Hey there good citizen.
Yes you can use this over the range microwave by placing it on the surface. Just don't use the vent/fan feature (sometimes we accidentally press it).
In the meantime you can adjust the position of the motor fan (back top) depending on which way your exhaust vent goes (either through the wall, or up through the cabinets).
Hope this helps.
PS Love this microwave, Really quite (without the exhaust that is)