Logitech Gives Your Notebook a Boost

Logitech's Alto combines a full-sized keyboard with a notebook stand which raised the screen up to eye level.

Accessory and peripheral maker Logitech today announced its new Alto, a combination full-sized keyboard and notebook riser designed to elevate a notebook’s screen up to eye level for more-ergonomically friendly computing at a desk, table, or other typical work surface.

“Notebooks offer a tremendous advantage because people can use them around the house and take them on the road—but when it comes to sitting and using a computer for an extended period of time, people miss the comfort and advantages of the raised monitor and the full-size keyboard that a desktop PC offers,” said Denis Pavillard, Logitech’s VP of product marketing for keyboards and desktops, in a release. “The Logitech Alto notebook stand helps solve the comfort problem. And unlike a more complex and expensive docking station, Alto is simple to fold up and stash away when the notebook is not in use, so that people can also enjoy the benefits of open desk space.”

The Alto opens up like a book, offering a full-sized keyboard with a standard key layout, with an angled platform to support a notebook computer on the other. The Alto can handle notebooks up to 9 pounds, elevating their screen to eye level for more comfort during long work sessions. Logitech says the Alto takes less than 30 seconds to set up; acts as a three-port USB 2.0 hub (although some USB devices may require external power), and is compatible with both Windows and Macintosh systems.

The Also will be available in Europe in December 2006, and will hit U.S. markets in January, 2007, at a suggested price of $99.99.