn allows the fan to generate more airflow with less noise. The separated fan design also allows the heatsink to be as large as possible with the most thermal mass and surface area, which leads to increased heatsink cooling capacity. The combination of increased cooling airflow and higher heatsink cooling capacity results in a significant improvement in overall cooling performance.
The DHCR and all Cooling Dock models work with the laptop operating in closed-screen clamshell mode while connected to one or more external monitors, external keyboard/mouse and power supply. All Cooling Dock models also feature a unique and stable leaning support for easy clamshell setup while the laptop remains connected to cables and safely in a padded cradle with adjustable/replaceable laptop retention pads (extra pads included for future setups).
All SVALT cooling systems use modular bolted / snapped assemblies and ship with the tools required for right-to-repair servicing, exchanging, upgrading and extending product life span.
SVALT designs innovative patented and/or patent pending products made locally in the Pacific Northwest with a focus on sustainability, and use solid aluminum for enduring metal construction.
DHCR FEATURES
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation with noted features diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-features-cooling-1200x.png?v=1707427336)
Silent Heatsink Cooling
- Silent thermally conductive heatsink cooling.
- Specially engineered laptop coupling interface.
- Massive heatsink carved from solid aluminum.
- Extensive cooling fins transfer heat to surrounding air.
- Passive airflow cooling through numerous air channels.
- Cools laptop enclosure at processor location.
Active Airflow Cooling
- Active airflow cooling with Fx Cooling Fan accessory.
- Fx internally cools laptop processors thru center intake vent.
- Separate Fx fan design moves more air with less noise.
- Separate Fx fan design allows for max heatsink capacity.
Laptop Compatibility
- Straight side rectilinear style to match latest MacBook Pros and Airs.
- Optimized for heatsink cooling with latest MacBook Pros and Airs.
- Optimized for internal cooling with 2021+ MacBook Pro.
- Works with all Mac laptops of last decade, and most metal PC laptops.
- Clamshell setup with laptop safely held in padded cradle.
- Edge protection padding around conductive interface.
- Replaceable user installed laptop retention pad.
Quality and Sustainability
- Modular right-to-repair bolt/snap cooling systems.
- Made locally in Portland, Oregon with focus on sustainability.
- Innovative design with issued and/or pending patents.
![SVALT Cooling Dock DHCR 4th gen performance test graph results with 2021 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Max/Pro) temperature reduction](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-DHCR4-Fx-performance-graph-temp_2024-02-16-1200x.png?v=1708186598)
The 4th gen’s thermally conductive heatsink silently reduces overall laptop temperatures, while the Fx Cooling Fan boosts peak performance potential for sustained heavy workloads. See the Performance page for details.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation with new and updated noted cooling features](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-4th-gen-three-features-dagram-1200x.png?v=1707515793)
The new 4th generation DHCR includes extensive improvements for a substantial increase in cooling efficiency with the latest Apple MacBook Pro and MacBook Air laptops, along with comprehensive optimization for the 2021+ MacBook Pro. The new and improved 4th gen DHCR cooling features are grouped into the following three categories as shown in the diagram above and described below: (1) conductive cooling, (2) heatsink cooling and (3) airflow cooling.
- (1) Improved conductive cooling with increased heat transfer from flat-backed laptops like the 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air. This is accomplished with a 6% larger thermally conductive interface for increased surface area, up to 68% thinner laptop coupling plate for increased heat distribution, and available for the first time with the 4th gen, direct metal-to-metal laptop coupling for reduced impedance and unrestricted conductive heat transfer.
- (2) Improved heatsink cooling with increased heat transfer from heatsink to passive/active cooling airflows. This is accomplished with up to 185% deeper and 18% taller cooling fin air channels, up to 52% increased surface area, and up to 846% more continuous and interconnected cooling fin air channels for increased heat flow throughout the heatsink.
- (3) Improved airflow cooling with increased airflow into the 2021+ MacBook Pro’s center air intake vent for direct internal processor cooling, as well as flushing out more hot air away from laptop exhaust vents. This is accomplished with 7x more through-hole openings, a 91% increase in total through-hole open area, and 151% increase in opening width. A 22% smaller front horizontal air channel with 80% deeper curving sides concentrates cooling airflow along the laptop’s bottom edge vents.
Available for the first time with the 4th gen, through-holes extend below the laptop’s bottom edge with a position and angle to guide cooling airflow into the 2021+ MacBook Pro’s center air intake.
Also available for the first time are three new heatsink performance pads that help to manage airflows for improved cooling performance. New performance bottom pads feature 1/8” thickness to create a large underside open air channel for improved heatsink cooling. New performance laptop support pad features 1/8” thickness with a center cutout matching the heatsink’s through-holes for improved cooling airflow into a 2021+ MacBook Pro’s central air intake vent, and features side extensions into the horizontal channel’s curving ends. Both of the new 1/8” thick performance pads are designed to work in conjunction with the new performance insulating side pads that protect the heatsink from a 2021+ MacBook Pro’s hot air exhaust vents.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation with vertical section diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-v-section-dagram-1200x_700b0672-1d48-424b-bfb7-e42de43078f9.png?v=1707427336)
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation with horizontal section diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-h-section-dagram-1200x_1c601762-db19-41c6-88ef-49d8a3ad1753.png?v=1707427336)
Comparing 4th to 1st Generations
The above section cuts show the DHCR’s generational changes. See the Compare page for a detailed list of generational changes.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation Fx Cooling Fan diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-Fx-1200x.png?v=1707427336)
The Fx Cooling Fan accessory adds a boost of active airflow cooling to heatsink Cooling Dock DHCR, DHC and DH models. Compared to a built-in fan design, the separate Fx Cooling Fan design allows for more efficient airflow through the fan as well as through the heatsink, which results in moving more cooling air with less noise. The separate fan design also allows the heatsink to be as large as possible with the maximum thermal mass and cooling surface area for improved heatsink cooling performance.
The Fx accelerates DHCR cooling through the following methods:
- Cooling the heatsink by driving airflow through cooling fin air channels.
- Flushing out hot air from the laptop’s exhaust vents by driving airflow through numerous through-holes and then the front horizontal air channel.
- Internally cooling laptop processors by driving air into a compatible laptop’s center intake vent, such as with the 2021+ MacBook Pro, 2012-2015 MacBook Pro (Intel Retina) and 2010-2017 MacBook Air (Intel non-Retina).
The 4th generation DHCR includes the following revisions to improve active airflow cooling with the Fx:
- Increased heatsink surface area for improved heat transfer from heatsink to active cooling airflows.
- Increased through-hole open area for more direct internal processor cooling through the laptop’s center intake vent and for flushing out more hot air from the laptop’s exhaust vents.
- Increased concentration of airflow along the bottom screen-hinge edge of laptop for more direct internal processor cooling and flushing out more hot air.
- Increased guided airflow towards laptop intake vent for more direct internal processor cooling.
- Three new heatsink performance pads that help to manage airflows for improved cooling performance with the Fx Cooling Fan.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation laptop compatibility diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-16MBP-internal-1200x.png?v=1707427836)
The DHCR has been specially designed, engineered and sculpted from solid aluminum to support and silently cool Apple's latest Apple Silicon laptop designs, such as the 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air, while also working with all current and prior generation Apple laptops of the last decade.
- Edge protection pads located around all four sides of the laptop coupling plate protect the laptop from edge and corner impacts during setup.
- Leaning support for compatibility with a wide range of laptops, tablets and other devices.
- Angled lower support shelf and non-slip padding for holding device in place.
- Optional user installed laptop retention pad locks device in place for improved thermal coupling (extra pads included for future setups).
- Universal support system design accommodates all current and prior Apple/Mac laptops of the last decade, as well as most PC laptops with metal enclosures (see specs for details).
- Rectilinear styling with straight sides and anodized aluminum finish matches current 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air designs.
- Optimized dimensional fit and heatsink cooling design for 2021+ MacBook Pro and 2022+ MacBook Air, as well as optimized internal air cooling for 2021+ MacBook Pro.
The 4th generation DHCR includes the following revisions to improve optimization with the 2021+ MacBook Pro:
- Larger thermally conductive laptop coupling plate increases contact with the 2021+ MacBook Pro flat-back design for more heat transfer.
- The heatsink’s laptop coupling plate has rounded edges and corners to reduce scratching potential during setup with the direct metal-to-metal configuration.
- More numerous through-holes spread over a wider area to match the 2021+ MacBook Pro center intake vent width for more direct internal processor cooling.
- Smaller front horizontal air channel to concentrate cooling airflows along the 2021+ MacBook Pro bottom edge for more direct internal processor cooling and flushing out more hot air.
- New air channels extend below the 2021+ MacBook Pro center intake vent for more direct internal processor cooling.
- New performance bottom pads feature 1/8” thickness to create a large underside open air channel for improved heatsink cooling.
- New performance laptop support pad features 1/8” thickness with a center cutout matching the heatsink’s through-holes for improved cooling airflow into the laptop’s cold air intake vent, and features side extensions into the horizontal channel’s curving ends.
- Both of the new 1/8” thick performance pads are designed to work in conjunction with new performance insulating side pads that protect the heatsink from a 2021+ MacBook Pro’s hot air exhaust vents.
- Up to a 227% increase in 2021+ MacBook Pro cooling surface area.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation clamshell mode diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-16MBP-open-1200x.png?v=1707427336)
- Leaning vertical closed-screen clamshell mode support for easy and secure clamshell mode setup with access to power, Touch ID and keyboard while safely held within padded cradle and connected to cables.
- Disables laptop screen to optimize graphics for improved external display performance.
- Reduces laptop screen, keyboard, trackpad and battery use for increased lifespan.
- Uses external display, keyboard and trackpad / mouse for improved ergonomics.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation workstation diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-16MBP-workstation-1200x.png?v=1707427335)
- Compact product footprint for more open desktop.
- Heavy mass for increased stability.
- Non-slip feet for stable workstation placement.
- Two threaded underside holes for securing dock to media carts or for theft prevention.
![SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR 4th generation and Cooling Fan Fx modularity right-to-repair diagram](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0723/7661/files/SVALT-Cooling-Dock-DHCR4-Fx-exploded-parts-1200x.png?v=1707427336)
- Fx Cooling Fan uses modular bolt/snap assembly for customer servicing, replacement, exchange or upgrade.
- Fx Cooling Fan uses a bolt-on fan with standard 3/4-pin fan connection for customer servicing, replacement, exchange or upgrade with nearly any 80x80x25mm fan.
- Fx Cooling Fan ships with all of the tools required for disassembly.
- Packaging system works with all Cooling Dock models.
Material and Component Features
- High-quality 6061 aluminum structure for extra strength and durability.
- Anodized aluminum finish for durability and matching Mac laptop finishes.
- Metal construction for long life span and end-of-life recyclability.
- High-quality fans with long life performance (optional Fx).
- High-quality components over-specced for increased performance and life.
- Minimal use of plastic for reduced environmental impact.
- Biodegradable package cushioning for reduced impact.
Company Features
- Designed and crafted with care in and around Portland, OR, USA.
- Design driven by a passion to make best-in-class products.
- Innovative design with patents issued and/or pending.
- Support for anyone with a SVALT product.
Additional Cooling Fan Features
- See Fx Cooling Fan product page for associated features.
DHCR SPECIFICATIONS
Cooling System Specifications
- See Features for DHCR heatsink cooling system details.
- See Product Setup page for product setup, operation and additional user guide resources. Please note that achieving cooling performance potential requires proper product and workstation setup.
Device Compatibility Specifications
- Compatible Apple / Mac Laptops: The 4th, 3rd and 2nd generation DHCR models are compatible for cooling and fit with Mac laptop models from the last decade, as well as other devices per the compatibility criteria listed below. The 4th, 3rd and 2nd gen models are recommended for most laptops over the 1st gen model.
- Compatible PC Laptops: Most standard to small PC laptops and other devices per the compatibility criterial listed below.
- Compatibility Criteria for Types: Works with the following device and screen types: 1) Laptops operated in closed-screen clamshell mode while connected to an external display, keyboard/mouse and power supply. 2) Laptops with convertible/flip touchscreen, either while in a standalone configuration with touchscreen, or while also connected to a second display and/or keyboard/mouse. 3) Tablets with touchscreen, either standalone or connected to an additional display.
- Compatibility Criteria for Fit: Works with devices that are up to approximately 1.100 inches thick, but will vary depending on the bottom edge shape of the device. An optional laptop retention pad can be installed to lock the laptop in place.
- Compatibility Criteria for Cooling: Works with devices that do not have hot air exhaust vents located within the 4.800 inch center portion of the bottom edge (screen hinge edge on laptops), and that have a metal enclosure surface for coupling with the thermally conductive interface (note that customer installed surface coverings will not allow for thermal coupling and the transfer of heat from device to heatsink). Cooling performance improves with devices that have the following attributes, where more attributes result in more cooling: 1) Bottom/back metal enclosure surfaces that are flat at the location of the larger and taller thermally conductive pad to allow for continuous coupling and maximum heat transfer. 2) Processor location centered and near bottom edge to align the device’s highest temperature location with the most cooling for the largest heat transfer potential into the heatsink thermal mass. 3) Cool air intake vent locations centered on the bottom edge for direct internal cooling from the passthrough hole when used with the optional Cooling Fan Fx accessory. Note that the 3rd and 2nd generation DHCR models include curving cutouts in the front horizontal air channels for improved airflow and heatsink cooling with 2021-2023 MacBook Pros (M2/M1 Pro/Max).
- See Laptops page to learn about Apple laptop’s built-in cooling systems and SVALT model recommendations.
Dimensional Specifications
- Product Side to Side: 4.8 inches.
- Product Front to Back: 4.1 inches.
- Product Top to Bottom: 4.1 inches.
- Product Weight: 2.6 lbs 4th and 3rd gen, and 3.2 lbs 2nd / 1st gen.
- Shipping Weight: 3.6 lbs 4th and 3rd gen, and 4.2 lbs 2nd / 1st gen.
Content Specifications
DHCR Cooling Dock Contents
- 1 x SVALT Cooling Dock model DHCR per selected build configuration (see Configurations under Order Details).
- 3 x customer installed laptop retention pads (1 pad installed at a time with 2 extra pads included for future installations).
- 1 x white microfiber cloth.
- 1 x reusable product box.
Fx Cooling Fan Accessory Bundle Contents
- 2 x SVALT Cooling Fan model Fx black anodized aluminum 80mm fan support feet with non-slip pads.
- 2 x black powder coated steel fan 80x80mm screens.
- 2 x black lower socket cap #8-32 x 1.5 fasters.
- 2 x black upper #8-32 x 1.25 fasters.
- 2 x black narrow #8 nuts.
- 1 or more x 80x80x25mm fan per selected build configuration with 3/4-pin fan connecter.
- 1 x power on/off switch and adapter with 3/4-pin fan connecter at one end and 2.1m barrel power supply connecter at the other end. Note that the G18 and B22 fan configuration also includes Noctua’s NA-FC1 PWM dial-variable speed controller.
- 1 x power supply w/ fixed plug for domestic or multi-plug for international orders.
- 1 x hex drive for right-to-repair accessing modular cooling system for exchanging, servicing or cleaning cooling systems and fans.
- 1 x reusable product box.
Assembly Note
- Some assembly may be required. Follow packaging labels and see Product Setup page for product setup, operation and additional user guide resources.
Heatsink Color and Finish Specifications
- Lighter colors have a thinner anodize depth, which slightly improves heatsink conductive and convective heat transfer. In contrast, darker colors have higher heatsink emissivity, which slightly improves heatsink radiant and convective heat transfer.
- Placing a heatsink in direct sunlight will result in heat gain and reduced cooling capacity. Lighter colors will have slightly less heat gain, while darker colors will have higher heat gain. Dark gray and black may have significant heat gain, to the point that it has a detrimental impact on cooling. See Workstation Setup page to learn more about how to setup your workstation to avoid heat gain.
- Anodized parts are pre-finished by hand and then anodized by hand in small batches.
- The same anodize color may vary slightly between individual parts based on where the part was located on the rack and whether the parts where run together on the rack or same batch.
- Anodized part’s bottom and/or back surfaces are considered non-cosmetic finish.
- Anodized surfaces can be cleaned with a damp cloth/sponge and soap.
- See Order Configurations section for heatsink color options and additional details.
Heatsink Coupling Plate Specifications
- The 4th generation DHCR is available with direct metal-to-metal laptop-to-heatsink coupling or with a protective thermally conductive assembly applied over the coupling plate.
- The direct metal-to-metal laptop-to-heatsink coupling configuration requires extra care when setting up the laptop since the anodized aluminum surfaces of the laptop and heatsink will make direct contact.
- The heatsink’s aluminum laptop coupling plate prioritizes functional performance and may not be as visually even and consistent as the rest of the heatsink’s aluminum heavy-texture bead-blast surfaces.
- The ultra-thin thermally conductive assembly has a yellow-orange color hue that varies depending on the underlying anodized aluminum color with silver being the brightest and black being the darkest. A thinner material assembly improves heat transfer, and has a slightly lighter color compared to a thicker assembly.
- The thermally conductive assembly is engineered and installed to prioritize technical performance over cosmetics, and may show small areas of lighter or darker color marks or areas of uneven coloring. Exposure to heat from device coupling may reduce or eliminate some marks or uneven areas over time.
- A white microfiber cloth is provided to clean surface.
- See Order Configurations section for laptop coupling plate options and additional details.
Additional Fx Cooling Fan Specifications
- See Fx Cooling Fan product page for associated specifications.