Connecting the Computer to the APR

Use the following instructions to connect your computer to the APR.

1.Save all your work, and exit all application programs.

2.Shut down the computer.

3.If you have not already done so, connect the AC adapter to the connector on the APR (see Figure 1-1), and plug the AC power cable into an AC power source.

4.Place the back of the computer over the APR platform, aligning the sides of the computer between the platform wings (see Figure 1-2).

platform wings

APR docking connector

APR platform

Figure 1-2. Positioning the Computer on the APR

5.Carefully lower the computer onto the APR platform, as shown in Figure 1-2, until the APR and computer docking connectors engage.

When you feel or hear a click, the computer is latched to the APR and the docking connectors are fully engaged.

NOTICE: If the external devices that are connected through the APR are not functioning properly, make sure the computer and APR are properly con- nected by pressing down firmly on the two corners of the computer nearest the APR docking connector.

6.Turn on the computer.

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Dell Latitude L400 Advanced Port Replicator User’s Guide 1-7

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Dell L400 manual Connecting the Computer to the APR, Positioning the Computer on the APR
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L400 specifications

The Dell L400 is a notable laptop that emerged in the late 1990s, specifically designed for business professionals and mobile users. This portable computer was celebrated for its lightweight design and solid performance during an era when mobile computing was starting to gain traction.

One of the key features of the Dell L400 is its compact size. Weighing in at just around four pounds, it was easy to carry, making it an ideal choice for users who needed to travel. Its 12.1-inch display was a notable aspect, featuring an active matrix screen that provided decent visual clarity for its time, thus enhancing the mobile computing experience. The display, although small by today’s standards, was designed for convenience and portability, balancing screen size with overall weight.

The L400 was powered by Intel's Pentium III processor, which delivered respectable performance for everyday tasks such as word processing, spreadsheets, and basic multimedia applications. This made it suitable for professionals who required a reliable device for work-related activities without the latest specifications of modern laptops. Additionally, it commonly featured between 64 to 128 MB of RAM, upgradeable, which allowed users to run multiple applications smoothly.

Storage options included traditional hard drives ranging from 6 to 20 GB, providing ample space for documents and essential software of the era. While this may seem limited compared to modern standards, it was a reasonable capacity for users at that time.

In terms of connectivity, the L400 integrated essential ports such as USB, parallel, and serial, catering to a variety of peripherals that users often employed. It also included an Ethernet port for network connectivity, which was crucial for business environments. The inclusion of a modem facilitated dial-up internet connections, reflecting the technology landscape of the late 90s.

Battery life was another significant attribute, as the Dell L400 offered decent longevity that allowed users to extend productivity without being tethered to a power outlet. It typically featured a lithium-ion battery that contributed to its portability.

Overall, the Dell L400 stands out as a historical example of early portable computing, marked by its balance of performance, portability, and connectivity. While it may not compete with modern laptops in terms of specifications, its design and functionality marked an important step in the evolution of mobile computing technology.
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