Tablet Stands

Providing appropriate positioning for access and ergonomic positioning can be important with the use of mobile devices. A recent road trip requiring the use of my iPhone for navigation, hotel and event searching brought about the acute realization that small screens, static, prolonged positioning yields some unpleasant symptoms (discomfort and stiffness which subsequently remained for several days… I should know better!). Although positioning is a bit more challenging in the car, I could have definitely improved my devices position and changed some of the accessibility options to help with visual and positioning as the navigator and event coordinator for the trip.

An ever-increasing number of stands are available for the iPad, iPhone or iPod. Here are a couple I have recently purchased or worked with that provide adjustable, quick on/off and or portable positioning solutions:

FlipStands – New, Compact Portable Multi-Adjustable Stand for the iPad, iPad2, the New iPad, iPad Mini, Nexus 7, Nexus 10, Nook HD and all other Tablets ($12.95 – Amazon)

This stand is 5 x 8″ x 3/8″, sturdy and light weight. The base has small rubber grippers to help it stay in place. The rests which holds the tablet, provides 3/4″ space to allow for iDevices with cases. Multiple positions can be set pending positioning needs. It is wide enough to not topple over with a device, although for some users whose motor or behavior control might be challenged, a choice of a heavier or more secure stand may be a better choice. This is great for portability and adjustability.

CLINGO Universal Dash Pad Car Mounts –  This mount is for an iPhone or iPod Touch (39.94).  It has a remarkable gripping surface that devices adhere to without having to clamp them on.

Clingo Universal Wave Mount for tablets (26.95 at Amazon) provides limited adjustability but the same ease of attaching or removing from the cling surface in either horizontal or vertical positions. Manages tablet devices up to 2 pounds. Easy on and off of a device is a strong feature of this stand.

Halter Portable And Foldable Rotating Articulating Metal Desk Stand for Apple iPad 1, 2 And 3 (29.99) This stand is hinged and adjustable at the base of the upright stand and at the plate where the tablet attached. This is a heavy stand, making it not a real portable option, but allowing it to stay in place due to the weight. The halter at the edges are also adjustable allowing it to clamp down on a variety of different sized tablets.

Taking it on and off requires some screwing/unscrewing, however this could be adapted with Velcro placed on the stand and device or device case. Inexpensive, this provides adjustability for positioning of a device.

Arkon Portable Fold-Up Stand for Apple iPad, Galaxy Tab, Kindle Fire, Playbook, Xoom, Toshiba, Acer, Nook and Other Tablets  remains one of my favorite, portable stands as it is lightweight, takes limited space and is cheap! ($8.15)
The Arkon stand also accommodates cases such as the Otterbox, GumDrop and Trident cases.

I should have used the Arkon stand or Flip Stand propped on a bag to improve my positioning – along with longer breaks away from the device would also have helped!

What stands are you using that you would recommend?

Here are a few more resources for stands:

• iPod/iPhone/iPad Equipment on OT’s with Apps Pinterest
• Lauren Enders Pinterest iPad Mounts – provides an awesome collection of iPad stands and mounts!

Any suggestions for mounts and stands?

Carol