Fully Jarvis Monitor Arm: Elevate Your Workspace with Ergonomics

Are you tired of hunching over your desk, battling neck pain and a cluttered workspace? A high-quality monitor arm can be a game-changer, transforming your ergonomic setup and freeing up valuable desk real estate. Among the many options, the Fully Jarvis monitor arm has historically been a popular choice, lauded for its robust design and smooth adjustability. While the landscape for this specific product has evolved, understanding its features and the broader benefits of monitor arms remains crucial for anyone seeking an optimized and healthier work environment.

What is a Monitor Arm and Why Do You Need It?

A monitor arm is a mechanical device that attaches to your desk or wall, suspending your monitor above the work surface. It provides unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to easily adjust your screen’s height, depth, tilt, and rotation. This dynamic positioning is essential for achieving an ergonomic workstation, which means aligning your body in a neutral, comfortable posture to reduce strain and prevent repetitive stress injuries.

Beyond health benefits, a monitor arm significantly declutters your desk. By lifting your monitor off its native stand, you reclaim precious space, fostering a more organized and efficient area for tasks, note-taking, or even just a cleaner aesthetic. It’s an investment in both your physical well-being and your daily productivity.

Understanding the Fully Jarvis Monitor Arm

The Fully Jarvis monitor arm, once a staple in ergonomic desk setups, was known for its solid construction and versatile adjustability. Manufactured by Fully, a company recognized for its standing desks and accessories, the Jarvis arm was designed to complement a dynamic workspace.

However, it’s important to note a significant development: Fully, Inc. has ceased operations. While new Jarvis monitor arms are no longer being produced directly by Fully, remaining inventory may still be found through authorized retailers such as Herman Miller and Design Within Reach. These might be available at their original list prices, making alternatives potentially more budget-friendly or readily accessible.

Key Features and Specifications

The Fully Jarvis monitor arm, whether single or dual, offered a compelling set of features:

• Exceptional Adjustability: Users could effortlessly pull the screen closer, push it back, move it up or down, and pivot it left or right. This range of motion was crucial for finding the perfect ergonomic viewing angle.
• VESA Compatibility: It supported VESA mounting patterns of 75x75mm and 100x100mm, making it compatible with most monitors on the market.
• Integrated Cable Management: A standout feature was its intuitive cable management system, with covers that easily slide on and off, keeping cords tidy and out of sight. This prevented cable clutter and maintained a clean aesthetic.
• Mounting Options: The arm provided flexibility for installation, allowing users to either clamp it securely to the edge of a desktop or install it through an existing grommet hole. The desk clamp accommodated thicknesses from 0.4 to 3.35 inches (10 to 85 mm).
• Easy Tension Adjustment: The arm featured an accessible tension adjustment mechanism, typically requiring a hex key (often conveniently stored on the arm itself) to calibrate it for different monitor weights, ensuring the screen stayed precisely where positioned.

Performance and Capacity

The Jarvis monitor arm was designed to hold most 13-inch to 32-inch monitors. For a single arm setup, it typically supported monitors weighing up to 19 to 19.8 pounds (approximately 8.5 to 9 kg). Dual arm configurations offered similar weight capacity per arm.

Its adjustability included a 13.2-inch height adjustment range, allowing the monitor center to reach up to 19.8 inches above the tabletop. The arm could also extend approximately 23.8 inches, providing ample depth adjustment. While some sources claimed 360-degree swivel for the entire arm, user experiences indicated that certain joints, like the VESA plate, offered 180-degree rotation, and the bottom arm might have a 270-degree range. This still provided extensive flexibility for most users to switch between landscape and portrait orientations.

Types of Monitor Arms

Monitor arms come in various designs, each suited for different setups and preferences. Understanding these types helps contextualize where the Fully Jarvis arm fit into the market.

Desk Mount Monitor Arms

Desk mount arms are the most common type, attaching directly to your desk. They typically come with two primary installation methods:

• Clamp Mount: These arms use a C-clamp to secure to the edge of your desk, requiring no drilling. They are ideal for quick installation and easy relocation. The Fully Jarvis arm offered this robust and widely preferred option.
• Grommet Mount: For desks with existing cable holes (grommets) or those willing to drill one, a grommet mount provides a more permanent and flush installation. This option was also available with the Jarvis arm, creating a very stable base.

Wall Mount Monitor Arms

Wall mount arms are affixed directly to a wall stud or appropriate anchor points. They are excellent for saving desk space entirely and creating a minimalist look. They are best suited when a fixed viewing position is desired relative to a specific seating area.

Spring Arm vs. Gas Spring Arm

The core mechanism for vertical adjustment in monitor arms largely falls into two categories:

• Spring Arms: These utilize a mechanical spring system. They are generally robust and cost-effective, often providing reliable support over a long lifespan. However, adjustments might feel less fluid.
• Gas Spring Arms: Featuring a gas-pressurized cylinder, these arms offer exceptionally smooth, effortless adjustments. They are often preferred for their ease of movement and sophisticated feel. The Fully Jarvis monitor arm primarily used a gas spring mechanism, contributing to its reputation for smooth positioning, though some initial tension adjustment was typically required out of the box to properly balance the monitor’s weight.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Monitor Arm

Selecting the ideal monitor arm, whether it’s a remaining Jarvis unit or an alternative, requires careful consideration.

1. Determine Your Usage Needs

• Monitor Size and Weight: Crucially, check your monitor’s specifications. Every monitor arm has a maximum weight and screen size capacity. Exceeding these limits can lead to instability and potential damage. The Jarvis arm, for instance, supported monitors up to 32 inches and around 19-20 pounds.
• Number of Monitors: Do you need to mount a single screen, a dual setup, or even more? Dual monitor arms, like the Jarvis Dual, share a single base but offer independent adjustment for each screen.
• Desk Type and Thickness: Ensure your desk is compatible with the mounting method. For clamp mounts, verify your desk thickness (the Jarvis supported 0.4 to 3.35 inches). For grommet mounts, confirm the hole size.
• Ergonomic Goals: Consider how much adjustability you need. Do you frequently switch between sitting and standing, requiring vertical movement? Do you need to rotate your screen to portrait mode for coding or reading?

2. Check Technical Specifications

• VESA Compatibility: This is standard, but always double-check your monitor’s VESA pattern (75x75mm or 100x100mm are most common).
• Adjustability Range: Look at the arm’s maximum height, extension, tilt angles, and swivel/rotation capabilities. A wider range offers more flexibility.
• Cable Management: Good cable management keeps your setup clean. Evaluate how easy it is to route and conceal cables. The Jarvis was praised for its user-friendly cable covers.

3. Material and Durability

Opt for arms made from high-quality materials like steel or aluminum for long-term durability and stability. Examine the joints and moving parts; they should feel robust and operate smoothly without excessive wobbling. While the Jarvis arm was generally well-regarded for its build, some earlier reviews mentioned a “wimpy clamp” if not properly secured, highlighting the importance of correct installation and robust base design.

4. Brand Reputation and Reviews

Researching brands and reading user reviews is vital. Look for consistent feedback on durability, ease of installation, and actual performance. Given Fully’s current status, if considering a Jarvis arm, understand that direct warranty support from the original manufacturer is no longer available. For new purchases, prioritize brands with strong customer support and extended warranties.

Top Alternatives to the Fully Jarvis Monitor Arm in 2024

Since new Fully Jarvis monitor arms are no longer manufactured by the original company, focusing on current, high-quality alternatives is key for new buyers. Many excellent options offer comparable or even superior features.

Here are some highly-regarded monitor arm alternatives that offer a similar blend of ergonomics, flexibility, and robust design:

• Ergotron LX Monitor Arm: Often cited as a premium choice, the Ergotron LX is renowned for its exceptional durability, smooth adjustment, and wide range of motion. It handles heavier monitors and offers excellent build quality.
• Uplift Desk Monitor Arms: Uplift Desk, a competitor to Fully, offers its own line of monitor arms that are well-regarded for their stability, clean design, and effective cable management. They provide options for single, dual, and even triple monitor setups.
• Humanscale M8/M2.1 Monitor Arms: Humanscale arms are a high-end option known for their minimalist aesthetics, environmental sustainability, and advanced engineering for effortless adjustment. The M8 is particularly robust for larger/heavier monitors.
• Vivo Monitor Arms: For a more budget-friendly yet capable option, Vivo offers a wide range of monitor arms, including gas spring models, that deliver solid performance and good adjustability at a lower price point.
• AmazonBasics Premium Monitor Arm: This popular choice, often manufactured by Ergotron, provides a great balance of features and value, offering smooth movement and a sturdy build.

When considering these alternatives, always compare their specific weight capacities, VESA compatibility, and adjustability ranges to your needs.

How to Install and Use a Monitor Arm Effectively

Proper installation and adjustment are critical to maximizing the benefits of any monitor arm.

Step-by-Step Installation (General Guide)

1. Attach Mounting Plate to Monitor: Use the provided VESA screws to secure the VESA plate to the back of your monitor. Ensure it’s correctly oriented (usually “TOP” indicated).
2. Assemble Desk Mount:
   • Clamp Mount: Attach the clamp components to the arm’s base. Position the arm at your desired spot on the desk edge and tighten the clamp firmly. Ensure any protective pads are used to prevent desk damage.
   • Grommet Mount: Assemble the grommet plate and bolt to the arm’s base. Insert the bolt through your desk’s grommet hole and secure it from underneath with the locking knob and plate.
3. Attach Monitor to Arm: Slide the VESA plate, with your monitor attached, into the receiving slot on the monitor arm. Push until it clicks securely into place.
4. Route Cables: Utilize the arm’s cable management channels. The Jarvis, for example, had covers that slid off or snapped open to easily tuck cables away, providing a clean look.
5. Adjust Tension: This is crucial for gas spring arms. Using the included hex key, adjust the tension bolt on the arm. Turn clockwise for heavier monitors (to increase tension) and counter-clockwise for lighter monitors (to decrease tension). You may need several rotations. The goal is for the arm to hold the monitor steadily at any height without drifting up or down.

Optimal Positioning for Ergonomics

• Height: The top of your monitor screen should be at or slightly below eye level. This allows you to view the entire screen without tilting your head up or down.
• Distance: Position the monitor arm so the screen is roughly an arm’s length away from you. This reduces eye strain.
• Tilt: Tilt your monitor slightly backward (up to 10-20 degrees) to optimize viewing comfort and reduce glare from overhead lighting.
• Angle: If using multiple monitors, angle them gently towards you to create a continuous viewing area.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures your monitor arm performs optimally and lasts longer.

• Cleaning: Dust your monitor arm regularly with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish or moving parts.
• Tension Check: Periodically check the tension, especially if you notice the arm starting to sag or if you change monitors. Re-adjust the tension as needed with the hex key.
• Connection Security: Every few months, ensure all mounting bolts and clamp mechanisms are still tight and secure. Loose connections can lead to instability.
• Lubrication (if applicable): While most modern gas spring arms are maintenance-free in terms of lubrication, if your arm uses exposed mechanical springs, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for occasional lubrication.

“A well-adjusted monitor arm is not just a convenience; it’s a foundational element of a truly ergonomic workspace, protecting your body from strain and boosting your focus.” – Admin, Review Munki

Conclusion

The Fully Jarvis monitor arm carved a significant niche in the world of ergonomic office equipment, offering robust features like smooth gas spring adjustment, smart cable management, and versatile mounting options. While the original company has transitioned, its legacy underscores the importance of a quality monitor arm in fostering a healthier, more productive workspace.

Investing in a monitor arm allows you to precisely position your screen for optimal viewing, alleviate neck and eye strain, and reclaim valuable desk space. For those seeking the specific design of the Jarvis arm, remaining inventory may be found, but a wealth of high-quality alternatives now exist, providing excellent options to suit every need and budget.

Ready to transform your desk setup? Which monitor arm features are most important for your ideal workspace?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Fully company still in business?

No, Fully, Inc. has officially ceased operations. While their products like the Jarvis monitor arm may still be available through select retailers like Herman Miller and Design Within Reach, new production has stopped.

What are the typical weight limits for a monitor arm?

Monitor arm weight limits vary significantly by model, but most single arms support monitors between 15 to 30 pounds (7 to 14 kg). The Fully Jarvis single arm supported monitors up to 19-20 pounds, while dual arms offer similar capacity per arm. Always check the specific product’s specifications.

How do I adjust the tension on a gas spring monitor arm?

To adjust the tension, locate the tension bolt (usually on the arm’s main joint near the base or elbow) and use the provided hex key. Turn clockwise to increase tension for heavier monitors, and counter-clockwise to decrease tension for lighter monitors. Adjust until the arm holds your monitor steady at any desired height.

Can the Jarvis monitor arm rotate 360 degrees?

The Fully Jarvis monitor arm offered extensive rotation. While some joints, particularly the VESA plate, provided 180-degree rotation, and the lower arm had about a 270-degree swivel, the overall design allowed for switching between landscape and portrait modes and wide side-to-side adjustments.

What are the benefits of using a monitor arm for health?

Using a monitor arm promotes better posture by allowing you to position your screen at an ergonomic height and distance, reducing strain on your neck, shoulders, and eyes. It helps prevent discomfort, tension headaches, and long-term musculoskeletal issues associated with poor workstation setup.