docking station
(1) A cradle for a portable device that serves to charge the unit and connect it to other sources or destinations. For example, an iPod docking station charges the iPod and connects it to a computer, speakers or TV set.
(2) A base station for a laptop that turns the portable computer into a desktop system. It uses a large plug and socket to quickly connect the laptop, which duplicates all the cable lines for the monitor, printer, keyboard, mouse, etc. The docking station typically has one or two slots for expansion boards and may house speakers and other peripherals such as an optical drive. See port replicator.
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docking station [′däk·iŋ ‚stā·shən]
(computer science)
A device that connects a portable computer with peripherals such as an external monitor, keyboard, and so on, allowing a portable computer to function as a desktop computer.
| (hardware) | docking station - A desktop mains powered unit into which a laptop or other portable computer can be connected via fixed connectors at the rear of the computer to provide quick and convenient connection of peripherals not normally used with a laptop. These can include power supply, expansion cards, additional storage, an external monitor, network card, CD-ROM, full-size keyboard, printer, and mouse. The alternative would require each of the above to be connected to the laptop individually. |
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