Dock laptop for desktop comfort

(www.tmcnet.com)

Desktop computers have all of comforts of a full-sized keyboard, mouse, and big monitor. Don't try to slip one into a backpack or brief case, however, when you're on the move.

You can do that easily with a light-weight laptop or notebook computer. With a laptop, you need only one computer for home, office, school, a vacation cottage or anywhere else you can imagine.However, many people don't like the downsized features that come with all but top-of-of-the line "desktop-replacement laptops."

Those include a downsized keyboard, a touchpad pointing device instead of a mouse, and a smaller monitor.I've been using a wonderful solution to that comfort-or-portability dilemma at work. It is a computer docking station that transforms an ultra-light laptop into a full-sized desktop.

A docking station is a platform or frame into which you install a laptop computer. The laptop slides into the docking station and plugs into a master connector. That one connection gives the docking station full access to the computer.

You don't have to connect or disconnect a power cord or Internet cable, for instance, every time you dock and undock the laptop.Docking stations also contain outlets for connecting a full-size keyboard, mouse, monitor, speakers, printer, and other devices.

Some have built-in CD and DVD drives, enhanced sound systems, and other features.Once inserted in a docking station with a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, a laptop essentially becomes a desktop.

Undock, and you've got a portable computer with all the files ready to go.Some people own one laptop computer, but have docking stations at home, in the office, in a dorm room at college, on a vacation home or boat. It's just like owning several desktop computers.

Different kinds of docking ports are available in local stories and online outlets.Basic models cost under $100.

Prices can soar, especially if you have to buy a new monitor, keyboard, speakers, and mouse to use with the docking station.Many old monitors, keyboards, speakers, and mice will work just fine with a new docking station. Keep that in mind when you're trying to decide what to do with old computer gear.

Why not plan on "re-purposing" the gear? Store the old equipment in case you do decide on a laptop and docking station in the future.The old gear may seem clunky.

However, it may be perfect for a second or third docking station in a rarely used location like a summer cottage.Pay special attention to security if you decide on the docking station solution.

I mean the physical security of the hardware. Both the laptop and the docking station can be inviting targets for thieves.Don't make yourself an easy target. Secure the docking station to a desk.

For the laptop, buy a security cable -- a lockable steel cable that connects to a slot in the computer's case.Keep the cable locked whenever you are away from the desk.