docking station - technical definition

(1) A cradle for a portable device that serves to charge the unit and connect it to other sources or destinations. For example, an iPod docking station charges the iPod and connects it to a computer, speakers or TV set.

(2) A base station for a laptop that turns the portable computer into a desktop system. It uses a large plug and socket to quickly connect the laptop, which duplicates all the cable lines for the monitor, printer, keyboard, mouse, etc. The docking station typically has one or two slots for expansion boards and may house speakers and other peripherals such as an optical drive. See port replicator.