4 Docking Station Problems Solved
Laptop docking stations are very handy and great at increasing the functionality of your laptop. However, like any other tech device comes some common problems.
Fortunately, many issues that arise with your docking station can be fixed with some quick troubleshooting, so you can be back in action in no time.
Use the links below in the table of contents to skip ahead to find your docking station problem and solution.
First and foremost, you should make sure that your device is compatible with your docking station before purchasing. If your devices are compatible and problems still persist continue reading.
Here’s what you can do:
Reset the device - While un-docked you can reset the device by holding the power button for 30 seconds, and after it turns off, hold the volume-up button AND power button at the same time for 15 seconds. Once the screen flashes the Windows logo, continue holding the buttons down for another 15 seconds. Then press and release the power button again to turn your device on.
Run the troubleshooter - In your task bar search for ‘Control Panel’ > search for ‘Troubleshooting’ in the Control Panel > select ‘View all’ on the left side of your screen > select ‘Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter’ > click ‘Next’ > from there follow the prompts.
Update your graphics card drivers - Check to see if there are any driver updates available. If there are, run those. if not, you can right click on the graphics card driver to uninstall it and then restart your computer. To check for updates right-click on the start button > select ‘Device manager’ > Expand ‘Display adapters’ > right-click on the graphics card driver > select ‘Update Driver Software.’
Charging problems are usually a result from a poor fit or the wrong cables in the wrong place.
Here’s what you can do:
Check the cables - Are they plugged in and if so, are they plugged into the correct spot? Also, you’ll want to check the cables for any damage which could be causing the charging problems.
Device fit - Ensure your device is securely in the docking station.
Power strip - If you are using power strip double check that the switch is turned on and that the outlet works correctly.
Another common issue that occurs while you’re docked, is with the audio. This could be: no audio at all, low volume, or muffled sounds.
Here’s what you can do:
Check the cables - Are they plugged in and if so, are they plugged into the correct spot? Also, you’ll want to check the cables for any damage which could be causing the audio problems.
See if there is another speaker connected - It’s possible for another device to be connected, ensure the device you want connected is.
Run the troubleshooter - Head over to the troubleshooter on your device. From there you can run it to check the audio hardware of your laptop and see what problems are occurring. You can access this by going to your Settings > System > Sound > Troubleshoot or by typing in ‘audio troubleshooter’ in the search box on the taskbar.
Reset the device - As always when something isn’t working right, you can turn it off and then back.
Check for updates - Sometimes your device just needs to update to run correctly. If updates are available go ahead run those for the firmware, audio drivers, and the operating system. To update your audio driver right-click on the start button > select ‘Device Manager’ > expand the ‘Sound, video and game controller's’ option > right-click your sound card or audio device > select ‘Update Driver.’
Switch the audio playback - To switch the audio between the docking station and your speakers navigate to the taskbar and type in ‘Manage Audio’ > select ‘Manage Audio Devices’ > and select the option you would like for your audio output > select ‘OK.’
While using your docking station another common problem you may encounter is a black screen on your monitor. Often times due to the device not detecting your monitor.
Here’s what you can do:
Access the display settings - Search for display settings in your task bar> select ‘Detect’ and from there you can see which monitors are being detected.
Update the drivers - Similar to the above solutions, go ahead and make sure your device is updated with the latest drivers.
It is best to consult your owners manual for more in-depth and specific instructions to your specific device, as the above are generalities.
It’s also a good idea to consult your I.T. department or MSP for help if the problem persists.