Docking solutions boost employee productivity by making it easy to switch between mobile and “full desk” computing experiences. With many docking solutions available, here’s a quick guide to choosing the right solution:
MECHANICAL DOCKS
For organizations that mandate higher levels of security. Suitable for users who are frequently switching between desk-based and mobile working.
These solutions physically connect to the device without any cables and provide fast-charging capabilities. Extensive connectivity options include USB2.0, USB 3.1 and USB-C ports, Ethernet, and support for multiple displays using HDMI, DisplayPort or VGA. Mechanical docks include an optional master key to secure the notebook in the dock, preventing removal. Additionally, a Kensington lock cable can be used to secure the dock itself to a desk.
THUNDERBOLT DOCKS
For power users who use multiple high-resolution displays or frequently transfer large files to other devices.
These docks use a USB-C cable to connect the device and the dock, providing both power and data connection. The latest Thunderbolt™ 3 docks excel at transferring large amounts of data at speeds of up to 40Gbps and can connect up to 3x 4K displays.
HYBRID DOCKS
For organizations with mixed-PC or shared desk environments
These docks connect to a notebook through a USB-C cable, which also provides charging power. They can support up to 2x 4K displays and have a range of USB-C, USB3.1 and USB2.0 ports. They are backward compatible with older notebooks that do not have a USB-C connector, using the supplied USB-C to USB-A adaptor, but they cannot be used to power these devices.
USB-C DOCKS
For organizations that have deployed notebooks with USB-C charging connectors
These docks connect through a single cable to the notebook, all the while providing continuous charging power to the system. Lenovo’s USB-C docks support 1x display at 4K resolution or 2x displays at lower resolutions. A Kensington lock cable can be used to secure the dock to a desk.
USB 3.0 DOCKS
For organizations with older devices, and users with basic connectivity needs
Depending on the dock, they can support up to 2x 4K monitors and a range of USB peripherals. They can be used to charge mobile devices like smartphones even when the notebook is away, using the always-on USB port.
Simplify your IT asset management
Lenovo’s Docking Solutions simplify IT asset management by supporting remote management features:
- Pre eXecution Environment (PXE) Boot: is a standard feature in Lenovo docks which enables devices to be remotely booted over a network, using code stored on a server or other network-attached device.
- Wake-On-LAN (WoL): allows IT teams to turn on devices even when they are powered down, or in sleep/hibernate mode. Wake-On-LAN is available on all solutions except USB 3.0 docks.
- MAC address pass-through: many system management tools mandate a unique MAC address to deploy software. This feature recognizes the MAC address in the BIOS and overrides the address supplied by the dock. Available on all solutions except USB 3.0 docks.
