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Company’s Universal ExpressCard Docking Station Offers Digital Video, Audio and “Always On” Feature

CES, Las Vegas, N.V. – January 8, 2007 - Targus® Inc., maker of the world’s top-selling notebook computer cases and accessories, announced today a new Universal ExpressCard Notebook Docking Station with Digital Video and Audio. The new Universal ExpressCard docking station provides a single “one-touch” high-speed interface and has the capability to transfer data rates four times faster than USB (up to 2.5 gigabits per second).

Targus’ latest mobile computing docking innovation is one of the first universal ExpressCard docking stations with digital video output capabilities, digital and analog audio out, Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000), serial port, and four Hi-Speed USB ports two of which are “always on” USB ports in the industry. The “always on” features is unique in that it allows users to power and charge peripheral devices such as mice, mobile phones and MP3 players while the laptop is in standby or shut-down mode.

“The new Targus Universal ExpressCard Docking Station is an affordable universal alternative to proprietary OEM docking stations that gives notebook users an one-touch connection to their monitor and peripherals,” said Michael Greco, director, product marketing, Targus. “The Targus product allows users to change computing platforms over time without reinvesting in a new docking station.” Targus’ new connectivity device also makes docking a notebook easy for users of multiple notebook models in the same home, office, or on the road, requiring only an ExpressCard connection.

The true video output capability of Targus’ Universal Docking Station with Video allows users to connect a CRT monitor or LCD screen directly to the docking station via a DVI or VGA port without the hassle of an additional cable connection. Once connected to a monitor, Targus’ docking station allows for three viewing modes: Primary Video Mode uses an external monitor or LCD as a primary display; Extended Video Mode allows both the notebook screen and external monitor to be used for combined viewing and a larger overall desktop area; and Mirror Video Mode replicates the notebook screen onto an external monitor or LCD.

The additional two USB ports also provide twice as much power as traditional ports, allowing them to support any product that draws its power through a USB “Y” or “Upstream” cable with only one USB port. Instead of consuming two USB ports for one device, as is unavoidable with most y-cable connections, the user gains back the extra port, thus consuming only one for the device’s operation. Targus’ four USB ports are also spaced more widely than on most USB hubs, making them easier to use with large or awkwardly-shaped USB adapters.

Product Features:

Advanced Connectivity: Add 4 Hi-Speed USB ports, 1 Serial Port, 1 VGA (15-pin) port, 1 DVI, 1 SPD/IF port, Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000), 5.1 analog 3.5mm jacks for (speakers and microphone)
Built-in Security Slot: Easily lock down Targus Universal Docking Station using the built-in standard notebook slot lock
Gigabit Ethernet: Previously not available on USB docking station, high speed network connections up to 1000 megabits per second.
Surround Sound: Connect digitally to your speakers via SPDIF port and add 5.1 surround sound to your notebook
Digital Video: Support video resolutions up to 1600x1200 in different video modes
Advanced Design: Unique wedge shape provides increased ergonomics buy elevating the notebook, provides passive cooling, and minimal footprint on the desktop
Easily Access: USB Ports: Three Hi-Speed USB ports located on the side allow for easy access for portable accessories such as flash drives, cameras, mice, and more. One Hi-Speed USB ports on the back are for permanent connections such as printers or external drives
ExpressCard Adapter Card Spacer: Targus ExpressCard Docking station includes a 34mm to 54mm spacer card to insure a proper fit independent of the size of the notebooks ExpressCard slot.

Powered by an AC adapter, the Targus Universal Docking Station is equipped with plug and play connectivity, enabling it to automatically recognize new USB devices when plugged in without rebooting. At 14.01 ounces and measuring 11.96 inches by 3.66 inches by 1.04 inches, the unique wedge design of the docking station offers a stable slip-resistant platform for the notebook computer, minimize its footprint on the desktop, providing a natural tilt for increased comfort when typing and improved airflow for better cooling of the notebook. The docking station is compatible with notebooks with integrated ExpressCard, requires a Targus provided driver to be installed and Windows® XP Professional.

Targus’ Universal ExpressCard Notebook Docking Station with Digital Video and Audio (part number: ACP60US) has a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $189.99 and includes a limited one-year warranty.

About Targus
Targus invented the notebook case and continues to advance the mobile accessories category with innovative and relevant solutions for today's mobile lifestyle. Targus products enhance productivity, connectivity, and security, liberating users to work in any and all environments with the utmost convenience and comfort. Founded in 1983, Targus headquarters are located in Anaheim, Calif., with offices worldwide and distribution agreements in more than 145 countries. More information available at www.targus.com.

Editor’s Note: For additional information, evaluation units or executive interviews, please contact Kelly Reeves, Targus, Inc., 1211 N. Miller Street, Anaheim, CA 92806, (714) 765-5555 ext. 402 (Voice). High-resolution images are available by contacting Kelly Reeves at (kelly@klrcommunications.com).

Targus and the Targus logo are registered trademarks of Targus Group International. All rights reserved. All other marks may be the property of their respective titleholders.

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