Question: Power Transmitting Laptop Docking Station and Desktop PC
Question: Power Transmitting Laptop Docking Station and Desktop PC
Hello everyone,
I'm thinking about buying a prebuilt desktop PC and currently use a Dell WD19 180W docking station. I want to keep using my laptop for work and then switch to the PC for gaming. I’m sure the docking station will work with my GPU because it has Thunderbird technology, but I’m worried about whether the power transmission part is compatible with the dedicated power supply in the desktop. Any advice or information would be really helpful!
Edit: I’d like to easily move the docking station from my laptop to my desktop without having to constantly disconnect and reconnect everything.
It depends on the specific CPU/GPU configuration of the prebuilt PC. Generally, what you aim for isn't achievable. The main limitation is the "hassle free" aspect. You could use a docking station connected to the laptop, while the desktop has its own dedicated GPU for gaming. Alternatively, you might need to rearrange the monitor input cable (if using only one monitor) or use a separate monitor for each PC. For example, if you currently have this arrangement, connecting the cable from the desktop to the docking station would require switching between the laptop and desktop inputs.
The Dell docking station?
Are you sure the work laptop or the prebuilt gaming PC share the same keyboard, video monitor(s), and mouse (KVM)? Correct?
A basic 2 Port KVM switch should suffice. KVM switches are available in various configurations concerning ports and connectivity options. They can be automatic or manual.
What about the networking needs?
Start with a simple diagram that illustrates all devices—your laptop/docking station and the gaming PC—along with the keyboard, video monitor(s), and mouse.
Examples you can check:
- https://www.amazon.com/Port-kvm-Switch-D...B09PKF657B
- https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/sm-dpn-2s.html
- https://fitzcarraldoblog.wordpress.com/2...vm-switch/
These are just examples; you should create your own diagram. It should clearly show how everything will be connected, detailing ports, plugs (type and gender), and the necessary cables. Preparing this takes some time and effort.
It’s crucial to identify which ports each device offers. Often, you’ll need to buy cables yourself, which adds to the overall cost.
If you later decide you want a two-monitor setup, plan for it now. Video connections can be particularly tricky when trying to align everything (VGA, DVI, HDMI, DP, etc.).
Draw a diagram that outlines your requirements and then begin searching for a switch and/or cables to assemble it.