Laptops, Notebooks, Mobile Computers, Tablet PCs

Specialty lockers such as Laptop Lockers and Mobile Laptop Lockers are designed for storage of small devices that need temporary security storage, recharging and management. To compare the various Laptop Lockers, use the PRODUCT COMPARISON TOOL or PRODUCT FINDER.

The photo on left shows a 72"h Keyless Stackable Laptop Locker, made by stacking two 33"h tall units on top of a optional 6" base.

The following article (edited and updated as appropriate to reflect current product line) was originally published by Frank Klasner, Computer Scientist, Villanova University for pbsource.com:

In August, we were contacted by the folks at American Locker, who, needless to say, were happy to hear about our independent review's conclusions. They wanted to let us know, however, that they had a lot of information not covered in our original review that our readers, might find useful if they're looking for a laptop storage solution. To compile this new report we spoke at length with American Locker's Jonathan Ruttenberg.

How Important Is the Need for Laptop Security? Safeware Insurance estimates that 387,000 laptops were stolen in 2000. Any school administration contemplating the use and storage of laptop in the classroom needs to take into account the fact that schools are not immune to laptop theft or vandalism. Laptop storage lockers offer a layer of security to laptop storage not found in most carts and cabinets on the market. As we noted in our June article, locker modules attached to or built into a wall are less likely to be rolled away than carts.

With regard to American Locker's Laptop Lockers, Mr. Ruttenberg pointed out several features that focus on security: the Keyed Laptop Lockers use 16 million key combinations and replaceable cylinders while the Keyless Laptop Lockers uses resettable 3-digit codes. Both systems are made from aluminum and are easy to integrate into a school environment.

It is possible to open all the locker compartments at once, when necessary via Master Door and separate Administrator Key.

Insurance companies recognize that lockers for computer systems can significantly reduce the risks of petty theft and vandalism. Mr. Ruttenberg noted that in conversations he has had with insurance industry representatives, they have indicated that it may be possible for an institution using lockers with the kinds of security features described above to obtain reductions in yearly insurance premiums as large as 20%.

How Did American Locker Develop Its Specialty Storage Systems for Laptops? American Locker has been a leading manufacturer of locker products, including computer-controlled distribution systems, since 1931. The Compu-Lok® system was originally designed for use in data processing, and then applied to mail distribution, and library use. Upon a special request from a corporate client, American Locker designed and began manufacturing the LTS-10 [which was later modified to Aluminum Stackable Laptop Lockers and Mobile units as well]. American Locker has become aware that school administrators are looking for secure storage and recharging capability for teachers and students, and they are happy to arrange product demonstrations and consultations for the academic community.

How Flexible Are Laptop Lockers? Laptop storage systems can be used in a wide variety of ways in academic and corporate environments. Technicians at American Locker's corporate clients often store personal items along with their laptops in the lockers. Teachers and students may find the space ideal for securely storing laboratory projects, additional books, or other materials.

Laptop storage lockers can be installed securely in nearly every location in a school - near to cafeteria, gymnasium, classrooms, library, auditorium, teachers' lounges - as seen fit by school administrations. Lockers can be grouped alone or together to fit a school's particular needs. Because of their emphasis on vertical stacking, laptop lockers can save a lot of floor space. For example, a school with 400 students that desires one locker per student, could fit 30 [Stackable] Laptop Locker units side-by-side along a 45-foot corridor which provides each student (and only that student) with secure access to that locker opening.

Of course, one important element of flexibility is the ability to relocate. Carts and cabinets with rollers offer a great deal of flexibility in this area, but at the cost of decreased security. Once a locker is fastened to or recessed into a wall, it's not going anywhere. Mr. Ruttenberg noted that just as they would desire to move other large items such as desks or vending machines, school personnel can move lockers to new locations given proper planning and care.

Contacting American Locker If you're interested in learning more about American Locker's specific products, in arranging for product demonstrations, or in obtaining pricing information (quantity discounts are available) and one-on-one consultations.