There are four types of laptop docking stations: standard, industrial, high-security, and public terminals. They are not compatible with laptops smaller than 14 inches. Standard docking stations are bought as accessories and have connections for video, audio, network and internet. Industrial stations have additional features such as barcode scanners and advanced security protocols. High-security stations require two separate logins and are common in banking, military, and systems development environments. Public stations provide internet access, power, and monitors. When connecting to a docking station, ensure connectors are firmly in place to avoid expensive repairs.
There are four different types of laptop docking stations: standard, industrial, high-security, and public terminals. All of these models are based on a minimum 14-inch (35.6 cm) laptop and are not compatible with smaller units. A laptop is a portable computer between 8 cm (20.3 inches) and 24 cm (61 inches) in diameter, so smaller ones are incompatible with docking stations.
Standard laptop docking stations are purchased as accessories from the laptop manufacturer. The typical design is a small platform with a thick hub at the back. The laptop is inserted into the hub, which locks into the base of the unit. In the hub itself there are connections for video, audio, network and internet connections. When the laptop is connected to the hub, all these connections are made automatically.
Industrial laptop docking stations provide all of the same functions as standard docking stations, plus a few more features. Barcode scanners, fingerprint identification units and advanced security protocols are typical of this type of station. Depending on the working environment, the station can be designed to accommodate laptops housed inside protective cases. This can include waterproof and drop-resistant cases that are much thicker than standard laptop cases.
High-security laptop docking stations are common in banking, military, and systems development environments. The laptop is connected to the hub in the normal process, but the user needs access to two separate systems. The first system provides minimal access and usually contains virus scanning software. The drive is scanned and must be confirmed as virus free before the user is prompted for the second login. The second connection provides access to the actual network and related systems.
A public laptop docking station allows users to connect to the Internet and power sources in an Internet café or public library. These stations provide internet access, power, and monitors. Using this type of station, there is no need for wireless access or cards. The risk of virus transmission is minimal and activity can be traced back to a specific user if necessary.
When you connect your laptop to a docking station, check the connectors to make sure they are firmly in place and that there are no obstacles between the docking station and the laptop. If you feel resistance, pull the laptop back and check the connectors again. A broken connection can be quite expensive to fix. In some cases, they cannot be repaired and you need to purchase another docking station.
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