Abstract: A docking module can electrically connect a portable computer to a plurality of ancillary support devices. Engagement devices can alternately pull and push the portable computer relative to the housing. A sliding deck projects from the housing and is adapted to underlie and pull the portable computer toward the housing. The module has a plurality of electrically interconnected connectors mounted on panels on opposite sides of a housing. These panels are separately mounted at front and rear openings in the housing. A standard blank panel can have holes formed in it in a variety connector patterns to accommodate a variety of portable computers. Accordingly, the module is readily adapted to a portable computer by selecting a mounting pattern for the connectors on one of the panels, without a need to modify the housing. Also the docking module can be customized by using a standard reciprocating mechanism and selecting a customized mating implement to attach to the reciprocating mechanism.