x31 - DOCK - Questions on 'what to get / will work'

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x31_RAM · #1 Post by **x31_RAM** » Fri Jan 04, 2008 1:09 pm

Been working from home for a while and now taking some office space.

I want to set up a dock at the office and leave the one at home in place. This is for my X31/

For the X31 - is it a specific type of dock I want - or will ANY 'thinkpad' dock work fine? Am looking on ebay etc.. - just want to be sure I get one that fits.

losmeme · #2 Post by **losmeme** » Fri Jan 04, 2008 1:15 pm

There are several "docks" available that work with an X31, look at the eBay auction, most will specify compatibility. You can double check that particular models compatibility at lenovo.com.

An X31 "media slice" (attaches to the bottom of the X31, with ports out and optical drive) might also work depending on your usage, and would take up less desk space.

Do you currently have the Media Slice or a Dock at home?

x31_RAM · #3 Post by **x31_RAM** » Fri Jan 04, 2008 1:20 pm

Have the ultrabase with DVD etc...

However - not fussed about having DVD/CD at work. Just can't be bothered to plug in external mouse, AC Adaptor, Network Cable etc.. Want somthing I can plop my thinkpad onto and not worry about plugging bits in.

DVormann · #4 Post by **DVormann** » Fri Jan 04, 2008 2:48 pm

Have a look at this list first.

Your options are:

UltraBase X3 media slice: Does all you need. Includes Ultrabay which you do not need. (USB 1.1 or 2.0? I do not know.)
ThinkPad Port Replicator: USB 1.1 only. You may not want that limitation.
ThinkPad Port Replicator II: Has one USB 2.0 port. Add a HUB (with it's own PSU?) if reqired.
ThinkPad Dock: USB 1.1 only. PCI, Cardbus and Ultrabay included. You do not need them. Internal PSU with fan.
ThinkPad Dock II: PCI, Cardbus and Ultrabay included. You do not need them. Internal PSU with fan.
ThinkPad Mini-Dock: 4 USB Ports; different PSU than Laptop. Purchase together with PSU!

If table space is at a premium the media slice is your best option. Everything else requires space behind the laptop.
If you want a lot of USB ports go for the Mini-Dock.
Otherwise the Port Replicator II is good.

Both media slice and Port Replicator II use the same PSU as X31 itself. Getting one for your office eliminates the need to plug /unplug it every time you enter or leave.

DVI ports on those items support 1280*1024 maximum. Depending on your external screen you may want to use VGA instead.

x31_RAM · #5 Post by **x31_RAM** » Fri Jan 04, 2008 2:56 pm

Thanks DVormann that's very helpful. Appreciated

qviri · #6 Post by **qviri** » Fri Jan 04, 2008 4:00 pm

DVormann wrote:DVI ports on those items support 1280*1024 maximum. Depending on your external screen you may want to use VGA instead.

I'm pretty sure the X31 doesn't support any kind of DVI. The docks are only a passthrough and will not give you DVI if the graphics card inside the laptop isn't up to the task.

x31_RAM · #7 Post by **x31_RAM** » Fri Jan 04, 2008 4:05 pm

all good - just using the screen from laptop - no external.

x31 - DOCK - Questions on 'what to get / will work'

x31 - DOCK - Questions on 'what to get / will work'

Ultrabase

thanks.

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