Mobile Computing: Port Replicators

Plug all your cables into one convenient connector.

James A. Martin

Feature: Why You Need a Port Replicator

"Port replicator" is something that sounds like it came from the movie Blade Runner. In reality, it's simply a device that provides an easy way to connect peripheral devices to your notebook.

If you use a notebook as your primary computer, and need to take it on the road fairly often, then it's time to consider a port replicator. I suspect you're unwilling to take my advice at face value, however, and that you have questions. So let's tackle them.

What Is a Port Replicator, Exactly?

Though there are variations, a typical port replicator is a device containing common computer ports such as parallel, serial, PS/2, and USB. It may also include such features as an Ethernet controller and a headphone jack.

You connect your peripherals to the port replicator, rather than to the ports on your notebook, then connect your notebook to the port replicator. When it's time to dash out the door, just detach your notebook from the port replicator. Instead of disconnecting multiple devices from your notebook, you're unplugging only one--saving time and minimizing wear and tear on your notebook's ports.

Is a Port Replicator Like a Docking Station?

Generally speaking, a docking station does the same job as a port replicator. However, a docking station may also include slots for expansion cards, storage device bays, CD/DVD drives, and so on.

In essence, a docking station is designed to transform a notebook into a desktop computer. The smaller and lighter your notebook, the more likely you'll need a docking station. That's because the manufacturer had to leave a fair amount of features (such as a DVD-ROM/CD burner) out of the computer to make it so thin and light.

A port replicator is primarily meant to make connecting peripherals to your notebook more convenient.

Why Do I Need a Port Replicator?

Most computers have at least a few peripherals attached. For instance, my Dell notebook (which is the computer I use daily) hooks up to a multifunction printer, a four-port USB hub, a back-up hard drive, an external keyboard, an external trackball, and a flash memory card reader.

Granted, that's more devices than the average user probably needs. At a minimum, though, frequent notebook users should connect an external monitor (if their screen is less than 15 inches), an external keyboard and input device (for ergonomic reasons), and a printer.

Presumably, you're using a notebook rather than a desktop PC because it's portable. Do you really want to unhook all those devices every time you leave the office with your notebook? And reconnect them every time you return? Trust me: You don't.

Are There any Compatibility Issues?

Some port replicators and docking stations support multiple models from various manufacturers. The port replicator I bought years ago for my Dell Inspiron 3700, for instance, also works with my current Dell Inspiron 8100.

Many devices work with only one or a few specific notebook models, so make sure the device you're buying works with your notebook. Usually, if you're configuring a system online, you're automatically given the option to purchase a port replicator or docking station specifically for your device.

Where Can I Find One?

A number of third-party vendors, such as Kensington, Mobility Electronics, and Targus offer port replicators and/or docking stations. These devices are sometimes less expensive than what the computer makers sell and may be more convenient, too. I'll tell you more about that in a second.

I recommend beginning your search for a port replicator or docking station at your computer vendor's Web site. If for no other reason, it's good to know what your computer maker offers that fits your notebook, so you can compare its price and features against what you may find elsewhere.

Some sites to check:

PCWorld.com. With our Product Finder (powered by PriceGrabber.com's product pricing comparison engine), you can shop for docking stations and port replicators by notebook manufacturer.

Targus. This online retailer offers several compact and affordable port replicators. The most versatile is the Targus USB Mobile Port Replicator with Ethernet. The device includes two USB ports, two PS/2 ports, one parallel port, one serial port, and an Ethernet controller. It connects to notebooks via a USB port. And at 7.5 ounces, it makes a comfortable traveling companion. Current prices for the Targus USB Mobile Port Replicator with Ethernet begin around $59.

Mobility Electronics. Its EasiDock 1000EV CardBus Docking Station attaches peripherals to your notebook via a PC Card connector and includes integrated ATI video technology to drive two monitors (your notebook's and an external display) simultaneously. The device can support a variety of notebooks and includes two USB ports, two PS/2 ports, one parallel, one serial, an Ethernet controller, and (unlike the Targus port replicator described above) a monitor port. The device weighs 1.16 pounds.

For a list of compatible notebooks, go to the company's Web site. Current prices begin at $167; for the latest prices, check our Product Finder.

Food for Thought

In the long run, third-party port replicators and docking stations may deliver a better value than what notebook makers offer.

For instance, Dell's Advanced Port Replicator ($199) connects snugly to the Inspiron's back end, thereby blocking the notebook's parallel, serial, monitor, and USB ports. But the Targus and Mobility Electronics replicators, which connect to a notebook's USB and PC Card slots, respectively, don't block any of its ports: The notebook's own ports can still be used to add extra devices to your notebook.

Also, the Targus and Mobility Electronics devices can be connected to various notebook models--a plus for those who change notebook models fairly regularly. The Dell Advanced Port Replicator, by comparison, works only with most (but not all) Inspiron notebooks.

The drawback: Peripheral compatibility issues may arise when you use port replicators or docking stations. In that event, having purchased both your notebook and port replicator or docking station from the computer maker could make resolving the problem via tech support much less of a headache.

NOTEBOOKS & ACCESSORIES

Alert: New Security Guidelines for Gadgets

Since September 11, 2001, business travelers have had to pull notebooks out of their bags, place them in security bins, and send them through airport X-ray machines. Now, the Department of Homeland Security has decreed that all electronic equipment must be removed from bags and laid flat in checkpoint security bins for X-ray inspection. The list includes mobile phones, PDAs, MP3 players, and digital cameras. Concern that terrorists may try to disguises explosives as everyday electronic devices prompted the new security procedure. For more information, and tips on how to deal with the tighter screening rules, see "Fill the Bins: New Rules for Flying With Gadgets."

Review: Subnotebooks Bulk Up

Some new ultraportable notebooks have gained a little weight--a trade-off for improved performance and features.

Consider the Fujitsu LifeBook P5000 ($1699), for instance. At 3 pounds, 14 ounces, it weighs half a pound more than its predecessor, the P2000. But the new LifeBook's battery life of 5 hours outlasted the P2000's battery by more than 2 hours. And its PC WorldBench 4 score was twice that of the earlier model. For more on the new LifeBook, as well as reviews of new subnotebook models from Sony (the VAIO PCG-TR1A) and Hewlett-Packard (the Compaq Business Notebook Nc4000), see "Loaded Little Laptops."

Review: External DVD Burner Among Top 10

In our recent Top 10 DVD Drive roundup, only one external model, the Alera Technologies DVD-R Quad Cruiser, made the cut. The drive, which connects to notebooks and desktops via a USB 2.0 port, writes to DVD-RW at 2X, DVD-R at 4X, CD-RW at 8X, and CD-R at 10X. You can find the test report at PCWorld.com. For the latest prices, check our Product Finder.

HANDHELDS

News: Gateway's Portable Music Player

The new Gateway Digital Audio Player is a tiny (1.5-ounce) and sleek USB device that also offers data storage and voice recording capabilities. It comes in two versions: the DMP-200 ($130) with 128MB of memory, and the DMP-300 ($170) with 256MB. Both devices connect to PCs via a USB port. Unlike many MP3 players, you can format and delete music files and create play lists directly from the devices.

Review: Best Buys in Wireless PDAs

PCWorld.com recently tested ten of the latest connected PDAs--handhelds that double as a mobile phone as well as models that offer Wi-Fi networking. We found two Best Buys: the Sony Ericsson P800, a PDA/cell phone combo; and the Palm Tungsten C with built-in wireless connectivity.

The sleek, tri-band Sony Ericsson P800 includes a roomy LCD and handles voice functions nicely. Phone sound quality (using AT&T's service) was excellent. As for data, the Symbian OS is fairly easy to use; but Web browsing, e-mailing, and other tasks require too many clicks.

Palm's Tungsten C scores high marks for offering a sturdy thumb keyboard and the Graffiti 2 handwriting recognition system. Based on Palm OS 5.2.1, the Tungsten C also includes a robust processor, 64MB of memory, a Secure Digital card slot, and the most usable Wi-Fi we've seen on a handheld.

News: Sony Car Cradle Shows the Way

Sony's Clie models are among the most feature-rich, innovative, and stylish PDAs on the market. Now Sony has come out with a car cradle accessory that adds GPS navigation, driving directions, and other in-car features to certain Clie models.

When docked in the Clie PEGA-CC5 car cradle ($300), Sony Clie models PEG-NX80V,-NX73V and-TG50 allow users to get turn-by-turn, voice-prompted directions (using Rand McNally's StreetFinder Travel Navigation software, included with the car cradle). You can also listen to music files stored on a Clie through the car's speakers and have e-mail messages read to you. The car cradle, which plugs into a car's power port or cigarette lighter, recharges the Clie device as well. For more info, go to Sony's Web site and search on "PEGA-CC5."

WIRELESS

News: SBC Builds Hot Spots

Telecom carrier SBC Communications plans to populate its 13-state service region with some 20,000 Wi-Fi hot spots by 2005. SBC also announced it is building an integrated Wi-Fi and 3G wireless service, to be called FreedomLink. The service will available by late 2006.

Suggestion Box

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