In the modern era of technology-dependent music education, managing and charging a class’s worth of devices has become a critical challenge for schools. LapCabby and TabCabby charging stations, manufactured by Monarch Education Furniture, offer sophisticated solutions designed specifically for educational environments. These aren't merely simple storage cupboards – they're intelligent charging systems that combine security, efficiency, and durability, representing the cutting edge of secure educational technology storage.
Uses in schools
The modern classroom relies heavily on digital devices, rendering secure charging solutions absolutely essential. Tablets have revolutionised many a music lesson, allowing students to access intuitive notation software, digital audio workstations, music theory apps, and interactive learning platforms. You can also use tablets for reading sheet music off during rehearsals.
Beyond tablets, these charging stations accommodate a wide range of educational technology. We’ve supplied LapCabby stations for the express purpose of charging Roland AIRA synthesisers, which fit perfectly in the horizontal trays. This versatility makes them invaluable for modern music education, where electronic instruments and digital devices work hand in hand.
The shift toward one-to-one device teaching in schools has created new challenges around device management, security, and maintenance. Traditional charging methods – individual adaptors scattered across classrooms, devices left unsecured, tangled cables creating safety hazards – have never really been viable, and are even less so with the proliferation of tablets and laptops throughout schools at all ages. We even recommend these units for charging small musical devices like Roland Aira compact synths!
Why smart charging is a must-have
What sets Monarch's charging stations apart is their intelligent approach to common classroom challenges. The LapCabby Lyte 20, for example, delivers fast, efficient charging through intelligent power management that automatically adjusts to each device's needs. When batteries reach full capacity, the system switches to trickle charging to maintain 100% without overcharging.
Smart charging like this is an integral feature – after a morning of use, it’s likely all the devices will have different levels of power left, and some will inevitably charge quicker than others; simply plugging them all in for a set time and then taking them off won’t do! The trickle charge significantly extends battery life over time and reduces replacement costs.
Smart charging features extend beyond basic power management. The TabCabby 32's Power7 Management System offers programmable scheduling with up to three different schedules over seven days. This allows schools to optimise charging during off-peak electricity hours, reducing costs while ensuring devices are ready when needed. The soft-start feature prevents power overload by staggering the activation of power strips.
Lock them up, safe and sound
Security is built into every aspect of these systems. The dual-lock mechanism separates device storage from power components, with six-plate lever activation and double-sided keys. This design minimises tampering risks while ensuring that electrical components remain protected. Cable management is fully enclosed, with routing through secure anchor points that prevent cable theft or damage.
Space efficiency is another crucial advantage. The LAP16HC cabinet’s horizontal compartments accommodate devices with protective cases, while its compact footprint makes it ideal for crowded classrooms. Even more compact is the DeskCabby 16, which (you guessed it!) is designed to sit on a desk, charging 16 small devices like tablets or e-readers – not only is it small, but you can put it wherever is convenient and move it about even more easily than the various wheeled units available.
Safety considerations are paramount in educational environments. Both units feature sophisticated heat management systems – the LapCabby Lyte 20 uses passive ventilation with strategically placed slots, while the TabCabby 32 includes a built-in heat sensor that automatically cuts power if temperatures exceed safe limits. The fan-free design ensures quiet operation, crucial for maintaining focused learning environments.
The rundown
LapCabby’s product range can broadly be split into two main categories:
Cabinets – lockable, stationary, and ultra reliable
- LapCabby Lyte 20 lockable charging station for USB-C tablets
- LapCabby Lyte single door AC charging cabinet – for 10, 16 or 20 devices
- LapCabby Lyte single door dual USB A & USB C charging cabinet – for 10, 16 or 20 devices
Trolleys – wheeled, still lockable and super convenient
- TabCabby 32 lockable mobile charging trolley for tablets
- TabCabby compact AC tablet charging cabinet – for 16 or 32 devices
- UniCabby mobile horizontal AC charging cabinet – for 20, 32 or 40 devices
- LapCabby horizontal compact AC charging cabinet – for 16 or 32 devices
- LapCabby vertical compact AC charging cabinet – for 16 or 32 devices
- LapCabby Lyte mobile single door dual USB A & USB C charging cabinet – for 10, 16 or 20 devices
A couple of extra options are available in the form of the DeskCabby and the GO2+, which is a soft case for six devices, designed for use on the move.
For comparison purposes, it's worth checking out the Zioxi onView iPad charging trolley. The Zioxi system excels in monitoring and management capabilities, providing real-time data on trolley location, charging activity, and usage patterns through a browser-based console or mobile app. However, for most educational environments, the LapCabby systems offer superior build quality, more robust security features, and better long-term reliability. The scheduled charging capability in the TabCabby 32 provides similar energy management benefits to the Zioxi system, while the Monarch units' construction and warranty terms make them the more dependable long-term investment.
Sustainability commitment
Monarch Education Furniture has made significant commitments to a sustainable future: LapCabby and Monarch Education Furniture have committed to science-based climate targets through the SBTi initiative. Key pledges include reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2030 (from 2023 baseline), achieving 90% emission reductions by 2050 for net-zero status, and providing annual public reporting on progress.
This commitment was officially endorsed by Managing Director Stuart Hopkin and aligns with Paris Agreement goals to limit global warming to 1.5°C The durability and longevity of these products also contribute to sustainability goals.
With lifetime warranties (5 years electrical) and commercial-grade construction, these units are designed to serve schools for many years, reducing the environmental impact associated with frequent replacements of cheaper alternatives.
In conclusion…
For schools serious about implementing technology effectively and safely, Monarch LapCabby and TabCabby charging stations represent excellent investments. The combination of intelligent charging, robust security, and thoughtful design addresses the real challenges that educators face when managing classroom technology.
These units are sized very well for departments or classrooms that need secure, space-efficient charging for moderate numbers of devices. Their horizontal storage, compatibility with protective cases, and intelligent power management make it particularly well-suited for music departments using tablets and compact electronic musical instruments and recording devices.
While the initial investment is higher than basic charging solutions, the long-term value proposition is compelling. The combination of extended battery life through intelligent charging, reduced maintenance through robust construction, potential energy savings through scheduling, and the comprehensive warranty make these units cost-effective over their operational lifetime.
Most importantly, these systems remove technology management barriers that can impede educational goals. When teachers can confidently access fully charged, secure devices without worrying about cable management, theft, or technical failures, they can focus on what matters most: teaching and learning. For schools committed to effective technology integration, Monarch LapCabby charging stations come highly recommended – they're essential infrastructure for top-notch modern education.
