Dell D/Dock

Hey, I'm thinking about getting a D/Dock for my new D620. I have a few questions about it that I can't find the answer to on the dell website.

First off, the website doesn't list the D620 on the list of compatable laptops, I'm assuming that the page itself is just outdated since the D620 is a fairly new model. It's completely compatable right?

Second, does the dock respond like a plug-and-play device? Or do I have to dock while the computer is off or something like that?

Lastly, I would like to know if you guys recommend another docking device. All I'm really looking for is something that keeps my stuff (printer, speakers, mouse, keyboard) connected and allows my laptop to get back hooked up to that stuff in my dorm with the least amount of hastle. I figured the Dell dock would be most efficent becasue it uses the docking port on the bottom of my laptop. Would I see a difference in a smaller dock that uses just a USB 2.0 connection?

Thanks for the input.

 

1. yes it is compatible
2. not really sure. I imagine that it is a plug & play device
3. go with the d/dock from dell. The only other dock that you can choose from would be an universal dock (USB dock) such as the one from Kingston. The d/dock seems to be better than the USB from what I heard. Besides, i don't think the d/dock is that big really. It looks pretty small to me.

 

thanks for the response southerngirl. does anyone have any specific docks or any usb docks they recommend?

 

We did a few reviews on USB docks if you are interested in reading them.

Targus Review

Kensington Review

As I stated in my previous post, you'll get the best performance results if you go with a docking station that is specifically made for your laptop. Most laptops don't have this option, so they are forced to go with a USB docking station.

 

The biggest difference is that the dell dock will charge and power your notebook while it's plugged in and you also get moniter output from the ddock. It looks better but does cost quite a bit more from what I understand. The Kensington dock does not have video support and does not charge the notebook.

 

Yes, the D/Dock does hot-plug on and off the dock. As a matter of fact, a new button shows up on the Windows Start Menu called Undock Computer (or something similar). Also, the D/Dock has a button you press to alert Windows to get ready to undock.

I have a D/DOCK at it works great with both the D620 and my M1710.

Get one on ebay. Got mine for around $80 shipped.

Good luck!

 

Which optical drives does the D/Dock support? I was looking to put a DVD/RW in the bay, but I can find no documentation as to which optical drives will work. Anyone out there that could answer this? It would be greatly appreciated.

Peace Out!