MBA 13" Clamshell vs Open

[enigma2k]

Hi,

I am considering using the 13" MBA together with the new Thunderbolt Display. But I am wondering how good is ventilation when the MBA is in clamshell mode, as I don't want the fan to run up all the time and make blow noises.

Is ventilation maybe better when using it in vertical position like the Bookarc offers? http://twelvesouth.com/products/bookarc/

 

[xkmxkmxlmx]

The Air (nor MBP for that matter) wasn't designed to run in clamshell mode. So, no matter what, you will experience more heat build up than you would while open. As to how much obviously depends on what exactly you're doing with it.

 

[DaveOZ]

Use it open, then you get two desktops to work with.

 

[enigma2k]

The macbook airs are actually designed for clamshell: http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3131

 

[bp1000]

It will work fine in clamshell mode but the chances of throttling due to heat do increase slightly. Simply because ambient heat does escape through the keyboard and the air in your room will move across your keys and dissipate it into the room. A minor cooling affect. WIth the lid down the air movement is restricted so if can run a little warmer.

However, as the other guy said, run it with it open and you have 2 visible desktops which is always nice.

I will use a stand and hook up a wireless keyboard and mouse so both monitors are at eye level but the laptop itself is redundant from input.