Docking Port

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Docking Port

The docking port is a proprietary connector that generally provides an ISA, PCI, or PCI-E extension interface. It is featured on many models to provide the option of attaching it to one of the various docking stations, thereby allowing the said model to extend its base functionality.

Recently, the introduction of Thunderbolt has led to the discontinuation of the old dedicated docking port. This can be seen as most of the newer models lack a dedicated docking port.

Overview

There are multiple types of docking ports, however there is no strict and official classification of them. The list of models with a docking port is divided into multiple groups of which each uses same docking port type, and lists docking stations which use this port. Not all models are compatible with all docks in given group however, as some will simply not function, or have limited functionality.

Not all docks use the full capabilities of each port. For example, 'port replicators' generally do not have any active electronic components, as they utilize wires or passive electronic components to connect the docking port to the ports in the port replicator (e.g. VGA, PS/2, RJ-45, serial, parallel, audio-in/out, USB, power connector). 'Docks' however, are more complex. On top of having replicated ports just like the aforementioned port replicator, they additionally use all capabilities of the docking port (e.g. PCI, ISA, IDE, SATA buses), but they might need external power as a result of the feature-creep. Some docks may also include an Ultrabay slot, a PCI(e) slot, or a CardBus slot.

Models featuring this technology

with a 'CS92' standard docking port

with a 'CS93' standard docking Port

with a 'CS94' standard docking port

with a 'CS96' standard docking port

with a 'CS97' standard docking port

with a 'CS98' standard docking port

with a 'CS98' slim docking port

with a 'CS98' special docking port

with a 'CS00' standard docking port

with a 'CS00' slim docking port

with a 'CS00' special docking port

with a 'CS05' standard docking port

with a 'CS05' slim docking port

with a 'CS05' special docking port

with a 'CS08' standard docking port

with a 'CS09' standard docking port

with a 'CS13' standard docking port

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