Currently I just have the tablet and have been thinking about buying the keyboard dock.
Is it worth $130? I currently have a laptop here at school, along with a desktop, and my tablet. My brother thinks it would be dumb to get the keyboard dock, because I would essentially have 3 computers.
Opinions?
I've heard people say that once you use the dock, you "almost" forget about using your other options. I just got my wife a TF101 and the dock for Valentine's Day and she doesn't want to use the tablet without the dock. I plan on picking up a dock for my Transformer soon because after playing with hers, I definitely need to have one. Hope that helps but at the end of the day, it's your decision and your wallet that's being affected.
I got both..
The question is
Is this replacing your laptop? If so i would say get a dock.. Its easier for me to type with the dock.. I only have it out the dock when going outside or gaming.
Other plus is the battery in the dock.
Just my 2cents.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I777 using xda premium
i thought i will get the dock play with it for a week and leave and idont its one of the best buys i had and consider the fact that here is costs 250 us dollars
ifind the dock a very good replacement for my other 2 laptops first of all its quite smaller than a mini laptop so its great for me to carry around
second the battery is awesome im working with it almost every day all day and the battery never died
even when im browsing the internet listening to music and downloading torrents
the time here is 18:20 right now im using it since around 4:30 i have 74 battery on dock
also it supports a few games so it nice to play with it
there are also 2 usb ports for DOK or xbox controller or ps3 controller for gaming
even some 3g dongles are supported
i pesonally find the dock one of the best buys for me
now it up for you to decide
p.s sorry for writing too much lol
You can never have enough computers
I bought the dock three days ago and am very pleased with it.
Typing is faster than the onscreen keyboard and battery life has doubled.
I also use it as a stand, so I don't have to use a case as a stand.
not sure if this has been answered before but can the dock charge other thing through usb like say a phone
i had the tablet for about 3 months without the dock and loved it. I got it about 2 months ago and its awesome. great build quality, battery is great, you can plug just about anything usb into it, thumb/hard drives, wireless mice, etc.
you wont use your laptop except to burn dvd's.
Hell, its great even to have as a charging station, its so easy to take on and off.
If you've got the money to spend, you wont regret it.
---------- Post added at 07:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:49 PM ----------
Ligerblue said:
not sure if this has been answered before but can the dock charge other thing through usb like say a phone
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yes, when the tablet is on the dock it will charge phones etc.
if you remove the tablet it becomes useless, except to charge itself.
I agree with the other posters; the dock rocks! I use my tablet pretty much exclusively with the dock. With it the Transformer can easily replace a laptop.
One advantage I haven't seen mentioned yet (at least in this thread) is the dock also protects the tablet's screen, when they are folded together.
Hermit, when the transformer is folded into the keyboard dock, is it secured by some mechanism?
LeoBloom. said:
Hermit, when the transformer is folded into the keyboard dock, is it secured by some mechanism?
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its kinda like spring loaded. Its a very firm hold, it doesn't flap around or anything.
If thats what you mean,
if your talking about how the tf attaches to the dock, then there are two hooks on the dock that lock into the bottom of the tf. then you have to slide the switch over to get it out. again very secure and firm.
Get the dock! I bought tablet alone at first but after a two months I decided to get the dock - and it changed the whole game! More juice, easier typing when needed, usb ports, card reader, even (rom based) 3g dongle!
Deffinetely go for it!
BTW - since I got TF (and the dock later) I didn't touched my laptop more than few times!
Bought it yesterday and got it today (F'yeah Amazon Prime)
It's awesome! I don't know why I have a laptop now >_<
dock is really awesome
it looks and feels amazing with tab attached to it! and battery life is incredible
I have to agree with everyone's comments about the dock - and as to "replacing" or having an extra computer......I have a dual screen I7, TF101, a hand me down Toshiba Tecra running as a home server, and a now dead Asus Slate (still trying to fix).
I have a Dell Studio XPS laptop that always overheats and runs out of battery way too fast. It's great and all but not practical for school use. I don't get much time near a charger so it's annoying to lug around a dead laptop.
I bought the tf in my first semester of college and absolutely adored it. I used it for everything and used it all day to bring it home with still 60-70% charge. 6 months later I bought the dock and it's just the cherry on top. It works beautifully, it's small, it's fast, it does everything I need it to do (Web surfing, music, study, gaming) and last days without charging (Doesn't heat up at all, only a little tiny bit when charging)
My laptop now stays at home as my webserver as an alternative to buying another desktop.
It's all up to you if you're going to use it enough to pay the $130 for the dock.
I just got the dock yesterday and have to say, it is very nice indeed.. I have a question though.
How do the little doors/flaps hold up for the USB connectors? They seem a bit flimsy and I was wondering if anyone has had any problems with those?
Get the dock.
The Transformer is only as good as the other offerings (Xoom/Tab/iPad) without it. With it, it's the best tablet on the market bar none...
Sell one of your laptops to fund it
Just to echo what everyone else is saying,
When I first saw the TF at I think it was CES (or MWC) last year, I thought it was just another android tablet. Its got a keyboard? Great, iPad has stuff like that too, so whatever.
But then my friend got one in the summer AND IT FOLDS UP LIKE A LAPTOP?! Sold! AND ITS A BATTERY?! AND A TRACKPAD?! USB PORTS?!
Needless to say, I was incredulous. The keyboard I think is what sets it apart from everything else on the market (save the prime). You can have your galaxy tabs and your xooms and xyboards - have fun typing on them. Not to mention all the function keys along the top row with shortcuts for the browser, settings, volume, brightness, probably some other stuff.
And it probably wouldn't be the worst idea in the world to throw a sizable SD into the dock to supplement your storage.
I wouldn't wait a second to buy the dock. Best addition to a tab ever. So much easier to type and the screen is protected during travel. Only downside is the additional $$$ really.
The extra battery life alone makes the dock worth it. Since getting the dock, I've put my Macbook pro up for sale and am just using my tablet (use my media pc for everything else).
One thing I wish is that the trackpad worked more like a real mouse (ie. when you're trying to drag something on the screen (to select text or drag the screen of a flash window). Right now it just acts as though you are touching the screen with your finger. It's still a lot better though. I find myself using the touchscreen more than the trackpad though (unless I need to make more precise touches).
I have no regrets of getting the dock.
Be warned though, if you let the battery in the dock completely die, you will need to plug it into a 5V power adapter to get the tablet to communicate properly with the dock's battery (will show up as 0% even if it's fully charged). I just plug my USB cable into my USB-110V adapter for my blackberry for a few seconds and it's good to go again.
Related
I'm stuck in a decision between the NC or the Atrix laptop dock. Money is not an issue in this decision.
Honeycomb 7" tablet or accessory that is useless without the phone?
Thank you all for your time.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
Well there ya go. Highly customizable device, or a laptop dock that has webtop.
You can install Cyanogen and stuff like that, plus it's much less than the dock.
However, you can have the laptop which charges your phone. I bought one yesterday and tried it out. I like it, but kind of wish I spent the money on a new tablet.
If money isn't an issue, get both!
I love my lapdock. I use it instead of a PC now (no joke). Yeah it's slower than a quad core intel box but who cares. Pimpn' aint easy..
hallfleming said:
I love my lapdock. I use it instead of a PC now (no joke). Yeah it's slower than a quad core intel box but who cares. Pimpn' aint easy..
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Not to mention all the looks you'll get when you have a laptop with a phone sticking out of it
I'm responding to you on my laptop dock. I have a nook color, a laptop dock and a decent laptop and it may just be the novelty but I like the laptop dock. I should note I'm also biased because I got the lapdock with the letstalk firesale so it was pretty cheap.
the nook color is great but I cant find uses for it other than reading and playing casual games on it. The lapdock gives me a charger/normal dock when its closed, and when its opened I can take notes in google docks and text in class without the professor stopping class to admonish me. I bought a datel wireless wii retro controller and I've got all my emulators on here now, its all very neat package. It reminds me of an apple product, it does what I want, and not much else.Oh I should say, hulu works but its slower than a decent pc.
I'm going to sell the nook color, its got gingerbread on it but I hardly use it with the lapdock around and 4" is big enough to read on. The nook color is a great device and I'll sell you mine in fact if you decide on it but I wouldnt blame you if you went with the lapdock.
I don't have a laptop dock so I can't speak for that, but I am really diggin' my Nook Color rooted with a custom Froyo2.2 rom tethered to my Atrix. I travel some and on a plane and the Nook is perfect for that imho. At home someone ALWAYS has my Nook. If it isn't my Wife catching up on her soaps it is my Daughter watching some Hannah Montana. Then the Boy gets it when (if) the girls let it down and he goes to town playing games. I had to wait for quite some time today just to put a custom bootimage on the darn thing.
Good thing that I have the Atrix to play with...
That dock has to be so cool it hurts. But I wouldn't trade my Nook for it. Maybe 2laptop docks, if there was an extra phone included. But that's the only way. Now if that dock was touchscreen as well as keyboard/mouse then I might fold.
For $250 bucks the nook color is a steal. But then again obviously im bias . But seriously the xoom is sweet and all but it isnt $700 cool. 250 and its a a good ereader and can run froyo, cm7 (2.3) and honey comb.....you can even dual boot it. Right now I've been playing n64 on it a ton, never knew I missed star fox so much :-(. Oh, and battery...right now im at 73% unplugged for 3 days 12 hours. And you can now tether it to your phone and use the gps on your nook. IMO if you want the latop dock just buy a netbook and use the phone portal.
Sent from my Nook Color on Honeycomb 1.1 OC
Now that Bluetooth's working, you should get a Nook Color, a case that lets you prop it up in landscape, and a small BT keyboard (the Motorola one maybe?). But I'm also biased
Hmm little hard too decide if i had too make a decision, Which i have the laptop dock which i use it everyday because i watch movies on it and it even charges my phone at the same time and sometimes i don't even have too charge the laptop dock for up too 2 days sense the battery on it lasts really long. I like too see a netbook do that Which i have 2 and the battery life on them don't compare too the laptop dock life.
But i also have the samsung galaxy tab which is overclocked too 1.4ghzs and running voodoo kernel and i really like it which i take with me also but i mostly use the atrix and dock more than it lol.
Laptop dock ain't for everyone but i like mine.
Cant wait till custom roms and the webtop gets customized which should make it run so much better and im sure it will happen. Even a overclock kernel will make the webtop run better.
Oh dear, Oh dear, I am so pleased I came here. And I am basically clueless having just arrived from the iPhone world. Thank you for the guidance. Heading out for a Nook.
On another note, for purely aesthetic reasons, I could not resist buying an Apple bluetooth keyboard last night and trying to get it to get with it with the Atrix. It ain't happening; any wise offerings would be great.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
gordesky1 said:
Hmm little hard too decide if i had too make a decision, Which i have the laptop dock which i use it everyday because i watch movies on it and it even charges my phone at the same time and sometimes i don't even have too charge the laptop dock for up too 2 days sense the battery on it lasts really long. I like too see a netbook do that Which i have 2 and the battery life on them don't compare too the laptop dock life.
But i also have the samsung galaxy tab which is overclocked too 1.4ghzs and running voodoo kernel and i really like it which i take with me also but i mostly use the atrix and dock more than it lol.
Laptop dock ain't for everyone but i like mine.
Cant wait till custom roms and the webtop gets customized which should make it run so much better and im sure it will happen. Even a overclock kernel will make the webtop run better.
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Click to collapse
I never knew the laptop dock got that much battery, that's pretty cool though. I guess it comes down to the individual. I'm already lugging my m11x (I use the term lugging loosely since it's only like a 4 lb laptop/netbook) to work everyday so for me to have that laptop dock with me isn't practical but I can see how it could be to people. Obviously my atrix is noticibly faster than my NC but it isn't slow by any means, but for $250 it fits my needs for random movies, angry birds, and the n64 emulator.
So honestly I think both are great, just pick one that fits your life and needs more..... Then buy the other with the next check :-D
Sent from my Nook Color on Honeycomb 1.1 OC
Maybe wait and get one of the new tablets or galaxy tab. I do have the nook color myself and like it, the bt will work decent soon, the only downside is you cant put it on a tv, or can you? On the other hand laptop dock can be done via webtop hack+usb charger and some bt kb and mouse.
Clienterror said:
I never knew the laptop dock got that much battery, that's pretty cool though. I guess it comes down to the individual. I'm already lugging my m11x (I use the term lugging loosely since it's only like a 4 lb laptop/netbook) to work everyday so for me to have that laptop dock with me isn't practical but I can see how it could be to people. Obviously my atrix is noticibly faster than my NC but it isn't slow by any means, but for $250 it fits my needs for random movies, angry birds, and the n64 emulator.
So honestly I think both are great, just pick one that fits your life and needs more..... Then buy the other with the next check :-D
Sent from my Nook Color on Honeycomb 1.1 OC
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya wouldn't make sense too get the laptop dock if you already have the m11x which is also good on battery life from what i herd, Almost got one myself couple days ago but decided just too get a 9cell for my asus 1201n for now which does decent on most games and i do like to play my windows games when im on the go sometimes.
Ya i was surprised how well the battery is on the laptop dock is, Because from what i herd its around 4000mah ony but i guess from having just the screen and keyboard and mouse ony helps alot and than the phone which ony takes couple watts probably.
crnkoj said:
Maybe wait and get one of the new tablets or galaxy tab. I do have the nook color myself and like it, the bt will work decent soon, the only downside is you cant put it on a tv, or can you? On the other hand laptop dock can be done via webtop hack+usb charger and some bt kb and mouse.
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Yep you can go that way which i knew about it before i got the laptop dock but you wont have the nice big 11.6 screen too watch videos or browse the web on the go
Watching videos on the 4in screen now feels a bit weird too me even tho i did watch alot of movies on my zune hd which is 3in but than i got the galaxy tab 7in and wouldn't go back anything smaller for watching videos well more like movies sense i could watch youtube videos and stuff on the 4in screen.
Than i would have too carry more stuff with me mouse keyboard and a usb charger with the laptop dock i have a all in one.
Alot of people that wouldn't bother them, But i hate carrying alot of stuff with me than when i have too leave from somewhere i have too put all that stuff away lol
DoingAlright said:
Oh dear, Oh dear, I am so pleased I came here. And I am basically clueless having just arrived from the iPhone world. Thank you for the guidance. Heading out for a Nook.
On another note, for purely aesthetic reasons, I could not resist buying an Apple bluetooth keyboard last night and trying to get it to get with it with the Atrix. It ain't happening; any wise offerings would be great.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
try this:
1.) turn on bluetooth on phone (check 'make discoverable' box)
2.) turn on keyboard in pairing mode (led should be blinking)
3.) scan for devices on phone
4.) select the keyboard, and when pairing request comes up type '1234' or '0000'
5.) immediately after type the same 4 digit code from above into the keyboard and press return, and you should be connected.
let me know if that works, i had similar issues trying to pair a microsoft bluetooth keyboard (wireless entertainment keyboard 7000, awesome btw, touchpad and shortcuts all work) but following those steps works every time for me now.
Thank you, Thank you, worked like a charm. Much appreciated. I can take the plastic wrapper off this keyboard. Pause, I'll check out your reccommended keyboard first.
Best,
DA
P.s. Typing this msg with the Mac keyboard
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
DoingAlright said:
Thank you, Thank you, worked like a charm. Much appreciated. I can take the plastic wrapper off this keyboard. Pause, I'll check out your reccommended keyboard first.
Best,
DA
P.s. Typing this msg with the Mac keyboard
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
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Click to collapse
you're welcome!
and to chime in on the original poster's question, i would go with the nook color now for the price/customizability. The laptop dock still continues to intrigue me... however i refuse to buy at its current price.
If Asus released a keyboard dock without battery at a significantly lower price, would you buy it? It would still have the pathway to charge from the dock to tablet using the adapter but no battery inside to lengthen life or charge from dock using battery.
I would. But I'm not sure how much lower the price would be without the internal batteries. $50.00 is realistic? Basically this would be a product to combat the slew of bluetooth keyboards (that do not have batteries) that someone can pick up and pair with the Transformer. This would let owners purchased the official keyboard dock at a fraction of the price if they don't feel they would need the battery.
I like the whole "choice" idea, you either buy the dock and use it like a netbook or don't buy it and use it as a tablet. I think if they added the option of buying an extra battery or not that would be much better. Or hey, maybe if they made the keyboard dock with a battery compartment. You buy the keyboard and it doesn't come with battery, you have to buy one to put in there. I'm not sure if the battery in the existing dock is user-serviceable.
Tubular said:
If Asus released a keyboard dock without battery at a significantly lower price, would you buy it? It would still have the pathway to charge from the dock to tablet using the adapter but no battery inside to lengthen life or charge from dock using battery.
I would. But I'm not sure how much lower the price would be without the internal batteries. $50.00 is realistic? Basically this would be a product to combat the slew of bluetooth keyboards (that do not have batteries) that someone can pick up and pair with the Transformer. This would let owners purchased the official keyboard dock at a fraction of the price if they don't feel they would need the battery.
I like the whole "choice" idea, you either buy the dock and use it like a netbook or don't buy it and use it as a tablet. I think if they added the option of buying an extra battery or not that would be much better. Or hey, maybe if they made the keyboard dock with a battery compartment. You buy the keyboard and it doesn't come with battery, you have to buy one to put in there. I'm not sure if the battery in the existing dock is user-serviceable.
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Click to collapse
The keyboard would probably need to run on standard AA batteries and USB support (SD card too), probably won't exist either.
Would it then not become to much 'top-heavy'. I thought that part of the reason that the battery was also part of the keyboard, was because it would weight more.
PS. I like it that there is an extra battery in it.
not going to happen so pointless discussion
miguelantonio said:
not going to happen so pointless discussion
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Lol, hilarious!
Tubular said:
If Asus released a keyboard dock without battery at a significantly lower price, would you buy it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No
[Insert Signature Here]
why not just get a bt keyboard then? around 50 bucks and no battery. i think the dock for 150 is still good price also considering the tablet is so cheap at 399. for 550 u get the whole package.
I wouldn't buy it. I like the battery.
I could see merit in have the docking functions you don't get with a bt kb at about the same weight. I could see the heavy "screen" being awkward on your lap.
The whole point of buying the Transformer is for its unique keyboard dock. It's not just the battery, the additions of touchpad, USB ports, and a SD card reader greatly expand the potential uses for the device. Asus allows you to use the tablet without the dock, but as an extra incentive to get you to buy it they omitted USB ports on the tablet, so you're basically stuck with buying iPad-style adapters for expandability.
Really if you just want a good Honeycomb tablet by itself, then the Acer Iconia is a better choice, since the included USB port allows you to set it down on the desktop dock and just hook up any old USB keyboard to it.
Def concur with the rest, the real crux (lame ipad joke) is the added functionality beyond the keyboard. The extra battery/memory/ports. Anyone can run a bluetooth keyboard or USB keyboard, this is about a more integrated device.
Speaking of I finally got mine off of Newegg last night. Yay!
I wouldn't get it.
Sent from my X10i using XDA Premium App
It seems like the keyboard should be able to connect to the tablet via blue tooth when it's not connected to the tablet.
I wonder if there is anyway to mod it be a blue tooth keyboard?
There are times where it's nice to use the transformer as a tablet, but during that time the keyboard is totally useless.
Can the keyboard even be connected to the tablet via cable to use the battery but without having to hold up the extra bulk and such?
No, if you want a simple keyboard buy one. This dock is a dock, not simply an external keyboard. Bluetooth would just rape the battery on both and limit the functionality of it.
tazmeister said:
It seems like the keyboard should be able to connect to the tablet via blue tooth when it's not connected to the tablet.
I wonder if there is anyway to mod it be a blue tooth keyboard?
There are times where it's nice to use the transformer as a tablet, but during that time the keyboard is totally useless.
Can the keyboard even be connected to the tablet via cable to use the battery but without having to hold up the extra bulk and such?
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Click to collapse
In one word...No
There are lots of bluetooth keyboards you can find if you want one. As they say ...it is what it is.
I still use mine as a tablet. I usually plug the charger into the dock when I'm using it as a tablet only.
You can pick up bluetooth keyboards for cheap. Doesnt hurt to have several options.
LG G2x - Miui
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it's really diapointing to see how little thought went in to the few responses.
does this sort of lack of thought and imagination really epitomize the general population here?
has anyone heard of the idea of a dual or multi-use tool?
and what about an on/off switch for blue tooth?
oh well, dead topic at this point
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
tazmeister said:
it's really diapointing to see how little thought went in to the few responses.
does this sort of lack of thought and imagination really epitomize the general population here?
has anyone heard of the idea of a dual or multi-use tool?
and what about an on/off switch for blue tooth?
oh well, dead topic at this point
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so you made a thread asking if people agree with your opinion; they don't, and you call them dumb?
Also, yes, we are the epitome of the general population (...lol, wut?)
but to answer your question, the keyboard could have been a Bluetooth keyboard as well as a dock. no one is denying that. could it have been better if it were, probably. would it cost even more, most likely. would the additional cost justify the very limited uses of bluetooth-mode (uses that can't already be accomplished by the dock, in a close-range configuration) ?
nope.
so in conclusion, no.
I think the dock should have bluetooth so the keyboard could be used even when the tablet is detached. It's a shame, they didn't think of it.
@finalhit - the dock already is overpriced. I think they could easily added bluetooth without changing the price.
Get an ipad. It's probably got the most number of choices for bluetooth keyboard.
IRT the topic title: no.
Why? The Bluetooth stuff is in the tablet. To use the keyboard dock undocked via Bluetooth would be a cool feature, even if the battery drain would surge.
Versus how much that feature would increase the cost of the dock, I don't think it is a good idea: versus letting people buy a seperate Bluetooth keyboard if they need that sort of thing. My Transformer's dock is a pretty cheap piece of equipment, few moving parts if you please. The most expensive thing is probably the battery/charging stuff.
$150 extra for the dock makes a very good ROI versus just getting a standard netbook or tablet.
Spidey01 said:
IRT the topic title: no.
Why? The Bluetooth stuff is in the tablet. To use the keyboard dock undocked via Bluetooth would be a cool feature, even if the battery drain would surge.
Versus how much that feature would increase the cost of the dock, I don't think it is a good idea: versus letting people buy a seperate Bluetooth keyboard if they need that sort of thing. My Transformer's dock is a pretty cheap piece of equipment, few moving parts if you please. The most expensive thing is probably the battery/charging stuff.
$150 extra for the dock makes a very good ROI versus just getting a standard netbook or tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
agreed, why would i want to rape the dock which is essentially a back up battery? makes no sense
tazmeister said:
it's really diapointing to see how little thought went in to the few responses.
does this sort of lack of thought and imagination really epitomize the general population here?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I thought about it. I just thought it was a stupid idea. I like the way the dock works now (actually, I should say my girlfriend does since she stole mine and I haven't used it in months).
Go into the hardware mod and do it yourself, I dont want to add $50 for a feature that would drain both batteries faster and I would never use. How hard is it to have the TF in the dock if you are using the dock? I dont see a need to have the TF across the room while typing on the keyboard dock.
Magnesus said:
@finalhit - the dock already is overpriced. I think they could easily added bluetooth without changing the price.
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Click to collapse
Been hearing this since day 1, asked for someone to produce evidence (or product) of something that does the same for less, still haven't seen one example. Only bad examples of USB keyboards that don't provide the USB host control, SD card reader, stand and 6 hour battery functionality (with pass through charging).
I'm sure it is possible with enough effort to take a Bluetooth keyboard, replace the bottom with a custom module that provides mounthing for hard drive, card reader, battery, etc; or perhaps fashion a custom USB 3 hub you can rig for docking+charging.
In the end, unless you're the kind the get hackish at a work bench (I wish I had one), just using the dock when you want a keyboard, is a good idea. Much further away then docked somewhat minimizes the utility of a TOUCHSCREEN as well, unless you go bluetooth rat as well.
I think most people don't understand what we want - the dock should work as intentended when attached but switch to bluetooth when detached (could be switchable to preserve battery). There is no reason it would be in any way worse than it is now. Cost - as I said, it's already overpriced, so adding bluetooth doesn't have to increase it.
What value do you see in doing it that way? From what I can think of, I'd still opt to just pay less for the dock.
I could see the dock having bluetooth when detached beneficial when the tablet is hooked to my TV and I want to control it from my couch and the tablet is across the room hooked to the TV. Does someone make a bluetooth remote that can do this?
Magnesus said:
I think most people don't understand what we want - the dock should work as intentended when attached but switch to bluetooth when detached (could be switchable to preserve battery). There is no reason it would be in any way worse than it is now. Cost - as I said, it's already overpriced, so adding bluetooth doesn't have to increase it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, we understand. We just dont agree with either the usefulness or your judgement about them being able to do it without any cost impact.
if its that easy put it in yourself.
The whole purpose of the dock is to bring netbook like functionality and portable to the tablet. Using the dock/keyboard with bluetooth would defeat that purpose. Imagine sitting on a bus or train and trying to support the tablet and use both hands to type on the keyboard. You wouldn't be able to do it, unless you have extra arms, but as far as I know, I only have two.
Same thing with connecting the dock to the tablet with a cable. Defeats the whole portability the Transformer was made for. Portability is one of the Transformer's major selling points. And let's be honest, do you really need 16 hours of life on your tablet? Mine is off the charger from 7 am to around 11pm when I go to bed, and since I hardly use it at school, it can still have 85% battery when I plug it back in.
---------- Post added at 10:14 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:07 PM ----------
Magnesus said:
I think most people don't understand what we want - the dock should work as intentended when attached but switch to bluetooth when detached (could be switchable to preserve battery). There is no reason it would be in any way worse than it is now. Cost - as I said, it's already overpriced, so adding bluetooth doesn't have to increase it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again, Bluetooth defeats the whole point of the dock. The dock wasn't meant to be used detached from the tablet. If that's the case, Asus would've just installed a little touchscreen LCD where the touchpad is and let it run HC as well. That's like saying a car should be able to run on apple juice, even though they are built to run on gas -.-
You think a keyboard that gives you USB ports, an extra 9 hours of battery (?), and the ability to add another 128GB+ to your tablet is overpriced at $100? Wow.
jimbobalu said:
I could see the dock having bluetooth when detached beneficial when the tablet is hooked to my TV and I want to control it from my couch and the tablet is across the room hooked to the TV. Does someone make a bluetooth remote that can do this?
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Click to collapse
FWIW I saw this and thought it might be useful to you; didn't have time to look at the thread very closely though!
I thought of the same thing and even posted this idea to the Design Team of Asus. But I didn't get a response.
It would be a brilliant idea. I even tried to connect a BT dongle and see if they could pair up. Didnt work.
Suppose I want to read a book and didn't fancy swiping across the screen - I could use the dock remotely and turn the pages.
That still makes little sense? Who reads a book on this thing without holding it in their hands or having it in their lap?
About the only scenario that has made any sense at all was the one using the TF to power the TV with the dock remotely connected but even then I doubt 99.999% of the users would ever do that (ive only even powered a TV twice. once to test and a second at a friends house to show them something).
I have had this prime since they first came out. I never bought the matching keyboard. I'm wondering if I would like the prime better if I had the keyboard dock? I find myself reverting to my junk laptop a lot of the time (windows vista home premium) mostly for web browsing. I don't think it's screen size (15 vs 10?). I like using a physical keyboard at times. I can use my finger as a mouse but the physical keyboard seems to be what drives me to the laptop.
Those of you that have the keyboard what do you think?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
b4u2 said:
I have had this prime since they first came out. I never bought the matching keyboard. I'm wondering if I would like the prime better if I had the keyboard dock? I find myself reverting to my junk laptop a lot of the time (windows vista home premium) mostly for web browsing. I don't think it's screen size (15 vs 10?). I like using a physical keyboard at times. I can use my finger as a mouse but the physical keyboard seems to be what drives me to the laptop.
Those of you that have the keyboard what do you think?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse
Got my keyboard for Christmas. It totally "transforms" the experience. USB port, full size SD card slot and an extra battery. How can you go wrong? Typing this reply on it now. Totally worth it. I can't remember the last time I charged just my tablet. People always ask if I like my "netbook" and thats when I pop the tablet off the dock and it amazes them.
BTW the TF701 keyboard and the Prime are compatible.
theandies said:
Got my keyboard for Christmas. It totally "transforms" the experience. USB port, full size SD card slot and an extra battery. How can you go wrong? Typing this reply on it now. Totally worth it. I can't remember the last time I charged just my tablet. People always ask if I like my "netbook" and thats when I pop the tablet off the dock and it amazes them.
BTW the TF701 keyboard and the Prime are compatible.
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Click to collapse
Should I get the TF700 or the TF200 dock? I'm trying to find the differences on google right now.
The TF201 has a slightly bigger battery. There is a small balance issue with the 201's dock meaning the tablet can fall over when docked. I don't think it's a big deal. Mine has never fallen over. The 701's dock is said to have fixed that problem. I don't know, I've only messed with a friends 701 with the dock and didn't try to test that.
Well I would have dumped the whole tablet to trash can if it had no keyboard dock. The keyboard is really good and it is pleasure to write with.
I'm a little confused on the keyboard dock. I see the TF200 and TF700 dock but not finding TF701 docks for sale. Am I missing something? It looks like the TF701 was just unveiled this month?
Think I might buy a referb TF700 dock from Best Buy. It has a really good price on it.
Sorry, the Infinity Pad is a TF700. For some reason I've always call it a TF701.
The Prime is a TF201
Using my Prime without keyboard too. I think it will not replace computer anyway. I'm ok with its battery life and never needed USB or SD slot before.
I dont own a dock, but i got to use one on a TF101, I personally dont like the size of the keyboard (or using the trackpad)
so what i did was i ordered a transformer USB adapter off amazon for 10$, a hub for another 10$, and i connected everything up (mouse, keyboard, mem. card reader, etc [it was a 8 port hub)
just note that the adapter was meant for ALL transformer tablets, so it might be a little wiggly, which can be solved by making a cast out of hot plastic (the kind used in 3d printers)
Just an update.
I did go with a transformer dock. A TF700 dock. So far I like it. Only problem I have so far is integration with touch screen and non touchscreen control. Some thins I have to still use my finger (like scrolling a page). Tried using Facebook and it was annoying ( I could be using something wrong). I am still getting used to it but overall I have to say I really do like it better with the dock. Some games/apps change rotation when I need to use a chat function in them (annoying). I will continue to work with and get used to it's functions. The shortcuts on the keyboard are nice at times.
b4u2 said:
Just an update.
I did go with a transformer dock. A TF700 dock. So far I like it. Only problem I have so far is integration with touch screen and non touchscreen control. Some thins I have to still use my finger (like scrolling a page). Tried using Facebook and it was annoying ( I could be using something wrong). I am still getting used to it but overall I have to say I really do like it better with the dock. Some games/apps change rotation when I need to use a chat function in them (annoying). I will continue to work with and get used to it's functions. The shortcuts on the keyboard are nice at times.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Put you dock into gesture mode (asus customised settings) and then use 2 fingers on the touch pad to scroll
b4u2 said:
Just an update.
I did go with a transformer dock. A TF700 dock. So far I like it. Only problem I have so far is integration with touch screen and non touchscreen control. Some thins I have to still use my finger (like scrolling a page). Tried using Facebook and it was annoying ( I could be using something wrong). I am still getting used to it but overall I have to say I really do like it better with the dock. Some games/apps change rotation when I need to use a chat function in them (annoying). I will continue to work with and get used to it's functions. The shortcuts on the keyboard are nice at times.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The dock shines when using in conjunction with remote desktop to a decent computer. I run windows 8 on my desktop and using splashtop remote (which makes for a nearly lag free and pretty remote desktop experience) it feels like the transformer prime is running an i5 with ssd and 4gig ram. If you are on local network, it's even possible to stream youtube and video and stuff without any lag, just a very slight delay in sound/image.
So I have a desktop computer which is always on. When I need a tablet I just use the tablet. When I need a laptop I put it in the dock and remote into my desktop and I have a full desktop.
It's even better with a small travel mouse connected to the usb of the dock.
Very versatile this thing, just a shame of the memory and the lag when using it as a tablet.
And of course, when I want a desktop with full size keyboard and no lag big screen gaming ... I just go to my desktop and start where I left of on my tablet. It's great!
Hi,
Just wanted to let you guys know about this dock that I picked up from aliexpress.
The build quality is awesome, it is all metal. Feels really solid and it works in the same way the the actual DeX stations do.
I've attached a couple of images of the product and one of my review.
The current cost is USD $13.71 GBP £10.26 and that includes postage from China, mine turned up in a week and a half, really happy with it.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/EAS...893.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.6d9f4c4d3EQZa8
It works in the same way as the original DeX does, you cannot use your screen as a trackpad and must connect a wireless/usb mouse and keyboard. I haven't tried it with a USB hub yet but I imagine it would work as it is powered via your USB-C phone charger. Using my GS9 original charger it allows passthrough fast charging whilst using the dock. You can also use it for standard screen mirroring rather than DeX mode.
With the experimental labs mode enabled (in DeX settings, which appears when connected) to allow you to scale most windows up to full screen. The only one I have found which doesn't go fullscreen is netflix. Things like PUBG mobile (only opened app to see if it works, you would need an app to remap keyboard keys to play a match), Youtube, Terrarium TV etc all work fine. The option for sound output via phone/connected hdmi device works.
If you have any questions or need me to try something out on it for you, please let me know.
There are some more expensive versions with more USB ports and 3.5mm audio out - https://www.aliexpress.com/item/EAS...-9e13-2ca171f3bfbb,scm-url:1007.13339.90158.0 - These are £29.91 (USD $39.98)
Nice. Do you need to remove the phone from the case or is the usb-c connector long enough? Just curious.
TallTommy said:
Nice. Do you need to remove the phone from the case or is the usb-c connector long enough? Just curious.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did have to remove it from the case. I am using the Caseology Parallax which isn't overly thick (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Caseology-...-2&keywords=caseology+parallax+galaxy+s9&th=1 / https://www.caseologycases.com/products/galaxy-s9-parallax-case).
I don't see it as too much of an inconvenience, as when you are using the dock it is likely that you won't be leaving your desk/living/wherever for a while.
Thanks, I will keep it in mind. I bought one off Amazon that had a sale that I found on Slickdeals. It's the XF Times one and it was on sale for $8 so I took a gamble on it. It's working well at the moment but if it breaks, I will look at the one you posted. I already saved it to my Favorites.
TallTommy said:
Thanks, I will keep it in mind. I bought one off Amazon that had a sale that I found on Slickdeals. It's the XF Times one and it was on sale for $8 so I took a gamble on it. It's working well at the moment but if it breaks, I will look at the one you posted. I already saved it to my Favorites.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, that looks similar actually. I've never really looked on Amazon for them. I wasn't really looking to buy this one, I was just browsing Aliexpress and decided to actually order something on there rather than just browsing for ages and deciding against it. I picked up a couple of cases and watch straps too, it's too easy to buy things when they are so cheap!
My cheap DeX dock works fine
Only problem is, it doesn't charge the phone. The dock requires USB power also. Without power, it just mirrors the phone screen. So I just charge the phone in the morning and it would go all day on DeX if I wanted. However, I usually get up and go to meetings and such, so I end up taking the S9 with me. When I get back, I will typically top off the charge again before plugging back into DeX. I have a DeX setup at work with monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and I also have one at home. I just take the little dock with me and keep it in my backpack. They are so cheap, I really should just buy another one to keep one at both places.
If I don't plug in a mouse, I can use the phone as a touchpad. If I do plug in a mouse, the touchpad functionality doesn't work. Which is fine; just an observation.
tonylmiller said:
Only problem is, it doesn't charge the phone. The dock requires USB power also. Without power, it just mirrors the phone screen. So I just charge the phone in the morning and it would go all day on DeX if I wanted. However, I usually get up and go to meetings and such, so I end up taking the S9 with me. When I get back, I will typically top off the charge again before plugging back into DeX. I have a DeX setup at work with monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and I also have one at home. I just take the little dock with me and keep it in my backpack. They are so cheap, I really should just buy another one to keep one at both places.
If I don't plug in a mouse, I can use the phone as a touchpad. If I do plug in a mouse, the touchpad functionality doesn't work. Which is fine; just an observation.
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Click to collapse
Hi,
I hadn't even tried it without the wireless keyboard attached as I foolishly assumed it wouldn't work with this dock. I've just tried it and thanks for the tip it works great as a touchpad!
I just carry a spare USB-C lead with me when I need it, it even manages to fast charge.
One thing I will note is that the connection has become a bit hit and miss on this, I don't know whether that is build quality or because the dock USB-C connector has taken a knock when I have been carrying it around. I still think that I can't really complain for what it cost me.
Yeah, I figured the touchpad function wouldn't work because it is not a Samsung dock. But it still does if you don't use any other input devices.
Just to clarify this dock puts the S9 into the actual DEX mode, not some sort of "similar" app?
cookiemonster79 said:
Just to clarify this dock puts the S9 into the actual DEX mode, not some sort of "similar" app?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Cookie,
Yeah, this gives actual DeX mode :good:. There are loads of similar products about on Amazon/Ebay but I went for this as it was a cheap addition to an Aliexpress haul.
dnmrt said:
Hi Cookie,
Yeah, this gives actual DeX mode :good:. There are loads of similar products about on Amazon/Ebay but I went for this as it was a cheap addition to an Aliexpress haul.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I found this one that will hopefully work:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074ZP5Q51
Mine arrived today, fast post ! Works great in DeX mode, thanks OP
cookiemonster79 said:
Thanks, I found this one that will hopefully work:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074ZP5Q51
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got Goodock one, overall it worked pretty good but it does randomly disconnect from time to time (very quickly, it doesn't even leave DeX mode). I am using a HDMI to VGA adapter in my setup, I doubt it is the reason for disconnects but you never know.
I wrote a review in the S9+ accessories area:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...ock-usb-c-to-hdmi-adapter-dex-review-t3796766
cookiemonster79 said:
I got Goodock one, overall it worked pretty good but it does randomly disconnect from time to time (very quickly, it doesn't even leave DeX mode). I am using a HDMI to VGA adapter in my setup, I doubt it is the reason for disconnects but you never know.
I wrote a review in the S9+ accessories area:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...ock-usb-c-to-hdmi-adapter-dex-review-t3796766
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How often do you find yourself using it? I think I have only used mine 2/3 times but I like knowing it is there if I need it.
dnmrt said:
How often do you find yourself using it? I think I have only used mine 2/3 times but I like knowing it is there if I need it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly maybe once a week. Hard to break the habit of just firing up a laptop.
Can this work with a non Samsung Android?
Is there/ shouldnt there be a generic/ stock Android alternative for the same?
This is nice but better connect a computer from other room to tv and bring cable through the wall for wireless mouse too there if it's for home.
I recommend this.
I use this https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=78991064&postcount=388
I use this https://www.amazon.co.uk/Green-Cell-Adapter-Delivery-smartphones/dp/B07D9L8S73