Description
IBM 05K4873 Port Replicator ThinkPad 380Z 560Z 390 390X EtherJet USB VGA
The IBM 05K4873 is a port replicator designed for IBM ThinkPad laptops from the late 1990s — specifically the 380Z, 560Z, 390, and 390X series. It connects via IBM's proprietary expansion connector on the underside of compatible ThinkPads, instantly extending the laptop with a full complement of desktop-style ports without plugging in individual cables. A one-step locking mechanism secures the laptop to the base; a release lever ejects it cleanly.
Specifications & What's Included
- Part Number: IBM 05K4873
- Type: Port Replicator (docking base)
- Interface: Proprietary IBM ThinkPad expansion connector
- Locking: One-step locking mechanism with eject lever
- Network: Advanced EtherJet — RJ-45 LAN adapter (10/100)
- Modem: RJ-11 connector
- Video: VGA out (DB-15, rear panel)
- Audio: Line In and Line Out 3.5mm jacks
- Game/MIDI: Game port (rear panel)
- Serial: DB-9 serial port (rear panel)
- Parallel: DB-25 parallel port (rear panel)
- USB: One USB Type-A port
- PS/2: Two PS/2 ports (keyboard and mouse)
- Floppy drive bay/connector included
- Expansion connector pass-through
- Compatible with: IBM ThinkPad 380Z, 560Z, 390, 390X series
- Port replicator unit only — no power adapter, cables, or laptop included
Applications
IBM ThinkPad port replicators from this era were designed to give mobile users a permanent desktop station they could drop their laptop into at the start of the workday. Rather than reconnecting a monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, and network cable one by one, a port replicator let the user dock with a single motion and have everything live immediately. The 05K4873 was part of IBM's ThinkPad accessory ecosystem of the late 1990s, supporting the 380 and 390 product lines — mid-range ThinkPads that were common in corporate and government environments. The built-in Advanced EtherJet network adapter was a notable feature for the time, providing wired LAN connectivity without requiring a PCMCIA card. Today these units are used primarily by collectors, retrocomputing enthusiasts, and organizations still running late-1990s ThinkPad hardware in legacy environments.
This IBM 05K4873 ThinkPad Port Replicator has been inspected and appears to be in good used condition. It was pulled from a working environment where it was previously in service. The unit shows normal cosmetic wear consistent with prior use — please review all photos for a close look at the current state. It has not been powered up or bench-tested at our facility. Please view our photo set and contact us if you have any questions.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
IBM |
Model: |
05K4873 |
MPN: |
05K4873 |
Type: |
Port Replicator |
SKU: |
16587 |
Compatible With: |
IBM ThinkPad 380Z |
Compatible With 2: |
IBM ThinkPad 560Z |
Compatible With 3: |
IBM ThinkPad 390, 390X Series |
Connector Types: |
USB, VGA (DB-15), Serial (DB-9), Parallel (DB-25), RJ-45, RJ-11, Audio In/Out, Game Port |
Interface: |
Proprietary ThinkPad Expansion Connector |
Network: |
Advanced EtherJet (10/100 LAN via RJ-45) |
Locking Mechanism: |
One-Step Locking |
Includes Floppy Drive Bay: |
Yes |
Form Factor: |
Desktop / Docking Base |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
Japan |
Seller Notes: |
Port replicator only — no power adapter, cables, or ThinkPad laptop included. |
Condition Notes: |
This IBM 05K4873 ThinkPad Port Replicator is in good used condition, pulled from a working environment. Shows normal cosmetic wear. Not bench-tested at our facility. Please view photos and contact us with questions. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |