Docking Station: Troubleshooting Connections

Overview

This article details self-troubleshooting steps on your MSU Denver Dell docking station. If your peripherals are not responding or your MSU Denver laptop does not recognize your docking station when it's plugged in, this article will guide you through troubleshooting steps that resolve the most common problems with Dell docking stations. These instructions also detail how to perform a reset/power cycle on your docking station.
 

Before you begin...

While not necessary, it's helpful to know the model of your Dell docking station. MSU Denver currently has three (3) models currently in deployment:

Knowing the model of your Dell docking station is helpful if your dock needs further troubleshooting.

Checking your connections...

  • Ensure all your peripheral connections (USB mice, keyboards, display cables to monitors, network cable etc.) are connected securely to your docking station.
  • Ensure your laptop is powered on. 
  • Ensure that your docking station is powered on and plugged in.
    • If your docking station is connected to a power strip, check if the power strip is plugged in and turned on.

Performing a Docking Station Reset (Power cycle)

Before you begin, check the top face of your Dell docking station:

  • If there is a button near the bottom-right, please follow the steps in Method 1.
  • If there is no button, please follow the steps in Method 2.

 

Method 1 (WD15, WD19s):

  1. Disconnect/Unplug your laptop from the docking station connector cable.
  2. Disconnect/Unplug the dock's AC power adapter cable from the back of your docking station.  The power cable connector to your dock often has a blue LED light around it. 
  3. Press and hold down the power button on your docking station for 30 seconds. 
  4. Release the power button and Re-connect the docking station's AC power adapter cable to the back of the docking station.
  5. Re-connect the docking station cable to your laptop. See if all peripherals are connected.
        Note: To verify your connections, you may need to open your laptop in order to view its screen or power it on.

 

Method 2 (UD22):

  1. Disconnect/Unplug your laptop from the docking station connector cable.
  2. Disconnect/Unplug the dock's AC power adapter cable from the back of your docking station.  The power cable connector to your dock often has a blue LED light around it. 
  3. Wait 30 seconds.
  4. Re-connect the docking station's AC power adapter cable to the back of the docking station.
  5. Re-connect the docking station cable to your laptop. See if all peripherals are connected.
        Note: To verify your connections, you may need to open your laptop in order to view its screen or power it on.

 

Result

A successful dock reset will enable all functioning peripherals to connect.  Please note that some models of laptops can only support one external monitor. If you are still having peripheral issues after doing a dock reset, or have further questions, please submit a ticket or call ITS at 303-352-7548. 

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