Laptop Alarm

[jotasbrane]

This is another idea that I'm posting here so I can point out that I thought of it first if someone else thinks of it later

Comments

[joenotcharles]

Why not just put the pressure sensor into the bottom of the laptop?

[jotasbrane]

Yeah, that would definitely work, but A) a lot of folks already have laptops without them, and B) it seems like it'd be easier to start marketing this as a separate device than it would to try to make a deal with a large hardware manufacturer.

[duchez]

Don't we already have an anti-theft device for laptops? Practically every laptop comes with the little notch on the side you can use to lock it securely to wherever you are.

Sure pressure sensors are cool, but seems like it would be one of those pricey things no one would get.

[jotasbrane]

How useful are those notches in places like cafes and parks? I'm not sure that I've ever seen someone lock their laptop to a restaurant table with one. But it's possible I just haven't been paying attention.

[duchez]

they are pretty handy, but people seem to dislike carrying the locks. don't know why.

I've personally used it in starbucks and airports, myself.

[citizenpsmith]

Also, its utility lasts just until you forget to disable it yourself. "No, it's my laptop, I swear!"

[jotasbrane]

True, that could be awkward. Although you'd still know the code to disable it, which I imagine should help your credibility some. A real thief would have to either put the laptop back or make a run for it.

[ziz]

Only helpful until some enterprising laptop thief shows up with a satchel full of sand. Then it's back to the old tried-and-true rolling-boulder trap.

[jotasbrane]

Curses! You make an inconveniently good point.

[katre50]

It'll end up just like car alarms: set off by innocent baristas until everyone ignores them entirely.