I’ve looked and longed for something like this since I got an Apple MacBook last year after they first showed up with the new Thunderbolt port. Thunderbolt offers a faster connection (up to 10Gbps) compared to present external device connections and this dock will add other connections to your Thunderbolt enabled Mac.

The dock will connect to the following:

• Gigabit Ethernet
• 3 USB 2.0 ports
• 1 FireWire 800 port
• 1 HDMI port
• 1 3.5mm Audio port
• 2 Thunderbolt ports

The two Thunderbolt ports will allow you to connect one device upstream and one device downstream, meaning you can daisy chain multiple devices. Thunderbolt allows you to connect many devices in series to one Thunderbolt port. For example, you could connect an Apple Thunderbolt Display to your computer’s port and then plug the dock into the display (upstream to the computer). A Thunderbolt hard drive could then be plugged into the other port (downstream) on the dock.

Thunderbolt accessories are expensive, since Apple and Intel introduced the technology last year and still only a few Macs sport the new port. When PCs start utilizing the connection later this year in the new Ultrabooks coming soon, we may find more manufacturers following Belkin’s lead and releasing Thunderbolt accessories. The larger the supply of Thunderbolt port accessories the greater the competition driving down prices. The licensing fees collected by Apple and Intel also drive prices up.

See the Belkin Press Release for more details.

Belkin Releasing Thunderbolt Express Dock in September (CES 2012) is a post by Kevin Purcell from Notebooks.com.

Unlike the Aviiq Laptop Stand which we reviewed, this one is designed to work both on a table and on your lap comfortably and it uses a fan to keep your notebook cool. It’s not as portable, but it is handy when you have a notebook that gets hot. In our testing of the Toshiba Satellite E305, a laptop cooler or a desk is a must have while playing games like Portal 2!

Belkin Cooling Pad Design

The Belkin Cooling pad does away with the flip out stand that the older models used for prop that looks almost like an upside-down spoiler. This is more comfortable than previous models and also sturdier. With a previous model, we found that pressure on the back could actually close up the folding hinge.

The cord storage is built right in which is another nice touch that you will appreciate if you take it on the road or if you just want to keep things tidy near the couch.

Belkin Cooling Pad Cooling

The single fan does a good job of circulating air and keeping the notebook noticeably cooler than when used without. Most modern consumer notebooks do OK on the heat side of things during normal use, but we found that when playing games or watching Flash video some can heat up, which is where a laptop cooler comes in handy.

If you have a hot notebook, this will do a good job of cooling things off on the base and on the palmrest area so that you can type without getting sweaty palms.

Belkin Cooling Pad Noise

Anytime you add a fan to the mix you have to be concerned about noise. While you can hear the fan on the Belkin Cooling Pad it wasn’t loud enough to annoy us while we watch TV. If you want the extra airflow, but don’t need the fan, simply unplug the power cord from your USB port to gain silent airflow cooling.

Belkin Cooling Pad Conclusion

At $29.99 the Belkin Cooling Pad offers an affordable and well-built cooling solution that does the job without being too loud. The cooling stand is small enough that you could take it with you in a bag if you want, but this is a notebook stand that we see as being used primarily at home.

Belkin Cooling Pad Gallery

Belkin Cooling Pad Review: Portable USB Powered Single Fan Cooler is a post by Josh Smith from Notebooks.com.

A Nice Day at the Office

Must Have Notebook Accessories:

Available for Tablets, Notebooks and Gadgets

Antiglare Screen Protector: One of the biggest challenges with working outdoors is the lighting. Most consumer notebooks come with incredibly glossy screens that make it difficult to work in the sunlight. If you aren’t fortunate enough to have a work notebook hat has an anti-glare display, you can get one to fit your screen from NuShield. We have been testing one, and it does make reading your notebook easier in outdoor conditions.  We’ll have a full NuShield review up soon, but our first impressions are positive. You can also get these screen covers for your various other gadgets. You can save 10% with the coupon code KPR%10.

Good Backpack: If you’re going to be out of the office, a good backpack is a must. While I have always been a carry it all type, it’s interesting to see a friend come over to the carry it with me side, after he upgraded to a proper backpack when his doctor told him that a sling backpack could be causing some health issues. Look for padded straps and a very good notebook compartment. Specifically, find one that has padding along the sides and bottom. Many notebook bags skimp on padding on the bottom, which can lead to cracked notebook casings. We like Mobile Edge, Booq, Tom Bihn and Level 8.

MiFi or USB Modem: If you plan to work from the park, you’ll probably need an Internet connection. We recommend picking up a MiFi or USB modem, but you could also use your phone as a hotspot. Keep in mind that battery life can be an issue with the MiFi and phone as a hotspot routes so you’ll want to keep a cable nearby. If you are an occasional work outside kind of person, you may want to look at Virgin Mobile’s MiFi and USB modems which don’t require a contract. You can also get a MiFi or USB modem for less than $50 from your favorite cell phone carrier with a 2 year contract; plans typically start around $30-$40 a month.

Wrapsol gadget protection prevents scratches

Protection for your Gear: If you are going to be outside for a long time with your notebook, iPad or other gadgets, you may want to look into a protective film like those from Zagg, Wrapsol and Gelaskins. These gadget covers and wraps keep your items looking like new and make it easy to wipe off any dirt you pick up while working outdoors.

AViiQ Notebook Stand

Notebook Stand: If you are working away on a picnic table, you’ll probably want a notebook stand to give your notebook a better typing angle. We really like the AViiQ because it folds down practically flat and weighs next to nothing, but if the price is too high you can find other options like the Belkin Laptop Cooling Pad which has a built in USB powered fan. Check out our AViiQ review for more details.

Backup Battery: While the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro may last all day in optimal settings, they, like many Windows notebooks won’t last a full day with the screen set to maximum brightness outdoors. We suggest getting a secondary Notebook battery. For most notebooks, you can get one right from the manufacturer. For Apple, you need a solution like the HyperMac external Mac battery.

Remote Access: To appear like you are in the office, we recommend a tool like LogMeIn to connect to a computer back in the office or to ask for VPN access so that your computer thinks it is still on your corporate network. A VPN allows you to run programs that need to be on the network from any internet connection. Your IT department would usually need to set this up for you.

Versatile Mouse: Unless you have a MacBook, you probably don’t want to use a mousepad all day long. Instead, look for a mouse like the Logitech Anywhere Mouse MX which can mouse on pretty much any surface or the small SwiftPoint Mouse that mouses right on your notebook palmrest. Check out our SwiftPoint Mouse Review.

Laptop Lock: While you won’t use this all of the time, a Laptop Lock is a nice accessory to have in your notebook bag for occasions when you want to walk around your work area or if you need to walk over to a pop machine in the park. There are plenty of options at your local Best Buy or Staples.

Laptop Shade: If an anti glare screen protector is out, try the Laptop Sun Shade which gives you a focused sun free work area without the need for a giant hooded sweatshirt. This may not be as elegant as the screen protector, but could be a must have if you don’t want others looking over to your screen.

Keyboard Skin: When you work outdoors there’s a chance that all types of things will fall into the keyboard cracks on your machine form a raindrop to a dead bug or a crunched up leaf. Keep your notebook keyboard tidy with a keyboard cover like iSkin keyboard covers. Sony also makes silicon keyboard covers for VAIO models and you can Google your notebook model and silicone Keyboard cover to find one that fits your notebook.

USB Cooler: If you’re working in the sun all day, you need a nice cool beverage to keep you going. Why not pick up this USB powered drink chiller which will keep your iced tea nice and cool while you work and soak up the rays.

11 Must Have Outdoor Notebook and Laptop Accessories is a post by Josh Smith from Notebooks.com.

The Belkin Grip 360 + Stand has an MSRP of $49.99, which is actually quite low considering it offers three solutions for less than than many cases that only offer one. The Belkin Grip 360 can be found at Amazon.com for just $45.

Belkin Grip 360 + Stand Review Video:

How Can You Use the Belkin Grip 360 + Stand?

iPad Hand Strap Case: The most compelling option is the ability to use the handstrap to keep your iPad at hand while presenting or demonstrating with an iPad. The handstrap snaps on and allows for 360-degree rotation that allows you to use the iPad in portrait or landscape mode while you hold it. This is great for teaching with the iPad, presenting on stage or working a show floor. The handstrap is adjustable so that it will fit pretty much any sized hand securely, which means you don’t feel like the handstrap will slip off during use.

iPad Stand Case: If you want to use your iPad on a flat surface, the Belkin Grip 360 hand strap can be replaced by a stand which has a J shaped tail and can be configured in several positions. This extension can also be used as a grip when carrying the iPad or to hand the iPad on the back of a chair or a desk drawer if it’s in a good location.

The case allows you to prop the Belkin Grip 360 up into a landscape mode that’s perfect for movies or reading. It can also swivel around for a more angled landscape mode that caters to typing.

If you want to use the iPad in portrait mode, the stand twist on case accessory allows you to use the iPad in a variety of angles from almost straight to a quite reclined angle. With a quick adjustment this the Belkin Grip 360 + Stand allows you to place your iPad in about any angle you desire.

iPad Flat Back Case: The final twist on the accessory is a flat back that allows you to stow the iPad without the added bulk of the handstrap or the stand. With this option you have a case that looks like most other cases and can slip in a bag easily for travel.

Why the Belkin Grip 360 + Stand is Great:

The magic of the Belkin Grip 360 is that it is a versatile iPad case that fills the needs of three separate cases. The ability to switch between these case uses without actually removing the case is a huge positive. To switch between the backs, you just need to apply a little pressure and twist the back and you can swap between a stand, a handstrap or a flat back. Despite the ability to swap, the connection feels very solid and we haven’t had any issues with the iPad coming loose. Then the handstrap or the stand backs are connected, you can swivel the iPad 360 degrees, giving you the angle you need to work or play.

Belkin hasn’t announced an iPad 2 version of the Belkin Grip 360 + Stand, but we anticipate that this great case will be available for the iPad 2 down the road. With all of the various angles and attachments, this would be great for FaceTime conversations.

Belkin Grip 360 + Stand Demo Video:

Belkin Grip 360 + Stand Review Conclusion – Editor’s Choice iPad Case:

The Belkin Grip 360 + Stand is one of the best iPad cases we have used. For the price of one case, you get a case that handles the duties of three to four cases allowing you to hold the iPad while you work or keep it in a portrait or landscape mode at a variety of angles. We sincerely hope that the iPad 2 will fit in this case, or that Belkin creates a Grip 360 + Stand for the new thinner iPad 2.

The only issue we had during our use was that the stand will at times feel stuck after you set an angle and use it for a period of time. To free it, just wiggle the stand a bit and it will loosen up.

Because of the versatility, ease of use and overall performance for price, we are awarding the Belkin Grip 360 + Stand an Editor’s Choice Award. This one of the best cases available for the iPad, especially if you teach, present or otherwise need to keep your iPad on your hand for extended periods of work or play.

Pros:

• Handstrap, Stand and Flat Back all in One
• Secure feel
• Doesn’t add considerable bulk or weight
• Affordable for an iPad case

Cons:

• The stand can catch sometimes

Belkin Grip 360 + Stand Gallery:

Belkin Grip 360 Review: Handheld iPad Case With Swivel Stand is a Winner is a post by Josh Smith from Notebooks.com.

The perfect gift for your iPad fan or for someone who’s also getting an iPad this holiday season could be a case. This is a very personal kind of thing as most iPad users have a particular style of case that they enjoy. So we give you a recommendations in a few different styles, from a slim silicon skin case to book style folio cases, and a case useful for carrying more than just the iPad. The last two are unique cases for special circumstances.

One case that is conspicuously absent from this guide is the Apple iPad Case. That is not a mistake or oversight. Our review of the case was less than positive. In fact after ordering it when we first purchased our ipad, we returned it as soon as possible preferring at first a netbook case over the horrible Apple case. Since then we have found some wonderful cases and here are some of the best. Read on so you don’t make the same mistake we made with Apple’s case.

Thanks for checking out the Notebooks.com Gift Guide 2010 series. We want you to have a great holiday season so we have pulled together a collection of gift guides that make it easier to shop for everyone you know. These gifts have been hand picked by the staff at Notebooks.com and have been deemed worthy of giving to someone you care about.

iSkin Duo for iPad – $49.99

If you only want a small protective skin to keep the iPad from getting scratched and dinged for use around the house or at work, then a good silicone skin might be the best bet. The colorful iSkin Duo cases are just that. The iSkin Duo has a unique feature in that it not only protects the edges and back, as most iPad silicone skins do, but it adds a frame of black covering around the front screen. The only thing exposed is the display itself. Also, if you use the Apple iPad Dock, this skin is one of the few cases that does not have to be removed to actually use the dock. Finally, the company claims it is made of a material free of harmful chemicals that also resists bacteria. If so, it might also be a more healthy case. We had no way of testing that without sending off to some kind of CSI-like lab. But we do know it was comfortable to use and easy to install. The only thing we didn’t like was the price. But all iPad cases are about $20 too much. So with that in mind, this is not out of sight. The good news is the clear case shows up at Amazon for only $35. And if you search Amazon you can find the others for similar deals.

Scosche foldIO p1 iPad Case – $49.99

We recently reviewed this folio case/stand combination and declared it the best of class for folio cases. What makes it so special is that it is a good combination of form and function plus fashion. The stand function of the case works well and is easy to transform from a case to stand. The size of the case is low profile meaning it doesn’t add much bulk to the case while still protecting the iPad. Finally, it looks nice. There were only minor flaws which you can read about in our review. One of those is the horrible name. Despite the name and minor quality problems, it is our choice for the best folio case for the iPad. Below you will find our video review.

To get a deal, head over to Amazon where the sale price is a hair over $33.

Incase Convertible Book Jacket Case – $59.95

The Incase Convertible Book Jacket Case was beaten out by the above Scosche foldIO p1 iPad Case for only two reasons – it adds more weight and thickness to the iPad and it is slightly more costly. Other than that, it is every bit as good and takes the 2nd place in our list of top iPad cases. Some people might actually prefer the added bulk since it is likely to make the iPad more secure. But we prefer going with a smaller form. If you disagree then this is the perfect choice. It also has a nice elastic band to hold the cover over the iPad when not in use. Oure review of the white version can be read or seen in the video below.

We prefer darker cases so suggest you pick this black one. But aside from this black case or the white one in our review there are other colors like Charcoal, Vermillion or Deep Violet.

Waterfield Designs iPad Wallet Case – $79

Folio cases are not all there is when it comes to iPad cases. This case from Waterfield Designs is a beautiful option for those who want carry more than just their iPad. The iPad Wallet Case comes in a number of beautiful colors and is a handcrafted case that has a very professional yet home made look and feel to it. The company makes some of the nicest cases for any electronic item including iPhones, laptops and more.

The iPad Wallet Case is unique because it can not only carry an iPad in it’s protective zipper case, but also has a pocket specifically designed to fit the Apple Bluetooth Keyboard. Add to that a pocket for peripherals, and this is the perfect tool for someone who plans to use their iPad on the road as a laptop replacement. We love this case and the only reason we are not using it full-time is our preference for folio style cases. The good news is a user can take advantage of both a small form factor folio case like the Scosche foldIO p1 Case above and still use the Wallet Case for those extended road trips. Check out our written review or the video review below.

The basic model is $79. Buyers can get a pair of D-rings added for $5 extra. That makes it useful as a shoulder bag if you have your own strap. Straps from Waterfield Designs come in two styles for either $9 or $19 depending on whether you want a basic strap or one with extra padding. We reviewed the basic model and don’t think you need any more than that.

Otherbox iPad Defender Series Case – $89.95

If you need more than average or typical protection because your iPad will be used in extreme environments or you just want extra peace of mind, then our Editor’s Choice Otterbox iPad Defender Series Case is a good option. It is a rugged, hard shell case that protects everything from the screen to the ports and every other inch of your iPad. It is a hard shell around the entire device.

You can either read our written review or see the video review below.

Zaggmate Keyboard Case – $99.99

One of the cases we really wanted to like which we tested earlier this fall was one of the keyboard cases from Kensington. Unfortunately, it was just okay. The biggest problem was the keyboard itself. But of all the cases that incorporate a Bluetooth keyboard only this one from Zaggmate has a different form factor. All the rest seem to be the same case and keyboard just rebranded with different names on it or slightly different cases. This one however is a hard shell aluminum case with a keyboard integrated into it.

We have not had this one in for testing, but the price and unique form factor gave us the courage to go out on a bit of a limb and recommend it. Here is one review from an actual user who really likes the case.

The case is aluminum and the keys are plastic. The edges of the keyboard are raised to keep the screen from scratching against the keys. And the raised aluminum edge might annoy some users, but the above review said this actually forces you to type the right way helping protect against repetitive stress injuries.

While this is in our lineup, we put it here because the explosion of this style of case shows this is something wanted by users. If you are such a person this looks like a better solution than the Kensington case we tested. Or just pick up the Waterfield Designs case above and the Apple Bluetooth Keyboard.

Holiday Gift Guide 2010: iPad Cases is a post by Kevin Purcell from Notebooks.com.

$20 and Under

AT&T Cell Phones via Amazon – $0.01 with new service plan

When we said options suitable for any budget, we meant ANY budget. Amazon is currently offering tons of feature phones and smartphones for only 1 cent, with the purchase of a new service plan. For example, give your dad a $500 BlackBerry Bold 9700 for just 1 cent. Visit the link for a full list of all the phones offered on this deal. It only makes cents…to pick one up for your father today!

Slacker Radio Plus – $3.99-$4.99

If you purchase a 12-month subscription to Slacker Radio Plus for your dad, the monthly cost would be $3.99 a month. If you want to purchase just one month, it is $4.99. With Slacker Radio plus, your dad will enjoy the complete lack of audio and banner ads, unlimited song skips, complete lyrics, unlimited song requests, and mobile station caching. Mobile station caching allows you to store your favorite station on your phone’s memory card, allowing you to listen to that station without a network connection, like when traveling on a plane.

Netflix – $13.99 a month

Netflix, the popular movie rental and streaming service, gives you the ability to send your dad a gift of monthly access to thousands of movies. The best value is the $13.99 a month plan, in which your dad can have 2 DVDs at a time, as well as watch instantly on a PC, Mac, TV, iPad, iPhone, PS3, Xbox 360, or Wii. You can give your father 1 month ($13.99), 2 months ($27.98), 3 months ($41.97), 6 months ($83.94), or 12 months ($167.88) of service.

$21-$50

Belkin Accessory Bundle for iPod Touch – $29.99

Made for the iPod Touch 2G and 3G, this bundle comes with an Ergonomic Silicone Case, Rotatable charger with folding prongs, and a four-foot charge-and-sync cable.

Pandora One – $36 a year

Give your father the gift of music with Pandora’s premium service, Pandora One. With this version of the popular music streaming service, your dad will get higher quality audio, unlimited listening, fewer interruptions, no advertisements, custom skins, and the Pandora Desktop Application. The application allows the playing of Pandora stations without opening a browser.

Callpod Chargepod Bundle Pack with 6 Adapters – $38.95

This device charges up to 6 devices at once. Included are six popular charging adapters. It is compatible with thousands of mobile devices such as iPods, cell phones, digital cameras and pretty much any other mobile device you can think of.

Eye-Fi Connect X2 4GB SDHC Wireless Flash Memory Card – $47.16

The Eye-Fi SD memory card stores up to 2000 photos or 90 min. of video. What sets it apart from a normal SD card is that the Eye-Fi can upload photos and videos using your home WiFi network. It can also be set up so that your dad gets email, Facebook, and Twitter alerts when his photos are being uploaded. Photos and videos can be set up to automatically be placed in specific folders, or in iPhoto if your dad uses a Mac.

$51-$100

Shure Sound Isolating Earphones with Dynamic Microspeaker II – $67.10

These earphones offer superior sound quality, as well as a sound isolating design that blocks more outside noise than active noise cancellation technology. Various sizes and shapes of earbuds are included, en-shure-ing the perfect fit.

Aliph Jawbone ICON – $74.88

A bluetooth headset that is small and sleek. It features military-grade NoiseAssassin 2.5 for noise reduction, as well as spoken updates (caller ID, Battery Status, ect.), 7 different earbuds, an earloop, and the most sophisticated Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Technology.

$101-$200

Logitech Harmony One – $146.99

Sporting a color LCD touchscreen, this remote control could be the only remote control your dad will ever need. The Harmony One features easy internet-based set-up with live customer support, on-screen activity buttons, contoured backlit buttons, and it can even learn IR codes from existing remote controls.

Casio Exilim EX-G1 – $169.95

This 12.1-megapixel digital camera sports a new rugged design, making it suitable for any conditions your dad may put it in. The Exilim-G1 is waterproof, freeze proof, dust proof, and shock resistant. It features interval shooting, which would allow your dad to automatically take photos or videos of himself at specific time intervals while engaging in sports such as skiing or rock climbing. This is truly a versatile device.

Apple iPhone 4 16GB – $199 with new service plan

Apple recently announced the new iPhone 4 with features such as FaceTime, a new crisp retina display, HD video recording/editing, and a 5-megapixel camera with LED flash. Though he won’t get it in time for Father’s Day, you can pre-order your dad a black (white is currently unavailable) 16GB version that will be shipped to him by July 14th.

HTC Droid Incredible – $199.99 with new service plan

Verizon Wireless’s new installment in the Droid brand is the Droid Incredible by HTC. This Android smartphone contains a powerful 1 GHz processor, 3.7-inch touchscreen, 8-megapixel camera, 8GB of onboard memory, the Android Market, as well as many more features.

HTC EVO 4G Android Phone – $199.99 with new service plan

Give the gift of 4G by giving your dad an Android based HTC EVO 4G from Sprint. This is the first 4G capable phone, containing features like a massive 4.3-inch touchscreen, HDMI out, 8-megapixel camera with HD video capture, a front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera for video chatting, WiFi, Sprint TV, Amazon MP3 Store, GPS, and the Android Market.

$201 and Up

Amazon Kindle (Latest, Global Wireless Edition) – $259

Perfect for the dad that loves to read, the Kindle is a wireless reading device with a 6-inch paper-like display that’s easy on the eyes. Weighing only 10.2 ounces and the ability to download a vast variety of books globally over 3G signals makes the Kindle the perfect device to take a book collection anywhere in the world. Additionally, the Kindle lasts a full week on a single charge, with wireless on. With wireless turned off, your dad can enjoy two weeks of reading on a single charge.

Sony Cybershot TX5 – $299

One of Sony’s latest point-and-shoot cameras in its Cybershot line-up, the TX5 is waterproof, shock-proof, freeze-proof, and dust-proof, making it dad-proof if you have a clumsy father. It sports a 3″ touchscreen, 10.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, 720p HD video recording, built-in HDR mode, and the famed iSweep Panorama mode.

Apple iPad 16GB Wi-Fi (non-3G if he’s anyone important) – $499

One of Apple’s newest devices, the 9.7-inch iPad is sure to make your father say, WOW! Along with the thousands of apps on the App Store, internet browsing, and iBooks, the iPad is sure to please all types of interests. Alternatively, an AT&T 3G capable version is available for $629.

Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin – $599.95

This is the perfect gift for a true audiophile. The Zeppelin loudspeaker, which is too good to just be called a speaker, unparalleled sound reproduction using the two 1-inch aluminum tweeters, two 3.5-inch fiber cone mid-range drivers, and one 5-inch bass driver. This iPod dock/loudspeaker is compatible with all dockable iPod and iPhone models. It can also be integrated into your home theater system,  and can play sound using the 3.5-mm digital input jack. Also available at most Apple Stores.

Hopefully, this list gave you an idea of what to get your dad for Father’s Day. After all, they deserve much more than we could ever provide. Happy (early) Father’s Day to all you dads out there, from all of us at Notebooks.com.

Last Minute Gift Ideas for Father’s Day is a post by Carter Sprunger from Notebooks.com.

Meet the Belkin messenger bag for laptops up to 12.1”. This small and lightweight bag has a cool two-tone color scheme. All of the outside parts of the bag, excluding the zipper tabs, are brown, while the inside parts of the bag are a cool teal color. Belkin calls the colors on this version of the case chocolate/tourmaline” and they also offer it in a few different color combinations. I personally think the two go very well together. The bag puts these two contrasting colors to stylistic use by allowing a bit of the inside to peek out on the front of the bag. The zipper tabs are also the same color as the interior, providing some neat highlights without trying too be too flamboyant.

If you’ve already bought a a 12.1” laptop, you are probably trying to stay mobile. Buying a case to fit helps keep your kit nice and light, and there is a certain satisfaction to having a case that holds your notebook just right, as opposed to just buying a generic bag that’ll fit anything between a netbook and your microwave. Having said that, the notebook pocket inside this Belkin messenger bag fits my 12.1” HP tablet perfectly. The main pocket’s zipper doesn’t go all the way around which means that the top doesn’t ‘flap’ over, it just opens and allows you to slide the desired contents inside. While the zipper doesn’t go all the way around, it does go down pretty low on the sides, making access to the main pocket easier than some others cases I’ve tried.

Let me give you a quick rundown of all of the pockets. Starting from the front, there is a pocket where you see that vertical strip of blue color. The zipper follows the strip (it runs vertically up and down the bag) and when unzipped you reach into the bag sideways (horizontally). Behind that, but still on the front of the case, there is the horizontal zipper pocket and inside there is interior holder which is presumably to hold an MP3 player, as there is a hole that will allow you to thread your headphones out of the pocket while your player remains inside. Skipping over the main pocket (I’ll talk more about that in a moment), on the backside of the bag is a sleeve-like pocket which would be good for quickly stowing papers as it is held shut by a single section of velcro as opposed to a long zipper.

Now on to the crux of the case: the main pocket. Despite this case being pretty small and fitting the notebook just right, the main pocket is quite spacious. The part that actually holds the notebook inside the main pocket is sort of a plush and padded sleeve with an elastic strap that secures the notebook and is fastened with velcro. I’m glad that this strap is elastic because it easily stretches around the notebook whether it has the standard or extended battery attached.

Also inside the main pocket are plenty of holders to organize all of your stuff. I was able to fit a good deal of assorted objects in the case, and just to demonstrate how nice and spacious it is there is even room for my netbook in addition to my notebook!

The build of the case is also quite good. The stitching is well spaced and areas that need to be reinforced had extra attention payed to them. In particular, the shoulder strap doesn’t just connect at one point it runs just about all the way up and down the sides which gives it more attached surface area, which should make it more durable. I was surprised to find that this bag lacks a shoulder strap pad (an extra cushiony area) — even some smaller bags that I’ve used have been equipped with a pad on the shoulder strap, so considering that this bag is larger and carries a heavier laptop, I was expecting the pad to distribute the weight around your shoulder, but alas there doesn’t seem to be one, despite the apparent inclusion in most stock photos of the bag (as seen on the right). However, Belkin makes this case in several sizes, so it is possible that it is only included on larger models.

All in all, I would definitely recommend this bag if it fits your notebook. It has an easy to access main pouch, and good build quality. The notebook holding section fits 12.1” devices perfectly, and the main pocket still has plenty of room to spare. Despite the apparent feeling of spaciousness, the bag is still rather small and light, maximizing portability, which is the reason you bought a nice small 12.1” notebook to begin with, right?

If you are in Europe, the guys over at Gearzap offer this case or you can browse their site for others (they have a pretty good selection, but only ship to Europe at the moment) . If you are in the US, Buy.com has the Jet/Cabernet version of the bag, and Amazon has a good selection of the same bag but at a larger size.

Mini Review: Belkin Messenger Bag is a post by Ben from Notebooks.com.

The CushDesk is available now for $29.99 in a variety of color combos, including pitch black/soft gray, espresso/fuchsia, pitch black/pitch black and pitch black/dark sky.

Belkin Introduces CushDesk is a post by Xavier Lanier from Notebooks.com.

Belkin will donate 10 percent of the retail price of each pink- and bone-colored case to the Foundation. The four new cases will be available in mid-September. These iPod cases offer a way to fund research and showing support for those battling cancer.

“Our new pink- and bone-colored iPod cases celebrate the active lifestyles of women, their empowerment, and their strength,” said Belkin President Mark Reynoso.

Sport Armband for iPod nano â€âہ $24.99

* Made with unique âہ“stitchlessâ€Â construction that ensures long-lasting durability
* Hand-washable
* Water-resistant

Remix Acrylic for iPod nano â€âہ $24.99

* Clear acrylic front and soft-touch back
* Innovative, âہ“true-senseâ€Â click wheel provides full protection and functionality to your iPod

Statements (Charm/Folio Case) for iPod nano â€âہ $24.99

* Features ribbon pattern laser-cut into high-end leather
* Includes wristlet for easy carrying
* Interior mirror doubles as a picture frame

Sport Armband for iPod shuffle â€âہ $19.99

* Lightweight, durable rubber material
* Water-resistant and hand-washable
* Reflectors for nighttime use

New Belkin iPod Cases Benefit Cancer Research is a post by Xavier Lanier from Notebooks.com.

âہ“We always strive to build products that are useful, simple, and thoughtfully designed. Here, weâ€â„¢ve evolved the intuitive LED display from our flagship N1 Wireless Router into an interactive LCD on the N1 Vision, giving you a sophisticated wireless router that tells you much more about your network activity,â€Â said Chris McGugan, VP of Product Management for Belkin.

The N1 Vision utilizes a 802.11n 3×3 MIMO design and wired gigabit ports It will be available in late July for $199.99.

Belkin N1 Vision Wireless Router with Display is a post by Xavier Lanier from Notebooks.com.