Freaky Geek-Wear: GearGrip By Case Ace?
Notebooks come pretty close to being the ideal for mobile computing. However, acquiring one means spending much more money than you would for a desktop computer of comparable performance. The main reasons for this is that most notebook hardware components are more expensive than for desktop PCs, and the notebook display accounts for a large part of the cost. Anyhow, who would want to take a notebook to a LAN party!
Besides the cost considerations, sometimes a notebook PC simply cannot meet all your requirements. If you need a dual CPU system or a machine with a fast hard drive or graphics system, there is no alternative to a standard desktop machine. Demonstrating computer products is definitely one time when having your destkop can be handy, but if you have ever had to lug a PC in and out of the trunk of your car, you’d know what a pain it can be. Add the monitor, and you are asking for back surgery.
Relief is at hand for the desktop carrier in the shape of some new carrying cases that we managed to get our hands on. Case Ace currently has two GearGrip products that will help to make your desktop system a bit more portable, while reducing much of the pain. One is called GearGrip CRT for carrying monitors, and the other is the GearGrip Pro, designed to carry a desktop or tower case, which is what we will concentrate on here. The GearGrip CRT follows the same basic principles as the GearGrip Pro.
What’s The GearGrip?
On the left is the basic equipment: several 2″ straps and the GearBag, which consists of two compartments. The first one is just deep enought to hold a keyboard, while the second one can be used for small cables, CDs or documents. In addition there is a shoulder strap (shown on the right) that makes it easier to transport a computer over longer distances. Ultimately though, depending on the weight of the computer, I would probably avoid having to carry bulky and heavy computers any longer than absolutely necessary, even with a case. The case won’t make your equipment any lighter.
Setting Up The GearGrip
First, lay the GearGrip flat on the floor, then place your computer on top of it.
After that, bring the straps with the handle up and around the top of the case.
Setting Up The GearGrip, Continued
Now, fasten the buckles and…
… tighten the straps snugly around the computer.
The GearBag
This picture shows the GearBag.
The CableGrip holds all types of cables, including LAN cables or even headphones.
Conclusion
The GearGrip Pro is available for $36.95 at www.geargrip.com – a price which is reasonable, since the quality of the straps and locks is excellent. Also, the GearBag allows you to have peripheral devices handy (such as a keyboard, a mouse, CDs or cables).
There are two sizes available: Standard (cases up to 52 inches in circumference) or large – as tested (up to 70 inches). As the standard version is only $2.00 cheaper, I’d recommend going for the large version, just in case (no pun intended).