Docking station
Docking or undocking of portable computers can be done either hot or cold. In a cold dock or undock, the computer is shut down before it is inserted into or removed from the docking station. In a hot dock or undock, the computer is running, with or without programs and documents open, when it is inserted into or removed from the docking station. Computer manufacturers can design the port replicators for notebook and BIOS of their mobile computers in different ways resulting in different docking and undocking behaviors. Recent laptop port replicators designs use the laptop screen rather than an external monitor as the primary screen. This type of docking station is also referred to by some as a laptop stand. Most examples offer a connection to peripherals such as keyboards and mice and networks via an internal USB hub. This type of dock was first introduced in 2002 as the Oysterdock referencing the way the dock clamps around the laptop when it is docked. It also allows users to place their laptop screen in an ergonomically correct position.
