----- Original Message ----- From: "Chris Reeves" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "'The Hardware List'" <hardware@hardwaregroup.com> Sent: Saturday, August 12, 2006 7:13 AM Subject: [H] Oh, how I miss the "KeyLock"
I have a few clients who are looking for something that years ago would have been simple. They want to lock their PC so that their kids, etc. cannot use
My comments do not apply to you since you are seeking a hardware solution. The first level of Windows XP password protection is very weak but the second level is better. This means the first level is easier to work around and the second level more difficult. Don't forget the higher level of security that password protecting the BIOS offers. Doesn't working around that require entering the computer and doing the proper physical manipulation? It has for the ones that I worked around to repair computers.
What about drilling a hole in the case and installing a small DC current key on/off switch and cut and hook the (most likely blue and white) power switch wire to it? The key switch would have to be in the "On" position before the power switch would work.
I sent those new AT computers out the door with the keys on their ring hanging from the case rear vent fan hole. For the most part, it did not matter how many years it was before the computer came back for repairs, those keys were still hanging there. For the most part I showed the customer the keys and explained what they were for, when they picked up their new computer. At least my method prevented the customer from losing the keys. I also have always put the manuals and driver software and OS CD kit in the same box I removed the motherboard from. This often prevented loss of these things and provided a neat "filing box or folder" for these items. Instead of trying to tell the customer which software to bring in with the computer (when repairs were needed) I just asked them to bring that motherboard box.
Chuck
