Product Reviews

Along with Lapdog, the PC Immobiliser is another simple security device, aimed at user authentication for protection of data. Working equally well on laptops and desktops, it uses a special ID button and software combination to confirm an individual's identify before allowing them access to the protected system.

The hardware components consist of a Blue Dot receptor unit, which connects to an available serial port. It has a couple of spring-loaded contact pads into which a Dallas Semiconductor iButton token is plugged. The iButton is a simple device containing a unique ID number that can only be read by the Blue Dot receptor. Measuring just 5cm in length, it will fit easily onto a key ring and looks sturdy enough to cope with a fair amount of punishment. Furthermore, the receptor should last for around one million contacts.

The Lock-Out software component is a simple utility that constantly polls the selected COM port to verify that the correct iButton is plugged in. If it isn't, Lock-Out automatically locks the keyboard and mouse and blanks the screen. No further access is possible until the correct iButton has been reconnected.

Installation is a lot slicker than for Lapdog, as Lock-Out automatically sets boot-time protection by preventing access to the command line during system startup. The documentation also recommends

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changing your BIOS settings to prevent access to the floppy drive or CD-ROM during the boot sequence, and although it doesn't mention this you'll probably need to implement password protection for the BIOS settings as well.

Once the hardware drivers have been automatically installed, the PC Immobiliser system can be registered to a specific user. Just load the software, select the COM port the receptor is connected to and place the iButton into it when requested.

Using the PC Immobiliser is simplicity itself. If you need to leave your laptop or PC unattended, just unplug the iButton. The reaction is virtually instantaneous as Lock-Out fires up its screen saver and blocks access to all input devices. The moment you replace the iButton, the screen is cleared and control is returned immediately. If your laptop or PC is switched on without an iButton in place, Lock-Out swings into action the moment Windows loads. Removal of the Blue Dot receptor from the serial port will also be greeted by the same swift response; the system simply reacts the same as if the iButton had been unplugged. PC Immobiliser scores over Lapdog, as the Blue Dot receptor doesn't need to remain connected to the serial port during transportation. If you forget to connect it before restarting your system, Lock-Out will merely assume that the iButton hasn't been plugged in. The serial connector is hot-pluggable, so you don't need to switch your system off before reconnecting it.

A USB version of the PC Immobiliser should be available by the time you read this, and it consists of an iButton token that plugs directly into a USB port. Expected to cost around £80, this is a sensible addition to the family, as many notebook manufacturers are forsaking serial ports in favour of the USB variety. The PC Immobiliser is a simple authentication system that's easy to set up and use, and its low price makes it a good choice for personal use.