(Each docking station is different and may have different ports than shown.)

The docking station typically contains slots for expansion cards, bays for storage devices, and connectors for peripheral devices, such as printers and monitors. Once inserted in a docking station, the portable computer essentially becomes a desktop model computer. When it is taken out, it becomes a portable computer again. Most importantly, the same data is accessible in both modes because it resides on the portable computer's drives. The idea behind docking stations is to let you simultaneously enjoy the expansion possibilities of desktop model computers with the portability of notebook computers. In addition, the docking station enables you to use a full-size keyboard and monitor when you're not traveling.

Most laptops do not include a docking station and are not included with purchase unless specified in the laptop's description.

(Each port replicator is different and may have different ports than shown.)

Port replicators expand the number of ports the laptop can use and the expansion base, which might hold a CD-ROM drive, a floppy disk drive, and additional storage. With the introduction of high capacity external USB hard drives the port replicator has fallen out of favor and is now rarely seen in use.

Port replicators and docking stations are not included with purchase unless otherwise specified in the laptop's description.