Disclosed is an exemplary surgical system employing a temperature controlled docking station. The surgical system may include an articulating arm that is selectively moveable within a range of positions. A tray for receiving items used in performing a procedure may be attached to the articulating arm. The docking station may be attached to the tray. The docking station may include a heating element for selectively heating the docking station, a temperature sensor for monitoring a temperature of the docking station, and a reader configured for collecting information associated with an article placed in the docking station. The surgical system may also include a controller operably connected to the heating element, the temperature sensor, and the reader. The controller may be configured to adjust a heat output of the heating element in response to a signal received from the temperature sensor and/or the reader.
