Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station: How to Convert Laptop into A Desktop Computer using the USB-C Port

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From my experience I see large desktop computers getting smaller every year and more people making the switch to laptops and chromebooks.  With that being said many laptop have small screens and have the option to plug in HDMI device to expand the size. They also tend to limit the number of USB, USB-C/Thunderbolt, SD Card reader, and audio ports. What if you wanted to add another large screen so you run dual monitors but have only one HDMI port, what if you needed to run a full size keyboard, mouse, external hard drive, and have USB headset but only have to two USB ports? This where a USB hub or a docking station comes in handy. A USB hub won’t get you a way to add an external screen to your laptop but a docking station will get you everything. Docking Stations are not cheap and may of the OEM styles are limited to one type of computer. What you need is a universal docking station that can be used even after you replace your computer. One great option is the Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station.

 Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station

Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station  – Features

The Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station isn’t just your basic multi port hub to temporarily expand your ports on your laptop but is a temporary universal docking station that has several USB-A charging ports, HDMI Port, Ethernet port, and more. Features copied directly from the Amazon Sales Page.

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    • The Anker Advantage: Join the 50 million+ powered by our leading technology. 
    • Massive Expansion: get way more out of your MacBook’s USB-C port, with 4K 30Hz HDMI, high-speed Ethernet, SD/TF card Readers, and 2 USB-A data ports, as well as high-velocity pass-through charging with power delivery. 
    • SuperSpeed Transfer: Transfer music, movies, and more in seconds with 5 Gbps data speeds. 
    • Power delivery: get a maximum 48W charge for your MacBook while using the hub with a 60W wall adapter (The hub requires 12W for operation). 
    • What You Get: Anker PowerExpand+ 7-in-1 USB-C PD ethernet hub, travel pouch, welcome, guide, worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service. 

How to Use the Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station

 Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station

To use the Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station simply plug it into the USB-C port and then plug in your devices. On Windows 10 devices it works automatically. On Chromebooks and iOS they automatically load as well. If not you will need to update your system hardware drivers.

 Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station

Mini Review

 Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station

I currently have the Anker 7-in-1 USB-C Hub connected to my Alienware m15 RS gaming laptop that I use to connect, my wireless gaming mouse, gaming keyboard, portable hard drive, HDMI port  and use the USD card slot to import photos and video. It works great but its not perfect. At some point I plan on upgrading to the Anker PowerExpand 13-in-1 Docking Station since this would be a perfect setup for my gaming and photo editing system.  To learn more and to purchase head over to Amazon and take look at Anker’s new docking station.

 Anker PowerExpand 7-in-1 Docking Station

This is a great little travel hub and I use it daily. I would prefer a longer cable. When the laptop sits in a laptop stand the hub hangs and puts unwanted stress on the cable and port. But as a temporary hub with the computer sitting flat on the table it works great and rests close to the computer. I will keep using it till I get a desktop docking station.


About James

James spends most of his free time using social media and loves to teach others about design, web development, CSS, SEO, and social media. He is addicted to Wordpress, social media, and technology. You can reach him on his personal website, Evolutionary Designs Blog, Do not forget to follow him on Twitter @element321

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