What tablet devices work with FLOTE?
The question should be “What devices do not work with the FLOTE?” So far, we’ve been unable to find a tablet or e-reader that does not fit within the FLOTE’s “Cradle” (the part that holds the tablet or e-reader). The only partial exception is the NOOK®, which needs to be in a case to enlarge its size. Fortunately most cases available will work perfectly fine with FLOTE. To learn more click here. If you discover a tablet that does not work with FLOTE, please contact us so that we can post a list here.
Why is FLOTE premium priced?
FLOTE meets extremely high standards for design integrity and functionality excellence. Every detail has been addressed to provide a premium product which we believe is well worth the price. Click here to learn more.
Once in the FLOTE Cradle and placed at a desired viewing angle, does the tablet tend to “wander” or “drift”.
No. FLOTE utilizes a custom-made powerful magnetic ball joint designed specifically for this purpose. It works beautifully to hold your tablet’s position for as long as you want. Yet, you can freely and easily reposition your tablet at any time without the need to loosen or tighten anything.
Please note that when positioned at some extreme angles, there may be a very slight, barely noticeable drift. If you notice drifting occurring in other positions or frequently, it likely means that the steel ball and magnetic socket need to be cleaned. Click here for more details and important information for this maintenance procedure.
Can FLOTE be easily pushed/moved out of the way, so that I can rise out of bed without hitting or knocking into it?
Yes. FLOTE pivots at its base and also slides using the floor glides under its base. You can easily rotate FLOTE’s Boom out of the way, or gently slide FLOTE our of your way. Still, as with any piece of furniture or appliance next to your bed, you’ll need to take care to avoid bumping into it while moving around.
Do I need to protect my tablet from the mounting brackets? How do the “Cradle” work?
No protection is needed as FLOTE’s Cradle has soft rubber cushions. These cushions gently hold your tablet, prevent it from sliding, and protect it from scratching the surface of your device.
Unlike other tablet stands which require you to use specific holders for specific devices, FLOTE’s universal Cradle is engineered to use spring tension to gently but firmly grip virtually any tablet or e-reader on the market today. Using tabs on the back of the Cradle, you gently squeeze to open up the Cradle’s top and bottom, and release to allow the spring tension to grip your device. FLOTE is designed so that it is very easy and fast to insert or remove your tablet. Learn more by clicking here.
Is there any “bounce” when typing on or using my tablet?
FLOTE was designed primarily for reading, viewing and browsing which often requires very little typing or touching the screen. Under those circumstances there is very little bounce, and what there is will typically subside after a few seconds. For those who wish to type or frequently peck on their tablets, we recommend two approaches, (a) gently hold a lower corner of the tablet while typing/pecking with the other hand, or (b) position your tablet so its bottom is in contact with a solid object, such as your lap or stomach (when lying in bed). These two approaches dramatically reduce any bounce while typing or pecking frequently.
Please note that the longer the extension of the Boom, the more prominent the bounce will be. This is simple physics although as mentioned, the bounce will subside quickly or can be addressed by the solutions provided.
How does the telescoping feature work with the Boom?
You simply slide the Boom in or out as needed. Depending on the weight of your device, you may need to use the small Tension/Lock Knob located under the Boom. This may be necessary to prevent the Boom from unwanted sliding depending on the angle of the Boom. You can also use this knob to lock the Boom from telescoping or retracting. This is useful when using with younger children, particularly when the tablet is floating over their heads.
—> NEVER LEAVE YOUNG CHILDREN OR THOSE AT RISK UNATTENDED WHEN USING FLOTE. ALWAYS PROVIDE ENOUGH DISTANCE BETWEEN THE CHILD AND FLOTE/TABLE TO PREVENT RISK OF THE INDIVIDUAL PULLING THE TABLET/FLOTE DOWN UPON THEMSELVES CAUSING POSSIBLE INJURY! <—
Can I use my tablet with its case on, or do I need to remove it?
FLOTE is designed to work with your tablet or e-reader with or without a case. However, there are some large cases which often also include a wireless keyboard. These cases may not work with FLOTE and removal from them may be required before inserting your tablet into the FLOTE Cradle.
Are all the control buttons on my device accessible while the tablet is mounted?
Our experience so far is that all controls are available when the device is in the Cradle, including clearance around the speaker areas. However, there may be newer or future devices that may have controls blocked by the Cradle. If you come across such a device, please contact us so that we can post those devices here.
Can my tablet be charged while I’m using it with FLOTE?
Yes. The charging port is available on iPAD and the other tablets and e-readers we’ve tested. Although not necessary,for convenience you may prefer using an extended-length charging cable, such as this 3 meter length one from Griffin.
What are the measurements of the FLOTE?
You can see measurements by clicking here.
Is FLOTE safe to use with young children (or elderly adults)?
Although FLOTE was engineered to be solid and balanced, a young child may have the strength to pull the device- and FLOTE- down upon themselves causing possible injury. Although FLOTE was engineered to be balanced and will maintain its position indefinitely, please use common sense when allowing a child to access a device being supported by FLOTE. It’s great for floating a tablet over a young child, but dangerous if that child is capable of grabbing and pulling the tablet and FLOTE down upon themselves causing possible injury.
—> NEVER LEAVE YOUNG CHILDREN OR THOSE AT RISK UNATTENDED WHEN USING FLOTE. ALWAYS PROVIDE ENOUGH DISTANCE BETWEEN THE CHILD AND FLOTE/TABLE TO PREVENT RISK OF THE INDIVIDUAL PULLING THE TABLET/FLOTE DOWN UPON THEMSELVES CAUSING POSSIBLE INJURY! <—
I’m in a rush and don’t want to wait 2-3 weeks for shipping? Can I get my FLOTE shipped via an express courier?
Yes. Please contact us to arrange express shipping. Contact us by clicking here and put “RUSH ORDER!” in the subject matter. We will calculate courier costs, and then email you a PDF invoice. Upon payment via Paypal (credit cards accepted) we will expedite your order.
Can I get my FLOTE in colors other than offered?
Yes. Please contact us to discuss options. Contact us by clicking here and put “Custom Color Inquiry” in the subject matter.
I live outside the U.S. Do you ship internationally?
Yes. You must select the international shipping option when ordering. For details click here.
Are accessories for FLOTE planned?
Yes. We are always thinking of new designs and ways to make using FLOTE even more enjoyable. Please check back at this website from time to time for new additions. If you have suggestions for accessories, please feel free to contact us (and thank you). To see some existing accessories and apps which will enhance using your FLOTE, be sure to check out our Useful Apps & Stuff page.
Is any maintenance required?
Generally, there is very little maintenance required other than gently cleaning your FLOTE from time to time. (Note: Do not use products with ammonia). For more information on caring for your FLOTE click here.
How do I contact you if I have a question, suggestion or issue?
To contact us, please click here.