Confused on docking stations

[kc7gr]

Fellow ThinkPadders,

I want to get a decent docking system for my T61, but I'm getting conflicting data. I'm hoping a 'docking expert' can help.

Specifically -- I've come across references to two IBM part numbers. The first is 250410U, which seems to turn up on Greed-Bay with some regularity for about $150 or so.

The second number is 250310U, which also appears to be T61 compatible and also turns up on Greed-Bay. However, there's a huge difference in price. This one seems to go for upwards of $350 or more, and it also looks a bit different in the physical sense.

So: Can someone set me straight on what's going on with those two? Specs? Features? Anything?

Thanks much.

[fuscob]

The first one (2504-10U) is the Advanced Mini Dock, which is basically a slim docking station/port replicator. It has a standard complement of ports, like USB, parallel, serial, DVI/VGA, Ethernet, etc. Newegg link: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... k=2504-10u

The second (2503-10U) is the Advanced Dock. It is definitely different; it is much larger, mostly because it has a PCI Express slot, an UltraBay, and a media card reader built in. Newegg link: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... k=2503-10u

Essentially, you might use the Mini dock for temporary usage (to charge the laptop, easily hook up to a few peripherals, etc) whereas the full-size Advanced Dock would probably be used for a desktop replacement (drive two monitors, add a second hard drive, etc).

Hope this helps!
Brendan

[kc7gr]

(Helpful description of Advanced Dock)

(snippage)

It does indeed help, Brendan, thank you! And you're correct, it's the Advanced Dock that I need to go after. I'm really glad Newegg has them, as I have an open account with them and they usually have pretty good prices.

Keep the peace(es).

[fuscob]

Be careful - you quoted my description of the Advanced Mini Dock but then stated you needed the Advanced Dock. I wish Lenovo could come up with some more creative (or at least differentiating) names

I just wanted to make sure you are getting the correct product.

Brendan

[kc7gr]

Be careful - you quoted my description of the Advanced Mini Dock but then stated you needed the Advanced Dock. I wish Lenovo could come up with some more creative (or at least differentiating) names

I just wanted to make sure you are getting the correct product.

Brendan

Whups! My bad... I'll go back and edit it.

Thanks.

[fuscob]

Whups! My bad... I'll go back and edit it.

Thanks.

No problem; just didn't want to perpetuate the confusion