Docking Station

[Renz]

Hi there,

Is there a docking station out there that comprises HDMI. I have my W520 docked on an older T410 dock and wondering if there is a better one out there that would suit better.

Thanks

[dr_st]

No, but all the docks compatible with your W520 have DisplayPort++, which means they can output an HDMI signal easily with a passive adapter. All the Series 3 docks are compatible with your W520, if the power supply is adequate. I think the W520 may require 170W. Does it fit in your dock? Or do you run it off 135W?

[Renz]

I am using a DP 2 HDMI adapter, no other choice. My PSU is 135W and fits the old T410 dock.

The problem is that everytime I dock in or out I have to plug/unplug the DP.

So that's about it, don't know what to do..

[dr_st]

It's not supposed to be like that. I would suspect it's an adapter issue (but can also be drivers/software). I regularly dock/undock (using a DP to DVI) and do not have to unplug the monitor, ever.

[BakedKentucky]

Are there any docks that are external graphics cards?? Or are all docks for the 520's basically battery and accessory ports?

[dr_st]

None of the docks that Lenovo produced have external graphics card. You can connect an external GPU via the ExpressCard slot. It may be tricky to set up.

[BakedKentucky]

Im a newb sorry, what would make it tricky?? That is kind of cool, didn't know you could hook up another gpu. So what are the basic docks that are readily available?? Just battery and accessory port docks???

[dr_st]

Read about it a little bit and you will see what makes it tricky.

There is no battery in any of the docks, but there is a battery that attaches to the dock connector.

You can find out about the current docking solutions here:
http://www.thinkwiki.org/wiki/Docking_Solutions

[Renz]

It's not supposed to be like that. I would suspect it's an adapter issue (but can also be drivers/software). I regularly dock/undock (using a DP to DVI) and do not have to unplug the monitor, ever.

There is NO HDMI port on the docking station I have here. Can you please advise on a model, similar as yours that does provide HDMI.

Regards,

[dr_st]

1) No docks have HDMI, but they have DisplayPort++.

2) I realized that I was wrong in the first reply - if you have the Port Replicator (model 4336) - that only has VGA on the dock. If that's the case - throw that dock in the trash where it belongs and get the Mini-Dock (4337) or Mini-Dock Plus (4338).

[Renz]

I meant Displayport++ naturally, I thought it was the same as the HDMI appart from the different connector...

That said, I still lack of insight in what docking station model I have to chase down since I wish to be able to connect my external monitor that is HDMI. (yes i know its DP++ on the dockside!!)

I don't need anything fancy or complicated such as a replicator as I have no idea what that is, only a docking station that comprises Displayport, to convert link with HDMI input on that secondary monitor

So which one would you suggest knowing that

Many thanks

[dr_st]

Anything that has Mini-Dock Series 3 or Mini-Dock Plus Series 3 in its name.

http://www.thinkwiki.org/wiki/ThinkPad_Dock_Series_3

[Renz]

Thanks.

I have ordered a 4337 for upstairs and a 4338 for downstairs in case I need to use an extra DVI out.

Now just wondering, I would like to avoid to carry the power supply around with me when I go to work from the workshop upstairs, I have looked into buying an extra 135W power supply but I failed to find any on ebay in Australia (this is where we are).

There are some genuine Lenovo or IBM units around town and they sell for 80AUD. There are some generic high power ones for 40AUD on ebay however they are 130W, 19V, shall I risk it?

[dr_st]

I wouldn't use anything of non-matching voltage. It should be 20V, 135W or 170W.

[jcvjcvjcvjcv]

Buy an original one. Besides the other stuff being 19V instead of 20, Thinkpads use a 3-pin design,the 3rd pin having a certain resistance to earth. Your Thinkpad measures that and will refuse to charge if the resistor it tasted isn't to it's liking.

On other stuff;
#Lenovo (/IBM) in the past has made docks with a PCI-e slot, where a GPU could be put into. Not applicable for W520 though.
#If your dock does not accept your 170W adapter, use a security Torx screwdriver (#15 if I remember right) to 'drill' the connector of the 170W adapter. It's a very easy way to get ridd of the two useless plastic pieces in there.
#Displayport is superior to HDMI, but if you need the latter, you can also buy a cable to get from DP to HDMI. Same applies if you need DVI. Up to 1920x1200 it can be a passive cable, higher needs a powered active adapter.