What Is an iPod Docking Station?
An iPod docking station allows the user to connect their iPod to their computer for charging and syncing. The iPod docking station can also be used as a stand alone charging station for an iPod.
The docking station can be connected to a video display or stereo system to allow the files on the iPod to be played on those systems while charging the device.
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Function
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The primary function of the iPod Universal Docking Station is to allow users to charge their iPod, and also to sync their iPod with the music, photo and video files on their computer.
The station also will charge the iPod while the iPod is connected. A separate USB wall charger can be purchased to allow charging without a computer.
Separate audio and video cables can be connected to the A/V out ports on the docking station to allow the user to play the files on a larger display or stereo system.
The device connects to a computer or USB charger using the USB cable that came with the iPod.
Features
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The iPod universal docking station comes with an Apple remote allowing control of the iPod playlists from across the room. It also comes with eight adapters that allow a variety of iPod models to fit into the dock. This allows for one dock to be used with different iPod styles and types. One dock can be connected to a computer and shared by all iPod owners who use the computer or stereo system it is connected to.
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Benefits
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The Apple universal dock also connects to stereo systems and displays with separate cables that one can purchase from Apple or other electronics stores. Slideshows, playlists and movies stored on the iPod can be played on external devices by connecting A/V cables to the dock when the iPod is mounted.
Another benefit is that the dock can remain always connected to the computer or device, which means there is no need to reconnect the dock for each use. The dock can sit next to the computer, display or stereo and be connected full time.
Potential
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Many 3rd party companies make iPod docking stations that go beyond the basic dock offered by Apple. These docking stations are specialized stations designed to do specific tasks. Companies such as Bose, JBL and Creative Labs offer docking stations that are built into Bose stereos and clock radios. All docking stations will charge an iPod while the docking station is in use.
Misconceptions
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Third party docking stations, such as the docks with speakers built in are often designed to only fit certain iPod models. The dock made by Apple (found in the References section below) contains adapters that will fit most iPod types.
Prices
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The iPod universal docking station offered by Apple costs $49 U.S. dollars. Third party docks such as those made by Bose, JBL, and many other companies range greatly in price from $30 to $600 U.S. dollars, depending on features and quality. All prices are as of 2009.
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