Quick release dock system and method

A docking station to secure and charge a portable computer such as a hand held terminal to allow the operator to easily and quickly remove the portable computer. When the docking station is energized, an electromagnetic contact is capable of magnetically retaining the portable computer. Upon activation of a release on either the portable computer or the docking station, the electromagnetic contact is de-energized and the portable computer is detached. In an exemplary embodiment, the docking station is mounted on a vehicle and the electromagnetic contact receives power from the battery of the vehicle when the vehicle is in motion. When the vehicle is halted and turned off, the electromagnetic contact may be de-energized but the portable computer may still be held in place by a mechanical retention port.