There is disclosed a mounting assembly for structurally mounting a peripheral device to a portable computer. The mounting assembly comprises a bracket arranged to be structurally secured to the portable computer and comprising a first coupling; and a second coupling which in use is attached to or part of the peripheral device. The first and second couplings are arranged to be releasably engaged to form a structural connection, such that in use the peripheral device can be structurally mounted to the portable computer. There is also disclosed a portable computing apparatus comprising a portable computer, a peripheral device and a mounting assembly; and a electronic entry control board for mobile telemetry monitoring apparatus comprising a portable computer, a wireless communication unit and a mounting assembly.