Get a FREE fully-working copy of Steganos Security Suite 7 (worth £49.99) when you sign up to the Practical PC Newsletter. Review: PC Guardian Notebook Guardian Slimline
When you're in love with a beautiful notebook - beware! Dave Cook explains...
| Product | Notebook Guardian Slimline |
|---|---|
| Company | PC Guardian |
| Web | www.pcguardian.co.uk |
| Price | £34.95 |
| We like | Quick to install, durable, neat carry case. |
| We don't like | Not recommended when left unattended for long periods. |
| Rating | 9/10 |
| Requirements |
One of the worst things about lugging a notebook around is the fact it's so easily nicked. Avert your eyes for a moment and, unless you're equipped with a fully loaded Kalashnikov AK47, complete with obligatory rocket launcher, your notebook could disappear faster than the Government's credibility on fighting street crime.
Seriously, though, notebooks are sexy, expensive to replace, and remain high on every petty-thief's hit list. If you use a notebook in a public place then you need to keep your wits about you - or suffer the consequences.
This is where an anti-theft device comes in handy. The most prevalent of these is the high-strength steel cable, with pass through loop on one end, and a lock on the other. Such a system lets you secure your notebook to a desk or similar unmovable object. Once enabled, it provides an acceptable level of protection when leaving your notebook unattended for limited periods.
There are several manufactures presently offering this type of anti-theft device including PC Guardian, a company that has been protecting computers and data worldwide since 1984. PC Guardian's latest anti-theft offering is the Notebook Guardian Slimline.
On Guard
Designed to fit the Kensington security slot, a standard built-in to virtually every notebook, the Slimline has been developed around PC Guardian's well-established and patented lock mechanism.
There is, however, one important difference. To better match the sleeker lines of today's notebooks, the Slimline is rather narrower than the typical lock head found on similar devices.
The Slimline includes a tamper-resistant lock made out of brass, stainless steel and hardened steel, with a durable chrome plated cable collar and nylon bumper. The 6-foot steel cable is galvanised and sheathed rather handsomely in black PVC. A useful nylon carry pouch is also provided, along with a Velcro tie strap, and two keys.
The device is aimed at a variety of end-users, so it's available in a variety of key options. You can, for example, choose to have locks master-keyed - although this service costs a small additional fee.
Verdict
Sadly, no lock and cable device is entirely theft-proof if notebooks are left unattended for long intervals. Provided you bear that in mind, the Slimline provides a comfortable level of security when working in a public place. It's compact, durable, and takes only seconds to install.
