In an earlier post about docking stations for universal compatibility and high-performance laptop docks we covered when to use performance or compatibility-focused laptop docks for docking station deployments. However, there may be unique situations where you need additional functionality, that’s when specialty docking stations may be the solution. Specialty docks are designed to meet specific requirements or offer a variety of options that you won’t find in other docks. In this post you’ll learn how to alleviate some workstation pain points using a few examples of specialty docks. Thunderbolt 4 & USB4 Dock: Quad Monitor on latest Windows laptops and Dual Monitor on macOS The Thunderbolt 4 Multi-Display Dock provides high-performance users flexible docking with two or four displays, on Thunderbolt 4 or USB 4 high-performance laptops. Content creators (e.g. video production, CAD, design) and Investment Bankers / Traders (in Financial Markets) will benefit from easy driverless setup, 98W of Power Delivery, and an array of ports such as USB 3.2 Gen 2. For faster connection to capable networks, even over existing CAT5e cabling, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet is also supported. Whether you’re looking to set up a single screen or an expansive quad-monitor array, this dock delivers. For laptops with Intel 12th Gen processors (or newer) that support DP 1.4 with DSC, it supports up to 4K resolution at 60Hz across four screens. With older Intel models or without DSC, you’ll still benefit from multiple display options at lower resolutions or refresh rates. The dock also supports a single or dual monitor configuration on Apple M Series laptops, depending on the model. Two Computers + Two Monitors: Dock and Switch The USB-C KVM Docking Station, Dual 4K 60Hz (129N-USBC-KVM-DOCK) is a laptop dock and KVM switch combined into one convenient device. It allows users to connect two host laptops to the same set of peripherals (including dual monitors, up to 4K 60), charge both systems simultaneously, and switch between them with the push of a button or using a hot key combination. This is all possible through a single USB-C cable to each of the host laptops. The dock leverages DisplayLink technology to provide Plug and Display functionality across Windows, ChromeOS, and macOS platforms. This allows users to seamlessly use and switch between computers with different operating systems and enables extended dual external displays even on Apple base level M2/M1 systems. The 129N-USBC-KVM-DOCK is also DisplayLink Certified, ensuring compatibility and reliability. Four Monitors: Enable Quadruple 4K 60Hz External Monitors Sometimes two or three external displays just aren’t enough, and in those cases the USB-C Dock – 4K Quad Monitor – 100W PD (DK31C4DPPD) is a great option. A DisplayLink Certified dock, this model enables up to four external displays up to 4K 60Hz each, even on systems that don’t natively support this including Apple base level M2/M1 systems. Combined with up to 100W of Power Delivery and a full spec power adapter, this powerful docking station simultaneously charges not only the attached laptop but also smartphones or other high-powered USB devices. Four downstream USB ports (including one USB-C port at 10Gbps), a gigabit Ethernet port, and security options like K-slot and mounting holes round out a laptop dock that is sure to supply the performance features required by IT Pros. StarTech.com Connectivity Tools Application Like other docking stations, hubs, adapters and switches from StarTech.com, specialty docks also include access to the StarTech.com Connectivity Tools utility suite. IT Administrators can now easily identify, authorize, and track devices connected to the network, while also improving network performance. Business users will benefit from increased productivity with custom windows layouts. Connectivity Tools is free to download and improves the functionality of your StarTech.com connectivity accessories, transforming them into integrated tools in your IT infrastructure. For more details about all your docking station options, check out the docks resource page at Discover Laptop Docking Stations for IT Pros