LAPtop computers

I just got my V2000 yesterday. I'm loving it. Great machine, just like everyone said. But I wonder about something. I use it on my lap on my couch. If it's chilly, theres a blanket on me and the laptop is on top of that. On my old Dell, I didn't think about it much since the fan was out the back and it had an exhaust port on the side. On my new Compaq, the fan is on the bottom. Seems to me that running it on my lap is going to block the fan, and increase the heat. How do you guys deal with this. I know theres a bunch of threads involving cooling pads. But do you *need* one? Is it just a good idea to have? Seems kind of stupid to design a LAPtop that can't sit on ones lap. If the laptop is sitting on a flat surface, say a board across my lap, would I still need a cooler? Are there different types of coolers? Do some suck heat out and some blow cool air in?

 

To avoid the soft top, lap/covers/bed, just place a hardcover book under it, that will keep an air gap under it. You wouldn't want to get those vents blocked on the underside, if they are intakes or exhausts

 

I also find that if I sit cross-legged, there is more airflow. The laptop edges will rest on your upped leg, but the majority of the bottom has access to air.