Why is it that of the thread I start, the topics I think are the most interesting get the least responses...
This creates an easy workaround for many complex security safeguards.
I found it interesting but found nothing to say on the subject. Yes it's a work around, but it requires you to be able to get into someone's office with either a can of air or some liquid nitrogen. It also requires you to get into said office while said computer is on.
Now, IF your data is secure enough to warrant a theft that requires actual breaking and entering of a room, then it's likely that your security isn't limited to the work station and you do both of the following:
1. Lock your office door.
2. Turn off your computer when not in use.
Hell, even just a simple lock on the PC case will require some bolt cutters, which makes you a hell of a lot more conspicuous as you walk into someone's office.
The only time I can see this as being useful is with laptops that the user puts into hibernation when he closes the lid, allowing you to steal the laptop and getting it out of there for as long as you need.
However, if your data is that sensitive and you use your laptop that much, I would think that a flash drive or dedicated server that you can VPN into with an encrypted cellular link would be far more effective.