a review by Tom Piper
My laptop computer doesn’t travel very much anymore, but certainly gets a lot of use as a desktop companion. Unfortunately, I have far more connections than I have ports, and an upgrade was needed. I just found an robust and elegant solution.
The LandingZone DOCK is an adaptive and simple-to-use secure docking station for my 15” Macbook Pro with Retina display. I can now return from traveling with my computer and simply snap it into the LandingZone on my desk, thus enjoying the benefits of an executive desktop system. It makes my Macbook Pro retina much more functional with this powerful docking station.
With the DOCK, I have no need to plug in cables each time I connect since I just leave them plugged in. This quick loading DOCK provides me a powered 5-port USB hub plus a Gigabit Ethernet jack, an audio port, an HDMI port, and a Security Slot. This device works with the 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display models (Model A1398 released mid-2012 or Oct 2013) and offers the following features:
- Attractive, sleek, compact and lightweight
- Single step docking and undocking
- Brings Ethernet functionality to my MacBook without a Thunderbolt dongle
- Hook up speakers or headphones where I work
- Supports an HDMI monitor or any HDMI screen
- Use with Macbook Pro’s lid opened or closed
- Connects my hard drive, printer, iPad, scanner and bluetooth microphone
- Use in a variety of locations
Initial installation seemed tricky at first until I read the instructions more carefully to discover the well-placed alignment stops on the top-back of the DOCK, making insertion of the Thunderbolt, USB, HDMI and power connections on left and right sides a breeze. It elevates the rear of the MacBook Pro retina a little more than an inch, which provides gret air circulation underneath.
Its also nice to have the extra white power supply light on the right, and the extra jacks for all my accessories (very easy to reach on the back when I need to switch USB devices). When ready to travel again, removal of the device is only a lever swing away (with the power off, of course). The connection for a security cable is also nice if I am in a public location.
The price is $199, available at landingzone.net/products/dock. A different unit for the 13” MacBook Pro with Retina Display is expected to be a available soon. This is an indispensable accessory for any traveling MBPr that needs a quick-connect multi-function foundation at home.
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