Laptops are getting cheaper all the time.  From desktop replacements to ultra-thin notebooks, manufacturers continue to segment the market by offering varying types of laptops for specific users.

I tend to favor desktop replacement laptops due to their sheer processing power and graphical capabilities.  Of course, every machine I tend to purchase needs to play the latest games with a high level of performance (at least for a year).

The only qualm I’ve had with laptops is their limitations with my desktop peripherals.  It can be such a pain in the ass to plug-in all my accessories (keyboard, monitor, mouse, printer, etc) while attempting to work at home.  Plus, I also don’t like the fact that most laptops support one external monitor.  I am a big proponent of using dual external monitors since my work requires a lot of multitasking and web development.

My old laptop made use of the VTBook from VillageTronic for dual display notebook expansion.  Unfortunately, newer laptops utilize the much faster Express Card connection, rendering my VTbook and its PCMCIA connection obsolete.

To help solve this little problem, I purchased Belkin’s High-Speed Docking Station to connect all my peripherals through an Express Card connection.  And best of all, I can once again use my dual monitors to get some work done!  The on-board graphics can support an external monitor up to 1600 x 1200 in 32 bit color.  In addition, Windows Vista is now supported with the latest drivers.

Say goodbye to all those messy wires around your laptop.  With a single connection users can easily transform their laptop to a multimedia machine.  The Belkin High-Speed Docking station also has 5 USB 2.0 ports, 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connection, digital Audio (S/PDIF), VGA connector, 3.5mm Audio-In, 3.5mm Audio-Out and a DVI connection.  Now you can finally take advantage of 5.1 surround to watch movies or play games!

If you’re a dedicated laptop user who requires expanded functionality, I highly recommend the Belkin High-Speed Docking Station.  With an Express Card connection you can now take advantage of all your devices without the wired mess or lengthy setup times.  A great buy that’s well worth the price!