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Exploring Your Computer’s Features
Using the eSATA/USB combo port
Using the eSATA/USB combo port
(Available on certain models.)
Your computer includes an eSATA/USB combo port, which can be
used with both eSATA (external Serial Advanced Technology
Attachment) devices and USB devices. The eSATA interface
supports fast data transfer rates, which is especially useful for
transferring and storing large files such as digital photo, music or
video files. Like the USB interface, the eSATA interface supports
hot swapping (connecting and disconnecting devices while the
computer is on). eSATA devices require an external power source.
Your eSATA interface supports USB Sleep and Charge. For more
information about USB Sleep and Charge, please see
Using the expansion port
(Available on certain models.)
The expansion port, located on the bottom of your computer, is
used to attach expansion devices such as a Port Replicator (not
shipped with your system). A Port Replicator is an excellent
investment if you are using your computer both in and out of the
office. While you are using your computer away from your desk,
you can leave network cables and external devices (such as printers,
a mouse, speakers, and USB devices) connected to a Port
Replicator on your desk. When you return to your desk, you can
then quickly connect your computer to the Port Replicator and have
immediate access to all of your network resources and external
devices. This eliminates the time-consuming process of connecting
each external device individually, and saves wear and tear on the
ports and cables.
To achieve a proper connection between your computer and the Port
Replicator, your computer must be properly aligned with the Port
Replicator. For more information, consult the user’s manual that
came with your Port Replicator, or visit
On some computer models, you can attach an extended life battery
to the expansion port. To find expansion devices compatible with
your computer model, please visit
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