Importance

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Abstract

An optical security system is disclosed for one or more appliances such as a network of computers, terminals, and associated peripheral devices. The system comprises an optical fiber cable that is attached to an appliance through attachment devices that are secure from physical attack. The ends of the optical fiber are connected to a control box to form an optical fiber circuit which senses the amount of light within the fiber at any given time. The alarm device sounds if light within the fiber cable is attenuated through bending or breaking of the fiber cable in an attempted theft of the secured computer. The attachment devices comprise a two piece unit which holds the optical fiber. The first piece is a solid cone that is fastened to the computer component by a screw or adhesive. The second piece is a hollow cone that fits entirely over the solid inner cone. The cones include slots for holding the optical fiber between the cones. The fiber is held by the cones but is able to slide within the cones without breaking or bending the fiber cable. This allows the computer component to be moved without setting off the alarm. The alarm activates only when someone attempts to pry or pull the cones apart, subsequently bending the fiber cable.

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First Claim