Frequently Asked Questions About the TOM BIHN Zephyr Briefcase
Is the Zephyr padded to protect my laptop computer?
Not really. The Zephyr has foam stiffeners on front, back, bottom and sides,
but you need to add a
Brain Cell laptop case to fully protect your computer inside of the Zephyr.
The Brain Cell is available in nine different sizes (four sizes are specifically designed
to fit Apple laptops) to fit a wide range of laptops, though only sizes 6, 5, 4, and 4X will fit inside
of the Zephyr.. The Brain Cell provides the ultimate in
laptop protection with soft, thick foam padding, hard, corrugated plastic walls, and a
suspension system. The Brain Cell secures inside of and easily clips in and out of the Zephyr
with our removable Annex clip system. We recommend using our Laptop Bag Fit Guide to determine
which size of Brain Cell is right for your laptop.
Why is the Brain Cell sold separately?
The Brain Cell is sold separately because, without it, the Zephyr functions as
a great briefcase for those who don't have laptops. Also, some people may already
have a laptop sleeve or case they want to use instead of the Brain Cell.
Does the Brain Cell ride horizontally or vertically inside the Zephyr? Must I remove the Brain Cell to remove my laptop?
The Brain Cell rides horizontally in the Zephyr (landscape, not portait), and
clips securely to the Zephyr via removable Annex clips. Most people leave the
Brain Cell clipped into the Zephyr. It's easy to remove your laptop
without removing the Brain Cell. Simply unzip the Zephyr, un-Velcro® the top of the
Brain Cell, and pull your laptop out.
Does the Zephyr have room for more than my laptop?
Yes - you'll have room for files, a couple of magazines, and the usual gear and accessories
such as your wallet, keys, PDA, laptop cables, power supply, iPod, etc. If you have a lot of
files or you need a bigger bag, check out our Empire Builder briefcase. The Zephyr is basically a
smaller version of the Empire Builder briefcase.
I'm 5'2" and not so big. Is the Zephyr for me?
We received many requests from customers for a smaller version of our Empire Builder briefcase.
Tom designed the Zephyr to be a smaller version of the Empire Builder that would work well
for people of any height.
Does the Zephyr fit under the seat on most airlines?
Yes.
Is the Zephyr waterproof?
The fabric is "waterproof". It's coated with urethane inside and treated with a
water-repellent outside, and the exposed front pocket zipper is a YKK Splash-Proof zipper --
coated to be highly water-repellant. Be wary of other manufacturers claiming their products are
"waterproof" just because the fabrics are coated. If the seams are not RF-welded or heat sealed,
they are probably not waterproof.
What is the Zephyr named after?
The California Zephyr Train.
Is the Zephyr available in stores?
The Zephyr will be available at the TOM BIHN Seattle, Washington store in early July 2007.
Where is the Zephyr made?
The Zephyr is manufactured in the TOM BIHN production factory, located in Seattle, Washington, U.S.A.