Cooling Dock Product Specs Page

• MODELS
• FEATURES
• CONTENTS
• COOLING
• SETUP
• OPERATION
• COMPATIBILITY
• TESTING

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  Dx Pro
  The new DxBLK Pro and DxRED Pro models include universal support and active cooling designed for all Mac and PC laptops, with optimization for current generation Mac laptops, and includes the following key features:

  • airflow cools enclosure at processors and beyond
  • drives cooling air directly into center intake vent
  • internally cools compatible laptop processors
  • passive cooling heat sink next to processors
  • ultra-quiet cooling system with Arctic fan (DxBLK)
  • auto adjust speed by measured laptop temp (DxBLK)
  • single-speed balanced cooling performance (DxRED)
  • modular exchangeable cooling system
  • stand fan connector for changing fans
  • easy clamshell setup while safely in padded cradle
  • user installed laptop retention pad

  
  


  


  
  DxRED Legacy
  The DxRED Legacy model includes a support and active cooling system designed for prior generation Mac laptops (2012-15 MacBook Pro, 2008-17 MacBook Air, select PC laptops), and includes the following key features:

  • drives cooling air directly into center intake vent
  • internally cools compatible laptop processors
  • passive cooling heat sink next to processors
  • single-speed balanced cooling performance
  • modular exchangeable cooling system
  • stand fan connector for changing fans
  • easy clamshell setup while safely in padded cradle
  • adjustable laptop retention pad

  
  


  


  
  D
  The updated D model includes universal support and passive cooling designed for all Mac and PC laptops, with optimization for current generation Mac laptops, and includes the following key features:

  • passive cooling 3.3lb heat sink at processors
  • air channel for passive air current cooling
  • easy clamshell setup while safely in padded cradle
  • user installed laptop retention pad
  • solid sculpted metal art for the desk

  
  


  

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  Dx Pro

  


  

  Dx Legacy

  


  
  D

  

  


  Passive Cooling Features (All Models)

  • Large 3.3 lb (D) or 1.8-1.9 lb (DxP, DxL) aluminum heat sink for extracting heat from laptop.
  • Central air hole channels natural air currents for cooling laptop and heat sink (DxP, D).
  • Open space through padding for channeling cool air from central air hole and then exhausting hot air above (DxP, D).
  • Minimal padding area for heat transfer from metal surfaces.
  • Width set to match laptop vent locations for unimpeded airflow.
  • Helps passively cool for reduced temperatures, reduces laptop internal fan speeds, reduced processor heat/power throttling, improved performance potential, and/or improved component lifespan.

  
  Active Cooling Features (Dx Pro and Dx Legacy)

  • 80x80x25mm 12-volt fan for powerful yet quiet cooling.
  • Ten side slot vents for cooling the laptop enclosure at processor location and beyond (DxP).
  • Large central lower vent for cooling the laptop enclosure at processor location and beyond (DxP).
  • Raised pads for directing cooling airflow to processor area and then reaching surrounding laptop enclosure (DxP).
  • Raised lip edge for creating an air-sealed connection with a compatible laptop’s intake vent (DxL).
  • Adjustable front pad presses laptop against raised lip edge for an improved air sealed connection with compatible laptop (DxL).
  • Fan creates pressurized air chamber for pushing cooling air into compatible laptop (DxL).
  • Cooling air is driven into compatible laptop intake vent for direct internal processor cooling (DxL).
  • Non-restrictive laptop vent airflow so fan can be turned off for silent cooling.
  • Extended rear screen position and guard pattern for increased airflow and reduced noise.
  • External outlet power supply for increased power with reduced internal laptop heat gain.
  • Helps passively and actively cool for reduced temperatures, reduces laptop internal fan speeds, reduced processor heat/power throttling, improved performance potential, and/or improved component lifespan.

  
  Technology Features (DxBLK Pro)

  • Prioritizes low-speed audio performance with an ultra quiet Arctic fan offering essentially silent operation at lower speeds for noise critical environments.
  • External sensor for measuring laptop external enclosure temperature and automatically adjusting fan speeds over the course of a workday.
  • Helps improve user control.

  


  


  Workstation Features (All Models)

  • Closed-screen clamshell configuration for transforming laptop into desktop-like computer with external peripheries.
  • Disables laptop screen to optimize graphics for improved external display performance.
  • Reduces laptop screen, keyboard, trackpad and battery use for increased screen lifespan.
  • Uses external display, keyboard and trackpad / mouse for improved ergonomics.
  • Leaning vertical closed-screen support for easy and secure clamshell mode setup with access to power, Touch ID and keyboard while docked and connected to cables.
  • Pyramid shape and high-density mass for increased stability.
  • Compact product footprint for more open desktop.
  • Non-slip feet for stable workstation placement.
  • Two threaded underside holes for securing dock to media carts or for theft prevention.
  • Helps improve workstation productivity.

  
  Compatibility Features (Dx Pro and D)

  • Leaning support for compatibility with a wide range of laptops, tablets and other devices.
  • Steeper lower laptop support shelf angle and non-slip padding for holding laptop in place.
  • Optional user installed laptop retention pad locks laptop in place.
  • Support system designed for universal Mac and PC laptop fit.*
  • Cooling system designed for universal Mac and PC laptop cooling.*
  • Optimized fit and cooling for current Mac laptops, like 16-inch MacBook Pro.*
  • Helps cool and support compatible Mac and PC laptops with screen closed.

  
  Compatibility Features (Dx Legacy)

  • Leaning support for compatibility with a wide range of laptops, tablets and other devices.
  • Adjustable pad for holding compatible laptops in place and creating an air seal with laptop vent.
  • Optimized fit and cooling for prior generation Macs and select PC laptops, such as 2012-15 Retina MacBook Pro and 208-17 pre-Retina MacBook Air.*
  • Helps cool and support compatible Mac and PC laptops with screen closed.

  


  


  Quality Features (All Models)

  • Made for Mac with seamless Apple laptop fit and finish.
  • Modular bolted cooling system assembly for customer servicing, replacement, exchange or upgrade (DxP and DxL).
  • Standard fan connection compatible with 2/3/4-pin 80x80x25mm fans for customer servicing, replacement, exchange or upgrade (DxP and DxL).
  • High-quality 6061 aluminum cradle support for extra strength.
  • Anodized aluminum support base for matching Mac laptop finish.
  • High-quality materials oversized for increased strength and durability.
  • Metal construction for long life span and end-of-life recyclability.
  • High-quality fans with ball bearings for long life performance.*
  • High-quality components over-specced for increased performance and life.
  • Minimal use of plastic for reduced environmental impact.
  • Packaging design works for all models for flexibility and reduced impact.
  • Biodegradable package cushioning for reduced impact.
  • Designed and crafted with care in and around Portland, OR, USA.
  • Innovative design with multiple patents issued.
  • Design driven by a passion to make the best-in-class products.
  • Lifetime support for anyone with a SVALT product.
  • Helps create a product that lasts longer with less impact on society and environment.

  

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  Dx Pro Package Contents

  • 1 x SVALT Cooling Dock model DxBLK Pro or DxRED Pro product.
  • 3 x user installed laptop retention pads (1 pad installed at a time with 2 extras for future installations).
  • 1 x hex drive for removing #8 fasteners and accessing cooling system for exchanging systems, servicing or cleaning.
  • 1 x power supply w/ fixed plug for domestic and multi-plug for international orders.
  • 1 x reusable product box.

  
  Dx Pro Dimensions

  • Product Side to Side: 4.8 inches.
  • Product Front to Back: 4.1 inches.
  • Product Top to Bottom: 4.1 inches.
  • Product Weight: 2.0 lbs.
  • Shipping Weight: 3.1 lbs.

  
  

  


  
  Dx Legacy Package Contents

  • 1 x SVALT Cooling Dock model DxRED Legacy product.
  • 1 x hex drive for adjusting sliding front laptop retention pad.
  • 1 x power supply w/ fixed plug for domestic and multi-plug for international orders.
  • 1 x reusable product box.

  
  Dx Legacy Dimensions

  • Product Side to Side: 4.8 inches.
  • Product Front to Back: 4.1 inches.
  • Product Top to Bottom: 4.1 inches.
  • Product Weight: 2.1 lbs.
  • Shipping Weight: 3.2 lbs.

  
  

  


  
  D Package Contents

  • 1 x SVALT Cooling Dock model D product.
  • 3 x user installed laptop retention pads (1 pad installed at a time with 2 extras for future installations).
  • 1 x reusable product box.

  
  D Dimensions

  • Product Side to Side: 4.8 inches.
  • Product Front to Back: 4.1 inches.
  • Product Top to Bottom: 4.1 inches.
  • Product Weight: 3.3 lbs.
  • Shipping Weight: 4.1 lbs.

  
  

  

  


  Dx Modular Cooling System Configurations

  • The new DxBLK Pro and DxRED Pro models use a modular cooling system that can be exchanged or upgraded with a separate cooling system, as well as a standard fan connector to exchange 2/3/4-pin 80x80x25mm fans.
  • Note that removing or installing the DxBLK cooling system requires special instructions to avoid damage, so contact us first. The DxBLK thermistor is located within upper right pad for improved accuracy when measuring laptop enclosure temperatures. Removing the DxBLK cooling system requires the removal of the thermistor from the top right pad. This can be done, but may require replacement of upper right pad. If a replacement pad is needed, then contact us.

  
  

  


  Dx Pro and Dx Legacy Power Supply Specs

  • North America orders from USA, Canada or Mexico ship with a 100-240V AC input and 12V output power supply with a fixed Type A (USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan) plug.
  • International orders ship with a 100-240V AC input and 12V output power supply with Type A (USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan), Type C (Europe, South America, Asia), Type G (United Kingdom, Ireland), and Type I (Australia, New Zealand, China) interchangeable plugs.
  • A Replacement Power Supply is available to purchase separately.

  
  

  


  All Models Aluminum Finish Specs

  • The dock’s aluminum cradle comes with a high-end aluminum anodized finish, which is a custom finishing process that may include some color variation between products.
  • The black finish may show finger prints, but can be cleaned with a microfiber cloth, or using soap and water.
  • The bottom surface of product is considered non-cosmetic finish and includes two #10-24 (Dx Pro and Dx Legacy) or two #10-32 (D) threaded holes that can be used for mounting and securing the dock in a fixed position if desired.

  

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  Dx Pro Cooling System
  The DxBLK Pro and DxRED Pro use a passive and active cooling system. The passive cooling system features a 1.8 pound aluminum heat sink located next to laptop processors that absorbs heat through line-of-sight radiant heat transfer. The active cooling system features ten side vents that drive cooling air onto the laptop’s metal enclosure at the processor location and then sends cooling airflow to the sides of the laptop enclosure. The side vents combine with cooling airflow from a lower vent that drives cooling air at the laptop enclosure’s central processor location and then sends air upward along the laptop enclosure. The lower vent also helps to drive cooling air into laptop models with a central intake vent along the bottom screen hinge, such as with 2021+ M1 Pro Apple Silicon MacBook Pro models. Raised laptop pads direct airflow for optimal cooling, as well as house the D2’s laptop temperature sensor. Pad size is minimized to reduce contact area on the laptop, reduce heat trap and maximize cooling. The managed airflow helps generate more efficient and quieter cooling.
  
  The DxBLK and DxRED active cooling system uses a modular cooling system that allows for exchanging cooling systems, easier servicing and maintenance, as well a standard fan connector for easily changing or replacing fans. Both cooling systems use a powerful and high-quality 12-volt fan to efficiently generate more cooling airflow with less noise. A manual latching on/off power switch allows the power supply to be plugged into a user provided smart home / Apple HomeKit plug adapter to wirelessly control on/off operation or set an on/off operation schedule.
  
  The DxBLK cooling system uses an ultra-quiet, variable-speed and pressure optimized Arctic fan with external thermistor located in the top right laptop pad that measures the laptop’s enclosure temperature to automatically adjusts fan speed from approximately 500 up to 600 RPM at 86F (30C) and then up to 3000 RPM at 108F (42C). Audio performance ranges from silent up to approximately 22 dBA at 3000 RPM with maximum airflow of 23 CFM. The fan has 5 black blades shaped for optimal pressure and with a long life fluid dynamic bearing.
  
  The DxRED cooling system uses a single-speed SilenX fan that runs at approximately 1700 RPM for a balance of audio performance at 17 dBA and airflow at 30 CFM. The fan has 7 red blades with a long life ball bearing.
  
  

  


  
  Dx Legacy Cooling System
  The DxRED Legacy uses a passive and active cooling system. The passive cooling system uses a 1.9 pound aluminum heat sink located next to laptop processors for heat absorption. The active cooling system uses a lip edge to create an air seal around compatible laptops with a center air intake vent (see compatibility tab). The fan drives cooling air through the laptop vent to directly cooling internal components, such as processors, and then flushes out hot internal air through the laptop’s exhaust vents.
  
  The DxRED active cooling system uses a modular cooling system that allows for exchanging cooling systems (only DxRED), easier servicing and maintenance, as well a standard fan connector for easily changing or replacing fans. The cooling systems use a powerful and high-quality 12-volt fan to efficiently generate more cooling airflow with less noise. A manual latching on/off power switch allows the power supply to be plugged into a user provided smart home / Apple HomeKit plug adapter to wirelessly control on/off operation or set an on/off operation schedule.
  
  The DxRED cooling system uses a single-speed SilenX fan that runs at approximately 1700 RPM for a balance of audio performance at 17 dBA and airflow at 30 CFM. The fan has 7 red blades with a long life ball bearing.
  
  

  


  
  D Cooling System
  The D uses a passive cooling system with a massive 3.3 pound aluminum heat sink located next to laptop processors for heat absorption. The heat sink works in conjunction with a cooling air channel and hole that generates natural air currents to exhaust heat from laptop and dock. The air within the air channel located between the laptop, dock and vertical pads heats up and exhausts upward out the open top edge, while pulling cool air from behind the dock through the center cooling air hole.
  

  

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  Dx Pro Setup

  • Step 1: Place a compatible laptop into the cradle with the laptop’s front cover facing forward and the display hinge facing down.
  • Step 2: Center the laptop from left to right. Note that some laptops, such as the older Unibody generation of MacBook Pros use off-center vent layout (see compatibility tab), and so should be placed based on the particular laptop’s vent locations (see Laptops).
  • Step 3: This is an optional step for installing the user installed laptop retention pads. Remove a laptop retention pad from the packaging. Push the laptop into the cradle pads. Remove the pad’s adhesive backing and install the pad along the front edge of laptop. Push down on the pad so that the adhesive creates a bond.
  • Step 4: Insert the power adapter’s 2.1mm plug into the power jack on the back side of the product.
  • Step 5: Insert the power adapter’s wall plug into a compatible power receptacle.
  • Step 6: This is an option step for additional operation control: Plug the wall outlet side of the power supply into a user provided smart home / Apple HomeKit plug adapter to wirelessly control on/off operation or set an on/off operation schedule.
  • Step 7: Press the push button switch to turn on and off the cooling system.

  


  


  
  Dx Legacy Setup

  • Step 1: Remove the hex drive from product packaging and then loosen the two fasteners holding the front adjustable pad in place.
  • Step 2: Place a compatible laptop into the cradle with the laptop’s front cover facing forward and the display hinge facing down.
  • Step 3: Center the laptop from left to right. Note that some laptops, such as the older Unibody generation of MacBook Pros use off-center vent layout (see compatibility tab), and so should be placed based on the particular laptop’s vent locations (see Laptops).
  • Step 4: Slide the adjustable pad against the laptop and then press the laptop into the raised air seal lip.
  • Step 5: Tighten the adjustable pad fasteners while maintaining pressure against the laptop. Do not over tighten fasteners, only tighten enough to restrict pad movement.
  • Step 6: Insert the power adapter’s 2.1mm plug into the power jack on the back side of the product.
  • Step 7: This is an option step for additional operation control: Plug the wall outlet side of the power supply into a user provided smart home / Apple HomeKit plug adapter to wirelessly control on/off operation or set an on/off operation schedule.
  • Step 8: Press the push button switch to turn on and off the cooling system.

  


  


  
  D Setup

  • Step 1: Place a compatible laptop into the cradle with the laptop’s front cover facing forward and the display hinge facing down.
  • Step 2: Center the laptop from left to right. Note that some laptops, such as the older Unibody generation of MacBook Pros use off-center vent layout (see compatibility tab), and so should be placed based on the particular laptop’s vent locations (see Laptops).
  • Step 3: This is an optional step for installing the user installed laptop retention pads. Remove a laptop retention pad from the packaging. Push the laptop into the cradle pads. Remove the pad’s adhesive backing and install the pad along the front edge of laptop. Push down on the pad so that the adhesive creates a bond.

  

  


  All Models Laptop Clamshell Setup

  • Step 1: Connect one or more external displays, keyboard, mouse and power supply to the laptop.
  • Step 2: If the laptop is powered off, then simply open the laptop screen while keeping it safely and securely within the Cooling Dock’s padded support cradle. Unlike other clamshell mode stands, there is no need to pick up the laptop while precariously connected to cables, risking a laptop drop or cable disconnection. If the laptop is powered on and asleep, then leave the laptop screen closed and press the external keyboard’s space bar to wake up the laptop.
  • Please see our clamshell setup guide for additional details on clamshell setup and operation

  
  

  


  All Models Workspace Setup

  • Avoid Restrictive Spaces: Locate the computer away from walls and corners for access to more air circulation and avoid trapping hot air that could be pulled back into intake vents. Avoid placing within a small enclosed space (cabinet, shelving, under desk, etc) without a dedicated mechanical air conditioning system (like a server room). Provide a recommended 6 inch minimum and 12 inch preferred open space behind and on the sides of the Cooling Dock with laptop. Reductions in this open space area will result in reduced cooling efficiency and increased noise.
  • Avoid Heat Sources: External displays, hard drive arrays, and other common professional desktop accessories can generate and exhaust heat. To avoid transferring that heat to your computer, identify the neighboring device’s hot exhaust vent and position it to reduce heat transfer. Provide a recommended 6 inch minimum and 12 inch preferred separation from heat source on all sides of the Cooling Dock with laptop. Reductions in this open space area will result in reduced cooling efficiency.
  • Avoid Hot Spaces: As a general rule, an increase in ambient air temperature will lead to higher computer temperatures. If your office space has forced air heating, then try to position the computer so that it is not hit by heated air. Of course, the reverse is true with air conditioning, as that airflow could help drop ambient air temperature.
  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: When metal is placed in direct sunlight then it will absorb heat, which will reduce it’s heat sink cooling capabilities and could result in heat radiating into the computer.

  


  


  

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• Dx Pro and Dx Legacy Operation

  • Press push button switch to power on/off cooling system.
  • The DxRED cooling systems run at a fixed speed of approximately 1700 RPM, and the DxBLK cooling system measures laptop enclosure temperate with a remote thermistor located at the top right laptop pad that automatically adjusts fan speed from approximately 500 up to 600 RPM at 86F (30C) and then up to 3000 RPM at 108F (42C).
  • For additional operation control, the wall outlet side of the power supply can be plugged into a user provided smart home / Apple HomeKit plug adapter to wirelessly control on/off operation or set an on/off operation schedule.

  
  


  


  D2n Pro, D2 Pro and D2 Legacy Operation

  • See separate D2 operation user guide page.

  


  


  

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• Compatibility Criteria	Fit and Align	Passive Cool	Active Cool	Internal Cool
  Designed for all Macs and PCs	DxP, D	DxP, D	DxP
  MacBook Pro 16" M1 Pro 2021+	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP, DxL, D	DxP, DxL	DxP, DxL
  MacBook Pro 14" M1 Pro 2021+	(DxP, DxL, D)	(DxP, DxL, D)	(DxP, DxL)	(DxP, DxL)
  MacBook Pro 13" M1 2020+	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP
  MacBook Pro 13/15/16" Touch Bar 2016-20+	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP
  MacBook Pro 13/15" Retina 2012-15	DxP, DxL, D	DxP, DxL, D	DxP, DxL	DxP, DxL
  MacBook Pro 13/15/17" Unibody 2008-12	DxP, D	DxP, D	DxP	(DxP)
  MacBook Air 13" M1 2020+	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP (DxL), D	DxP
  MacBook Air 13" Retina 2018-20	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP, (DxL), D	DxPP
  MacBook Air 11/13" 2008-17	DxP, DxL, D	DxP, DxL, D	DxP, DxL, D	DxP, DxL, D
  MacBook 12" Retina 2015-18	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP
  PC laptops - large/gaming	(DxP, D)	(DxP, D)	(DxP)	(DxP)
  PC laptops - medium/standard	(DxP, DxL, D)	(DxP, DxL, D)	(DxP, DxL)	(DxP, DxL)
  PC laptops - small/compact	(DxP, DxL, D)	(DxP, DxL, D)	(DxP, DxL)	(DxP, DxL)
  iPad and tablets	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP, (DxL), D	DxP, (DxL)

  (_) indicates conditional compatibility depending on specific laptop model and/or user setup, see compatibility notes below to learn more.
  
  
  


  Laptop Builtin Cooling Systems
  Compatibility is based on SVALT’s supplemental cooling system working with and boosting a laptop’s builtin cooling capabilities. To better understand how Apple laptop’s builtin cooling systems work and how SVALT products improve laptop performance, please see our article on Laptops.
  
  Dx Pro and D Compatibility
  The Cooling Dock models Dx Pro and D are optimized for supporting and cooling current generation Mac laptops, such as the 16-inch MacBook Pro. They are compatible with current and prior generation Mac laptops, as well as most all PC laptops. A steeply angled laptop support shelf and non-slip pad help to create a universal laptop support. A user installed laptop stop pad can be installed to lock a particular laptop in place, and each product ships with three pads for future laptop fit. See compatibility notes below for additional details.
  
  Dx Legacy Compatibility
  The original Cooling Dock model Dx Legacy was designed to drive cooling air through a laptop’s central air intake vent that becomes exposed and accessible when the screen is closed in clamshell mode. This configuration allows the laptop’s internal components, such as the processors, to be directly cooled and to turbo charge the laptop’s performance potential without requiring any laptop modification. The original Dx Legacy was designed for optimal performance with the 2012-2015 MacBook Pro and 2008-2017 MacBook Air laptops and select PC laptops with a center intake vent. Apple removed the central intake vent from current generation Mac laptops (2016+ MacBook Pros, 2018+ MacBook Airs, and 2015+ MacBooks), which removed the ability to internally cool processors. Apple has reintroduced the center intake vent with the 2021+ M1 Pro Apple Silicon MacBook Pro models. The Dx Legacy’s leaning support and adjustable retention pad help accommodate a range of laptops. See compatibility notes below for additional details.
  
  


  


  
All Models Device Compatibility Criteria
  The Cooling Dock can work with a wide range of devices. Devices may be compatible if they meet following screen, fit/alignment and cooling criteria.
  
  Screens
  Compatible devices can be used with a variety of screen configurations, such as the following:

  • Laptops operated in closed-screen clamshell mode while connected to an external display and keyboard/mouse.
  • 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.
  • Tablets with touchscreen, either standalone or connected to an additional display.

  
  Fit and Alignment
  Compatible devices with a range of thicknesses and shape can fit, based on the following:

  • All models of the Cooling Dock use a leaning vertical configuration to hold the device in place. The Cooling Docks have been designed for a device to be centered and placed on edge within the padded leaning cradle. While devices can be placed into the cradle off-center to align with a laptop’s off-center vent locations, doing so may compromise stability.
  • The Dx Pro and D models include a cradle shelf/foot with a steeper incline angle and uses a super grippy non-slip pad material to hold the laptop in place without the need for a locking pad as with the original Dx Legacy model. However, user installed laptop retention pads are included as an optional accessory for the user to install and lock the laptop in place. The model D will accommodate devices that are up to approximately 0.800 inches thick at their bottom tapped edge with the locking pad installed and 1.100 inches without the locking pad. The models Dx Pro will accommodate devices that are up to approximately 0.670 inches thick at their bottom tapped edge with the locking pad installed, 0.850 inches without the locking pad, and the user has the option to remove an outer layer of vertical padding to increase those figures by 0.063 inches.
  • The Dx Legacy model includes a front pad that adjusts to fit devices that are up to approximately 0.5 inches thick at their bottom tapped edge, and depending on the edge shape can fit devices up to approximately 0.9 inches thick at their thickest section. Larger devices with more rounded and tapered edges usually fit more easily than square edges. Adding a protective or decorative case to your device typically increases overall thickness and alters edge profile. Cases may or may not be compatible, with thinner cases more likely to fit than thicker cases. Note that removing the front adjustable pad allows thicker devices to lean against the cradle’s angled back and rest on the cradle’s lower pad. However, the laptop support shelf/foot on the original Dx Legacy model has less of an incline and less material grip than the new Dx Pro and D models, so the front adjustable pad on the original Dx Legacy is used to help hold the laptop in place and removing it may compromise stability.

  
  

  


  
Cooling
  Compatible devices can benefit from a variety of supplemental cooling configurations, based on the following:

  • All models of the Cooling Dock include a cooling vent hole in the center of the dock that is meant to align with a central cooling air intake vent located along the bottom/back edge of the laptop’s screen hinge. Laptops that exhaust hot air through a central vent located along the bottom/back edge of the laptop’s screen hinge will result in inefficient cooling that could result in higher laptop temperatures. This is a less common venting layout and cooling system design, but in these cases, the laptop may need to be positioned off-center so that the hot air exhaust vent is moved off of the dock. While devices can be placed into the cradle off-center, doing so may compromise stability.
  • The D model has been designed to provide passive cooling through a massive 3.3 pound heat sink that pulls heat from the laptop at the location of heat generating processors, along with an air hole and air channel to create passive cooling air currents. The passive cooling system has been designed to work optimally with all modern Mac laptops and to work with most any laptop venting layout and cooling systems.
  • The Dx Pro models have been designed to provide passive and active cooling. The passive cooling system uses a 1.8 pound aluminum heat sink located next to laptop processors in order to extract processor heat through the laptop’s aluminum enclosure by radiant heat transfer. The active cooling system uses ten slot vents and one large lower vent to drive cooling airflow against the laptop’s aluminum enclosure at the processor location and send cooling airflow over the rest of the laptop’s bottom surface. The lower vent also helps to drive cooling air into laptop models with a central intake vent along the bottom screen hinge, such as with 2021+ M1 Pro Apple Silicon MacBook Pro models.
  • The original Dx Legacy model has been designed to drive cooling air from its exhaust vent into a device’s air intake vent centrally located along the bottom edge. The original Dx Legacy’s cooling exhaust vent includes a flexible edge that conforms around the device’s edge to fit a greater variety of device shapes and provide an air seal around the device's air intake vent. The vent opening is approximately 3.8 inches wide at it widest point and approximately 0.5 inches tall at its tallest point. To achieve successful vent coupling, the device’s vent should be approximately as long as the original Dx Legacy’s exhaust vent, and should not conflict with the device’s exhaust venting. Devices with an intake vent that leads directly to the processors may result in more significant supplemental cooling.

  

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  D2 Pro Testing Infrared Image
  
  Control Testing Infrared Image
  
  

  


  Introduction to Testing
  Computer processors generate heat which can increase temperatures, and when running intensive applications that heat can cause throttling and limit performance. Supplemental cooling can only increase performance under throttling conditions, however, the computer uses throttling to reduce temperatures and reduce heat damage. That means supplemental cooling that effectively improves cooling will allow the computer to run with reduced throttling and increased performance, but that also means that temperatures could be higher because of the higher processor power. In short, less throttling means faster and hotter. So if throttling occurs, then it is challenging to simultaneously test temperatures. Conversely, if throttling is not occurring, then it is impossible to test performance. For this reason, each test is conducted to analyze either temperatures or performance, and not both.
  
  To test supplemental cooling and to accurately measure its influence on temperatures and performance, SVALT tests under strictly controlled variables so that SVALT supplemental cooling is the only variable influencing the results. Each test session includes two tests, one with the SVALT supplemental cooling device and another without as the control. Conditions are as close to identical as possible for both tests (ambient air temperature, physical placement, non-thermally conductive insulated base, starting laptop temperatures, internal fan speeds, eliminated non-test background activities, and single applied testing workload) and results are based on direct sensor data logs (component temperatures, processor power and speed, etc). To learn more about throttling and our testing process see:

  • Laptop Throttling
  • Testing Guide

  
  

  


  D2 Pro Testing Details - All Tests
  

  • Computer: 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro (top-spec 2.4GHz CPU and 8GB GPU) with the screen closed running in clamshell mode, connected to a low-resolution external monitor, external keyboard/mouse, a fully charged battery, running on an Apple power adapter, and setup per Testing Guide.
  • Process: Two tests were conducted under controlled conditions per Testing Guide, a SVALT test with a Cooling Dock model D2 Pro set to Turbo+ 4200 rpm fan speeds, and another CONTROL test without the D2 Pro. Both tests were conducted on a flat non-thermally conductive insulated base and surrounded by open space without influence by an external cooling or heating source.
  • Ambient: Testing was conducted in a single room without windows closed and covered, and mechanical system dedicated to conditioning only that single space. The mechanical system was used to maintain a constant 75F temperature throughout testing. Temperatures were monitored by multiple gauges placed around the laptop and outside of any direct heating or cooling source.
  • Data: Overall setup photos were taken throughout the testing process to document testing conditions. Terminal automated screenshoots were captured every five minutes. Raw data from the laptop sensors was logged to CVS files through TG Pro and Intel Power Gadget applications. These data logs were used to calculate cooling performance by averaging data into 15-min segments, which were then used to generate the graphs and to calculate percentage improvements relative to the computer’s baseline settings.

  
  D2 Pro Testing Details - Light Stress Test

  • Summary: The SVALT test had up to 87% cooler processor (CPU Proximity in Celsius) and up to 67% cooler processor (AMD Radeon Pro 5500M Proximity in Celsius) compared to the CONTROL test.
  • Workload: 120 minutes of playing the same movie from the laptop’s internal storage drive and with internal fans locked at 2400 rpm (2500 rpm left and 2300 rpm right) for the 120-min test period.
  • Date: 2020-09-20 CONTROL test and 2020-09-20 SVALT test.

  
  D2 Pro Testing Details - Heavy Stress Test Multi-Core

  • Summary: The SVALT test had up to 61% higher Geekbench score (64-bit multi-core score) and up to 59% more processor power (CPU IA Power in Watt) compared to the CONTROL test.
  • Workload: 120 minutes of Geekbench 64-bit Multi-Core stress with the laptop’s internal fans locked to maximum speed for the 120-min test period.
  • Date: 2020-09-21 CONTROL test and 2020-09-21 SVALT test.

  
  

  

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