When I was compiling my kernel I found a Dell Laptop kernel module that wasn't enabled by default. I also briefly tried Gentoo linux although I much prefer Arch - one thing I found was in Gentoo the installation instructions cover manually compiling your own kernel. I tried a complete reinstall of Arch when it was on the docking station with no success I still experienced the same issues. However, I would really like to be able to use my docking station with linux, as it gives me more USB ports and the ability to connect additional monitors and it saves having to manually connect my power, USB devices, monitor, audio out etc. I've isolated this problem to the Dell E-Port Plus II Port Replicator / docking station I was using when the laptop was on the docking station I was experiencing these issues when I'm not using the docking station I no longer experience the crashes or freezes. When it crashed with the proprietary drivers, the keyboard and mouse became totally unresponsive, forcing me to reboot the system.

for those that have spoken poorly about this docking station simply havent done research on docking stations period.

Radeon 0000:01:00.0: ring 5 stalled for more than 1000 msec The dell 3100 docking station has been great and is an excellent value that solved all my problems and needs (and my wifes too).

Dell docking station d3100 drivers