Heidi, It's not a good idea to leave any part of the computer exposed to the public. As you've seen in the responses so far, people will deliberately or inadvertantly tamper with the controls. In addition to contrast, brightness and the power switch, many monitors also have screen adjustment controls on the front panel as well. These controls set screen size, position and monitor frequency. After these have been tampered with it can be difficult for you to figure out what was done so you can un-do it. Your visitors will just become frustrated by a "broken" computer and walk away. To save the expense of a kiosk, you could install a tamper-proof plate over the controls. Some monitors have flip-panels which expose these controls, so if you could secure that, you would be okay. The last place I worked used a strip of acrylic which covered the flip-panel and the power switch. The plate was secured by short wood screws at either end. Don't make this cover permanent, remember you need access for occasional adjustments to the monitor settings. Also, be very careful to use short screws and if you drill the front panel, don't penetrate farther than the bezel plastic. I am also concerned about your use of the mouse and keyboard. If you give the visitor access to the keyboard, they have full access to the computer. They can accidently or deliberately close the program you install and cause all kinds of mischeif on the system. I don't know any details about what you are doing with your exhibit. There was a vigorous discussion on mice/trackballs and touchscreens on Museum-l about 1-2 mos. ago, I recommend you search the archives. I know it's difficult to make decisions on what corners to cut when you are working on a tight budget, but remember sometimes more than just looks is involved. A decision that undermines the overall quality or reliability of an exhibit will effect your visitors ability to learn from the exhibit and their impressions of your facility. My speciality is designing exhibit software and computer systems/electronic technology solutions for museums. If you supply more details, I would be gald to assist you further. Mark C. Vang : Freya Ventures : (757) 340-0099 2100 Mediterranean Ave. Suite 15 Virginia Beach, VA 23451 > [log in to unmask] : [log in to unmask] < * Interactive touch screen exhibit software/systems and exhibit * * technology integration for Museums, Science Centers, Aquariums *