Should I get a Port Replicator?

Message

MSE Environmental · #1 Post by **MSE Environmental** » Wed Oct 06, 2004 1:01 pm

I just got a new T42 ( 2378FZU) last week. It has exceeded my expectations. I know just enough to be dangerous when it comes to computers.....so I need to tap into your collective expertise here.

I was wondering if I should get a port replicator. I'm pretty mobile, using the computer in my office about 1/2 the time, the other half it is on the road with me. While I am in the office I use a printer, pocket pc, and digital camera through the USB ports.

What are the advantages beyond the obvious of using the a port replicator? Is there any benefit for the life or use of the computer? I can purchase the 74P6733 on ebay for $79.99.

Also, would going direct through my wireless router via an ethernet hookup be faster than the 54bps wireless I'm using now?

I appreciate the help to these basic questions.

Mike

muffd · #2 Post by **muffd** » Wed Oct 06, 2004 2:06 pm

I think this would be a good choice. I don't think it would prolong the life of your laptop but is handy if you have an office as well as being mobile.
When you get to the office, you don't have to worry about plugging this or that in. Just pop in your Thinkpad and you're done. As far as the wireless vs ethernet. Right now, those two can't be compared. 54g is pretty good but still not quite 100mbits. Also, if you have the extra cash to spare, I would consider getting the mini-dock II instead. It has 4 usb 2.0 ports. I think the one you're looking to get doesn't have that.

Good luck.

Plinkerton · #3 Post by **Plinkerton** » Wed Oct 06, 2004 2:43 pm

Correct me if I'm wrong, but if all your attachments to your TP are through USB, couldn't you just buy a USB hub and keep them all attached to that?

Then, when you get in your office, you would just plug one thing into one USB port on your TP, and the 4 things would all be connected.

I apologize if this doesn't work, but I see no reason why it wouldn't. It would be much cheaper too...

muffd · #4 Post by **muffd** » Wed Oct 06, 2004 2:57 pm

You could do that but for me, I have quite a few things plugged into my MiniDock II.
USB mouse
Ehternet cable
printer
speaker
power
axim usb cable

So for me, just a USB hub might not work out too well. If all you have are usb devices, that that is your best choice. I also have the option to add two more usb devices to my Port Replicator.

mattfromomaha · #5 Post by **mattfromomaha** » Wed Oct 06, 2004 4:42 pm

The port replicator is very handy, but consider that it doesn't come with it's own power supply. It uses the same power supply as the ThinkPad. I'd recommend buying a second power supply that can live attached to the port replicator so you can keep one with you for on the road.

Franasia · #6 Post by **Franasia** » Wed Oct 06, 2004 8:17 pm

The Mini Dock II comes with its own AC adapter. The Dock II has it built in, so only the power cord comes out of it. I find that the biggest convenience of the port replicator/dock (other than the obvious) is not having to deal with packing/unpacking/pluging/unpluging of the AC adapter.

Just got a Mini Dock II from eBay for $99.00.

Hope it helps.

MSE Environmental · #7 Post by **MSE Environmental** » Wed Oct 06, 2004 8:51 pm

Thanks for the suggestions everyone. The idea for the MiniDock is a great idea. I'm watching Ebay to get one now. The extra power cord and 4 USB ports makes this a good decision for my needs.

Should I get a Port Replicator?

Should I get a Port Replicator?

Thanks

Who is online