Should I get a dock?

[kelchm]

I've ordered a T61p for school, but I've also been debating ordering a mini dock. It certainly would simplify things back in the dorm. Thats said, how do you guys feel about the docks? Anyone have a picture of a TP docked so I could get an idea of the size?

[pipspeak]

I have a dock for my T43 and plan to get the "mini" one for my T61... it's essential if you want to run a monitor via DVI (way better than VGA) and if you need a handy USB hub (the dock has four powered USB ports).

It's also handy if you don't like having to unplug everything (printer, keyboard, mouse, external HDD, monitor, scanner etc.) every time you need to take the computer on the road or around the campus. If you're not using an external monitor, however, it would be cheaper and just as handy to get a powered USB hub for $30.

If you do get one, however, do not buy from Lenovo. Newegg currently has one of the best prices on the advanced mini dock -- cheaper than Lenovo even with the EPP. Go figure.

[ninjatool]

Depending on your usage, i find the mini-dock to be a great complement to my notebook.

I find unplugging cables a great hassle and really does make it handy to just unlock and go.

I have 3x Portable HD, headphones , wireless keyboard + mouse combo all plugs into the mini-dock.

Soon to invest in a widescreen LCD.

BTW, i ebayed my advanced mini-dock and payed less than half of the original cost! try and source 2nd hand if u can.

[acasto]

I ordered the advanced dock along with my T60p back in december, and am so glad I did. With my old laptop, it would usually end up just staying in one place because I would get it settled in and all the wires pugged up and routed, and just wouldn't feel like messing with them. Since having the dock, I have actually used my laptop more like a laptop. I ordered an extra power adapter and keep it by the couch, so I can just pop it off the dock, and dock myself on the couch. It's also a lot easier to just grab and go to places like the coffee shop or the office, and since I keep all my "to-go" stuff in the bag, I know I didn't forget anything like I always used to.

[The Bard]

I went the first year with my T60 without a dock and now don't know how I lived without one. For me a dock is essential because my laptop is my primary computer, and I it travels with me from home to work. I also have lots of periperals attached, including two printers, a label maker, external speakers, external monitor, etc. If this sounds like you, get a dock...you'll love it. Otherwise, it's probably not necessary.

[Tholek]

http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... MIGR-67669

Each link also has a picture, although not with a TP docked.

I'm considering getting one myself, but I have to say, they are quite ugly looking compared to other docks out there, even past TP ones. I guess function is all that matters, but I really expected something less chunky, and more in line with the current TP designs. These seem designed by different people altogether.

[PPB]

I always use a dock with my ThinkPads. I used a Port Replicator II with my old T41, which I have recently upgraded to a T60 with an Advanced Dock. I've also bought a Ultrabase dock for my wife's X41.

In all cases I find using a dock essential if you are to gain the most of both functionality and mobility of your ThinkPad.

PPB