Toshiba dynadock U- USB dock for notebooks/ netbooks
Toshiba has introduced a new docking solution for notebooks and netbooks that packs a 
ton of utility into a slim tower form. The Toshiba dynadock U is a USB docking solution that contains a high-res graphics processor allowing the usage of big monitors with any notebook. The dock packs a punch by providing a lot of features for even the most demanding user:
- One cable connection from your PC to all your devices
- Universal compatibility with all Windows-based PCs
- Built-in HD Digital Video card supports up to 1920×1200 resolution
- Built-in Digital Audio card adds virtual 7.1 surround sound through S/PDIF port
- Space-saving upright slim design reduces cable clutter
- View up to three displays simultaneously
- Provides six USB 2.0 ports–two front Sleep-and-Charge USB ports supplying power even if PC is off
- Hot swappable – add or remove most devices without rebooting the PC
- Easily and safely undock with undock button
- Dimensions and weight: 1.8” x 3.1” x 8.75” ; 1.13 lb
- Ports: six USB 2.0, S/PDIF, LAN, VGA, DVI, microphone, headphone and lock slot
- In the box: One Toshiba dynadock, base plate, USB cable, AC Adapter and CD-ROM
The inclusion of the HDMI and S/PDIF ports means the most sophisticated monitors and audio systems can be used with even the lowest netbook. We particularly like the two USB ports on the front of the dynadock which are powered even when the laptop is not running allowing the charging of phones and other gear. $150.
I have the Dynadock at work. It’s not bad. It was developed for Toshiba laptops as they don’t have a docking station. HDMI video output is great; I can’t duplicate my video with VGA. The 6 USB ports and the network port are also nice. I don’t have to unplug and replug my network cable every time I have to take my laptop somewhere. One drawback is that you have to connect the USB cable to the exact same port every time, or else it will be seen as a new device and you’ll have to install the drivers again. You also have to click on the taskbar icon and tell it to eject if you need to unplug your laptop. Otherwise, it’s a good product and is useful.
Is there enough bandwidth in one USB connection to support all this functionality? Is there a bottleneck if you’re running an HDMI signal and accessing a hard drive on the USB hub, for example?
I assume Aero doesn’t work when using it for the monitor?
Anyone try Windows 7 – did they fix the same video card/same driver/aero mess?
This new dynadock has an eject button on the top which forces a clean undock.
Is it possible to connect that dock through a wireless USB adapter and get a decent wireless monitor setup ?
I have the existing Dynadock. It’s the best solution out there, although has its quirks. I don’t notice any monitor delays when doing typical desktop operations. It works with Aero now after an update was released…but all of the promised updates were released late.
Any specs on the graphics card (I saw none on Toshiba’s product page) ? i.e. does it support OpenGL ? “HD Digital Video card” doesn’t really tell us anything.
I have the Kensington version, but whenever I used that one with a touchscreen device the touchscreen stopped functioning. Does this one mess with the drivers for a touchscreen?