Using the Docking Stations

We are introducing docking stations into the common areas of the library so that you can charge your laptops and use additional screens. You can also use them to connect USB accessories. Although the docking stations are from Dell, you should be able to use them with a variety of different laptops.

To get the best results:

  • your operating system should be up-to-date
  • your laptop should have a USB-c socket
  • your laptop should support video output via USB-c

If your laptop is older and isn't fully compatible, you might still be able to charge your laptop via the docking station or use an appropriate cable (such as HDMI) to plug into the additional screen directly from your laptop.

Operating System Compatibility

WindowsFully compatible. You should be able to charge your laptop and make use of an extended screen.
Apple Macintosh

There are some limitations when using Macs with the docking station. If your Mac is compatible, when you plug the docking station in to its USB-C socket, the monitor should display the Mac screen but you may not be able to use it as an additional screen, i.e. in extended mode.

If you’re unsure, please contact computer.office@law.cam.ac.uk

Using Accessories

The docking station supports several accessory types that you can plug in and use with your laptop:

On the front of the docking station:On the rear of the docking station
  • USB type A
  • USB type C
  • USB type A
  • USB type C
  • Thunderbolt USB type C

However, depending on your laptop and docking station compatibility, not all accessories may work.

Video Options when using the Additional Screen

If your laptop supports it, you can use the second monitor as an additional screen, rather than a duplicate of your laptop screen.

WindowsPress windows-p to display a menu of screen configurations. Choose ‘Extend’ to use the monitor as an additional screen. Choose ‘Duplicate’ to display the same image on your laptop and monitor screens.
Apple MacintoshGo to the Apple menu / System Preferences / Displays, then click ‘Display Settings’. Click on the additional monitor and  choose ‘Extend Display’ from the pop-up menu.