docking station
<hardware> A {desktop} mains powered unit into which a
{laptop} or other portable computer can be connected via fixed
connectors at the rear of the computer to provide quick and
convenient connection of {peripherals} not normally used with
a laptop. These can include power supply, {expansion cards},
additional {storage}, an external {monitor}, {network card},
{CD-ROM}, full-size {keyboard}, {printer}, and {mouse}. The
alternative would require each of the above to be connected to
the laptop individually.
(2000-04-10)