Diamond DS3900 Dual Video USB 3.0 Docking Station Review

if ($script:h1count -eq $null) { $script:h1count = 0 }
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }
Diamond DS3900 Dual Video USB 3.0 Docking Station Review
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }

By Dan McNamara

Manufacturer: Diamond Multimedia
Product Name: DS3900 Ultra Dock Dual Video USB 3.0/2.0 Docking Station
UPC: 57448022889
Price As Tested: $109.99 (NewEgg / Amazon)

Full Disclosure: The product sample used in this article has been provided by Diamond Multimedia.

I was very excited when the Diamond Multimedia DS3900 was delivered because I had been anticipating the arrival since I requested the unit for review. Why? Well, I was looking to end the tangle of wires on my desk and easing the transition from mobile to static computing. What I was really looking forward was being able to attach one cable and then being connected to everything I require.

I have been using a docking station at work for many years, so this was not new to me. All my previous experience was with proprietary docking stations that had cost quite a lot to procure and were tied to a single product. Until now I had not been able to find a docking station for my personal computer that has a reasonable price, simple connectivity, and the promise to increase the effectiveness of my computer. And so that is why I was so excited to receive and be able to test the Diamond DS3900 docking station for Benchmark Reviews.

I would just like to add a word about Diamond Multimedia, which has been around since the 1980s. It is an American company that has a long history in specializing in producing multimedia technology. They have produced graphics cards, motherboards, modems, sound cards, MP3 players and docking stations. The Diamond DS3900 is the latest device offering a multitude of functionality for the laptop user. With history such as this it is a name you can put some trust into.

In this article Benchmark Reviews has made every effort to test each of the functions, singly and as a whole. To ensure that the Diamond Multimedia DS3900 is tested thoroughly it has have been used for work and while gaming and even let my children have a go at it. If you are looking at expanding the functionality of your laptop, please read on.

Features & Specifications

Features

• Two USB 3.0 down-stream ports – supports Super-speed, high-speed and full-speed traffic.
• Four USB 2.0 down-stream ports support Super-speed, high-speed, full-speed and low-speed traffic.
• Gigabit Ethernet
• DisplayLink (DL-3900 chipset) HD 1080P HDMI/DVI dual digital video outputs.
• Extended Desktop (Default), Mirrored Desktop, Primary Display.
• Supports High Resolution up to 2048 x 1152.
• DisplayLink Certified
• 2 CH Stereo output & Mic-in with a combo jack.

Specifications

• System Requirements
  • Memory 1024 Mb
  • Hard Disk 10 Mb
  • System Bus USB
  • Monitor DVI or HDMI Compatible Display
  • Internet Access No
• Operating Systems
  • Windows 8, Windows 7 32, Windows 7 64, Win WP, Win XP 64, Win Vista 32, Win Vista 64, MCE
    Mac OsX Or Higher
• Dimensions
  • [Product] : 8.3 (H) X 1.2 (W) X 3.7 (L) Inches
  • [Retail Box] : 9.5 (H) X 7.5 (W) X 3.2 (L) Inches
• Weight
  • [Product Weight] : .75 Lbs
  • [Product With Content Weight] : 2.0 Lbs
• UPC
  • Retail Package UPC : 757448022889
• Package Contents
  • Diamond DS3900 USB 3.0 Dual Display Dock
  • Install CD
  • Quick Start Guide
  • USB Cable
  • Power Adapter
  • DVI-To-VGA Adapter

Closer Look: Diamond DS3900 Docking Station

The Diamond DS3900 has so many different features, I think the best way to introduce it is to use a picture. Like they say a picture is worth a thousand words:

As you can see above the Diamond Multimedia DS3900 provides a bucket load of connectivity. With a single USB 3.0 connection you are able to connect instantly to 4 x USB ports, 2 x USB 3.0 ports, Digital and HDMI monitors (DVI to VAG connector is included), an audio device, and you can even upgrade to gigabit Ethernet. I love my laptop, but it is so very nice to not have to have to go through the hassle of connecting cable after cable, and then leaving a mess behind when you leave.

As stated above the main connection to your laptop is through a USB 3.0 super speed connection. A USB 3.0 cable is included with the Diamond DS3900, but you will have to ensure that you have a compliant USB port on your machine for the maximum operating efficiency. Even if you do not have USB 3.0, your USB 2.0 port will work with full functionality just at a little slower pace.

When the DS3900 arrived I was impressed with size. As you can see it is about twice the height of a CD, which given the number of connections is about as small as Diamond Multimedia could have made it. The DS3900 is well made, with clean edges and is subtle enough to be overlooked, but has the good looks to attract attention when noticed.

if ($script:h1count -eq $null) { $script:h1count = 0 }
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }
Diamond DS3900 Detailed Features
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }

Let’s have a closer look at the Diamond Multimedia DS 3900. Below you can see one side of the docking station. The layout, from top to bottom are:

• 4 x USB 2.0 ports
• 2 x USB 3.0 ports
• gigabit Ethernet port
• HDMI port
• DVI Port,
• USB 3.0 input port,
• Power port, and
• Locking Device port

It is worth noting that the Diamond DS3900 supports, IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, and 802.3ab, IPv4/IPv6 and full duplex operation with IEEE 802.3x flow control.

On the reverse side of the DS3900 you will find the USB 3.0 input ports. I like the idea of having the USB 3.0 ports separated from the USB 2.0. First it makes it easier to identify the 3.0 ports, and second it reduces the line clutter by splitting them up. Just above the USB 3.0 ports is the Audio output.

Of course the best feature of all is with one connection, like this…

…You can have this kind of connectivity. I will be providing more detail on how well the DS3900 performed, but in general the unit was easy to use and performed very well.

if ($script:h1count -eq $null) { $script:h1count = 0 }
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }
Testing & Results
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }

Test System

• HP Pavilion g6-2288ca Notebook
• Motherboard: ACPI x64-based PC (Mobile)
• System Memory: 7650 MB
• Processor: Mobile Quad-Core AMD A10-4600M, 2700 MHz
• Audio: IDT 92HD87B2/4 High Definition Audio Controller
• Video: AMD Radeon HD 7660G
• Disk Drive 1: TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075 SATA Disk Device
• Monitor: 15.5″ led 1280×800
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8

Other Peripherals Used:

• Screen 1: Vision Quest VQL 19WSD
• Screen 2: View Sonic VA2703
• Audio Out: Dennon AVR 1312 Stereo
• USB 2.0: Bamboo Capture Tablet, Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
• USB 3.0 WD My Passport Edge, Vantec Next Star Dual Bay Drive Dock

Testing Methodology

People will be looking to buy the Diamond Multimedia DS3900 docking station because it is meant to provide a serious level of connectivity with a single cable connecting it to a computer. Therefore the purpose of the testing regime was to test how well the DS3900 performed in various use cases with different equipment attached.

First I wanted to test out the multiple screen option provided by the DS3900. The connections were as easy to set up as the promotional material stated. I connected the monitors to the Diamond DS3900, and then, after installing the Display Link software, the DS3900 was connected to the computer. Everything worked fine, in fact I was able to run both external screens and the laptop screen for a total of 3 screens in operation at one time.

This configuration was very effective while conducting office work. I had one screen for e-mail, one for general news and browsing, and I was able to work much quicker on the image manipulation for this article than with one screen.

The next item added to the mix was the audio output to my stereo system. Once again when the audio was plugged to the DS3900 which was then plugged into the computer, the laptop sound shut down and stereo started up. Sound reproduction was as full and crisp as when plugged directly from my laptop to the stereo.

The testing went a little sideways when I plugged the Ethernet in to the DS3900. My computer could not detect the Ethernet, and after a re-install of the software and a reboot the audio dropped out as well. I contacted the technical support at Diamond, but they provided one, not so helpful response. Luckily, with some help from my Editor and some research on Windows 8, I was able to trace the problem back to drivers. The problem was resolved using Desktop Manager, and re-loading the drivers manually from the “C:Program FilesDisplayLink Core Software AdapterDriver” directory that had been created on my laptop during the installation process.

After the Ethernet was restored the ability to run games in the “main” screen window was tested. I was unable to run any game on any screen except the laptop. This time I am pretty sure that Windows 8 was responsible for this as well because I was able to use my son’s comparable laptop, running Windows 7, and there was no problem.

To test the USB 3.0 ports I connected my USB 3.0 WD Passport Edge and transferred files to and fro between the laptop and the portable drive, both through DS3900 and directly to the Passport Edge and found no discernible difference. At the same time I also hook up the Next Star Dual Bay Drive dock, also USB 3.0, and had it working at the same time.

With the USB 2.0 ports I was able to use my Bamboo Capture table and wireless keyboard and mouse during the whole test period.

Results

I have to say that the test using the Diamond Multimedia DS3900 USB 3.0 Docking Station was a success. The DS3900 promises exceptional connectivity through a single USB 3.0 port and delivers this, as well as excellent performance.

With everything connected it was a getting very busy at the Diamond Multimedia DS3900 dock station, but all the components were working correctly when called on.

Meanwhile, back at the laptop, the desk top was clear and the work surface actually usable. When I wanted to leave with my laptop one cable was disconnected and I was on my way. When I returned I was back in business in a flash.

if ($script:h1count -eq $null) { $script:h1count = 0 }
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }
Docking Station Final Thoughts
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }

The Diamond Multimedia DS3900 is something I can see being used around the house every day. When I am on the road I love my laptop. It can go anywhere with me and provides me the connectivity and flexibility to keep working, playing and keeping in touch with home. When I am home, I admit I get a little more picky. I would like a bigger screen, or even two, a wired connection and being connected to everything I may possibly need. That is what the Diamond DS3900 says it can do, and it is something it does very well.

I find that having multiple monitors these days almost a necessity with so much going on around the house and with work. Certainly there are some key tasks that I like to be able to do more than others. If I am watching a movie I can run a full screen on one monitor, I can keep in touch with Facebook, and my e-mail still running in another. I also like big sound. With having a semi-permanent audio attachment I can run wires more discreetly than having to pack them away and haul them out every time I set up at home. And, because the 3.0 USB connection is so fast I get the additional bonus of gigabit Ethernet with the docking station, for the approximate price of just the external Ethernet port. That is a pretty good deal to me

I like the Diamond Multimedia DS3900 3.0 USB Docking Station. I know there are other USB docking stations in the field, but this one has enough features to be useful full time when I am at home.

if ($script:h1count -eq $null) { $script:h1count = 0 }
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }
Diamond DS3900 Conclusion
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }

The Diamond Multimedia DS3900 USB 3.0 Docking Station is a useful and flexible peripheral. In this review I was able to test all aspects of the DS3900, and found almost no problems with the unit itself. On the other hand Windows 8 is a different story. In this section I will summarize my findings.

Performance. The Diamond Multimedia DS3900 USB 3.0 Docking Station performs as advertised. With the insertion of one cable there is an instant ability to use multiple monitors, gigabit Ethernet, Audio in/out, and multiple USB 3.0/2.0 peripherals.

The appearance of the DS3900 is slim and functional. The ports are laid out in logical positions to support their individual functions and allow every port to be utilized fully and still look organized. The clean lines and black finish make the unit nice to look at but it is also understated enough to hide in the background doing its job.

The Diamond DS3900 is solidly made, so solid that an accidental fall onto a tiled floor did not leave a mark at all and the docking station performs like the day it came out of the box. You can also feel the craftsmanship with the weight of the unit and how all the edges flow together. I think that Diamond Multimedia has put quite a bit of study and user input in the design of the unit.

I found that every function that the Diamond Multimedia DS3900 made claim to worked flawlessly. The functions are, USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports, Gig Ethernet, HDMI and DVI out, Audio out and microphone input. To me that is a lot of functionality in a small package. There were some issues with drivers and video support, but I firmly believe that the issue was more a Windows 8 issue and not with the DS3900. This was demonstrated when we plugged in a Windows 7 machine and everything worked fine right off the mark.

The Diamond Multimedia DS3900 USB 3.0 Docking Station sells online for $109.99 (NewEgg / Amazon). Searching for USB 3.0 docking stations I have found that there are many available, but most are over $150.00, and therefore the DS3900 is a good value at its current price. I found that I would gladly pay this price for the functionality and convenience offered by this unit.

I would recommend the Diamond Multimedia DS3900 USB 3.0 Docking Station to those looking for the convenience, functionality and ability to reduce clutter on your work surface. Connects one cable and you are off to the races.

Pros:

+ One cable Connectivity
+ Can upgrade laptop connectivity to one Gigabit Ethernet
+ Multiple USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports
+ Well Constructed
+ Performs as advertised
+ All functions performed well

Cons:

– No on/off button: you have to unplug the unit to turn it off.
– Drivers should be available on tech support website.

Ratings:

• Performance: 9.25
• Appearance: 8.50
• Construction: 8.75
• Functionality: 9.00
• Value: 8.75

if ($script:h1count -eq $null) { $script:h1count = 0 }
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }
Final Score: 8.85 out of 10.
$script:h1count++
if ($script:h1count -eq 2) { return “

” }
else { return $args[0].Value }

COMMENT QUESTION: What do you think of the Diamond DS3900?