In this guide, we want to introduce you to various docking stations that you can use to convert conventional HDDS or SSDs into external data carriers. In addition, many solutions have a backup function, with the help of which you can quickly back up your files.
Why do you need a docking station?
In order to be able to use rudimentary hard drives or solid state disks externally, you either need a special one Housing or a docking station. The latter solution is practical if internal HDDs or SSDs are often to be connected externally to a computer. A simple data backup can also be created with a simple one-button system (one-touch backup). This saves the files of the internal drive on the external medium. In the event of a power failure, virus attack or theft of the computer, the important data is still available.
What you should consider with the docking stations
These peripherals for hard drives are available from around 20 euros, but you should pay attention to the connections used, which not only have to ensure compatibility with the computer, but also vary in speed. Furthermore, it is also important to note the maximum capacity (in terabytes) that the docking station can cover. This information is particularly important for variants with multiple ports. Highly recommended are copies with the method called USB Attached SCSI Protocol (UAS or UASP). USB 3.0. This method increases read speed by 70 percent and write speed by 40 percent.
Variants of docking stations
Depending on your needs, you can choose one of three solutions. The traditional docking station accommodates an HDD or an SSD in the form factor of 2,5" or 3,5". A multi-docking station, on the other hand, allows two, four or more drives to be used. There are even wireless models that can operate via WLAN. For example, a external SSD be coupled via USB and you get access to the files in the entire home network.
Overview of docking station connections
The connection to the computer can be made via the following interfaces:
- USB 2.0 (up to 480 Mbit/s)
- USB 3.0 (up to 5Gbps)
- eSATA (up to 6Gbps)
- Firewire (up to 800 Mbit/s with FW800)
- WLAN (up to 1,3 Gbit/s with ac)
The connection from HDD / SSD to the docking station is made via:
- SATA II (up to 3Gbps)
- SATA III (up to 6 Gbps)
- IDE
Our recommendations for docking stations
LogiLink USB 3.0 hard drive adapter
This model is characterized by its low price. The device can be purchased for less than 20 euros. As the name suggests, a fast USB 3.0 interface is provided here. The scope of delivery even includes a suitable cable. The SATA connection, which only takes place via SATA II, is a pity.
- Adapter USB 3.0 to SATA III
- Connector 1: USB 3.0-A male
- Connector 2: SATA Data & Power
Technical data:
- 1x 2,5" or 3,5" HDD or SSD SATA II
- USB 3.0 (up to 5Gbps)
- OTB (One Touch Backup)
- Max. chap. 4TB
- Package Contents – USB 3.0 cable, Power Supplies
StarTech.com SDOCKU33BV
At just under 40 euros, this version costs twice as much, but it also has some advantages. Thanks to UASP, a significantly faster Data transmission take place. In addition, the drives connected internally via SATA III. However, a USB cable is not included in the scope of delivery.
Technical data:
- 1x 2,5" or 3,5" HDD or SSD SATA III
- USB 3.1 (up to 5Gbps)
- Max. chap. 4TB
- Scope of delivery – power supply
- UASP
LogiLink Quick Copy/Port HDD SSD docking station
If it can be a little more - with this version, up to four internal drives can be operated. If SSD or HDD, whether 2,5" or 3,5", all important formats are supported. Securing by pressing a button is also on board. However, the connection to the PC via USB 2.0 is a bit slow. The price is around 65 euros.
Technical data:
- 4x 2,5" or 3,5" HDD or SSD SATA II
- USB 2.0 (up to 480 Mbit/s)
- Max. chap. 4TB
- What's in the box - USB 2.0 cable, power adapter
Fantec MwiD25-DS
mobile WiFi docking station
This variant is a docking station of a different kind, which releases the contents of the hard drives via the home network using WLAN. In addition to external disks, USB sticks or SD cards can also be operated. The battery is 2.600 mAh. The data carriers can contain up to 2 terabytes. Unfortunately, there is only one connection via USB 2.0.3.
- Wireless docking station. Allows LAN access to USB ...
- Connect your external hard drive, USB stick or SD card and...
- Data access and data streaming via WLAN, Internet access via WLAN...
