14 DAY TRIAL // Even though the main focus right now, in terms of laptop accessories, is mainly on cooling stands, hardware makers are still keeping tabs on all the other possible needs of consumers. On of the more prevalent ones is the need for security and peace of mind. Many laptops get stolen or simply lost every month, and this makes special security features all the more useful. Kensington thought it would offer something tangible instead of some encryption protocol or another. As such, it developed the Laptop Locking Station.
The Laptop Locking Station is made in such a way as to attach to the desk via several screws. Basically, one need only put one's laptop down and close the side arm of the station in order to have it permanently fixated onto the desk. The backbone and deflector plates on the station are made of steel and can prevent the laptop from becoming free of it, even if one were to attempt cutting it, drilling it or prying it loose. In fact, the only way to release the machine is by inserting the key in the high-security disk lock. Fortunately, one can still rotate, slide and tilt the device to access the ports or adjust the viewing angle.
Of course, not all end-users will be amenable to the idea of drilling holes into their desk, so Kensington also provided the so-called Tether Kit. This product is a baseplate that can be attached to the desk by means of reinforced security cables. All one needs to do is strap the Locking Station onto it and their fears of having their laptop stolen are no longer an issue.
"Kensington customers have told us they need the highest physical safeguard possible for laptops while still having easy access to their hardware, and we listened," said Rob Humphrey, Director, Security Products Global Business at Kensington. "The Laptop Locking Station will finally give IT managers the ability to drive security compliance in the workplace by leveraging an efficient method to protect their investments. This is a product that is as easy to use as it gets, and provides a highly secure environment for your company laptops, deterring theft and guarding valuable data."
The Kensington Locking Station is priced at $80 and is already available for pre-order through its maker's own website. As for the Tether kit, is sells for $30 and has also been listed.