14 DAY TRIAL // There are lots of different connectors that one could employ to link devices together, some with very different purposes form the others. Yet there is always someone yearning for a unified solution, so here is something that comes close.
If there ever is a universal connectivity technology that will actually work well enough to make the other obsolete, it won't happen any time soon.
Until then, the closest thing is the USB (universal serial bus), and it says a lot about the superiority of alternatives that it is just one of many connectors on the Toshiba DynaDock V3.0.
DynaDock V3.0 is a universal docking station that allows a Windows-based laptop to link to an extra monitor and multiple other devices at any time.
In addition to an HDMI connector and six USB ports (two USB 3.0 on the front with Toshiba USB Sleep & Charge, four USB 2.0 at the back), it boasts 5.1 channel audio, and a built-in HD graphics card that can display in resolutions of 2048 x 1152 pixels.
We can definitely see why Toshiba would risk claiming that the DynaDock V3.0 "is the ideal one-cable connection."
"The dynadock V3.0 really shines because its USB 3.0 connection creates a workstation that any user can easily connect/disconnect and even share with other users," said Phil Osako, senior director PC marketing, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., digital products division.
"This versatile product makes using all of your devices simple and even helps to clean up the user's desk space with its compact size."
In essence, the new product can turn even a common laptop into a workstation at the drop of a hat, since it can simultaneously communicate with a large HD display, various USB gadgets, peripherals (keyboard, mouse), external storage devices, printers, optical drives, etc.
Interested customers can check their local retailer, ToshibaDirect.com or other online stores to buy the device for $119.99 / €90.81.