I finally abandoned this project some time ago, but I have found a really better applet which could fill your needs. Please go to GNOME Sensors Applet web page
Anyway, thanks for coming ;)
I finished some time ago a new version of this applet, but it always remained without being released. You can download this version (with a basic fan management and some info) from here.
I will continue with the "almost-forgotten" HotApplet when I finish with this applet (and it will be really soon :) ).
Anyway, enjoy this release :)
Please, stay tuned. I would like to release a new version of HotApplet as soon as I finish my University exams. It's about mid-July, so be patient :)
Meanwhile, you can download last sources from here. Or maybe you could be interested on a simple sub-project for Dell laptops. Enjoy it :)