The convenience of a portable computer is apparent to many students and professionals. The library can be an obvious place to get a lot of research or schoolwork done, especially if you have your laptop with you. The biggest problem I find is when I have to walk away from my laptop. Its portable nature makes it an easy target for theft.
As I looked at other computers at the library I began to notice that some of them had a locking device. At the local office supply store I located a lock similar to what I had been seeing at the library. The cost of the laptop was too great to walk away from such inexpensive security.
The purchase I made was for a Defcon CL combo cable lock by Targus.
What I appreciate the most is the
simplicity of the design. The simpler a design the longer they seem to last for me. A steel cable enshrouded with a clear plastic has a loop at one end and a combination lock at the other end. This allows the cable to be securely looped to a more stationary object and the lock end attaches to the computer.
At work I lock my notebook to my desk with the Defcon Cl.
I put the cable around the part of the table leg that has a closed loop so the cable loop cannot just be removed from the bottom of the table leg.
The lock end of the cable is fed through the cable loop while encircling the table leg.
The lock is a combination lock that you can decide the combination of. It takes a very small standard screw driver to adjust the combination but it is very simple to do with the provided instructions.
Upon dialing in your combination, simply push a button and put the three claw lock grip end into the built in lock slot (also called a Kensington Slot) of your laptop.
Now release the button and move the combination dials around.
Your computer is now secure enough to walk away from.
If you need this security and there isn't a place to attach the six and a half foot cable to, a tamper proof bracket is provided with the unit. Just attach it to the wall, desk or floor with the screws provided. The cable easily fits through the bracket to secure your laptop.
The Defcon CL combo cable lock is built as a versatile lock to provide security for any computer device that has a built in lock slot or Kensington slot.
To make this work, four spacer rings are provided to get a proper fit between the lock and your computer or device.
This locking device has a clean but industrial look to it. It's not offensive to look at but could be offered in more colors.
I like the function and design of the Defcon CL, but I think Targus could offer it with a smoother, more contemporary looking lock.
The Defcon CL combo cable lock will keep honest people honest,but I don't trust anything valuable in the presence of a thief.
For the money it cost I think it is worth it and I wouldn't be afraid to buy it again.
