Universal Docking Stations. Universal docking stations turn the USB port of computer into a docking station connector. A single USB cable to your computer docks your portable device to support multiple display outputs, audio, Ethernet and other USB peripherals. The Dell™ Docking Station - USB 3.0 connects your laptop to up to three additional monitors, various external devices and the Internet with a single cable. It's a convenient way to expand the capabilities of your portable PC and customize your desktop computing environment. Wireless Docking Station, for iPhone and Android, for airPods and galaxy/pixel buds, 2 wireless charging pads are included! The Dell™ Docking Station - USB 3.0 connects your laptop to up to three additional monitors, various external devices and the Internet with a single cable.

Dell Universal Dock - D6000. ★★★★★ ★★★★★ 3.8 (1447) 3.8 out of 5 stars.

In computing, a docking station or port replicator (hub) or dock provides a simplified way of 'plugging-in' a laptop computer to common peripherals. Because a wide range of dockable devices—from mobile telephones to wireless mice—have different connectors, power signaling, and uses, docks are not standardized and are therefore often designed with a specific type of device in mind.^{[citation needed]} This technology is also used on the Nintendo Switchhybrid video game console.

A dock can allow some laptop computers to become a substitute for a desktop computer, without sacrificing the mobile computing functionality of the machine. Portable computers can dock and undock hot, cold or standby, depending on the capabilities of the system. In a cold dock or undock, one completely shuts the computer down before docking/undocking. In a hot dock or undock, the computer remains running when docked/undocked. Standby docking or undocking, an intermediate style used in some designs, allows the computer to be docked/undocked while powered on, but requires that it be placed into a sleep mode prior to docking/undocking.

Types[edit]

Docking stations can be broadly split up into four basic varieties.

Port replicator/hub[edit]

Port replicators (sometimes referred to as passthroughs) are functionally and logically identical to a bundle of extension cables, except that they are plugged in and unplugged together through the device. Some also include electrical adaptors to change from one pinout to another (e.g., Micro-DVI to normal DVI connector.) Often Bus-Powered and small form factor, they functionally duplicate ports from the device to easily access more of the existing ports like: SD cards, peripherals, audio jacks, etc. as well as external display(s).

Breakout dock/multi-port adapter[edit]

A breakout dock is conceptually a breakout box in the form of a dock. It is an extension to a typical port replicator in that it not only replicates existing ports already on the computer, but also offers additional ports. Modern computers most often accomplish this by using a special, often proprietary, connector that consolidates the signals from many concealed traces from onboard external buses into one connector. As such, the dock can offer a greater number of ports than is physically present on the computer. This allows the basic unit to have fewer physical ports while still allowing users a way to access to the full range of features of its motherboard.

Most companies that produce laptops with such breakout ports also offer simpler adapters that grant access to one or two of the buses consolidated in them at a time.

Docking Station For Hp Elitebook

OEM/proprietary dock[edit]

Similar to a breakout device, some docking stations produce multiple connections from one port, only instead of extracting them from internal chipsets, they create them inside the dock using converters. They are functionally identical to a hub with various converters plugged in. Often using proprietary connections and usually meant to be permanently installed, these self-powered docks are intended for specific models of notebook and would require upgrading at the same time as the notebook. Often, OEM docks contain a wired internet connection, dual displays, and a range of USB and Audio connections.

Universal/third party dock[edit]

Functionally similar to OEM docks, but available in seemingly endless combinations, self-powered non-OEM docks still produce multiple connections from one port, only instead of extracting them from internal chipsets, they create them inside the dock using converters. Typically USB-C or Thunderbolt-3 based, they incorporate a range of converters such as USB display adapters or a full external GPU, audio chipsets, NICs, storage enclosures, modems and memory card readers, or even PCI Express card slots connected through an internal USB hub or PCI Express bridge to give the host computer access to extra connections it did not previously possess.^[1] Because they are generally vendor neutral, they often support external device charging, more external monitors, and are more flexible to install. They are often the go-to choice for mixed device offices/workplaces to ease complications in deployments.

Notebook/laptop stands and risers[edit]

Notebook/laptop stands are sometimes incorrectly referred to as docking stations, but seems to be carried through from older technology as they do not connect to the computer in any way. They are an inert accessory designed merely to physically support a computer that is placed on it, typically to raise its screen up to a more ergonomic height, provide cooling, or just to conserve desk space. In 2019 some vendors have launched USB and QI (wireless) charging stands, but they are still independent and do not connect with the notebook.

Vehicle docks[edit]

Mobile docking stations, also sometimes referred to as vehicle mounts, provide stable platforms for notebook, laptop and tablet operation in vehicles. Many industries have adopted mobile computing and hence operators wish to have their vehicles fully equipped as mobile field-offices, commonly referred to as mobile offices. As of 2015 organizations use mobile docking stations in sectors such as (for example): law-enforcement, electricity, telecommunications, the military, emergency medical services, fire, construction, insurance, real-estate, agriculture, oil, gas, transportation, warehousing, food-distribution, surveying, and landscaping.^[2]

Some manufacturers design mobile docking stations specially to withstand the rigors of travel; such products may have MIL-STD 810E construction-specifications for vibration and impact.

Mobile docking stations usually come mated to an armature, laptop desk or standard rack in order to provide the ability to position the computer in a vehicle in a safe and ergonomic position. As with all docking stations, a mobile docking station will provide the user with a means to quickly and easily dock and un dock the computer. In addition, some mobile docking-stations provide a security-lock to discourage theft.

Docking Station For Iphone And Watch

Types of vehicle based docking stations[edit]

• Car Mounts are designed for use with most popular automobiles.
• Truck Mounts are designed for use with most popular pickup trucks, vans, SUVs and heavy-duty trucks.
• Cart Mounts and Forklift Mounts are designed to mount notebook, laptop & tablet computers on forklifts and warehouse carts.

Vehicle mount components[edit]

Basic components in the design of computer vehicle mounts include:

• Docking station: The actual station or cradle in which the mobile PC rests. These stations may come equipped with additional functionality, such as charging and USB ports.
• Motion attachments: Movable components of a mounting system that attach between the pole or tube and the mount base. These come in a number of varieties, allowing the user to configure their mount's range of motion to desired specifications.
• Mounting base: Attaches the mounting system to the vehicle. This element is commonly composed of rugged materials such as steel. Tunnel Mounts attach to the raised floor area (drive shaft tunnel) between the driver and passenger. Passenger Side Mounts attach to floor on the passenger side of the vehicle. Console mounting brackets attach to an existing vehicle center console. Trunk Mounts provide mounting options for use inside car trunks.
• Poles and tubes: Attachments that allow the user to adjust the length and particular setup of the mount for the particular vehicle style.

Docking systems are shipped in their individual components, requiring the user to install and configure the device.

See also[edit]

References[edit]

1. ^Nadel, Brian (2020-10-22). 'USB-C explained: How to get the most from it (and why it keeps getting better)'. Computerworld. Retrieved 2020-12-03.
2. ^'Top 12 Considerations for a Successful Mobile Computing Project, Part 3 | Hendon Publishing'. www.hendonpub.com. Retrieved 2019-07-04.

Docking Station

Overview

Workstation productivity and laptop portability.

Our laptop docking stations enable the productivity of a full-scale workstation, with the portability of a laptop. Work with multiple monitors, Gigabit Ethernet, and access all your peripherals and devices while at your desk. Easily disconnect your laptop to go to your meeting — then, reconnect just as effortlessly.

Top 3 reasons you should have a universal laptop docking station

Productivity

Add extra ports, features, or enhanced functionality to modern, slimmer laptops.

• Multiple monitors and 4K video
• Gigabit Ethernet connections
• Additional USB ports and USB fast-charging
• Cutting-edge technology, such as USB-C, Thunderbolt 3 and WiGig
• Provides more features than proprietary E-Docks (port-replicators)

Convenience

Work more efficiently — workstation productivity and laptop portability.

• Single cable connection
• Laptop charging
• Reduce connecting and disconnecting devices
• Easy for large-scale office deployment
• Clean, clutter-free workspace

Compatibility

Device flexibility and future-proofing.

• Mac and Windows compatible
• Upgrade or change your laptop but keep the same dock
• Ideal for BYOD or CYOD (Bring/Choose Your Own Device) work environments
• Perfect for travel stations used for rotating employees, guests or visitors — called hot desks or hoteling.

You don’t need a desktop computer, transform your laptop into one.

StarTech.com offers the widest selection of universal docking stationsso you’re sure to find the perfect dock to meet your unique needs.

Downloadable resources to help you find the right docking station.

Meet your perfect match

A creative professional needs more advanced video and graphics while other users may only require the essential peripheral connections in and out of the office.

Essential needs

Perfect for on-the-go business travelers or shared workspace users with simple connection needs.

Docking Station Walmart

• Portable, travel-convenient, multi-port solutions
• Key port solutions for boardroom presentations and hotel room requirements
• Space-saving, small footprint and essential ports

Enhanced productivity

Docking Station Issue

For moderate laptop demands and if you want to set up a full-scale workstation.

• Connections to multiple displays
• Variety of video output options
• Extra ports for USB devices, Gigabit Ethernet, and charging your phone

High performance

Designed for high resource demands or unique needs.

• Advanced Thunderbolt 3 technology
• Dual 4K resolution
• Wireless docking options
• Dual laptop solutions
• Triple monitor connections

Browse our wide selection of docking stations

or download our Laptop Docking Station Finder to discover your perfect match.

Connectivity

Port authority

Extend the ports you have into the ports you need.

Take full advantage of the technology in your laptop

A single Thunderbolt 3 port connects to Thunderbolt 3 devices, displays and any USB-C device, all while supporting DisplayPort, USB 3.1 and PCIe.

WiGig technology allows you to dock your laptop wirelessly, enabling seamless transitions from your desk to meetings.

The USB-C connector supports multiple technologies, increased speeds and can power your laptop and devices, all while being compact and reversible.

USB 3.0 is the previous standard USB connector used to connect many devices to newer technologies. The USB 3.0 ports on our docking stations create no shortage of ports for extra devices.

1+2+3 and 4K adds up tp comprehensive display possibilities

With additional video output ports, come additional display options. StarTech.com docking stations offer outputs for one to three displays and in 4K high resolutions. Using more than one monitor increases workstation productivity by allowing you to multi-task with efficiency.

Plenty of ports to connect all your old and new peripherals

With plenty of extra ports, you can charge your phone or tablet and connect your laptop to additional devices.

Laptop Charging (Power Delivery)

Power and charge your laptop via Power Delivery with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C technology.

Gigabit Ethernet (Wired Networking)

A wired network is the most reliable connection. Use the Gigabit Ethernet port on our docking stations to connect to a wired connection.

Charge and sync your phone and tablet with the fast charge USB 3.0 ports on our docking stations.

Need a portable solution?

Docking Station For Macbook Pro

Multiport adapters are perfect.

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