T61 docks 3 to choose from any recommendations?

[MarkAugie]

The three "docks" are:
Thinkpad Advanced Mini Dock with USA/Canada/LA Line cord 250410U $219.00

ThinkPad Essential Port Replicator 250510W $179.00

ThinkPad Advanced Dock with US/Canada/LA Line Cord 250310U $379.00

Anyone have some input as what they are using, likes and dislikes?

[allen]

it all depends what you need.
each more expensive one has more things.

i've got the advanced mini dock, and a CRT, 2 scanners, external drive, mouse and keyboard plugged into it.

if i wanted dvi out, i might have to get the better one.
or i think the bigger one even has a cd/dvd bay?

i think ti's pretty simple to go on the thinpad website and look at the specs, and see what ports and things each has


edit - and i also have ethernet plugged into it, and speakers, and AC power

[mybellyisempty]

I wanted the middle one, but found the high end one for the same price (new, open box). Love it. It's a bit large, but I won't complain - I can have my T60 w/ 2 hdds + the CDROM at once now.

[RonS]

If you have a desktop computer that you use in addition to your Thinkpad, then the Mini Dock will probably suit you fine. Otherwise, I'd go for the Advanced Dock which provides your Thinkpad with desktop-like qualities.

[Volker]

The ultrabay in the big dock is only a fancy USB enclosure, though. Fine for the CD drive, but bandwidth limits modern hard drives.

[bill bolton]

The three "docks" are:
Thinkpad Advanced Mini Dock with USA/Canada/LA Line cord 250410U $219.00

In my opinion, for the T6x series this one is the sweet spot in terms of bang for the buck.

The Advanced Dock is really only worth it if you have a very specific use for some of the extra facilities. As Volker noted, its not quite the same thing as the Advanced Docks were in older T series model offerings.

The technology base of laptops in general has moved on, and that brings advantages in somes areas and disadvantages in others.

Cheers,

Bill B.