Physical security system for portable computer/port replicator
AssigneeCompaq Computer Corporation
InventorsScott Pirdy, Allan Scott Baucom, Richard Hennessy, Scott Giordano, Sergio Parise
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A docking system, including a portable computer and a docking unit, operates by latching the portable computer to the docking unit. A docking bay arrangement is used so that the portable computer's keyboard is accessible and usable by the user. A latch control system, which is controlled from the portable computer, provides security by preventing removal of the portable computer from the docking unit by unauthorized persons. This prevents theft, since the docking unit in turn is secured to the work area by a cable system.
Claims12
A docking system for a portable computer and docking unit, the portable computer having a rear side with communication ports disposed thereon, a bottom side with a first electrical connector disposed thereon and coupled to the communication ports, and a front side, the docking system comprising:
- a docking bay for receiving the portable computer, the docking bay having an upwardly facing uncovered top side with a second electrical connector disposed thereon and mateable with the first electrical connector;
- a latching system for securing the portable computer in the docking bay, the latching system including first and second latch structures respectively and releasably interlockable with front and rear portions of the portable computer to prevent upward removal thereof from the docking bay and decoupling of the first and second electrical connectors;
- and
- a latch control system for unlocking the latching system via software control from the portable computer wherein, said docking system further comprising an undock request member, which when activated by a user, initiates unlocking of the latching system.
A docking system for a portable computer and docking unit, the docking system comprising:
- a docking bay having a top side for receiving the portable computer, a rear portion, and a cutout area extending downwardly through the top side of the docking bay and forming with the rear portion a carrying handle for the docking unit;
- a latching system for securing the portable computer in the docking bay;
- and
- a latch control system for unlocking the latching system.
A docking system for a portable computer and a docking unit, the docking system comprising:
- a docking bay having a top side for receiving the portable computer;
- a battery cradle recess formed in the top side of the docking bay for receiving a battery and having an electrical charging connector mateable with a charging connector on the received battery;
- a latching system for securing the portable computer in the docking bay;
- and
- a latch control system for unlocking the latching system.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.