Toshiba DynaDock Wireless USB Notebook Dock Strikes Back

Wireless USB got off to a shaky start, and while UWB-based short-range radio protocol is still struggling to gain popularity, Toshiba's new DynaDock Wireless U docking station has some potential that shouldn't be dismissed. The Toshiba WUSB dock with dual antennas pointing upwards is powered by Alereon's AL5100/5350 chipset to cover UWB spectrum from 3.1 to 10.6Ghz. In addition to meeting worldwide regulatory standards, the wireless notebook dock is equally capable as a wired counterpart by offering built-in DisplayLink video; 7.1 surround sound option; 4-port USB hub; 2 Sleep-n-Charge USB ports; and Ethernet.

In details, the DisplayLink video card can deliver up to 1680x1050 thru DVI interface, and Toshiba throws in a second wireless radio to further improve performance. The DynaDock Wireless U also has a convenient one-touch undock button to ensure all USB peripherals shut down properly when undocking. That's certainly better than selecting every connected product to eject individually. The WUSB driver is optimized as well to allow bi-directional isochronous support for wired USB video and audio products. Otherwise, neither USB headsets nor external webcams would work wirelessly. Toshiba DynaDock Wireless U will ship with a WUSB dongle and native XP/Vista support for a MSRP of $299, and Windows 7 driver is slated for release on October 22nd, the same day as the OS launch.

More USB Hubs & Peripheral Sharing

• Get Toshiba Dynadock Wireless U Docking Station with Wireless USB Adapter - port replicator now for $249.99 at Amazon.com