hardware A desktop mains powered unit into which a

laptop or other portable computer can be connected via fixed

connectors at the rear of the computer to provide quick and

convenient connection of peripherals not normally used with

a laptop. These can include power supply, expansion cards,

additional storage, an external monitor, network card,

CD-ROM, full-size keyboard, printer, and mouse. The

alternative would require each of the above to be connected to

the laptop individually.