Locking USB/Firewire cables

[Diskordia]

This may belong in the computer forum but i think it probably has more applications here..

Has anyone ever tried anything similiar to these with results?

TECHNALOCK COMPUTER SECURITY :: Laptop Security :: USB Cable Lock
Northwire 1394b Firewire Cable Assemblies 'a' to 'a'

The 'fail' point of digital connections is much too risky for me. The loose connections on my Macbook caused me to lose my last remote recording..unfortunately i can't drill thread holes into the side of it.

[Corran]

I'd love something like this, how does it work? Would it be compatible with most laptops? I couldn't tell from the site. Looking at the USB cable, my FW cable seems fine but my USB interface has intermittent connection a lot.

[Diskordia]

they say the USB lock is compatible with everything except the Macbook Air. I don't know how it works though. Im not sure if its a 'lock' because it requires a key or because it is in fact a secure connection. I would hope both..

The firewire cable seems to be a friction lock which makes me feel pretty secure.

i have trouble with both ports..i partially blame the InCase skin i have on my Macbook..

[HughH]

If I interpret it correctly, the usb lock is a lock that fits in a usb port, not a usb cable that locks. Hence the looped cable.
Hugh

[hbphotoav]

Originally Posted by Diskordia

they say the USB lock is compatible with everything except the Macbook Air. I don't know how it works though. Im not sure if its a 'lock' because it requires a key or because it is in fact a secure connection. I would hope both..

The firewire cable seems to be a friction lock which makes me feel pretty secure.

i have trouble with both ports..i partially blame the InCase skin i have on my Macbook..

Every un-locked cable in my rig (all FireWire) is secured by thin (1/2" x 3") strips of gaffers tape (PermaCel or Tour Supply Inc.)... the computer, the HDD and the Ensemble or Onyx I/O ports. It's inelegant... but it holds for all but the most determined yank, more than adequate for my needs. Using "real" gaff tape insures there are no nasty bits of adhesive remaining after the gig... unless you leave it up for a couple of days.

FWIW, I also gaff the MagSafe power connection as well...

[tourtelot]

I am really surprised that someone who uses FW or USB for "mission critical" hasn't invented an elegant locking connector. The gaff-tape works but it looks like, well, gaff-tape. And it's true for me; FW seems more secure than USB.

[Thomas W. Bethe]

Originally Posted by tourtelot

I am really surprised that someone who uses FW or USB for "mission critical" hasn't invented an elegant locking connector. The gaff-tape works but it looks like, well, gaff-tape. And it's true for me; FW seems more secure than USB.

They have them.

Here is the link Neutrik - Data Connectors - Multimedia


Too bad most computers are not so equipped.