Computer Wall Docking Station

Abstract

A wall-mounted docking station for a portable computer connects the portable computer to a media entertainment system. The media entertainment system can have multiple zones throughout a room and/or a building, and can play audio, video, images, or other media stored on the portable computer to any zone or a combination of zones. Preferably, the docking station also provides power to the portable computer, and could optionally provide both power and data connectivity over a power line.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A docking station for coupling a portable device to an entertainment system, comprising:
 a wall-mount that receives the device; and   a power connector that provides both (a) power to the device and (b) a data interface over a power line to the entertainment system.   
     
     
         2 . The docking station of  claim 1 , further comprising a wireless interface to receive commands. 
     
     
         3 . The docking station of  claim 2 , wherein the wireless interface is programmable to receive commands from at least two different media system controllers. 
     
     
         4 . The docking station of  claim 1 , wherein the data interface communicates with a media entertainment system coupled with the power line. 
     
     
         5 . The docking station of  claim 1 , further comprising a power outlet.