According to security industry and insurance company statistics, laptop theft is a huge problem. Physical laptop protection primarily consists of attaching a locking security cable to the Universal Security Slot (USS) on your laptop. The security cable is wrapped around an immovable object and connected to the laptop to provide physical security protection. For those laptops that do not have a USS, there are adhesive connectors that mount directly to your laptop casing which provides a way to attach the security cable. These security cables can use either keyed or combination locks to secure them to your laptop. If there isn't a large immovable object accessible to wrap the security cable around, anchoring devices are available that enable you to attach the cable to cubicle walls and other stationary objects. There are also systems available that, when attached to your laptop, sound an alarm if the laptop is moved. These types of devices are useful for those times when you'll be traveling with your laptop and have to put it down (e.g. while sitting in the airport awaiting your flight).
| Device | Vendor | Lock Type | Storage | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Defcon CL | Targus | combination (USS) | none | anchor plate supplied |
| Defcon KL | Targus | keyed lock (USS) | none | |
| PORT-Noteworthy Defcon CL | Targus | combination lock (USS) | none | anchor plate supplied |
| Defcon MDP | Targus | Motion-detecting audio alarm | none | Type II pc card for Windows OS |
| Notebook Guardian | PC Guardian | key (USS) | velcro & pouch | also available with a combo lock instead of a keyed lock |
| Notebook Guardian Ultra | PC Guardian | key (USS) | velcro & pouch | same as above model w/ heavier cable |
| Notebook Guardian Adhesive | PC Guardian | key (non-USS) | velcro & pouch | same as basic model w/ adhesive mount |
| MicroSaver | Kensington | key (USS) | none | also available as a 4ft cable with retractable storage; available at the Duke Computer Store |
| MicroSaver Guaranteed | Kensington | key (USS) | none | Kensington guarantees replacement of locked laptops up to $1500 that are stolen |
| ComboSaver | Kensington | combo (USS) | velcro strap | available at the Duke Computer Store |
Most cables are not cut-proof, and can be cut with a bolt cutter. If you need something heavier-duty than the products above, you could look at bicycle or motorcyle cable locks for possibilities.
You may also contact the Duke Police Department for information on theft prevention, or check their website at: http://www.duke.edu/web/police/dpd013.htm