Product Review: inStand CR-1 Laptop Tripod
By Mitchell Levine

Over the last year, the technology marketplace has been bombarded with just about every conceivable variation on the notion of a “mobile workstation.” The dedicated Education Update reader will most likely recall profiles of several in the last few months alone. Well, guess what? I have yet another to recommend. I use it myself, and I suggest that serious laptop users and education tech buyers give it strong consideration.

Originally developed for use by court stenographers, the CR-1 is a folding tripod, much like a heavy-duty version of a music stand, made from anodized aircraft-grade aluminum, with an adjustable, ergonomically-designed no-slip tray. Folded, the CR-1 easily fits into a backpack or computer case- in fact, it even fits into mine fully loaded- and weighs in at only 26 ozs. Unfolded, the tripod stand can accommodate users whose seated height ranges from about 19” to 41”- appropriate for all but the youngest students. Although slightly more expensive than some of its competitors at approximately $100, prior to any applicable volume discounts made available to institutional buyers by the manufacturers, the convenience of this item cannot be overstated. It can be carried around practically unnoticeably, and unfolded for use as a portable computer support center in less than a minute. My laptop is at the high end of the scale at about ten pounds, and the CR-1 holds it and my power supply with nary a shake nor wobble. For those who might have occasion to use it for highly extended periods of time, or require additional supplementary materials or peripherals, an industrial-strength version, the CR-5, is available, as well as one intended for standing use, the CR-3. Other helpful accessories are also sold directly by the company.

I’ve said it repeatedly throughout my reviews, and I will once again: spending money on technology is worthless, if that technology cannot be used and used effectively to enhance literacy, technological or otherwise. The laptops currently being purchased for in-class use must be able to be effectively deployed, if they are to make any difference in our students’ educations. It’s a sad irony that the districts in New York that most need the hardware also have the least space to use it in. The inStand CR-1 can help compensate. Teachers, administrators, superintendents, principals, parents, BOCES coordinators, Board of Education and Technology Task Force members, and Mr. Chancellor, please log onto www.instand.com or contact 1-877-467-8263, and explore the possibilities this product has to offer.#

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