Ergotron Offers Hassle-Free Classroom Laptop Management with Affordable, Adaptable and Secure Carts

ST. PAUL, Minn., April 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- As the use of technology for independent and collaborative learning continues to expand, managing 21st Century classroom technology has become significantly more complicated. Ergotron's new PowerShuttle™ (PS) Laptop Charging Cart and PowerShuttle Laptop Management Cart address the need for streamlined management of laptops and other devices in the classroom, through a trademarked charging solution, organizational convenience and security.

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The Ergotron PowerShuttle™ PS Laptop Cart video - http://youtu.be/oan3HCSh8Tc

Designed to provide teachers and school IT managers with a secure and adaptable system for storing laptops and other devices, managing content updates and effectively charging the units until ready for use, Ergotron's new carts can house up to 20 devices in bays designed to accommodate current and future technology. Once devices are plugged into the cart, the patented PowerShuttle Load Sensing Technology scans the current load in the system and automatically groups the maximum number of devices that can be charged at one time —optimizing total charge time and preventing overloading electrical circuits.

"Securely storing, deploying and managing laptops while making it easy for staff to use is just as important as buying the right technology," said Sheila Veschusio, education industry manager at Ergotron. "The spider web of power cords and chargers combined with the uncertainty of which devices are charged can be overwhelming to some and prohibit others from realizing the full potential of technology in the classroom. Our PowerShuttle carts remove this barrier and empower teachers to focus their time on the learning needs of their students."

Available in a managed model (accommodating IT hardware such as a customer provided WAP and standard 1U Ethernet switch) or charging-only model, the cart's unique design supports storing different laptop sizes and various device charging requirements. The universal design accommodates even the most uniquely shaped AC adapter bricks and wall plugs.

"Truly a 'plug and play' solution, load sensing technology means that instructors can have confidence that the devices will be ready for use when they are needed," said Veschusio. "For example, laptops can be incorporated into the morning lesson plan, collected and charged over the lunch period and then re-distributed for use for independent assignments in the afternoon without concern over security or available battery power."

Designed to withstand heavy use in a classroom setting, the Ergotron carts are constructed of a rugged steel frame, steel front and rear doors, molded fire-rated ABS exterior and locking medical-grade, dual-wheel casters. A robust two-point key and lock assembly keeps devices secure. The double-hinged, locking steel doors open 180 degrees to reveal storage shelves. Additionally, separate top and back compartments provide IT access to power brick storage. For enhanced user and equipment safety, the entire cart is tested and certified to UL 60950 and 1667.

Shipped fully assembled, Ergotron's PowerShuttle Laptop Management and Charging Carts will be available in North America, Australia, China and Japan in late April, and early to mid-summer in Europe.

The laptop management and charging carts are the latest addition to Ergotron's portfolio of device management products designed for education, healthcare and office environments. To learn more about Ergotron and its entire line of educational solutions visit http://education.ergotron.com/ or call 800.888.8458.

About Ergotron

Ergotron, Inc. is a global manufacturer of leading digital display mounting, furniture, and mobility products that have been improving the human interface with digital displays for over 30 years. This history of innovation and passion for differentiation is evidenced in over 70 patents and a growing portfolio of award winning brands—OmniMount, StyleView, WorkFit and Neo-Flex—for computer monitors, notebooks, tablets, flat panel displays and TVs. Ergotron's products incorporate patented CF lift and pivot motion technology to achieve less effort and more ergonomic motion for a healthier and more interactive user experience when viewing any digital display. Whether to enhance computing wellness or entertainment excitement, improve workplace productivity or create business process efficiencies, Ergotron's products are positioning your digital world. Ergotron is headquartered in Saint Paul, Minnesota, with sales efforts in Phoenix, Amersfoort, London, the Netherlands, Tokyo, and Singapore.

SOURCE Ergotron, Inc.