VAIO VPCZ compatible accessories thread

Just wondering if people would be interested in populating a thread with information on the accessories they're using and how well they work with their VAIO Z's. Since there's already a good bags/sleeves/cases thread let's focus more on other accessories. I will try to keep this list up to date but will rely on you guys to provide your experiences.

If you want to provide a report on an accessory, please provide at a minimum the following info so there is some organization to this:

1 - Accessory type (WWAN card, battery, power supply, notebook lock, etc).
2 - Manufacturer and model number
3 - Link to manufacturer's product page (if possible)
4 - Does it work? Any problems? Would you recommend it to other VAIO Z owners?
5 - Your region (North America, Europe, Asia, etc) Since some accessories are only available in, or only work in or apply to particular regions
6 - Price

 

(reserved)

 

I'm particularly interested in notebook locks and power supplies. Is there a notebook lock that fits the Z well? It has a sort of lip over the top of the Kensington lock slot that is of some concern to me. Also, do you all have more than one power supply, and if so are you using the official Sony one or a 3rd party power supply? Any WWAN users in the US? What options are there for us to add a WWAN card -- I'm guessing it would have to be USB or ExpressCard since the US model doesn't have a spot for an internal one (that I know of).

 

I know from experience that the kensington locks (the kensington brand itself), type ComboSaver® Combination Ultra, work perfectly on all Sony Vaio's including the Z series.






Strong steel cable with a code lock (I prefer those to the key-operated versions).

 

Only concern I have about those combo locks is how long they are. I can see someone bumping into it and knocking my precious notebook onto the floor. Not to mention thieves just using it as a handle to break the lock slot. Personally I am more leaning towards the key operated ones due to how they are less protruding.

 

Watch this movie, this changed my mind about the key locks:

YouTube - Lock Picked with Toilet Paper Tube

 

Wow, that's reassuring

 

lol, yeah, that's sad to have your lock defeated by toilet paper

 

If you guys are in need of an external battery pack, Zoinks originally posted this: Amazon.com: Energizer XP18000 Rechargeable Power Pack for Laptops: Gateway

I've since bought one and it works well. Allowing me to charge my Z and my mobile devices

 

Kensington locks won't stop thieves, it's more of a psychological block for honest people to stay honest.

(And unless their newest combination lock is vastly different from earlier locks in internal design, you can open it blind by applying pressure and rotating the wheels at the same time -- they will have a slightly different resistance when the correct digit is selected, which is easier to feel when you don't look at the lock.)