I have the same problem with my Dell D410, docking station, and a generic 15" external monitor. Initially the external monitor shows an "out of range" message but once signed in via the laptop screen, both screens are mirrored. Closing the laptop lid blanks both screens and I then can't get any display at all. Thus I then have to switch off with the power button and start all over again.
Trying to start up with the laptop lid closed and using the dock power button just shows the out of range message on the external monitor, so I have to start up with the lid open.
I'm using Precise 12.04, upgraded from 11.10 and all updates installed.
I have the same problem with my Dell D410, docking station, and a generic 15" external monitor. Initially the external monitor shows an "out of range" message but once signed in via the laptop screen, both screens are mirrored. Closing the laptop lid blanks both screens and I then can't get any display at all. Thus I then have to switch off with the power button and start all over again.
Trying to start up with the laptop lid closed and using the dock power button just shows the out of range message on the external monitor, so I have to start up with the lid open.
I'm using Precise 12.04, upgraded from 11.10 and all updates installed.