Cooling Dock

$289.00 USD

Ships in 1 week, see orders tab.

DESCRIPTION
MODELS
UPGRADES
ORDERS

The Cooling Dock uses a unique leaning vertical configuration for easy closed-screen clamshell setup and processor area cooling to help restore performance potential for pro users.
All Cooling Dock models run the laptop in closed-screen clamshell mode with a leaning support milled from solid aluminum that provides passive heat sink cooling, preserves built-in screen/keyboard, reduces desktop footprint, includes a user adjustable laptop locking pad, and allows for easy clamshell mode setup with access to the laptop’s power button while connected to cables and safely held within a padded cradle.
- The new D2n Pro, D2 Pro and D1 Pro models include universal support and active cooling designed for all Mac and PC laptops, with optimization for current generation Mac laptops. All three models drive airflow through vents that cool the laptop’s enclosure at the processor location as well as the surrounding enclosure. The D2 cooling system offers multiple user selectable modes, user customization, and an external thermistor to measure laptop enclosure temperatures and automatically adjusts fan speeds. The D2 Pro is available with either a standard D2 cooling system that prioritizes high-speed cooling performance for maximum cooling potential or a D2n cooling system that prioritizes low-speed audio performance for noise critical environments. The D1 cooling system uses a single speed with balanced cooling and audio performance for simplicity of operation. All three models use a modular cooling system that allows for exchanging cooling systems, as well as easier servicing and maintenance.
- The original D1 Legacy model includes a support and active cooling system designed to internally cool processors with cooling air driven directly into a center intake vent on compatible prior generation Mac laptops (2012-2015 MacBook Pro, 2008-2017 MacBook Air, and select PC laptops). The cooling system uses a single speed with balanced cooling and audio performance for simplicity of operation.
- The updated D model includes universal support and passive cooling designed for all Mac and PC laptops, with optimization for current generation Mac laptops. It feature a massive 3.3 pound aluminum heat sink and a natural cooling airflow channel for silent cooling.
The Cooling Dock product line includes the new next generation D2 Pro and D1 Pro models, as well as an updated D model. The new D2 Pro model is now available with either a standard D2 cooling system that prioritizes high-speed cooling performance for maximum cooling potential or a D2n cooling system that prioritizes low-speed audio performance for noise critical environments. All new models include universal support and cooling designed for all Mac and PC laptops, with optimization for current generation Mac laptops. All model D2 Pro, D1 Pro and D orders have included the new or updated models since September 2020, and D2n Pro November 2020.

In support of our existing customers, we offer the following upgrade options:
- Customer with a new D2n / D2 / D1 Pro model: The new Cooling Dock Pro models use a modular cooling system that allows you to install a different D2n, D2 or D1 cooling system.
- Customers with an original D2 / D1 Legacy model (formerly named D2 / D1 Pro): Send us an original D2/D1 Legacy to upgrade the aluminum dock with new venting and padding, and reuse of the original D2/D1 cooling system (the upgrade includes cooling system cleaning, as well as a firmware update for D2 systems). Alternatively, purchase a new D2n / D2 / D1 Pro model and receive a partial refund on the purchase after returning the original D2 / D1 Legacy model. The upgrade cost or the amount of the partial refund depends on the Legacy model and its condition, please contact us for details and an estimate.
- Customers with an original D model: Purchase a set of Laptop Retention Pads at our material cost.
- SVALT products are made locally and hand built to order. Orders typically ship out within 1-5 business days of order date.
- Lifetime support for anyone with a SVALT product.
- 15-day return and 1-year limited warranty for US customers.
- SVALT is a local company based in Portland, Oregon. Oregon does not collect sales tax.
- Shipping estimates can be viewed before proceeding to checkout by adding an item to your cart and then viewing the cart.
- International customers are responsible for paying their country’s import fees and taxes upon delivery.
- See policies for additional details.

See below for features and specs.

Running in clamshell mode traps heat while external displays and pro apps can make laptop fans scream, degrade hardware reliability and reduce performance.

Power To Do More

The new D2n/D2/D1 Pro models cool laptops with a 1.8 lb heat sink and fan driven cooling through ten side slot vents and one lower vent that focus enclosure cooling at processors and then beyond to surrounding enclosure.

Legacy Cooling

The original D1 Legacy model actively cools prior generation Mac laptops with a 1.9 lb heat sink and internal air cooling driven directly into a laptop’s central intake vent (see compatibility tab below).

Keep It Cool

The model D silently cools laptops with a massive 3.3 lb aluminum heat sink and an air channel that generates natural convection cooling currents next to processors.

Reduced Temperature

The D2 Pro decreased GPU processor temperatures by up to 67% to help calm laptop fans and restore system stability.

Increased Power

The D2 Pro increased CPU processor power by up to 59% to help reduce heat throttling and unleash peak performance potential.

Ergo Elevated

Help preserve laptop battery, screen and keyboard life, while creating a more compact, open, ergonomic and productive professional workstation setup with external display and keyboard of your choice.

Clamshell Flexibility

Leaning vertical support accommodates a wide variety of laptops without modification, and provides access to laptop power button while connected to cables and safely in the padded cradle for quick clamshell mode setup.

Enduring Tech

Milled from solid aluminum, user adjustable laptop stop pads, and user upgradeable cooling system (D2n/D2/D1 Pro) for lasting durability and flexibility.

Crafted With Care

Designed and made locally in Portland, Oregon to last with high-quality metal construction.

Design Office

“We’re pushing them day-in and day-out. Heavy imaging, editing, rendering… Some days it was like they were literally cooking. But no more! Our Svalt D's keep them chill and lets us use them like true workstations.” Kirk J. w/ D1 Legacy

Home Office

“The dock is cooling my MacBook so that the internal fan can work with a lower fan speed than before. The design is really nice. I’m really happy with my purchase and highly recommend it!!” Kevin S. w/ D2 Pro

MODELS
FEATURES
CONTENTS
COOLING
SETUP
OPERATION
COMPATIBILITY
TESTING

 
D2/1 Pro
The new D2 Pro and D1 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
- passive cooling heat sink next to processors
- ultra-quiet cooling system with Noctua fan (D2nP)
- auto adjust speed by measured laptop temp (D2P)
- multi-speed user customizable cooling (D2P)
- single-speed balanced cooling performance (D1P)
- modular exchangeable cooling system
- easy clamshell setup while safely in padded cradle
- user installed laptop retention pad
 
 
D1 Legacy
The original D1 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
- 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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D2/1 Pro
 
 
D1 Legacy
 

D
 
 
Passive Cooling Features (All Models)
- Large 3.3 lb (D) or 1.8-1.9 lb (D2/1P, D1L) aluminum heat sink for extracting heat from laptop.
- Central air hole channels natural air currents for cooling laptop and heat sink (D2/1P, D).
- Open space through padding for channeling cool air from central air hole and then exhausting hot air above (D2/1P, 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 (D2/1 Pro and D1 Legacy)
- 80x80x25mm 12-volt fan for powerful yet quiet cooling.
- Ten side slot vents for cooling the laptop enclosure at processor location and beyond (D2/1P).
- Large central lower vent for cooling the laptop enclosure at processor location and beyond (D2/1P).
- Raised pads for directing cooling airflow to processor area and then reaching surrounding laptop enclosure (D2/1P).
- Raised lip edge for creating an air-sealed connection with a compatible laptop’s intake vent (D1L).
- Adjustable front pad presses laptop against raised lip edge for an improved air sealed connection with compatible laptop (D1L).
- Fan creates pressurized air chamber for pushing cooling air into compatible laptop (D1L).
- Cooling air is driven into compatible laptop intake vent for direct internal processor cooling (D1L).
- 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 (D2 Pro)
- Available with a standard D2 cooling system that prioritizes high-speed cooling performance or a D2n cooling system that prioritizes low-speed audio performance with an ultra quiet Noctua 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.
- Low-temperature auto-off for eco-friendly standby mode.
- Three auto and two turbo speed cooling modes for more flexible user selection.
- Fixed speed customizable for more precise user control.
- Discrete LED for signaling cooling modes and user inputs.
- 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 (D2/1 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 (D1 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 (D2/1P).
- 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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D2/1 Pro Package Contents
- 1 x SVALT Cooling Dock model D2n Pro, D2 Pro or D1 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.
D2/1 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.
 
D1 Legacy Package Contents
- 1 x SVALT Cooling Dock model D1 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.
D1 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.
 
 
D2/1 Pro Modular Cooling System Configurations
- The new D2 Pro and D1 Pro models use a modular cooling system that can be exchanged or upgraded with a separate cooling system.
- Convert a D1 Pro into a D2 Pro with any D2 cooling system (note that the D2 Pro ships with a new v3.0 firmware, see the Specifications Operation tab for details).
- Convert a D2 Pro into a D1 Pro with any D1 cooling system.
- Note that the D2 Pro is available with either a standard D2 cooling system that prioritizes high-speed cooling performance or a D2n cooling system that prioritizes low-speed audio performance with an ultra quiet Noctua fan offering essentially silent operation at lower speeds for noise critical environments.
- Note that removing or installing the D2 cooling system requires special instructions to avoid damage, so contact us first. The new D2 Pro thermistor is located within upper right pad for improved accuracy when measuring laptop enclosure temperatures. Removing the D2 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.
 
D2/1 Pro and D1 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 (D2/1 Pro and D1 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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D2/1 Pro Cooling System
The D2 Pro and D1 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. 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 D2 Pro’s active cooling system uses a powerful and high-quality 12-volt fan to efficiently generate more cooling airflow with less noise. The system operates with a programmable speed control that includes an external thermistor to measure the laptop enclosure temperature and to automatically adjust fan speed between over the course of a workday. Three Auto mode presets help to meet a variety of user needs and conditions, a Fixed speed cooling mode can be customized to any speed for complete user control, and two temporary Turbo cooling modes offer an instant blast of cooling power. A momentary push-button switch allows for user cooling system configuration, while a LED signals cooling system settings.

The D2 Pro is available with either a standard D2 cooling system that prioritizes high-speed cooling performance for maximum cooling potential or a D2n cooling system that prioritizes low-speed audio performance for noise critical environments. The D2 cooling system uses a 800-4200 RPM speed range that delivers significant cooling airflow (up to 50 CFM and 75 Pa) with high noise levels at max-speed (up to 50 dBA). The D2n cooling system uses an ultra quiet Noctua fan that delivers cooling airflow (up to 37 CFM and 23 Pa) with quieter operation at overlapping 800-2200RPM speeds (up to 18 dBA) and with essentially silent operation at lower 500-1200RPM speeds. Both D2 fans have 7 black blades with a long life ball bearing and approximately eight years of continuous operation.

The D1 Pro’s active cooling system uses a powerful and high-quality 12-volt fan to efficiently generate more cooling airflow with less noise. The system operates with a single-speed for simple on/off push-button switch operation. The fan runs at approximately 1700 RPM for a balance of audio performance at 17 dBA and cooling performance at 30 CFM. The fan has 7 red blades with a long life ball bearing and approximately eight years of continuous operation. Note that the D1 Pro uses a manual latching on/off power switch that allows the power supply to be plugged into a timer or smart home outlet. This gives the user the ability to automatically start/stop the cooling system per a set schedule, room ambient temperature, laptop sleep/wake or power status, etc.

All three models use a modular cooling system that allows for exchanging cooling systems, as well as easier servicing and maintenance.

 

D1 Legacy Cooling System
The D1 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 D1 Legacy’s active cooling system uses a powerful and high-quality 12-volt fan to efficiently generate more cooling airflow with less noise. The system operates with a single-speed for simple on/off push-button switch operation. The fan runs at approximately 1700 RPM for a balance of audio performance at 17 dBA and cooling performance at 30 CFM. The fan has 7 red blades with a long life ball bearing and approximately eight years of continuous operation. Note that the D1 Legacy uses a manual latching on/off power switch that allows the power supply to be plugged into a timer or smart home outlet. This gives the user the ability to automatically start/stop the cooling system per a set schedule, room ambient temperature, laptop sleep/wake or power status, etc.

 

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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D2/1 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. Note that the D1 Pro model uses a manual latching on/off power switch that allows the power supply to be plugged into a timer or smart home outlet. This gives the user the ability to automatically start/stop the cooling system per a set schedule, room ambient temperature, laptop sleep/wake or power status, etc.
 
 
D1 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: Insert the power adapter’s wall plug into a compatible power receptacle. Note that the D1 Legacy model uses a manual latching on/off power switch that allows the power supply to be plugged into a timer or smart home outlet. This gives the user the ability to automatically start/stop the cooling system per a set schedule, room ambient temperature, laptop sleep/wake or power status, etc.
 
 
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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D2 Pro Operation
 
 
D2 Pro Fan Speed Diagram
 

D2n Pro Fan Speed Diagram
 
D2 Pro Operation
The following operation guide is for the new next generation D2 Pro model with firmware version 3.0 (September 2020), and the D2n Pro model with firmware version 4.0 (November 2020). For the original D2 Legacy models with firmware versions 1.0 and 2.0, please go to the operation and upgrades.

Cooling System Components
The following describes the cooling system’s major user interface components:
- Jack : A power jack located towards the bottom of the rear screen receives a power supply plug for powering the system. Only use the power supply included with product shipment or a Replacement Power Supply.
- Switch : A pushbutton switch located towards the bottom of the rear screen panel controls the system. After starting the cooling system as described below, pressing the switch two times (2x) to eight times (8x) will enable different cooling modes and additional functionality as described below. To register multiple switch entries, each switch depression needs to occur within 1.2 seconds of the last.
- LED : A LED located inside the rear screen and toward the bottom indicates switch inputs and the system’s enabled cooling mode. When starting up the cooling system or changing cooling modes, the LED will indicated the enabled cooling mode for 24-seconds (see Turbo and Custom Cooling Mode sections below for LED signal patterns). When shutting down the cooling system, the LED will momentarily light up and fade to off after 1-second. The LED is placed for visibility when leaning over the laptop and looking down the back side of the dock.
- Fan : A fan located behind the rear screen generates cooling airflow by pulling air from the back and drive it out the front vents against the laptop enclosure. The fan also provides an audio indicator for switch inputs and the system’s enabled cooling mode. When starting the cooling system or changing cooling modes, the fan instantly spins up to maximum speed and then either drops down to a lower speed or turns off based on the cooling mode and measured temperature. When shutting down the cooling system, the fan will stop if it hasn’t already stopped.
- Thermistor : A thermistor located within the top laptop pad measures laptop enclosure temperature in order to automatically adjust fan speeds when one of the three Auto cooling modes are enabled.
 
 
System Startup & Shutdown
The following single 1x switch activation provide basic cooling system on/off operation.
- 1x Startup (LED flashes per enabled cooling mode as indicated below) : When the cooling system is shutdown, pressing the switch 1x starts the cooling system in Auto cooling mode by default or the last user saved cooling mode as described below.
- 1x Shutdown (LED fades to off) : After waiting 2-seconds from the last switch depression, pressing the switch 1x shuts down the cooling system.
Auto Cooling Modes
The cooling system runs in Auto cooling mode by default. In addition to the default Auto cooling mode, there are also Auto+ and Auto- cooling modes to help meet different conditions and user preferences. In any of the three Auto cooling modes the cooling system’s external thermistor measures laptop enclosure temperatures and automatically adjust fan speeds. This helps keep things quiet when supplemental cooling is not required and then increases fan speed as temperatures rise over the course of a workday. When temperatures are low enough the fan will temporarily stop until higher temperatures are detected, at which point the fan will automatically restart. See the Custom Cooling Modes section below to learn more about each of the three Auto cooling modes.

Turbo Cooling Modes
After starting the cooling system as described above, then the following switch activations will immediately increase the fan speed for an extra blast of cooling power. The Turbo cooling modes are temporary and do not change the last saved cooling mode, and so are meant to be used in conjunction with a user’s preferred normal cooling mode.
- 2x Turbo (rapid flashing LED) : Pressing the switch 2x runs the fan at 2400 RPM for D2 Pro and 2200 RPM for D2n Pro until automatically returning to the default Auto cooling mode or the last user saved cooling mode after 30-minutes for D2 Pro and 10-minutes for D2n Pro. Turbo cooling mode provides a moderate increase in fan speed while maintaining moderately low noise levels for a quick boost in cooling power.
- 3x Turbo+ (medium flashing LED) : Pressing the switch 3x runs the fan at 4200 RPM for D2 Pro and 2200 RPM for D2n Pro until pressing the switch 1x to return to the default Auto cooling mode or the last user saved cooling mode. Turbo+ cooling mode provides maximum fan speed with high noise levels for a full boost in cooling power.
 
 
Custom Cooling Modes
After starting the cooling system as described above, then the following switch activations will change the saved cooling mode. Once one of these modes has been enabled, then the cooling system will return to that cooling mode upon subsequent power restarts or after the use of a temporary Turbo cooling mode.
- 4x Fixed (slow flashing LED) : Pressing the switch 4x runs the fan at 1400 RPM for D2 Pro and 1200 RPM for D2n Pro by default or a user’s saved custom fixed speed (see 5x Fixed Customization below). Fixed cooling mode provides a constant speed for precisely meeting a user’s cooling and audio performance requirements.
- 5x Fixed Customization (LED pulses up and down to indicate rising or falling fan programming speeds) : Pressing the switch 5x runs the fan in a cycle from the lowest to highest to lowest speed that repeats four times until pressing the switch 1x at the desired fixed speed. The cooling system automatically enters into the Fixed cooling mode at the selected and now saved speed. To select a different speed, then press the switch 5x to restart the process, or reset to the default speed as described below.
- 6x Auto+ (rapid pulsing LED) : Pressing the switch 6x runs the fan at variable speeds set for cooling priority. Auto+ cooling mode is less likely to turn off in standby mode, to stay on at moderate speeds, and to increase speeds sooner to help stay ahead of heat buildup. Auto+ cooling mode is suggested for cooler offices or for more aggressive cooling within less noise sensitive environments.
- 7x Auto (medium pulsing LED) : Pressing the switch 7x runs the fan at default variable speeds set for a balance of audio and cooling performance. Default Auto cooling mode is more likely to stay off in standby mode or run at lower speeds until temperatures rise, at which point fan speeds will progressively increase to help neutralize heat buildup. Auto cooling mode is suggested for offices with normal temperatures and normal noise sensitive environments.
- 8x Auto- (slow pulsing LED) : Pressing the switch 8x runs the fan at variable speeds set for audio priority. Auto- cooling mode is most likely to stay off in standby mode or run at lower speeds until temperatures rise significantly, at which point fan speeds will begin to increase to help recovery from heat buildup. This cooling mode is suggested for hotter offices or more noise sensitive environments.
 
 
Restore Factory Defaults
After starting the cooling system as described above, the cooling system can be reset to factory default settings by pressing and holding the switch for 5-seconds. Once the switch has been held down for 5-seconds and a system reset has been triggered, then the fan will speed up and the system will reset to the default Auto cooling mode and the LED will medium pulse. The Fixed cooling mode will also reset to the default speed.
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Compatibility Criteria	Fit and Align	Passive Cool	Active Cool	Internal Cool
Designed for all Macs and PCs	D2P, D1P, D	D2P, D1P, D	D2P, D1P
MacBook Pro 13" Apple Silicon 2020+	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P
MacBook Pro 13/15/16" Touch Bar 2016-20+	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P
MacBook Pro 13/15" Retina 2012-15	D2P, D1P, D1L, D	D2P, D1P, D1L, D	D2P, D1P, D1L	D2P, D1P, D1L
MacBook Pro 13/15/17" Unibody 2008-12	D2P, D1P, D	D2P, D1P, D	D2P, D1P	(D2P, D1P)
MacBook Air 13" Apple Silicon 2020+	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P
MacBook Air 13" Retina 2018-20	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P
MacBook Air 11/13" 2008-17	D2P, D1P, D1L, D	D2P, D1P, D1L, D	D2P, D1P, D1L	D2P, D1P, D1L
MacBook 12" Retina 2015-18	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P
PC laptops - large/gaming	(D2P, D1P, D)	(D2P, D1P, D)	(D2P, D1P)	(D2P, D1P)
PC laptops - medium/standard	(D2P, D1P, D1L, D)	(D2P, D1P, D1L, D)	(D2P, D1P, D1L)	(D2P, D1P, D1L)
PC laptops - small/compact	(D2P, D1P, D1L, D)	(D2P, D1P, D1L, D)	(D2P, D1P, D1L)	(D2P, D1P, D1L)
iPad and tablets	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P, (D1L), D	D2P, D1P, (D1L)

(_) 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.

D2/1 Pro and D Compatibility
The Cooling Dock models D2/1 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.

D1 Legacy Compatibility
The original Cooling Dock model D1 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 D1 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. The D1 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 D2/1 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 D1 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 D2/1 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 D1 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 D1 Legacy model has less of an incline and less material grip than the new D2/1 Pro and D models, so the front adjustable pad on the original D1 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 D2/1 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 original D1 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 D1 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 D1 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.

 
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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