[Helmling]

Can the Pro be operated on its side?

[mduell]

Yes... are there any computers that can't be operated in an arbitrary orientation?

[mkerr64]

haven't there been something around 5 threads on this topic already?

[P]

Originally Posted by mduell 

Yes... are there any computers that can't be operated in an arbitrary orientation?

Yes. Apple's convection-cooled computers (certain iMac generations, the infamous Cube) will overheat if placed on the side.

Also: If you check the specs on most harddrives, they are only guaranteed to work at horizontal or vertical, plus or minus a few degrees. Presumably it's because the arm doesn't move predictably at other angles. On modern harddrives it doesn't matter in my experience, but I know of one case where a machine (manufactured c:a 1990) refused to boot because the harddrive was sitting at an angle in the box. I secured it horizontally, and the thing booted.

[OreoCookie]

P is correct, you should not operate harddrives on an odd angle, it puts strain on the bearings.