Technology may be evolving and everything can be developing into newer versions and models, but there are still some devices which are prized and preserved, and sometimes they can be difficult to use especially with regards to the compatibility with newer devices. Good thing there are docking stations, and if your grandpa has an HP laptop and wants to connect his old printer on it, you can always give him the HP EN488AA#ABA Docking Station as a gift. Here are some more details about this model.

Design

This is a conventional docking station that is directly attached to a laptop right at its rear. It’s complete, simple, and very straightforward in its design. You have nothing to be confused about or anything like that. It’s a simple device that only offers its main functionality, and that is replicating CPU ports and connectors to be able to directly connect peripherals and old model devices to newer models of laptops.

Ports and Connectivity Options

This is pretty much complete if you talk about connectivity. I myself am completely happy about using this dock and I especially admire its complete ports, making it useful for almost all computer peripherals. It has four USB 2.0 ports for extra connectivity with USB-connectible devices like USB flash drives, cameras, and printers.

It also has complete ports for other appendages like audio in for microphone, audio out for headset, parallel and series ports for old models of peripherals like scanners and printers, VGA port for monitors, DVI for LCD projectors and video devices, RCA port, S-Video port, two PS2 ports for a mouse and a keyboard, a modem phone line and a network inlet for Ethernet and LAN, and a monitor stand port for easy connection to HP monitor stands.

Using this dock, you can work on a laptop view with the dock on its rear, or you can attach it to a notebook stand for more desktop-like computing. If you use the latter, you should have a separate mouse and keyboard for easier navigation.

Compatibility

This model of docking station is compatible to HP Compaq 6510b Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6515b Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6710b Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6715b Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6720t Mobile Thin Client, HP Compaq 6910p Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq 8510p Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq 8510w Mobile Workstation, HP Compaq 8710p Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq 8710w Mobile Workstation, HP Compaq nc4200 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nc4400 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nc6120 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nc6220 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nc6230 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nc6320 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nc6400 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nc8230 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nc8230 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nc8430 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nw8440 Mobile Workstation, HP Compaq nw9440 Mobile Workstation, HP Compaq nx6125 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nx6325 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nx7400 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nx8220 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq nx9420 Business Notebook PC, HP Compaq tc4200 Tablet PC, HP Compaq tc4400 Tablet PC.

Conclusion

If you own a laptop that matches the compatibility of the HP EN488AA#ABA Docking Station, I highly recommend getting the dock because it’s absolutely fabulous to use. I’m really happy with it and it has everything I need to keep my laptop connected with all peripherals and appendages, perfect for extending the functions of my beloved handy notebook. Don’t think twice if you really need a dock, and I assure you, you won’t regret getting it.

As an HP or Compaq laptop owner, you must know the benefits of having a docking station for your everyday computing needs. And with the HP 2008 KP080UT 120W Docking Station, I can say that every need of a computer user is perfectly provided. But let’s take a closer look into it and find out if what I’m saying is supported by the actual features of the product.

Design

The KP080UT is a conventional rear-type dock that is attached to the rear or the laptop. It is easy to use and the design is quite straightforward. This type of dock is good especially for those who use notebook stands, since the design of genuine HP notebook stands supports the dock, making it a completely comfortable system of laptop appendages that produce optimal desktop functionality.

The color of the model is silver, as like many other models of HP docking stations. Its dimensions are 6″ x 11″ x 2.40″ so it is easy enough to fit in most bags, although it is quite bulky. But with a weight of 2.2 pounds or a kilo, it’s definitely easy to bring along especially if you travel for work or you use your laptop for all your computing, whether it’s in the office or at home.

Ports and Connectivity Options

When it comes to connectivity, this model replicates all the necessary ports in a conventional CPU. It has a lock designed especially to attach to a monitor stand which makes it easier to dock the laptop on a monitor stand. Of course, when you dock it on one, you’ve got to use a separate mouse and keyboard to maximize your computing comfort. You don’t have to worry about that because the dock also has two ports exactly for these two hardware devices.

Other essential ports are also present in this dock including audio in for microphone, audio out for headphones, modem port, network port, four USB 2.0 ports, and a DC inlet for the dock’s own power source.

The other ports are for peripherals and audiovisual equipment connectivity which include a serial and a parallel port for connecting old printer models, dial-up modems, and mostly old models of gadgets like digital cameras, joysticks, and scanners.

It also has a VGA port for an extra monitor where you can split up your work from the laptop screen to the monitor. You can use it with a friend to work faster on a project, or you can use it by yourself to extend the pages of the work you’re doing.

The DVI port easily provides access to projectors, LCD monitors, and other visual equipment, so you can have a PowerPoint presentation using your laptop without thinking of how to connect the LCD projector to your PC. You also get the privilege of viewing better, especially when you watch movies on the laptop and it only has a 10.1’’ screen.

Compatibility

The HP 2008 KP080UT dock is compatible with HP Compaq 6510b Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6515b Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6530b Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6535b Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6710b Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6715b Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6720t Mobile Thin Client, HP Compaq 6730b Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6735b Notebook PC, HP Compaq 6910p Notebook PC, HP Compaq 8510p Notebook PC, HP Compaq 8510w Mobile Workstation, HP Compaq 8710p Notebook PC, HP Compaq 8710w Mobile Workstation, HP EliteBook 6930p Notebook PC, HP EliteBook 8530p Notebook PC, and HP EliteBook 8530w Mobile Workstation.

Other Features

This dock has a Kensington security lock that makes it more efficient for personal use, as you cannot use the device without using the special key to unlock it. You can prevent others from using your dock and secure the safety and good condition of the device.

Conclusion

As plain and simple as it is, the HP 2008 KP080UT 120W Docking Station is as much functional and complete. You won’t need to worry about connectivity as long as you have this device, especially if you’re working with old peripherals that need old ports and connectors to operate. As for me, I am confident to say that I highly recommend this model to anyone who uses a compatible laptop with this device. I did, and I’m perfectly satisfied with it.

Docking stations are now becoming necessities in laptop computing. I, like millions of those who use docking stations, am realizing the benefits that are provided by these handy yet extremely functional devices. And one of the best docks that I have used is the HP QuickDock 2.0 Docking Station. I would like to share some of the most notable features of this device that makes it not only functional, but very convenient to have as well.

Design

A single look at the QuickDock and you’ll know that it’s a perfect dock. It’s handy, extremely lightweight, and perfect for all your computer peripheral needs. It has the dimensions of 1’’ x 10.5’’ x 4.3’’ and it weighs a mere 1 pound, perfect for travel and portability needs. You can bring it to the office, at home, or out of town – absolutely anywhere you desire.

The black finish of this device makes it classy, sturdy, and durable in appearance, but actually that’s not far from the truth. If used properly and stored correctly, the QuickDock can last for many, many years.

Ports and Connectivity Options

The QuickDock isn’t as complete as the basic and advanced docking stations from HP, but it has the basic ports for extended functionality. It has six USB 2.0 ports where you can attach up to six USB devices at one time. This is great for extended memory storage capacity and peripherals. You can attach USB flash drives, USB mice, external hard drives, gadgets like PSPs, iPods, and other USB connectible devices.

It also has a VGA inlet for connecting a monitor where you and one of your friends can work together on a project. It’s also excellent for laptops which have small screens because you can use the monitor for better viewing like watching movies, playing online games, and many others.

It has an audio in for a microphone and an audio out for headphones. This is great if you want to listen privately to your favorite songs, watch a movie by yourself and don’t want interruptions, or talk privately with your loved ones on the internet.

It also has an S/PDIF inlet and an RCA type digital audio jack for added connectivity to other audiovisual equipment. The Ethernet port is also very important as it allows internet access for your laptop when it’s connected to this device.

Compatibility

The HP QuickDock 2.0 docking station is compatible with HP Pavilion dv4, dv5, dv6, dv7, dv2000, dv6000, dx6000, dv9000, tx2, tx1000, tx2000, tx2500 series; HP HDX 16, 18, 9000 series; and Compaq Presario CQ45, V3000, V6000 series.

Other Features

Although the QuickDock doesn’t have its own power cord and you have to use the cord of your laptop, the dock charges the laptop so it works just like a power cord. But if you have issues about that, then I suggest you don’t buy it. I don’t have problems with that, but I do have a problem with the short wire. I need an extension to be able to use it and plug it to the wall at the same time. Other than that, and the lack of other older ports for other peripherals (which I think aren’t too necessary as they are already much extended for the use of a laptop), I would say that this machine is absolutely satisfying.

Conclusion

I am completely satisfied with the HP QuickDock 2.0 Docking Station. It has every port and connector that I need, which are only for a mouse, a printer, a monitor, Ethernet, a microphone, and headphones. I am confident to recommend this device to those who need these features and are looking for a good portable dock. The QuickDock is a brilliant gadget that makes laptop computing much more convenient and functional.

HP has created a name for itself, and the products that the company develops have been known to satisfy the needs of every computer user. HP docking stations for laptops are some of the excellent products that the company manufactured, and we will discover the beauty of these devices by discussing each one of them.

Docking stations are known to provide ease of use and comfort for an individual who has all his files and important data in a laptop but want to have a desktop environment while working. Since a laptop has limited connectivity options, docks are perfect for extending the functionality of these devices, as well as creating a real desktop environment or more like using an all-in-one PC.

One of the essential devices to create this effect is the HP Notebook Stand. This device does not have any ports or connectivity options, but it supports the notebook in a position that lets the user view it at an eyelevel, similar to a desktop monitor. Most of the time, the laptop has a docking station attached to its rear and is then positioned on the monitor stand.

Some of the docking devices used at the rear of the laptop are the basic and advanced docking stations from HP. The HP Docking Station is a device that is almost complete when it comes to ports and connectivity options. It has four USB 2.0 ports, DisplayPort connector, DVI port, VGA port, monitor stand port, Ethernet, audio in and out, serial port, parallel port, PS2 port, and a lock slot to secure the devices.

The HP Advanced Docking Station is like an upgraded version of the basic model because it has all the features of the previous model plus additional ports like two more USB ports, an additional DisplayPort and DVI connector, an Upgrade Bay which allows the user to add another hard drive or an optical drive in the system, and an eSATA port where you can use a separate external hard disk for additional back-up storage.

There are also examples of HP docking devices which are separated from the laptop and are only connected through USB cables. One of these is the HP USB 2.0 Essential Port Replicator. Basically, port replicators are those which are not docks but have several connectivity options. This model has five USB ports, audio in and out ports, and an Ethernet port. It also has a key lock for added security.

A more functional model of a port replicator is the HP USB 2.0 Docking Station. It may be called a dock but it is only connected through a USB cable. It has all necessary connectivity options and ports which include four USB ports, audio in and out, Ethernet, DVI port, and VGA port. It also has a security lock which you can use to prevent other users from utilizing the dock.

I recommend all HP and Compaq laptop users to utilize only original HP docking stations for laptops, since they optimize the functionality of these devices. I personally suggest using the HP advanced dock as it is the most complete of these docking devices, but I leave the decision to you and whichever preferences you have.

HP is world-renowned for its quality computer products, and the innovations that they use are state-of-the-art. They are never late when it comes to computer technology, and the notebook docking station is one of the well-developed line of products that the company created. But what do HP docking devices have to offer?

Notebooks are functional as they are but there are certain features that can only be found in a desktop. Using docking devices, a laptop can gain the functionality and connectivity similar to a desktop, making the machine more comfortable to use and more accessible to various hardware and computer peripherals.

Some users only want to add ports for a real keyboard and a mouse. If you’re one of them, you might be interested in getting the HP AK155AA Mobile Port Replicator. It is compatible to almost all models of HP and Compaq laptops, and it features two USB 2.0 ports and two PS2 ports for a keyboard and a mouse.

Other users only want additional ports and connectivity options for their laptops. To have a complete set of ports, inlets, and connectors, the HP ES631AA Notebook QuickDock is the best port replicator that you can get. It has six USB 2.0 ports, Ethernet port, VGA port, S-Video out port, Audio in and out, and a composite and component video out ports. It is compatible with most HP Presario and Pavilion laptops.

There are also docking stations which really provide a desktop environment. The perfect example is the HP PR1010 docking station, where you actually place the laptop on the dock to put it on an elevated position, and you attach a mouse and keyboard on the docking device. This creates a complete desktop environment, and the ports on the dock make the desktop functionality complete. The PR1010 has six USB 2.0 ports, audio in and out, VGA, S-Video, serial, Ethernet, and modem ports. It is compatible with most the HP Pavilion Z series, Presario Nx series, and other selected models.

Another similar notebook docking device that has an actual laptop stand is the HP xb4 dock. It has similar features with the PR1010, but it has an additional S/PDIF port. It also has an integrated Altec Lansing 2.1 speaker system. The device is compatible to Presario CQ45 series, V300, V600 series, and Pavilion Dv series, and Tx series.

The HP xb3000 Notebook Expansion Base is a complete set of monitor stand and port replicator, wireless keyboard, and wireless mouse. Its monitor stand and port replicator has six USB 2.0 ports, S-Video port, composite video port, component video port, S/PDIF port, VGA port, and Ethernet and LAN connector. It provides a complete desktop feel and functionality for any Pavilion Dv2000 and Dv6000 series and Presario V3000 and V6000 series laptop user.

Desktop functionality is exactly what a notebook docking station was created for, and this is also what HP offers through its docking devices. If you only need additional ports, I suggest you get the QuickDock. If you want to make your laptop view more comfortable, I think either the PR1010 or the xb4 is a good choice. For a complete desktop feel and functionality, I highly recommend the xb3000 notebook expansion base. But I can say that any notebook dock is alright as long it’s compatible with your laptop.

From the many brands and makes of laptops and computers nowadays, it’s hard to tell which really is the best. At some point, one brand will make an outstanding product and at another point, it would make a flop one. When it comes to docking solutions, let us now compare which is better, the Lenovo docking station or the HP dock?

Firstly, both brands are well known and they have a good reputation for developing excellent products. But their docking devices aren’t compatible to all computer and laptop brands, especially those docks where you attach the laptop directly. Nevertheless, their features are comparable.

Therefore, we will see which one would be beneficial for a user, either for those who already have an HP or Lenovo laptop, or for those who want to get a laptop and can’t decide which brand to get. Although the comparison may only be an overview, a conclusion can still be derived from the following information.

Notebook stands are sometimes classified as docks, and both HP and Lenovo have a good notebook stand to offer. HP’s Notebook stand has a sleek design that has a rest for the bottom of the laptop, while the Lenovo’s Essential Notebook stand is also sleek and stylish, but the base is not solid but only a Y-shaped structure, unlike HP which has a solid base. HP’s stand is also lower in price.

When it comes to a USB port replicator, the two brands pretty much have the same features. HP’s USB 2.0 Port Replicator is more portable though, because it is just like an external disk drive, while Lenovo’s ThinkPad USB Port Replicator with Digital Video is like a slim tower with its own stand, making it better for desk use. Other than that, their ports and connectors are almost exactly the same.

The real docks of the two brands are those which are only compatible with selected laptop models from the same brand. The basic HP Docking Station is quite similar with the ThinkPad Port Replicator II. However, the HP dock has more laptop compatibility options while the ThinkPad model is only limited to ThinkPad laptops. Nonetheless, they both have complete connectivity options including VGA, DVI, and DisplayPort video connectors, and security lock.

The HP Advanced Docking Station and the Lenovo ThinkPad Mini Dock Plus Series 3 are very similar in that they both have two DVI and two DisplayPort connectors, six USB ports, external drive connector, all other peripheral connections, and security lock. However, the HP advanced dock has an ExpressCard multiple card reader, making it slightly more functional than the Lenovo dock.

I can say that it’s up to the laptop owner to find the best types of docking station that will fit his needs. These are just some of the HP and Lenovo docking stations that you can choose from. I also reach out to those who are still deciding which brand of laptop to get. I think you can but whichever laptop you want, since there are universal docking stations which can be used for any brand of laptop. Also, USB port replicators are compatible to any USB-connectible device. So don’t worry about which laptop to get and what dock is the best, because technology has all the answers for your needs.

A USB docking station is an excellent solution to all your connectivity needs. It has all the necessary connectivity options for you to maximize your computing experience. But you would probably ask, “Why do I have to get a USB dock if I could get a real docking station instead?” The answer is simple – these devices are portable, universal, and easy to use.

When you use a real docking station, your productivity is limited to the compatible laptops for that brand or type of dock alone. There are also certain limitations regarding installation, since most dock need CD installers but some laptops don’t have optical drives. Also, many docking stations are heavy and inconvenient to bring around, especially if you’re usually walking or commuting.

The USB dock is the perfect solution for this problem. Using this device, you have all the accessibility features of a desktop. What’s even better is that all you need is a USB connector from your laptop to the dock, and voila! The device is ready to perform its job. This makes it very easy for any laptop user to connect to various hardware and audiovisual equipment such as scanners, printers, monitors, and the like.

Hewlett-Packard is never late, and of course, the company has released its own model of USB dock and port replicator. The HP USB 2.0 docking station is the perfect alternative for all those HP and Compaq laptop and notebook users who have later models that aren’t compatible with the basic and advanced docking stations of HP.

The later models of HP and Compaq laptops are no longer fit for the conventional docking stations manufactured by the company. The USB dock is the next best thing to a port replicator that a new HP laptop owner can get. But the device isn’t limited to new models. Its versatility and easy connectivity makes it compatible with almost all laptops and USB connectible devices, regardless of the brand.

The HP USB dock is easy to use, easy to install, and very handy. Simply connect the dock to your notebook, and the device will operate just the way you like it. You also don’t need installation CDs for this device. Once you plug it in, the installation process immediately starts, and you can access any hardware and peripherals in no time. This makes port replication a breeze especially for laptops without optical drives.

There’s also the HP USB 2.0 Essential Port Replicator, which has a more stylish appearance, like a small tower or cylindrical CPU. Although the USB dock has more connectivity options, the USB port replicator has a security lock similar to conventional dock. Also, you can position the USB port replicator in a vertical or horizontal manner, whichever one you like better.

I would personally prefer the HP USB docking station because it has the complete connectivity options that any computer user needs. You can also get it even if your laptop isn’t HP, because it has a universal system that works for any USB-connectible device. However, if you just want some additional USB ports, LAN connectivity, and a microphone and headphone inlet, I think the USB port replicator is exactly what you’re looking for. But with their very affordable prices, I certainly wouldn’t mind getting both!

Docking stations are the ultimate solutions to the discomfort and lack of connectivity that any user experiences with a laptop. Because of the lack of ports, most laptop users can’t directly connect to hardware such as scanners, printers, monitors, audiovisual equipment, and the like. And if you own an HP laptop, you’ll definitely be interested in an HP dock.

There are a lot of ways how the word “dock” is used. For instance, there are some docking devices that don’t really have any ports or connectivity, but they hold the laptop in a position that makes computing on it a lot more comfortable, just like the HP Notebook Stand. It supports the laptop in a lifted elevated position that allows the user to keep eye level with the screen.

Some docking devices are not really functional as a dock, but only as port replicators or devices to which the laptop is connected. They have several ports which provide the connectivity options that are similar to a desktop, exactly what you need to complete the functionality of your laptop. The perfect example of this is the HP USB Media Port Replicator, which is easily accessible via USB connector and has all necessary ports for audiovisual peripherals.

There’s also the HP Essential USB Port Replicator, a cylindrical tower of USB ports, audio in and out, and LAN connection. It’s a great device for additional USB connectivity. You can use it if you just want to connect several USB devices to your laptop at any one time, and you can also use it for connecting a microphone and a headset.

The HP USB Media Port, Notebook Stand, Audio Speaker, and Subwoofer Bundle features an excellent all-in-one functionality which includes a notebook stand which allows you to elevate your laptop to a desired eye level; a USB media port with 4 USB ports, Ethernet, Audio in and out, and VGA port; and an integrated Altec Lansing 2.1 high def audio speaker and subwoofer.

But the real genuine docking stations of HP are the basic and advanced docking stations which are connected to a laptop’s rear and have all necessary ports to complete desktop functionality. These include multiple USB ports, audio in and out, modem connector, Ethernet connector, PS2, series, and parallel ports, VGA, DVI, S-video, and monitor stand ports. You can connect any hardware, drive, and removable device on these gadgets.

The basic docking station practically has all previously mentioned ports, while the advanced docking station has more ports including two additional USB ports, an optical drive or MultiBay II, and multiple card readers or ExpressCard slots. These devices are security-measured using the Kensington lock, which makes use of a specific key in order to be operated.

If you’re looking for an HP dock that will just make your laptop use more comfortable, the Monitor Stand is what I think you need. For added ports especially for USB and VGA inlets, I would recommend either of the port replicators. As for me, I would prefer having the advanced docking station because it gives my laptop a complete desktop feel. But I can say that you can get whichever model fits your needs, as long as it’s HP.

Most laptop users complain about the speed and capacity of their laptops. One of the basic elements in any device is the memory capacity, since it is the measure of how much information and data it can store. If you have a laptop and you want to add disk space to it without having to tear your laptop apart, an HDD docking station is essential for your expandable memory needs.

What exactly is an HDD docking station and why do you need it? Laptop users can’t compromise the condition of their laptops just to add more disk space. If you want to add more memory capacity, you have to add it outside the machine. That means you need an external hard disk, but most external hard disks need installation and are cable-connected. This is where HDD docking stations come in handy.

Most of the time, if you look for hard drives that you can use for extra memory capacity, they usually come in casing and with the necessary plugs and cables for laptop and desktop connectivity. However, you might find these devices very expensive. For a person who wants additional memory space, a bigger hard drive capacity is better, but it also means more expensive.

On the other hand, a bare hard disk is much more affordable than an external drive. You can easily buy one in any computer store. If you want a big additional memory for your laptop without much expense, getting a bare hard disk is better. And to operate it with you laptop, the HDD docking station is what you need.

Most HDD docks are compatible with the latest interface of hard drives, which is the SATA or serial ATA. These disks come in 2.5’’ or 3.5’’ dimensions, and many of the HDD docks can accommodate both sizes. What’s great about these docks is that you don’t need to install them or anything – they are hot-swappable, USB-connectible, and can even operate without turning the laptop or PC on.

Some HDD docks have memory card readers which are special additions for removable storage capacity. These devices are the easiest solutions for memory expansion as well as back-up storage for any laptop or desktop.

HP doesn’t have an actual HDD docking station, but the company does have a special laptop dock model that has its own hard drive which serves as memory expansion and back-up system – the HP 3-in-1 NAS Docking Station. This device has it all – connectivity options, ports, inlets, optical drive, memory card readers, and an integrated 160GB SATA hard drive which is easily accessible to all laptops connected to it. It’s like a port replicator, a docking station, and a memory expansion drive all in one. But because it’s an HP dock and it’s an old model, only old HP and Compaq laptops can be used with this device.

If you own an old model of HP or Compaq laptop, I would have to say that you’re better off with the 3-in-1 NAS dock model. But if your laptop isn’t HP or you really just want an extra memory space for more computing benefits, I think what you need is a bare hard disk with an HDD docking station. Either way, my advice is for you to have external memory storage because you never know when your PC or laptop may break down and just black out.

If you’re looking for an HP-branded hard drive docking station, you might not be able to find one. This is because the company didn’t produce such a device. It’s true that HP has all the necessary computer appendages and accessories, but they might have missed this one, because they don’t have any product that’s able to read a bare hard disk and connect it to a PC.

Before we do unravel what HP has to offer, let’s discuss first about external memory systems, the possible options, and their pros and cons.

The most important thing in any device’s system is the memory. It contains all the data and information that you saved for different purposes. As technology evolved, computer memory also developed. But a lot of computer models are old, and prying them open to install in a new disk drive might not be a good idea.

Likewise, laptops are also unadvisable to open up just so you could install a bigger hard drive. The best solution for adding memory space to your PC, whether a laptop or a desktop, is by installing an external hard disk drive. You can choose between a bare external drive and one with an enclosure. But what does each have to offer?

Buying an external hard drive with enclosure is relatively easy because you can get one in most computer shops. This device needs to be installed, though, and oftentimes it’s not hot-swappable. Also, enclosures tend to heat up the disk because the activity of the device is confined in its casing. This might not be good for the disk as it could eventually corrupt its system.

On the other hand, a bare hard disk can be quite cheaper because it doesn’t have a casing with it. However, in order to operate it, you have to use a hard drive docking station. Using this device, you can easily manage your files from your PC to your new external hard disk. It doesn’t require installation and it’s hot swappable as well. It’s simply connected through a USB cable and you’re all ready to use it. If you sum up the cost of a bare hard disk with a docking station, it’s still less expensive compared to the single cost of an external hard drive.

Regarding HP’s offer for a hard drive dock, the company didn’t develop a docking station of a disk drive alone. However, they did create a docking device which has an integrated disk drive which serves as additional memory and back-up. This device is the 3-in-1 NAS Docking Station, and is compatible to most old models of HP and Compaq laptops. It has complete connectivity options and ports for complete desktop functionality, and its built-in 160GB SATA hard drive makes the most out of docking without the need of any external or additional memory.

So you see, even though HP has not released a hard drive docking station, the company offers something so much better. I would recommend all HP and Compaq laptop users to get the NAS dock because it has all your connectivity and external memory needs. But if your laptop isn’t HP or you just want additional external memory for your PC, I give you the option of a bare hard drive with dock of an external hard drive. You have the final choice.