The electromagnetic force generated by a combination of electromagnets can help to control the relative separation between them and is found useful in the docking systems for small satellites. This paper discusses the merits and demerits of electromagnet-assisted docking followed by the major ring-type configurations of electromagnets that are useful in docking. The results of FE simulations carried out to compare the different electromagnet types and the major design parameters of electromagnets are presented. Multi-pole ring-type electromagnets that can produce translation as well as rotation motion are also discussed with FE simulation studies to bring out their effectiveness. The details of a low-cost experimental test bed developed in the laboratory to study the functionality of electromagnets for different lateral and axial separations are also presented.