Undock a Portable Computer
Applies To: Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2
This topic provides a procedure that you can use to safely remove a portable computer from a docking station.
Warning
Removing a portable computer without using Undock can result in system instability, data loss, or even hardware damage. To avoid loss or damage, use Undock to undock your computer, or shut down the system and undock the portable computer while your system is off. Undocking a portable computer while it is in either standby mode or hibernate mode can result in data loss and system instability.
Any user account can be used to complete this procedure.
To undock a portable computer
Click Start.
On the Start menu, to the right of the Power down and Lock buttons, click the arrow button to reveal the Shutdown Options menu.
If your computer is recognized by Windows as a portable computer that supports undocking, then Undock appears on this menu. If you computer is not recognized as a computer that supports undocking, then Undock does not appear.
Click Undock.
After you receive notification that it is safe to do so, undock your portable computer.I If you have a motorized docking station, your portable computer will undock automatically.
Additional considerations
Undock appears on the Shutdown Options menu only if the computer is Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI)-enabled and recognized as a portable computer in a docking station. If Undock does not appear on the Shutdown Options menu, your computer is not ACPI-enabled, or might not support undocking.
Some computers have an eject button on the docking station. Pressing the eject button instead of following this procedure also undocks the laptop. For more information, see the documentation provided with your docking station.
For optimal laptop performance, change your power scheme in Control Panel. This option is available in the Mobile PC category as Manage the battery power, or Power Options in Classic View.