HP is a globally reputable company which manufactures excellent computer products and the latest innovations. When it comes to computer technology, they always lead, and the notebook docking station is one of their most prized product lines. But what is there to admire about HP docking devices?
Although they are functional, notebooks lack a lot of features which are found only in desktops. However, with a use of docking devices, a laptop can become a desktop-like system which imitates the functions and connections of a desktop. This makes laptops accessible to all computer peripherals and comfortable to use.
Sometimes, a laptop user just wants to gain access to a real keyboard and mouse. If you're that person, you might want to get the HP AK155AA Mobile Port Replicator. It has two USB 2.0 ports and two PS2 ports where you can connect a keyboard and mouse, and it is compatible to most models of HP and Compaq laptops.
Some laptop users want additional ports only, as well as complete connectivity options. The HP ES631AA Notebook QuickDock has all the necessary ports, inlets, and connectors that you need to access all computer peripherals. The device has six USB 2.0 ports, Ethernet port, VGA port, S-Video out port, Audio in and out, and a composite and component video out ports. It is compatible with most HP Presario and Pavilion laptops.
There are also docking stations which really provide a desktop environment. The perfect example is the HP PR1010 docking station, where you actually place the laptop on the dock to put it on an elevated position, and you attach a mouse and keyboard on the docking device. This creates a complete desktop environment, and the ports on the dock make the desktop functionality complete. The PR1010 has six USB 2.0 ports, Audio in and out, VGA, S-Video, serial, Ethernet, and modem ports. It is compatible with most the HP Pavilion Z series, Presario Nx series, and other selected models.
A similar model is the HP xb4 dock, which also holds the laptop in an eye-level position like a monitor. But it has added functionality because it has an S/PDIF port and an integrated Altec Lansing 2.1 speaker system. This docking device is compatible to Presario CQ45 series, V300, V600 series, and Pavilion Dv series, and Tx series.
But one model that really gives the complete desktop environment is the HP xb3000 Notebook Expansion Base. It comes in a complete set of a monitor stand/port replicator, wireless keyboard, and wireless mouse. Its port replicator has six USB 2.0 ports, S-Video port, composite video port, component video port, S/PDIF port, VGA port, and Ethernet and LAN connector. It is compatible with HP Pavilion Dv2000 and Dv6000 series, and Presario V3000 and V6000 series laptops.
The notebook docking station was really designed to provide desktop functionality, and this is exactly what HP docks offer. If you want additional ports, I would suggest getting the QuickDock device. For a more comfortable laptop view, I would say you can get either the PR1010 or the xb4 docking devices. But if you really want a complete desktop feel and functionality, I recommend the xb3000 notebook expansion base. Nonetheless, I think any dock that's compatible with your laptop is alright.
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