Applicable To

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations and USB graphics adapters

Problem Summary

DisplayLink relies on the computer’s graphics processor to render the Windows desktop before transmitting it to the connected monitors over USB. On some desktop computers, if the graphics processor does not detect a directly connected monitor, the DisplayLink monitors may show a black screen with only the mouse cursor visible.

This is especially common in KVM-style setups where all monitors are connected to a DisplayLink dock that is switched between two computers using a USB Sharing Switch, such as USB3-SWITCH2.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Ensure the DisplayLink driver is the latest version available from Plugable. To update the driver, please use the steps for your operating system: 
   1. For Windows
   2. For macOS
2. On Windows, install the latest graphics driver available from the computer or graphics card manufacturer’s support page.
3. On macOS, install the latest available macOS updates. Graphics driver updates are included with macOS rather than distributed separately.

As of this writing, Plugable officially supports the following versions of Windows and macOS in conjunction with Plugable products based on DisplayLink technology:

All earlier versions of Windows such as Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista or Windows XP are NOT supported.

All earlier versions of macOS such as macOS 13 Ventura, macOS 12 Monterey, macOS 11 Big Sur, macOS 10.15 Catalina and macOS 10.14 Mojave are NOT supported.

Alternatives

For reference, Synaptics (the separate company that developed DisplayLink technology and also develop the software) provides downloads of legacy versions of the DisplayLink software for older operating systems → https://www.synaptics.com/products/displaylink-graphics#downloads

To be clear, Plugable does NOT support the legacy versions of the DisplayLink software provided by Synaptics. Plugable cannot guarantee that the legacy versions of the software will work with Plugable brand DisplayLink products. The aforementioned link to the Synaptics legacy downloads is provided only as a courtesy. 

Applicable To

All Plugable DisplayLink products

For multiple independent displays using Multi-Stream Transport (MST), your computer must support DisplayPort video and MST through its USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt connection. Windows and ChromeOS support MST, while macOS does not support MST for multiple independent extended displays.

How Do I Check Whether My Laptop Is Compatible With MST?

Start by checking your computer's operating system and USB-C video capabilities.

Your computer must provide DisplayPort video through the port connected to the Plugable product. A USB-C port that supports only USB data or charging cannot provide video to an MST dock, hub, or adapter.

Look for one of the following capabilities in your computer's specifications:

• USB-C with DisplayPort
• USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode
• USB4
• Thunderbolt 3
• Thunderbolt 4
• Thunderbolt 5

USB4 and Thunderbolt ports support DisplayPort video, but the number of displays, maximum resolution, and refresh rate still depend on the computer's graphics hardware and DisplayPort capabilities.

If your computer's specifications don't clearly identify its DisplayPort capabilities or MST support, contact the manufacturer to confirm.

How Does My Computer's Display Limit Affect MST Compatibility?

MST allows a single DisplayPort connection to carry multiple display streams, but it does not increase the maximum number of displays supported by your computer's graphics hardware.

For example, a Plugable product may support three external monitors while the connected computer supports only three displays in total. If the laptop's built-in display counts toward that limit, only two external displays may be available.

In some cases, closing the laptop lid and disabling the internal display may make another external display available. Display limits vary by processor, graphics hardware, operating system, and computer manufacturer.

How Does DisplayPort Bandwidth Affect MST Display Resolution?

MST divides the DisplayPort bandwidth available from the computer among the connected displays. Higher resolutions and refresh rates require more bandwidth.

Display Stream Compression, or DSC, allows higher-resolution display signals to use less DisplayPort bandwidth. Whether DSC is required depends on the Plugable product, connected displays, and desired resolution and refresh rate.

Always refer to the specifications for your specific Plugable product to confirm its supported display configurations.

Which Plugable Products Use MST?

The following available Plugable products use DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport as part of their display functionality.

The UD-3900C4 is a hybrid docking station. HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 use DisplayLink technology, while HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 rely on the computer's native DisplayPort Alt Mode and MST capabilities.

The TBT4-UDZ uses MST differently depending on the host platform. Compatible Windows Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 systems can use MST to support up to four extended displays. Mac display support differs because macOS does not support DisplayPort MST, so refer to the TBT4-UDZ product specifications for Mac display configurations.

What Are My Options if I Use macOS?

macOS does not support DisplayPort MST for multiple independent extended displays from a single MST connection.

This doesn't mean every Plugable product with MST is unusable with a Mac. Some products, such as hybrid or Thunderbolt docking stations, may use other display technologies or separate native display connections.

If you need multiple independent extended displays on a Mac, consider a Plugable DisplayLink docking station or a compatible Thunderbolt docking station. Always check the specific product's Mac compatibility and your Mac model's native external display capabilities before choosing a solution.

Applicable To

• UD-MSTH2, UD-MSTH3, UD-MSTHDC, USBC-MSTH2, USBC-MSTH3, USBC-11IN1E, UD-3900C4, TBT4-UDZ

The front-facing USB-C port on the UD-3900C4 supports USB 3.0 data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps and provides up to 20W of Power Delivery for charging small devices. It also supports the BC 1.2 charging standard, though it does not support Alt Mode video output.

How the Front-Facing USB-C Port Provides Data and Power

This port is designed as a downstream utility port, allowing you to connect peripherals like external SSDs, webcams or charging devices like smartphones or tablets at 20W. The inclusion of Battery Charging 1.2 (BC 1.2) support ensures compatibility with a wide range of mobile devices that require specific signalling to pull higher current.

Alternative Options for Video and Charging

Because this port is limited to data and peripheral charging, it cannot be used to connect a USB-C monitor or to charge the host laptop itself. For video output, use the HDMI ports on the rear of the dock, and for host charging, ensure the laptop is connected to the designated "Host" port on the back of the unit.

Applicable To

UD-3900C4, UD-ULTCDL, UD-ULTC4K

Most modern laptops that support USB-C DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode should support two displays. You may need to research your laptop's technical specifications to determine exactly which version of DisplayPort it supports. If you are unsure or cannot find the appropriate technical specifications, you may want to contact the computer manufacturer's support team for more detailed information. 

How DisplayPort Versions Affect Display Support

• DisplayPort 1.2 should allow for two 1080p@60Hz displays to be connected.
• DisplayPort 1.4 should allow for two 4K@60Hz displays to be connected.
• DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC 1.2 support should allow you to connect 8K@60Hz displays.
• Display Stream Compression (DSC) 1.2 enables visually lossless compression for ultra-high-definition (UHD) displays and supports High Dynamic Range (HDR).

Applicable To:

• Laptops supporting USB-C DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode or higher
• UD-MSTH2, UD-3900C4,UD-MSTHDC, USBC-MSTH2, USBC-MSTH3

DisplayLink ports use USB data connectivity and an integrated chip requiring driver installation to extend displays beyond a computer's native graphics processor limitations. In contrast, Alt Mode MST ports use Multi-Stream Transport over a USB-C cable to split a single native video signal directly from the computer's graphics processor, without requiring extra drivers.

How DisplayLink and Alt Mode MST Ports Differ

DisplayLink ports (marked HDMI 1 and 2) use an internal chip to manage display data over a standard USB 3.0 connection. This technique allows you to connect more external monitors than your computer’s internal graphics processor normally permits. Because this technology relies on data transmission rather than a direct video signal, you must install software drivers on your system. The latest drivers can be downloaded directly from https://plugable.com/pages/displaylink.

Alt Mode MST ports (marked HDMI 3 and 4) rely on DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C to route a native video signal directly out of your computer's graphics processor. Multi-Stream Transport (MST) splits this single native signal to drive two independent displays, allowing you to extend your desktop across two monitors (such as two 1080p displays). The final output resolution of these two monitors depends entirely on the DisplayPort version supported by your host computer, which requires a minimum of DisplayPort version 1.2.

Applicable To

• Host computers supporting USB-C DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode or higher with Multi-Stream Transport (MST)
• Dual-technology docking stations featuring both DisplayLink and Alt Mode MST video outputs, such as UD-3900C4
   

Applicable To

• UD-3900C4

The UD-3900C4 uses two different technologies to support its four HDMI outputs. If displays connected to HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 are mirrored or only one display works, the host computer may not support the DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (MST) functionality required by those ports.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Confirm that the affected displays are connected to HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 on the UD-3900C4.
2. Check the specifications for the USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt port being used to connect the dock to the computer.
3. Confirm that the host connection supports Alt Mode video and DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (MST).
4. If you are using Windows or ChromeOS and the computer supports MST, configure HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 as extended displays within the operating system's display settings.
5. If you are using macOS, be aware that macOS does not support DisplayPort MST for multiple independent displays from a single DisplayPort connection.

On a Mac, HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 cannot both operate as unique extended displays. The UD-3900C4 can support up to three unique extended displays on macOS, with the fourth display mirrored.

Plugable has also produced a video demonstrating this macOS MST limitation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNoGjqrrSok

For more information about determining whether your computer supports MST:

https://kb.plugable.com/1390562

Expected Result

On a compatible Windows or ChromeOS computer that supports Alt Mode and MST, displays connected to HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 should operate as separate extended displays.

On macOS, HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 mirroring is expected because MST is not supported. A maximum of three unique extended displays is supported with the UD-3900C4 on macOS.

If the Issue Persists

If you are using Windows or ChromeOS and have confirmed that the host computer supports DisplayPort Alt Mode and MST, but HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 still do not work as expected, contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

If your computer's specifications do not clearly state whether its USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alt Mode and MST, contact the computer manufacturer for confirmation.

Yes. The UD-3900C4 can be used with compatible Intel and Apple Silicon Mac computers, but macOS supports a maximum of three unique extended displays through this docking station.

Why Are Only Three Unique Displays Supported on macOS?

The UD-3900C4 uses two different display technologies for its four HDMI outputs.

HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 use DisplayLink technology. These two displays can operate as independent extended displays on macOS when you install and configure the DisplayLink Manager application.

HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 use the Mac's native DisplayPort video output. macOS does not support Multi-Stream Transport (MST), so these two outputs cannot function as separate extended displays. Instead, HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 will mirror each other.

This allows the UD-3900C4 to provide up to three unique extended displays on a Mac:

Two displays through HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 using DisplayLink

One unique native display across HDMI 3 and HDMI 4

How Do I Set Up DisplayLink on macOS?

DisplayLink Manager must be installed and configured for displays connected to HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 to function on macOS.

For the latest DisplayLink Manager software, installation information, and downloads for older supported macOS versions:

https://plugable.com/pages/displaylink

Applicable To

• UD-3900C4

Yes. This article provides instructions for installing firmware version 5.06.101 on the UD-3900C4 to address flickering or connectivity issues affecting the HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 ports.

A newer firmware update is now available. For the latest firmware and update instructions, see the newer UD-3900C4 firmware update article here: https://kb.plugable.com/question/3435609 

How Do I Apply the Firmware Update?

1. Download the firmware update utility on your Windows USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 computer.
2. Extract the folder named UD-3900C4_Firmware_Update from the downloaded ZIP file to your preferred location, such as your Documents folder or Desktop.
3. Connect the Plugable UD-3900C4 dock to the Windows laptop using the included USB-C cable.
4. Connect at least one monitor to HDMI 3 and/or HDMI 4, and ensure the connected HDMI display is active and running.
5. Navigate to the UD-3900C4_Firmware_Update folder and launch VmmDPTool64.exe.

If Windows Defender SmartScreen prevents the application from starting, select Run anyway to proceed.

6. Select the FLASH tab, then select Load to FLASH. You will be prompted to select the firmware file to load.

7. If necessary, navigate back to the UD-3900C4_Firmware_Update folder and select:UD-3900C4_Ver5_06_101_Firmware.fullrom The firmware update process will begin automatically after the file is selected.

8. Once the update is complete, power-cycle the dock by disconnecting its power adapter. The blue light on the front of the dock should turn off.
9. Wait 10 seconds.
10. Reconnect the dock's power adapter.
11. Once the dock and connected displays have reconnected, open VmmDPTool64.exe.
12. Select the Debug tab, then select FW version.
13. Check the information shown in the Status field and confirm that the Firmware version is listed as 5.06.101.

Applicable To

• UD-3900C4

What Are the Different Types of USB Connectors?

The most common USB connectors are USB-A, USB-B, USB Mini-B, USB Micro-B, and USB-C. USB-C is also the only connector used by USB4, Thunderbolt™ 3, Thunderbolt™ 4, and Thunderbolt™ 5. Each type differs in size, supported data rates, and whether it can carry video and power.

How to Identify Each Type of USB Connector

USB-A

pietz, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

This is the standard USB connection that most computers offered prior to the introduction of USB Type-C (USB-C). Even after the introduction of USB Type-C, this is still quite common.

It can provide data transfer rates up to the USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10 gbps) specification depending on the host and device, but does not directly support video in the way that USB-C Alternate Mode does. This limitation makes DisplayLink USB graphics adapters and docking stations ideal on systems that do not have USB-C, or in instances where more displays are needed beyond available video outputs of a PC.

USB-A ports do not support USB4, Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, or Thunderbolt 5, as those standards require a USB-C connection.

USB-B

Fred the Oyster, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

IngenieroLoco, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This type of connection comes in a couple different styles depending on whether USB 3.0 and higher transfer rates are supported (bottom graphic). Usually this type of connection is used to plug into USB devices that do not have a fixed cable connected, such as USB docking stations, USB hubs, printers, and others.

USB Mini-B

Fred the Oyster, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

One of the first connectors for charging a smartphone, wireless game controller (such as the Sixaxis and DualShock 3), and other small devices such as external hard drives. Not commonly used today, but is still used in some cases. Most devices using USB Mini B are using USB 2.0, though a USB 3.0 variant does exist. This specification also added USB On-The-Go (OTG) functionality, though it is more commonly implemented with Micro USB.

USB Micro-B

Fred the Oyster, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

IngenieroLoco, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

A smaller connector that serves many of the same uses as the Mini B connector, with added optional features such as Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL) to allow devices like smartphones to output video to larger displays without requiring a dedicated port for video output.

The larger variant of USB-B is most commonly used for external hard drives for higher 5Gbps transfer rates.

USB-C, USB4, Thunderbolt™ 3, Thunderbolt™ 4, and Thunderbolt™ 5

Chindi.ap, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The most recent USB connection, USB Type-C (USB-C), represents a major change in what USB can do. The connector is smaller, can be connected in two orientations, is able to carry substantially more power and data, and can directly carry video signals of multiple types (HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.) Intel has also adapted the USB-C connector for use with Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, and Thunderbolt 5.

USB4 is the newest USB standard and uses the USB-C connector exclusively. USB4 supports data transfer rates up to 40 Gbps, and USB4 Version 2.0 raises this to 80 Gbps, or up to 120 Gbps in one direction for high-bandwidth display use. Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 support up to 40 Gbps. Thunderbolt 5 is built on USB4 Version 2.0 and supports 80 Gbps in both directions, up to 120 Gbps with Bandwidth Boost for multiple high-resolution displays.

It is important to note that while all USB4, Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, and Thunderbolt 5 connections are USB-C, not all USB-C connections support USB4 or can be used with Thunderbolt devices. Check your computer's specifications or look for the Thunderbolt or USB4 logo next to the port to confirm what it supports.

More details regarding physical USB connections can be found on Wikipedia . The graphics depicted here are adapted from Wikimedia Commons by various artists under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

Applicable To

• Plugable USB Docking Stations
• Plugable USB Hubs
• Plugable Thunderbolt Cables
• Plugable USB Cables

Summary

Yes. Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations and USB graphics adapters are supported on compatible Windows 11 computers with ARM processors, including Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus and Snapdragon X Elite.

DisplayLink provides native Windows drivers for both x64 and ARM64 architectures, allowing compatible DisplayLink products to function without relying on x64 emulation.

Applicable To

Driver Installation

On Windows 11 ARM-based computers, DisplayLink drivers can typically be installed through Windows Update after connecting the docking station or graphics adapter.

If the drivers do not install automatically, download the latest compatible DisplayLink software from the Plugable DisplayLink Drivers page.

Important Note: DisplayLink driver versions 11.5 and newer include ARM64 support in the standard executable installer. Older versions may require installation through Windows Update or a compatible driver package.

Need Assistance?

If your Plugable DisplayLink docking station or USB graphics adapter isn't working as expected on a Windows 11 ARM computer, contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

Introduction

This document covers steps to resolve the most common issues enabling video from Plugable products with DisplayLink technology on Mac. In order to use a Plugable DisplayLink device on Mac, the items listed below are required. 

Required Items

1. The DisplayLink Manager Application must be installed on the host Mac

The DisplayLink Manager Application is available to download here

We have detailed installation instructions available at the link below:

macOS Tahoe version 26, macOS Sequoia version 15, macOS Sonoma version 14

2. The DisplayLink Manager Application must be granted the proper security permissions in order to function properly

The DisplayLink Manager application must be granted ‘Screen Recording’ permissions within the macOS ‘Privacy & Security’ settings in order to function. If these permissions are not granted, then the product will not function.

To be clear, no information is actually being recorded.  The DisplayLink Application only needs this permission in order to generate the image shown within the displays connected to the product.

The installation instructions provided in Item #1 provide more detail about this process. 

3. The DisplayLink Manager Application must be actively running

The DisplayLink Manager Application must be running in order for the product’s video outputs to function.

When the DisplayLink Manager Application is running, there will be a small DisplayLink icon (which looks like two interlocking displays) located within the Apple Menu bar at the top of your screen. 

If the DisplayLink Manager Application is not running, please open a new Finder window and navigate to the ‘Applications’ folder and then double click on the ‘DisplayLink Manager’ application icon to start the application. 

4. On Apple Silicon MacBooks with macOS Ventura version 13 or later, the Plugable product must be granted permission in order to connect the device to the Mac

For portable Macs with Apple silicon running macOS Ventura version 13 or later, any external USB accessory must first be ‘Allowed’ in order for the device to function. If the device is not ‘Allowed’, then the device will not work.   
 

Apple provides more information on this process at the links below:

macOS Tahoe 26 - Connect accessories to your Mac

macOS Sequoia 15 - Connect accessories to your Mac

macOS Sonoma 14 - Allow accessories to connect to Mac

macOS Ventura 13 - Allow accessories to connect to Mac

If you need more help

If all of the items listed above have been completed and your Plugable DisplayLink-based device is still not working as expected with your Mac, please reach out to us directly via support@plugable.com and we will be happy to assist you further.    

 

Summary

If a Plugable DisplayLink-based USB docking station or USB graphics adapter is not working as expected with a Mac, performing a clean reinstall of the DisplayLink Manager application can help restore the DisplayLink software and connected hardware to a known-good state.

The recommended process is to disconnect and reset the Plugable product, completely remove the existing DisplayLink software, restart the Mac, install the current Plugable-recommended DisplayLink Manager version, and reconnect the product.

Applicable To

This article applies to:

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations
• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB graphics adapters
• Macs using the DisplayLink Manager application

These instructions are specifically for products that use DisplayLink USB graphics technology. They do not apply to Plugable USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, MST, or Thunderbolt-only video products that do not use DisplayLink Manager.

Before You Begin

Save any open work before beginning, as this process requires restarting the Mac.

Keep the Plugable docking station or USB graphics adapter disconnected from the Mac until instructed to reconnect it.

Clean Reinstall DisplayLink Manager

1. Disconnect the Plugable Product

Disconnect the Plugable USB docking station or USB graphics adapter from the Mac.

If the product has an external power adapter, disconnect the power adapter from the product as well. This allows the unit to fully reset.

Keep the Plugable product disconnected until the final step.

2. Run the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner

Download and run the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner for macOS → LINK

If you need additional guidance, see Synaptics' End-User Cleaner Tool for macOS instructions → LINK

Follow the prompts within the cleaner to remove the existing DisplayLink Manager installation and associated components.

3. Restart the Mac

After the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner has completed, restart the Mac using:

Apple menu > Restart

Restart the Mac even if the cleaner does not specifically prompt you to do so.

4. Install the Current Plugable-Recommended DisplayLink Manager Version

Download the DisplayLink Manager version recommended by Plugable for your version of macOS → LINK

Install DisplayLink Manager and complete the required macOS setup and permissions.

Detailed installation instructions for each supported macOS version are available by selecting the INFO button next to the appropriate download on Plugable's DisplayLink Drivers and Software page.

5. Reconnect the Plugable Product

If the Plugable product uses an external power adapter, reconnect power to the product first and allow it to power on.

Then reconnect the Plugable product directly to the Mac.

Confirm that DisplayLink Manager is running and test the connected displays and other device functions.

If the product is still not working as expected, restart the Mac once more with the Plugable product connected.

Need Assistance?

If your Plugable DisplayLink-based product is still not working as expected after completing the clean reinstall process, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

• When contacting support, please include:
• Your Plugable product model
• Your Mac model
• Your macOS version
• A description of the issue
• The output from Plugable's PlugDebug diagnostic utility → LINK

Introduction

When a Plugable DisplayLink-based device is not working as expected with a Windows system, the best practice is to disconnect the device from the host system (and remove it's external power source, if it has one) and perform a 'clean' manual installation of the latest version we recommend of the required DisplayLink software driver in order to help ensure that both are in a good state. The process for doing so is described below. If you're running a Mac computer, please refer to our DisplayLink Manager App for macOS installation guide instead.

DisplayLink 'Clean' installation process

1. Disconnect the Plugable USB docking station or video adapter from the host system.

If the product you are using has an external power adapter (for example a USB docking station), please also disconnect the power adapter from the product so that the unit resets. 

Please keep everything disconnected until prompted.

2. Uninstall any and all software with 'DisplayLink' in the title that is present from within the Control Panel Programs and Features (Apps and Features in Windows 10 & 11). Don't worry if these entries are not present or if the process does not work for any reason, just move onto the next step

3. Download and run the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner utility

The link to download is here --> LINK

We also have a short video that demonstrates this process --> LINK

4. Once the cleaning utility has completed, restart the host system (even if not prompted to)

5. Download and install the latest version (that we recommend) of the DisplayLink software driver --> LINK

6. If you disconnected the power adapter from your product in step one, please reconnect it so the device powers on, then reconnect the product to the host system. If the product is still not working as expected, please restart the host system one more time.

If you need additional help

If after having completed this process your Plugable DisplayLink device is still not working as expected, please reach out to us directly via support@plugable.com with the output of our PlugDebug diagnostic utility --> LINK and we will be happy to assist you further.

The graphical software utilities provided by Intel, NVIDIA, and AMD/ATI are designed to only recognize and work with graphics adapters made by their respective manufacturers. As a result, these utilities will not recognize USB-attached displays connected to a DisplayLink-based docking station or graphics adapter.

How to Manage Connected Displays

It is recommended to use the built-in Windows display management tools instead. For Windows 10 and 11, use the 'Display Settings' application, and for Windows 8.1 and 7, use the 'Screen Resolution' application. You can access these tools by right-clicking an empty space on the Windows desktop and selecting the appropriate option from the context menu.

Alternative Option for Intel Users

Intel offers an updated 'Intel Graphics Command Center' application that can recognize and configure DisplayLink-attached displays to a certain extent. However, some features specific to Intel graphics adapters within this application may still not work on a DisplayLink-attached display.

Applicable To

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations and graphics adapters

Summary

Windows display color calibration may not affect a monitor connected through a Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter.

DisplayLink software can support gamma-based color correction on certain DisplayLink hardware and outputs, but this functionality is not universally available or enabled across all DisplayLink configurations.

Applicable To

This article applies to:

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations
• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB graphics adapters
• Windows 10 and Windows 11

Answer

Older versions of DisplayLink software did not support software-based gamma color correction. However, DisplayLink added gamma-ramp color correction support beginning with DisplayLink software version 9.0 for certain DisplayLink devices.

Because support depends on the DisplayLink chipset, video output, driver configuration, and software being used, the Windows Display Color Calibration tool may have little or no effect on some DisplayLink-connected displays.

For basic color adjustments such as brightness, contrast, color temperature, or RGB levels, Plugable recommends using the monitor's built-in on-screen display (OSD) controls when available.

For supported DisplayLink hardware, Synaptics provides additional guidance for enabling gamma-ramp color correction in Windows.

Color-Critical Workflows

For workflows that require highly accurate or hardware-calibrated color, such as professional photography, video production, or print color matching, Plugable recommends connecting the color-critical display directly to a native graphics output from the computer whenever possible.

This may include HDMI, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, or USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, depending on the computer.

Need Assistance?

If you need help determining whether software-based color correction is supported with your Plugable DisplayLink product, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

• Your Plugable product model
• Your computer model
• Your monitor model
• Your Windows version
• How the monitor is connected to the Plugable product

Summary

Touchscreens that do not require drivers and use the host operating system's built-in USB Human Interface Device (HID) drivers to record touch inputs can be made to work with Plugable products. However, Plugable does not officially support or recommend these configurations due to the underlying complexity of multi-monitor touchscreen setups.

Why Plugable Does Not Support Touchscreens on DisplayLink Devices

Multi-monitor touchscreen environments require the operating system to map touch inputs from a USB HID controller to specific, non-native display outputs. Because DisplayLink uses virtual graphics processing rather than a direct GPU video pipe, input mapping across multiple displays can easily become misaligned or unresponsive, leading to unreliable performance.

How to Set Up Touchscreens with DisplayLink Devices

If you choose to use a driverless USB HID touchscreen, follow these configuration steps:

1. Connect the video cable from the touchscreen monitor to a video port on the Plugable DisplayLink device.
2. Connect the USB data cable from the touchscreen monitor directly to a USB port on the host computer or docking station to pass touch inputs.
3. Access your host operating system's display settings (such as Tablet PC Settings in Windows) to manually calibrate and map touch inputs to the correct display.

Applicable To

• Plugable USB video adapters based on DisplayLink technology
• Plugable docking stations based on DisplayLink technology
• Touchscreens using standard USB Human Interface Device (HID) drivers

No. Connecting a DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter does not disable your computer's built-in video outputs. You can generally use displays connected through those outputs alongside displays connected through DisplayLink.

Applicable To

Compatible Windows and Mac computers used with Plugable DisplayLink-based docks or USB graphics adapters.

How the Displays Work Together

The built-in HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, or Thunderbolt video outputs use the computer's native display capabilities. A DisplayLink-based dock or adapter adds USB graphics displays through DisplayLink software. These connections can operate at the same time when the computer, operating system, and products support the chosen setup.

Important Notes

The computer's native display limit still applies to displays connected through its built-in video outputs. DisplayLink displays have their own product and software requirements.

On macOS, DisplayLink Manager must be installed, running, and granted the required screen access permission for DisplayLink-connected displays to work.

The number of displays and achievable performance depend on the computer, operating system, USB connection, adapter or dock, and display configuration.

Need Assistance?

If a built-in video output stops working after connecting a dock or adapter, contact support@plugable.com with your computer model, operating system, Plugable model, each monitor's connection path, and the behavior you observe.

The use of Powerline-based network adapters in conjunction with the Ethernet port within our DisplayLink-based docking stations or video adapters is not supported.

Summary

Windows does not normally provide a brightness control in Display Settings for external monitors connected through a Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter.

To adjust the brightness of an external monitor, use the monitor's built-in controls or on-screen display (OSD).

Applicable To

This article applies to:

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations
• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB graphics adapters
• External monitors connected through DisplayLink on Windows 11 or Windows 10

Answer

The brightness slider available in Settings > System > Display is primarily intended for supported built-in displays, such as a laptop's internal screen.

When using an external monitor connected through a Plugable DisplayLink-based dock or video adapter, Windows may not provide a brightness slider for that display.

To adjust the monitor's brightness:

1. Use the physical buttons, joystick, or other controls on the monitor.
2. Open the monitor's on-screen display (OSD).
3. Locate the Brightness or Picture settings.
4. Adjust the brightness to the desired level.

Optional Software-Based Brightness Control

Some monitors support DDC/CI, which allows compatible software to control monitor settings such as brightness and contrast.

DisplayLink supports DDC/CI communication with compatible monitors, so a third-party DDC/CI utility may be able to adjust the brightness of a DisplayLink-connected monitor.

Support depends on the monitor, DisplayLink device, and software being used. Plugable recommends using the monitor's built-in controls when possible.

Need Assistance?

If you are having difficulty adjusting or configuring a display connected through a Plugable DisplayLink-based product, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

• Your Plugable product model
• Your computer model
• Your monitor model
• Your Windows version
• How the monitor is connected to the Plugable product

Summary

Plugable does not recommend or support using a traditional KVM switch with a Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station. Traditional KVM switches are designed to switch a computer's direct video output, keyboard, and mouse between systems. DisplayLink-based docking stations work differently because their video output is generated through USB data and DisplayLink software on the active host computer.

If you need to share a compatible USB 3.0 DisplayLink-based docking station between two computers, the recommended options are to manually move the dock's USB host cable between computers or use the Plugable USB3-SWITCH2 USB 3.0 Sharing Switch. The dock can only be used by one computer at a time.

The USB3-SWITCH2 option applies only to compatible USB 3.0 DisplayLink-based docking stations. It is not compatible with USB-C or Thunderbolt docks and hubs that rely on USB-C Power Delivery, USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, USB4, or Thunderbolt features.

Applicable To

This article does not apply to USB-C or Thunderbolt docking stations and hubs that require USB-C Power Delivery, USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, USB4, or Thunderbolt connectivity. Those products should be connected directly to the computer using the cable and connection type specified for that product.

Answer

Plugable does not recommend or support using a traditional KVM switch with a Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station.

A traditional KVM switch expects each computer to provide a direct video signal, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA, along with USB keyboard and mouse input. A DisplayLink-based docking station does not work like a passive video connection. Instead, the computer uses DisplayLink software to send compressed display data over USB to the DisplayLink chipset inside the dock, and the dock then outputs video to the connected monitor or monitors.

Because of this design, placing a traditional KVM switch into the display path or attempting to switch the dock as if it were a normal direct video connection can lead to detection issues, lost displays, incorrect display arrangement, blank screens, or unreliable behavior. This type of setup is not a supported Plugable configuration.

If the goal is to share one compatible USB 3.0 DisplayLink-based docking station between two computers, the better option is to switch the dock's USB connection between the computers. This can be done manually by moving the dock's USB host cable from one computer to the other, or by using the Plugable USB3-SWITCH2 with compatible USB 3.0 DisplayLink-based docks.

Why Traditional KVM Switches Are Not Recommended

DisplayLink video is an indirect display technology. The displays connected to the dock depend on the active host computer, the DisplayLink driver or DisplayLink Manager software, the USB data connection, and the DisplayLink chipset inside the dock.

A traditional video KVM switch generally expects a direct GPU video signal from each computer. This can be a poor match for a DisplayLink dock because the display signal is not coming directly from the computer's HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA port. It is being created by the dock after the DisplayLink USB connection has been established.

For that reason, the most reliable way to move a DisplayLink dock between computers is to treat the dock like a USB device: disconnect it from one computer, then connect it to the other computer. USB3-SWITCH2 provides a more convenient way to perform that USB switch for compatible USB 3.0 DisplayLink docks.

Recommended Options

Before You Begin

If you plan to use USB3-SWITCH2 with a compatible USB 3.0 DisplayLink-based docking station, confirm the following first:

• The dock is a USB 3.0 DisplayLink-based dock with a standard USB data connection to the host.
• The dock is not a USB-C or Thunderbolt dock that requires USB-C Power Delivery, USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, USB4, or Thunderbolt features.
• Both computers have the required DisplayLink software installed.
• Both computers meet the operating system requirements for the DisplayLink-based dock.
• Each laptop has its own power adapter connected if charging is needed. USB3-SWITCH2 does not charge laptops.
• Only one computer will use the dock at a time. The inactive computer will not have access to the dock, displays, Ethernet, audio, or USB devices connected through the dock.

How to Share a Compatible USB 3.0 DisplayLink Dock Using USB3-SWITCH2

1. Install the required DisplayLink software on both computers.
2. Connect the Plugable DisplayLink docking station to its power adapter.
3. Connect your displays, keyboard, mouse, Ethernet cable, speakers, or other peripherals to the docking station.
4. Connect the dock's upstream USB host connection to the shared USB device port on the USB3-SWITCH2.
5. Connect each computer to one of the USB3-SWITCH2 host ports using the USB cables included with the switch.
6. If either computer only has USB-C ports, use an appropriate USB-C to USB-A adapter on the computer side of the USB3-SWITCH2 connection.
7. Connect each laptop to its own charger if charging is required.
8. Press the button on the USB3-SWITCH2 to select which computer has control of the dock.
9. Wait for the operating system to detect the dock and restore the displays and connected devices.

Switching between computers acts like unplugging the dock from one computer and plugging it into the other. A short delay while the dock, displays, Ethernet, audio, and USB devices reconnect is normal.

Important Notes

• USB3-SWITCH2 is a USB sharing switch, not a traditional video KVM switch.
• The dock can only be controlled by one computer at a time.
• USB3-SWITCH2 does not provide laptop charging. Keep each laptop's normal charger connected if charging is needed.
• USB3-SWITCH2 is not compatible with USB-C or Thunderbolt docks and hubs, even when using adapters.
• Do not switch computers while files are actively being transferred to or from USB storage devices connected through the dock. Switching the active host disconnects USB devices from the previous computer.
• Display arrangement, scaling, resolution, and audio settings are stored by each computer's operating system, not by the dock. Each computer may need to be configured separately after the first connection.

Troubleshooting

1. The dock does not reconnect after switching computers

Wait 10 to 20 seconds after pressing the switch button. If the dock still does not reconnect, confirm that the correct host LED is active on the USB3-SWITCH2, then disconnect and reconnect the dock's USB cable from the switch.

If the issue continues, connect the dock directly to each computer without the USB3-SWITCH2. This helps determine whether the issue is related to the dock, the computer, the USB switch, or the cabling.

2. The displays do not appear on one computer

Confirm that the DisplayLink software is installed and running on that computer. Then test the dock directly connected to the computer. If the dock works when connected directly but not through the USB3-SWITCH2, try a different USB port on the computer and use the shortest practical USB cables.

3. The setup works on one computer but not the other

This usually points to a host-specific issue. Check that the second computer has the required DisplayLink software installed, supports the operating system requirements for the dock, and is connected to a working USB 3.0 or faster port.

4. A USB-C or Thunderbolt dock does not work through USB3-SWITCH2

This is expected. USB3-SWITCH2 does not support USB-C Power Delivery, USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, USB4, or Thunderbolt features. USB-C and Thunderbolt docks that depend on those features should be connected directly to the host computer.

5. The laptop does not charge through the USB3-SWITCH2

USB3-SWITCH2 does not provide laptop charging. If the laptop needs power, connect the laptop's normal charger directly to the laptop or use the charging method recommended for that computer.

6. USB storage devices disconnect when switching computers

Switching the USB3-SWITCH2 disconnects the dock and its attached USB devices from the previously active computer. Eject or safely remove USB storage devices before switching, and do not switch while a file transfer is in progress.

Need Assistance?

If you are unsure whether your Plugable DisplayLink-based dock is compatible with USB3-SWITCH2, or if the dock is not working as expected after following the steps above, contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

Please include the Plugable dock model, the model of the switch or KVM being used, both computer models, both operating system versions, and a brief description of how everything is connected.

For the fastest assistance, please also include the output from Plugable's PlugDebug diagnostic utility from each computer: PlugDebug.

Applicable To

• Docking Stations based on DisplayLink technology

Problem Summary

Connecting a USB 3.0 device to a laptop system can generate radio frequency interference that affects the performance of the laptop's built-in Wi-Fi adapter or wireless keyboard and mouse receivers. 

This behaviour is not specific to Plugable products, and Intel has published a white paper on the topic for those who are curious about the technical details.

white paper 

Troubleshooting Steps

So now that we know that this can happen with any type of USB 3.0 connection, how do we solve the problem should it occur? Every person’s setup can be a little different so there will never be one definitive solution, but a few simple approaches can solve the problem in most cases:

• Option One—Move the device as far as away from the system as the USB cable will allow. This will try and ‘move’ the signals from both the USB connection and the Wi-Fi physically further apart. As a corollary to this, if the dock is located very close to the Wi-Fi router itself, placing more distance between the two can help.
• Option Two—Switch to a different USB port on the system, preferably one on the opposite side of the laptop. This employs the same approach as option one, in that physically separating the two signals (in this case the physical proximity of the USB connection and the internal Wi-Fi antennas within your system) can help. If your system has both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports, try using the USB 2.0 port first.
• Option Three—Use a USB 2.0 cable, like one used connect to a USB printer, instead of a USB 3.0 cable. All USB 3.0 devices should be backward compatible with a USB 2.0 cable, and when a device is connected at USB 2.0 speeds there is no possibility for the interference.
• Option Four—Switch to using a 5GHz Wi-Fi connection. As the name implies, there are two common sets of frequencies used by most Wi-Fi networks (2.4GHz and 5GHz). If both your wireless router and the wireless network adapter in your system support a 5GHz connection (they both need to, one is not enough), connecting to your Wi-Fi in that manner will prevent the interference from happening due to the two very different frequencies in use.
• Option Five—If using a 5GHz connection is not possible, changing the ‘channel’ of a 2.4 GHz connection can help. Within the 2.4GHz band used for Wi-Fi, there are eleven different channels each using a slightly different frequency. The three most commonly used ones in the United States are channel 1, 6 and 11. Using the manual for your wireless router as a guide, switching channels can potentially help. Ideally you would want to switch the channel to the opposite end of the spectrum for the best results, for example if you are on channel one already try switching to channel eleven or vice-versa

Wireless Mouse or Wireless Keyboard Performance Issues (Radio Frequency Interference)

While the items listed above can help with Wi-Fi interference, there is another type of interference that can sometimes cause problems with wireless keyboards and wireless mice which we refer to as Radio Frequency (RF) interference. 

To expand further, the USB wireless receiver 'dongles' used by many wireless keyboards and wireless mice operate within the same 2.4GHz radio frequency range as many Wi-Fi adapters. 

If a USB 3.0 connection is generating interference, this can affect the behaviour of a wireless keyboard or wireless mouse. This behaviour typically manifests as inconsistent mouse movement and/or inconsistent or sporadic keystroke registration.

In general there are two methods to mitigate this behaviour should it occur:

• RF Option One—Reconnect the USB wireless receiver 'dongle' to one of the USB Docking Station's USB 2.0 ports (if the dock has USB 2.0 ports), furthest away from the USB 3.0 host connection cable. Moving the USB receiver to a USB 2.0 port typically mitigates this interference.
• RF Option Two—In rarer cases when moving the receiver is not enough or if the product in question does not have a USB 2.0 port, adding a short USB 2.0 extension cable can also help mitigate the behavior. In many cases wireless mice or keyboards include such a cable for this very reason, but if one is not available our USB2-2PORT is a good alternative solution.

If the Issue Persists

In some less common instances on Windows computers, erratic keyboard/mouse behaviour can be related to an issue with Intel Management Engine. We've written about this issue and the workaround that may fix it in another article in our Knowledge Base: My Mouse/Keyboard Is Not Working Well When Connected to the Device

Unsure which version of macOS you have installed? Click on the ‘Apple’ icon in the menu bar on your desktop and select ‘About this Mac’. A new window will open and display the system’s macOS version.

Running a newer version of macOS? Refer to our macOS 26 Tahoe, macOS 15 Sequoia, and macOS 14 Sonoma installation guide instead.

How to install the DisplayLink Manager application

1. Download the DisplayLink Manager from our drivers page here: https://plugable.com/pages/displaylink#macos

2. Open the DisplayLink Manager Graphics Connectivity 1.x.pkg

3. Click ‘Continue’ on ‘Introduction’ page

4. Click ‘Continue’ on ‘Licence’ page

5. Click ‘Agree’ when prompted

6. Click ‘Install’ on ‘Installation Type’ page

7. Input your password when prompted

8. When installation finishes click ‘Close’ on ‘Summary’ page

9. Click’ Move to bin’ when prompted

How to use DisplayLink Manager?

The following steps are to be followed once after installing the app.

1. After installation, the DisplayLink Manager app will start automatically and the DisplayLink Manager logo will show in the Menu Bar. It will be grey when the dock is disconnected (Connection status will show: No monitor detected) and white when connected (Connection status will show: Monitor detected). 

NOTE: The DisplayLink Manager app will only start on its own once after the initial installation. Step 5 shows how to setup the app to always start after logging-in (recommended). Otherwise the app has to be started manually each time (see step 2).

2. In case the app does not show in your Menu Bar, to start it manually, please press ‘command’ + ’space’ and type in DisplayLink Manager, click on the application to open it

a. Alternatively you can go to the Applications folder in Finder and click on the DisplayLink Manager there

3. When first opened, DisplayLink Manager will ask you to turn on notifications for the app. Click on the notification below when it shows up. It will open a Notifications window.

4. Turn on ‘Allow Notifications’ for DisplayLink Manager

5. Select “Launch automatically after logging-in” for the software to start automatically every time you log-in.

6. Screen Recording

NOTE: From macOS Catalina 10.15, the operating system requires the user to permit "Screen Recording" in order for DisplayLink based devices (like Plugable UD-3900) to work properly. The message is generated by the OS and the screen is not actually being recorded by DisplayLink. Approving it enables the DisplayLink driver to access the pixels it needs to render a mirrored or extended screen and send the pixels over USB from your computer to the DisplayLink display. DisplayLink Manager does not store or record any screen content.

a. If you enabled notifications in step 3 you will see the below message if Screen Recording is switched off

b. This message will also show in the DisplayLink Manager app window and there will be an exclamation mark ‘!’ next to the DisplayLink Manager icon.

7. To enable “Screen Recording”

a. Go to System Preferences and click on Security & Privacy

b. In the ‘Privacy’ tab scroll down to ‘Screen Recording’ and click on the padlock to make changes

c. Enter password to allow the system to make changes

d. Tick the box next to ‘DisplayLink Manager’ and click ‘Quit and reopen’ when prompted.

e. Click on a padlock to save the changes.

Other functions of the DisplayLink Manager

Login screen extension (Optional)

This enables the external screens to be available on the login screen prior to the app loading after logging into your account.

1. Download the Login Screen Extension from the link available on the front page of the DisplayLink Manager.

2. Install the extension.

3. Once the installation is complete the extension will show as ‘Installed’

Support

NOTE: Opening a ticket through the Support tab will contact the DisplayLink engineering team in Europe. We recommend contacting support@plugable.com if you have any questions or issues. 

Before you begin

Unsure which version of macOS you have installed on your Mac? Click on the ‘Apple’ icon within the menu bar located at the top of your desktop and select ‘About this Mac’. A new window will open and display the system’s macOS version.

Running a newer version of macOS? Refer to our macOS 26 Tahoe, macOS 15 Sequoia, and macOS 14 Sonoma installation guide instead.

Guided Video Demonstration

For those who prefer, we have a video demonstration of the installation procedure available (an embedded link is below). 

For those who prefer, a detailed text-based description of the installation process (including screenshots) is available within the next section.  

How to install the DisplayLink Manager application

1. Download the correct version of the DisplayLink Manager Application for your version of macOS from here → Link 

2. Double-click on the file you downloaded to start the application installer: 

3. From within the ‘Introduction’ section of the application installer,  click on the ‘Continue’ button to start the installation process:

4. After having read the license information from within the ‘License’ section of the application installer, click on the ‘Continue’ button 

5. Click on the ‘Agree’ button in order to agree to the software license agreement.

6. From within the ‘Installation Type’ section of the application installer, click on the ‘Install’ button:

7. When prompted, please enter your system password and click on the ‘Install Software’ button to start the installation. The installation process will begin:

8. The application installer will notify you when the installation process has been completed. Please click on the ‘Close’ button in order to close the application installer. 

*** NOTE - If the installation process does not complete successfully, please see this knowledge base article --> LINK for a list of potential causes and possible solutions. ***

9. You should see a request from the DisplayLink Manager Application to allow the application to display notifications, when necessary.  Click on the ‘Options’ button within the request and click the ‘Allow’ option:

10. Once the application installation is complete, please connect your DisplayLink device to your Mac

11. Once the device is connected, macOS will notify you that the ‘DisplayLink Manager’ application would like to record the computer’s screen. Click the ‘Open System Preferences’ button in order to grant this access.  

12. The ‘Security & Privacy’ application will open, with the default view showing the ‘Privacy’ tab with the ‘Screen Recording’ option selected by default:

13. Click on the gold padlock at the bottom of the application window to enable changes.

14. If prompted, enter your password and click the ‘Unlock’ button:

15. Click to place a checkmark next to the DisplayLink Manager entry:

16. You will be prompted to Quit and Reopen the DisplayLink Manager application in order for the change to take effect. Please do so:

18. Once this change is complete, the displays connected to your DisplayLink-based product will start working automatically.  

** Please note - The DisplayLink Manager Application does NOT in fact record or store any information. This permission must be granted in order for the DisplayLink Application to access the information it needs in order to generate the image shown on the DisplayLink-connected displays. **

19. Click on the DisplayLink Manager Application icon that is now present within the Apple Menu bar at the top of your screen. This will reveal the DisplayLink Manager Application status window:

20. Within the DisplayLink Manager Application status window, next to the ‘Automatic startup’ section, click to place a checkmark next to the ‘Launch automatically after login’ option. This ensures that the application will be started each time you start your Mac. 

21. In order to receive notifications from macOS while a DisplayLink device is connected to your Mac, you must make a change within the ‘Notifications & Focus’ System Preferences application. 

Click on the ‘System Preferences’ icon (which looks like a gear) within the macOS Dock at the bottom of your screen.  

Click on the ‘Notifications & Focus’ application icon:

22. Within the ‘Notifications’ tab of the ‘Notifications & Focus’ application, next to the ‘Allow notifications’ label, click to place a checkmark next to the ‘When mirroring or sharing the display’ option. This will allow you to receive notifications from macOS while the DisplayLink device is connected. 

23. Once all of the previous steps are done, the installation process is now complete.

How to use DisplayLink Manager for macOS

Once the DisplayLink Manager Application is installed, the application can be accessed via the DisplayLink Manager application status icon located within the Apple Menu Bar at the top of your screen:

** If the DisplayLink Manager Application status icon is not visible within the Menu Bar, then the application has not been started.  Please open a new ‘Finder’ window and navigate to the ‘Applications’ folder.  Within the ‘Applications’ folder, double-click on the DisplayLink Application icon in order to start the application. **

Within the ‘Home’ tab of the DisplayLink Manager Application, there are a few different items listed.  The items listed will vary depending upon which version of the DisplayLink Manager Application that is installed, and the following list describes the features present in DisplayLink Manager version 1.7.1.  

Login Screen Extension

By default, the ‘Login screen extension status:’ section will display, “Available to download and Install”

When an Apple Mac system is first powered on and reaches the login prompt, 3rd-party applications (such as the DisplayLink Manager application) are not yet running.  As a result, DisplayLink-connected displays will not function. 

Downloading and installing the Login screen extension (available by clicking on the ‘download’ link within DisplayLink Manager) will allow the DisplayLink-connected displays to function prior to logging in.  

This is of course an optional feature, and is not required to use DisplayLink devices.  However, this option is useful in certain situations, such as when only DisplayLink-connected displays are connected to the host Mac. 

Automatic startup

As the name suggests, placing a checkmark next to the ‘Launch automatically after login’ option allows the DisplayLink Application to start automatically each time the system is powered on. We recommend checking this option in the interest of efficiency. 

Apple Watch unlock

As the name suggests, placing a checkmark next to the ‘Use Apple Watch to unlock on the login screen’ will allow you to unlock your Mac using an Apple Watch while connected to a DisplayLink device. 

Apple has more information on this process here → https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT206995 

** Please note that this feature is not compatible with screensavers. To use Apple Watch unlock with your DisplayLink device, you must disable your screensaver. **

f.lux app support (Beta)

There is a 3rd-party application called 'f.lux' --> https://justgetflux.com/  that allows the adjustment of a display's color according to the time of day. If the f.lux application has been installed, placing a checkmark next to the 'f.lux app support (Beta)' option will enable f.lux to change the color of a DisplayLink connected display.

A few important notes about this feature:

A. This functionality is in 'beta' status, as the label suggests.  As a result, there may be cases where things may not work as expected when this option is enabled. 

B. This functionality is supported with devices based on the DisplayLink DL-3xxx chipset, DL-5xxx chipset, and DL-6xxx chipset.  However, it is important to note that on DL-6xxx chipsets this functionality is limited to DisplayPort video outputs only. It is NOT supported on HDMI video outputs via DL-6xxx chipsets.

System sleep in display-closed mode

Mac laptops running macOS 12 Monterey or newer can be used in one of two ways when used in conjunction with a DisplayLink-based product. 

The first way is with the laptop lid open, with the laptop's built-in internal display enabled.  

The second way is with the laptop lid closed, with the laptop's built-in internal display disabled.  This is known as closed display mode or 'clamshell' mode. 

In order to enter closed display mode while connected to a DisplayLink-based product, the host Mac must have an external power source connected and an external keyboard and mouse connected. 

Placing a checkmark next to 'Power save all displays and sleep in clamshell' changes this behavior, in that closing the laptop lid will cause the host Mac to go to sleep. 

This feature is of course optional, and its use is a matter of personal preference.  

Display rotation and toggle

The functionality presented within this section of the DisplayLink Manager Application will vary depending upon which type of processor is within the host Mac.

Macs with an Intel processor

When DisplayLink devices are used in conjunction with Apple Mac systems that have an Intel processor, a list of all the DisplayLink-connected displays will appear within this section. 

The individual displays can be turned on or off as desired by clicking on the toggle switch next to each display's name. You can differentiate between each display by hovering the mouse pointer over each display name.  When doing so, a red identification box will appear within the selected display.

You can rotate the orientation of the DisplayLink-connected displays within the ‘Displays’ macOS System Preferences application.

Macs with an Apple M1 or M2 processor

When DisplayLink devices are used in conjunction with Apple Mac systems that have an Apple M1 or M2 processor, display rotation must be done from within the DisplayLink Manager Application and the host Mac must be running macOS 12 Monterey or later (display rotation is not available on M1 Macs running macOS 11 Big Sur). 

Each DisplayLink-connected display attached to the M1 or M2 system will be listed next to the ‘Display rotation’ area. Click on the drop-down selection box and select the appropriate degree of rotation. 

If multiple displays are present, you can differentiate between each display by hovering the mouse pointer over each display name.  When doing so, a red identification box will appear within the selected display.

Synaptics (the creators of DisplayLink technology) have more information on this feature here --> Link

In addition to the rotation aspect described above, the individual displays can be turned on or off as desired by clicking on the toggle switch next to each display's name.  As mentioned above, you can differentiate between each display by hovering the mouse pointer over each display name.  When doing so, a red identification box will appear within the selected display.

Summary

If the displays connected through a Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter stopped working after upgrading to macOS 13 Ventura, DisplayLink Manager may no longer be running correctly or may no longer have the required macOS Screen Recording permission.

First confirm that DisplayLink Manager is running and has the required permission. If the displays are still not working, perform a clean reinstall using the current Plugable-recommended DisplayLink Manager version for macOS 13.

Applicable To

This article applies to:

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations
• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB graphics adapters
• Macs running macOS 13 Ventura

If you are using macOS 14 Sonoma, macOS 15 Sequoia, macOS 26 Tahoe, or a newer version of macOS, refer to Plugable's current DisplayLink troubleshooting guidance instead.

Answer

DisplayLink-connected displays require the DisplayLink Manager application to be installed, running, and granted the required macOS Screen Recording permission.

A macOS update may require DisplayLink Manager or its permissions to be restored before DisplayLink-connected displays will work again.

1. Confirm DisplayLink Manager Is Running

Open Finder > Applications and launch DisplayLink Manager.

Confirm that the DisplayLink Manager icon appears in the macOS menu bar.

If the displays begin working, no additional steps are required.

2. Check Screen Recording Permission

Open:

Apple menu > System Settings > Privacy & Security > Screen Recording

Confirm that DisplayLink Manager is enabled.

If you enable or change this permission, macOS may require DisplayLink Manager to quit and reopen before the change takes effect.

If the displays are still not working, continue to the clean reinstall procedure below.

Clean Reinstall DisplayLink Manager

1. Disconnect the Plugable Product

Disconnect the Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter from the Mac.

If the product has an external power adapter, disconnect power from the product as well.

2. Remove DisplayLink Manager

Use the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner for macOS to completely remove DisplayLink Manager and its associated components.

For detailed instructions, see:

How to Uninstall DisplayLink Manager Software on macOS

3. Restart the Mac

After the cleanup is complete, restart the Mac using:

Apple menu > Restart

4. Install the Current macOS 13 DisplayLink Manager Version

Download the current Plugable-recommended DisplayLink Manager version for macOS 13 Ventura from Plugable's DisplayLink Drivers and Software page.

Follow Plugable's macOS 13 DisplayLink Manager installation instructions to complete the installation and grant the required macOS permissions.

5. Reconnect the Plugable Product

After installation is complete:

1. Reconnect power to the Plugable product, if applicable.
2. Reconnect the Plugable product to the Mac.
3. Confirm that DisplayLink Manager is running.
4. Confirm that the external displays are detected.

Important Note

macOS 13 Ventura is a legacy macOS release. Plugable provides a specific legacy DisplayLink Manager version for macOS 13.

Do not install a DisplayLink Manager version intended only for newer macOS releases. Use the version listed for macOS 13 on Plugable's DisplayLink Drivers and Software page.

Need Assistance?

If your DisplayLink-connected displays are still not working after completing the steps above, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

1. Your Plugable product model
2. Your Mac model
3. Your macOS version
4. Your DisplayLink Manager version
5. The make and model of the connected displays
6. A description of what occurred before the displays stopped working
7. The output from Plugable's diagnostic tool, PlugDebug

Many streaming video services require High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) enabled devices from the video source all the way to the display.  We speak more to HDCP here (https://kb.plugable.com/en_US/docking-stations-and-video/381072-video-hdcp). The DisplayLink hardware and software used to enable multiple external displays with our docking stations requires enabling the "Screen Recording" permissions in macOS, which disables HDCP video playback system-wide.

Why DisplayLink Disables HDCP Video Playback

The DisplayLink software renders the external display and transmits it as USB data to the docking station. Apple does not have a specific security category for USB external displays, so "Screen Recording" is the required setting. This disables HDCP system-wide because there is no differentiation within macOS for the DisplayLink-controlled external displays from the displays controlled by the internal graphics controller.

Working Around HDCP Limitations

To view HDCP-protected content, a DisplayLink-based docking station/video adapter cannot be used to connect any displays. Thunderbolt docks can sometimes be a suitable alternative solution which does support playback of HDCP-protected content.

Keep in mind that the total number of display connections available through a Thunderbolt dock is dependent on your specific Mac model:

• Base M1 and M2 Apple Silicon chips natively support only a single external display via Thunderbolt.

• Base M3 Apple Silicon chips natively support up to two external displays, but only when the laptop lid is closed.

• Base M4 and M5 Apple Silicon chips natively support up to two external displays.

• Pro versions of the M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5 chips natively support up to two external displays.

• Max versions of the M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5 chips natively support up to four external displays depending on the specific port configuration used.

Please feel free to contact our support team at 'support@plugable.com' if you have any additional questions regarding HDCP compatibility, video playback, or multiple display support with your computer.

Applies to:

Apple Mac computers with external displays connected through:

• Plugable USB-C Triple Display Docking Stations with DisplayLink USB Graphics Technology
• Plugable USB 3.0 Dual Display Docking Stations with DisplayLink USB Graphics Technology
• Plugable USB 3.0 Graphics Adapters with DisplayLink USB Graphics Technology

In some cases when using computers running Windows, external displays connected to our DisplayLink based docking stations or graphics adapters may intermittently "blink" off and on again, flicker, or reset - moving active application windows to another display.

Common Causes

For Windows 10 and Windows 11 host computers, in some cases the cause of this behavior is out of date graphics processing unit (GPU) drivers. Most Windows computers can receive updated GPU drivers through the Microsoft Windows Update feature of Windows, however in some cases these drivers will not be the latest versions available from the GPU manufacturer. 

GPU manufacturers provide the latest graphics drivers from their websites, and in most cases the latest drivers provide better performance, security, and compatibility than older versions. 

Note, some Windows computers have two GPUs, in what is called a 'hybrid graphics' arrangement. The first GPU is integrated into the host computer's CPU and the second GPU is a discrete device. The purpose of hybrid graphics systems is to allow the host computer to chose between both GPUs as needs dictate. Speaking in general, integrated GPUs consume less power but may not be as performant as discrete GPUs. Discrete GPUs will be more performant than integrated GPUs, however will consume more power. For hybrid graphics systems, two GPU drivers may need to be updated. 

Determining your computer's GPU models

Most hardware manufacturer's provide a single unified driver package for a wide range of graphics controllers, however it is best practice to ensure the drivers are compatible with the hardware. We can look up the graphics controller through Windows "msinfo32.exe" System Information application:

1. Open the Start Menu
2. Search for "msinfo32" then select the best match "System Information App"
3. Note the "Processor" model details in the "System Summary" section, as some graphics drivers are referenced by the processor model
4. In the left pane, expand the section "System Summary > Components" and then select "Display"
5. In the right pane note the value for the item "Name", this will be the graphics controller for discrete graphics controller

Updating the Graphics Drivers to the latest version

For systems with Intel Graphics Processing Units (GPUs)

1. Using the information you gathered from the Windows System Information application, download the latest Intel GPU driver for your system from here --> https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/products/80939/graphics.html
2. Double-click on the file downloaded from step #1 to start the installation process, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. 
3. If there is an error message while updating the graphics drivers with regard to an "OEM" or "System Manufacturer's" driver or that these drivers are incompatible with the computer, Intel provides additional details and steps to remove OEM or legacy drivers from the system here --> https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/articles/000056629/graphics-drivers.html
4. After the GPU driver installation is complete, restart the computer. 

For systems with NVIDIA Graphics Processing Units (GPUs)

1. Using the information you gathered from the Windows System Information application, download the latest Nvidia GPU driver for your system from here --> https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/drivers/
2. Double-click on the file downloaded from step #1 to start the installation process, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. 
3. After the GPU driver installation is complete, restart the computer. 

For systems with AMD Graphics Processing Units (GPUs)

1. Using the information you gathered from the Windows System Information application, download the latest AMD GPU driver for your system from here --> https://www.amd.com/en/support/download/drivers.html
2. Double-click on the file downloaded from step #1 to start the installation process, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. 
3. After the GPU driver installation is complete, restart the computer. 

Applicable To

Windows 10 or Windows 11 systems using Plugable DisplayLink based docking station or graphics adapter products. 

Summary

With the release of macOS 13.3.1, we have started to see a few reports of the macOS WindowServer crashing on Apple Silicon-based computers (M1/M2 processors).  The crash occurs either at user account login if a DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter is connected to the computer; when connecting the DisplayLink-controlled display to the computer after login; or when launching the DisplayLink Manager App with the external display connected to the computer.

We have seen this behavior in the past when macOS's display persistence files have become corrupted or include incompatible display configurations or settings.  The fix was to manually remove two display persistence ".plist" files; however, the DisplayLink Support Tool for macOS has an option to reset the display persistence to quickly resolve this behavior. The process is detailed below:

Applicable To

Mac computers using DisplayLink Manager with external displays connected through a Plugable DisplayLink dock or USB graphics adapter.

Before You Begin

Disconnect the DisplayLink dock or adapter from the Mac so you can log in. Save and close open work before resetting the layout because the Mac will need to restart.

1. Unplug the DisplayLink controlled external display from the computer and log into the desktop
2. Download the DisplayLink Support Tool for macOS
3. Select the "DisplayLink Support Tool for macOS6.3.163-EXE.zip" from the downloads to extract the "DisplayLink Information.app" to the Downloads directory, a Finder window should open showing the extracted file
   
4. Double-click on the "DisplayLink Information.app" from the Downloads folder to start the tool
   
5. This will open a window for the DisplayLink Information tool, however we can ignore this for now. From the macOS top bar, next to "DisplayLink Information" select "Advanced" then "Reset screen layout"
   
6. You will be prompted for the account password to proceed, enter your password, then click the "OK" button
   
7. Next you will be prompted to reboot the computer, save and close any open applications then click on the "Reboot" button to proceed
   
8. After rebooting the computer, log into the desktop and reconnect the external display(s), you may need to rearrange the external displays through the Apple Menu > System Settings > Displays > Arrange settings panel

Important Notes

Resetting the screen layout removes saved display arrangement settings. After reconnecting your displays, you may need to arrange them again in Apple menu > System Settings > Displays. This procedure addresses a saved layout issue; a login failure can also have other causes.

Need Assistance?

If the Mac still returns to the login screen or shows a WindowServer error, contact support@plugable.com with your Mac model, macOS version, DisplayLink Manager version, Plugable product model, and the exact error or behavior observed.

Island can be set by your organization to block the macOS screen capture API which the DisplayLink Manager needs to access the Screen Recording permission to produce a virtual display to its monitors. When that policy is active, Island may refuse to load protected sites or content while DisplayLink Manager is running. Plugable cannot change this from the dock or the DisplayLink driver; it is controlled by your organization's Island policy.

Why the Island Enterprise Browser Blocks DisplayLink Monitors

A DisplayLink dock does not receive video directly from the Mac's graphics hardware. Instead, the DisplayLink Manager application builds the image for each external monitor in software and sends it to the dock over USB. To do that, macOS requires DisplayLink Manager to hold the Screen Recording permission. DisplayLink Manager is not saving or sending a recording of your screen; macOS uses the same permission category for any application that needs to read screen contents. More detail is in Why Does macOS Say “DisplayLink Manager Is Capturing Your Screen”?

Island is a browser built for managed work environments. One of its data protection controls lets an organization block screenshots and screen sharing so that protected content cannot be captured. Island cannot tell the difference between an application that records the screen and one, like DisplayLink Manager, that reads the screen only to power a virtual display. 

Are DisplayLink Docking Stations Compatible with Island?

At this time, we cannot confirm compatibility between DisplayLink-based docking stations and the Island Enterprise Browser.

Applicable To

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations and USB graphics adapters, such as the UD-6950PDH
• Mac computers with the DisplayLink Manager application installed
• Organizations that use the Island Enterprise Browser with a policy that restricts screenshots or screen sharing

No. Most DisplayPort to HDMI cables and adapters are one-way adapters from a DisplayPort Source (computer or docking station) to a HDMI Sink (television, computer monitor, or projector). These cables do not work in reverse.

Why is DisplayPort to HDMI often a one-way conversion?

DisplayPort uses packet-based data transmission, breaking the video stream into individual packets of data allows for longer cable runs, use in both copper and fiber-optic cables, and allows for higher bandwidth than other video formats. It is relatively easy to convert from DisplayPort to HDMI (computers with HDMI output ports already do this internally) and dual-mode DisplayPort outputs (DP++) have built-in adapters to output a HDMI signal for use with passive DisplayPort to HDMI adapters.

HDMI historically uses a Transmission-Minimized Differential Signaling (TDMS) video signal originally based on DVI's signal, this requires more power to operate at the same cable lengths as DisplayPort and requires significantly more processing power to convert from HDMI to DisplayPort packet-based data. The latest HDMI specifications enable the new Fixed Rate Link (FRL) which is packet based similar to but not directly compatible with DisplayPort.

Externally powered HDMI to DisplayPort adapters do exist, these generally have a USB or small barrel plug for power, and can convert from a HDMI Source to DisplayPort Sink. In most cases they have reduced resolution or refresh rates compared to modern signal sources and can introduce delay in the data connection between the display and computer potentially causing reduced connectivity or display performance problems.

We do not currently recommend using HDMI to DisplayPort adapter with our docking stations. In our testing they have been unreliable compared to a native DisplayPort connection. Many of our newer docking stations include both HDMI and DisplayPort outputs to reduce the need for additional adapters or adapter cables.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!

We have a produced a series of videos that introduce the general concepts of multi-monitor setups in Windows, how to change the way things behave, as well as how to solve common problems. Direct links to some of the videos our customers have found useful are:

Introduction to Multiple Displays in Windows --> LINK

Common Multi-Monitor Problem - Spatial Orientation --> LINK

Multi-Monitor Problem - Spatial Orientation Part Two --> LINK

How to make a Display the 'Main' Display in Windows 10 --> LINK

How to make a Display the 'Main' Display in Windows 11 --> LINK

Introduction to Display Scaling in Windows --> LINK

Quickly change display settings with the Windows+P Shortcut --> LINK

Troubleshooting A Disconnected Display with the UD-3900 --> LINK

How to Set Different Backgrounds on Multiple Monitors in Windows 10 --> LINK

Keyboard Shortcuts for Moving Applications on a Multiple Monitor Windows Setup --> LINK

How to Change Your Display's Refresh Rate in Windows --> LINK

How to Fix a “Phantom Display” on Windows --> LINK

Are Plugable Ethernet Adapters Compatible With iPhone?

Yes. Plugable ethernet adapters are compatible with USB-C iPhone Air, iPhone 15, 16, 17, 18,  / Pro / Pro Max models running iOS 17 or newer, and they work plug-and-play with no drivers or setup required.

How to Confirm Your iPhone Is Using an Ethernet Connection

After plugging in the adapter and connecting an ethernet cable, open the iOS Settings app. The ethernet connection will be identified there once the iPhone detects it.

Applicable To

The following ethernet adapters from Plugable have been tested and verified to work with iPhone:

• Plugable ethernet adapters USBC-E5000, USBC-E2500PD, USBC-E2500, USBC-E1000, USBC-TE1000
• USB-C hubs with built-in ethernet USBC-11IN1E, USBC-10IN1E, USBC-9IN1E, USBC-8IN1E, USBC-7IN1E

How Do I Benchmark and Troubleshoot Network Adapter Performance Using iPerf?

Problem Summary

Network adapter performance issues or unexpected speed throttling are commonly caused by local network bottlenecks, driver configurations, VPN services, or Wi-Fi priority settings rather than adapter hardware defects. Establishing a direct point-to-point connection and running an iPerf benchmark isolates network bottlenecks and confirms whether the adapter is achieving its rated throughput.

Isolating the Issue

We recommend starting by isolating the issue to the lowest OSI layer and working up. The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model is a framework for understanding network communications and is divided into seven layers:

1. Physical - This is the physical adapters, wires between two points. It can be thought of as each discrete component for example a USB to Ethernet adapter, or Ethernet cable.
2. Data Link Layer - This layer handles the direct communications between devices, using the hardware MAC Address. Communications at this layer are blocked by a router. (MAC address) hardware: Ethernet switch
3. Network Layer - This layer includes the IP address and allows for transmitting data between routed networks. (IPv4, IPv6) hardware: Router.
4. Transport Layer - This layer handles the end-to-end message delivery, and optionally error recovery and flow control, and operates in software. (TCP, UDP). For our purposes this as high as Plugable products really interact, the three next layers are independent of our products.
5. Session Layer - Opens, manages, and closes sessions between applications.
6. Presentation Layer - This includes SSL/TLS encryption, data formats like JPEG or PNG
7. Application Layer - This is the interaction layer for most users and applications, including web pages: HTML, JavaScript etc content.

Physical

When you receive no network connection at all, try a different Ethernet cable, Ethernet switch port, or bypass any devices and connections between the computer's network port and the Ethernet switch. Intermediary devices and connections (like keystone wall sockets, IP telephony systems, etc) can cause reduced network reliability. Check for the Ethernet port Link and Activity LEDs on both the computer's Ethernet adapter, and the switch port.

Data Link and Network

For simplicity these can be combined for testing, check to see if the system is receiving an IP address with terminal commands like ipconfig /all in Windows, or ip -a -br -4 in Linux. We can also check for local network connectivity by "pinging" a local resource like the router ping 192.168.1.1 where "192.168.1.1" is the IP address of the router - this will depend on your specific network configuration.

For performance related issues testing the local network, that is devices connected by one or more Ethernet switches, or even directly connected Ethernet port to Ethernet port is the first step in narrowing down an internet slowdown, to determine if the issue is between the computer and router, or between the router and internet service provider.

Local network performance testing can take a couple of forms, the most common is a utility like iPerf3 that is specifically designed for testing or benchmark a network connection. iPerf3 is designed specifically for Linux and Unix-like operating systems, it has been ported by 3rd parties to both Windows and macOS but has some limitations.

iPerf 3 Basic Benchmark

Testing with iPerf3 requires two computers - a server and a client. Generally we recommend a Linux system for the server, this will be more stable and provide more testing options, however a Windows or macOS server may also be used for basic testing. The client computer can also be Linux, Windows, or macOS, again with some limitations for non-Linux clients that shouldn't impact this this testing.

Installing iPerf3

For Linux install iPerf3 from your package manager: for Fedora (Redhat based distributions): sudo dnf -y install iperf3, or for Ubuntu (Debian based): sudo apt update && sudo apt install iperf3.

For Windows iPerf3 has been maintained by a 3rd party on GitHub and can be downloaded by selecting the Releases on the right column.

For macOS the easiest installation is through homebrew: brew install iperf3.

Configure the Server

Connect the computer to the network - or directly to the client computer - direct connections are not covered here but you can look up how to manually set IP addresses on both computers. Then look up the IP address assigned to the server open a terminal and run the following command

• Windows: ipconfig /all
• Linux: ip -br -4 addr
• Mac: You will need to look up the IP address through the macOS Apple Menu > System Settings > Network settings menu

The server simply needs to run iPerf3 with the -s argument. Open a terminal and navigate to the iPerf3 executable (Windows - for Linux and macOS after installation iPerf3 will be in the PATH), and run the program

• Windows: iperf3.exe -s
• Linux/mac: iperf3 -s

Running a test

The most basic tests iPerf3 offers are 10-second upload or download tests, however there are many configuration options available to us. Open a terminal and navigate to the iPerf3 executable (Windows - for Linux and macOS after installation iPerf3 will be in the PATH), and run the program:

• Windows: iperf3.exe -c Server_IP
• Linux/mac: iperf3 -c Server_IP

This will start an upload test to the server and print the result after each second, and a summary result to the terminal.

We can similarly start a download test by adding the -R reverse direction flag with the following:

• Windows: iperf3.exe -c Server_IP -R
• Linux/mac: iperf3 -c Server_IP -R

Here is the example output of a download test from a local server at 192.168.1.250.

Connecting to host 192.168.1.250, port 5201
Reverse mode, remote host 192.168.1.250 is sending
[  5] local 192.168.1.90 port 39982 connected to 192.168.1.250 port 5201
[ ID] Interval           Transfer     Bitrate
[  5]   0.00-1.00   sec   112 MBytes   935 Mbits/sec                  
[  5]   1.00-2.00   sec   112 MBytes   936 Mbits/sec                  
[  5]   2.00-3.00   sec   112 MBytes   937 Mbits/sec                  
[  5]   3.00-4.00   sec   112 MBytes   936 Mbits/sec                  
[  5]   4.00-5.00   sec   112 MBytes   936 Mbits/sec                  
[  5]   5.00-6.00   sec   112 MBytes   936 Mbits/sec                  
[  5]   6.00-7.00   sec   112 MBytes   937 Mbits/sec                  
[  5]   7.00-8.00   sec   112 MBytes   936 Mbits/sec                  
[  5]   8.00-9.00   sec   112 MBytes   936 Mbits/sec                  
[  5]   9.00-10.00  sec   112 MBytes   936 Mbits/sec                  
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
[ ID] Interval           Transfer     Bitrate         Retr
[  5]   0.00-10.04  sec  1.09 GBytes   935 Mbits/sec    0             sender
[  5]   0.00-10.00  sec  1.09 GBytes   936 Mbits/sec                  receiver

iperf Done.

Each line shows the amount of data and average speed within a 1-second interval, this is great for catching intermittent issues, brief or transient slowdowns etc.

The summary (below the dashed lines) shows the Bitrate at 935 or 936 Mbits/second - measured by the client and serve respectively, with zero Retr (Re-transmits) from the client. This is pretty typical for a gigabit Ethernet connection (1000Mbps) through a home network (in this case two Ethernet switches).

Longer tests can be run by specifying the number of seconds: -t SECONDS where SECONDS is the time in seconds, for example 600 for 10 minutes. Additional settings and options can be found in the iPerf3 documentation and manual.

What does iPerf3 tell us?

iPerf3 tests the network bandwidth between two computers, by default this uses TCP (up to OSI Layer 4), for a local network segment. If the network performance between the client and server meets the expected bandwidth then performance issues are most likely outside of this scope. Internet speed testing can test the performance from the local network to the internet resource, however internet speeds will generally be less stable than local network speeds, many ISPs (Internet Service Providers) use shared bandwidth for multiple customers which can create slow times of day (for example when people start getting home from school/work), and may have asynchronous upload and download speeds. When comparing internet speed test results we recommend keeping your internet service expectations in mind.

For internet speed tests there are many options from different providers, these generally all operate through the web browser, introducing potential slowdowns from browser extensions and configuration, VPN (Virtual Private Network) connections and more. Here are some of the more common internet-based speed tests we see.

• Netflix Fast.com
• Ookla Speedtest
• OpenSpeedTest - free and open source
• Google Fiber Speed Test

If benchmark speeds remain significantly lower than expected or the test fails to run, verify that both host computers support the targeted Ethernet link rates, test with a Cat 6a or better Ethernet cable, and temporarily disable security software that may filter local network traffic. If performance issues continue, contact Plugable support at support@plugable.com with your product model, host system specifications, and iPerf test results or PlugDebug diagnostic logs.

Applicable To

• Plugable products with Ethernet ports, or Plugable Ethernet adapters
• Systems running Windows, macOS, or Linux

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!

Windows defaults to putting the computer to sleep when the lid is closed, even if there are external displays and devices connected, we can change this setting to enable closing the lid while using a docking station.

Recommended Setup

To ensure the computer can reliably function with the lid closed there are some requirements and recommendations:

1. The system should be powered: This can be from a USB Type-C Docking Station with host charging, or by connecting the laptop's original power source.
2. There should be at least one external display connected, this can be through a docking station, or directly to the computer.
3. There should be a keyboard and mouse connected, either through a docking station, USB Hub, or directly to the computer.

Windows 11 24H2 and Newer

1. Right-click on the Start menu and select Power Options from the context menu

   

2. Expand the Lid, power & sleep button controls sub-section

   

3. Under Plugged in select Do Nothing from the Closing the lid will make my PC  context menu

Windows 11 23H2 and Earlier

1. Right-click on the Start menu and select Power Options from the context menu

   

2. In the upper left corner of the settings window, in the search box, type "lid" then select Change what closing the lid does from the search results

   

3. Make sure the setting for When I close the lid under the Plugged In column is set to Do Nothing

   

4. Click the Save Changes button to apply the new settings.

Windows 10

1. Start by right-clicking on the Start button and select Power Options from the menu.
2. From the right side of the Power Options settings page, select the blue link for Additional power settings

   

3. From the choices present on the left-hand side of the Power Options window, please click on Choose what closing the lid does
4. Make sure the setting for When I close the lid under the Plugged In column is set to Do Nothing

   

5. Click the Save Changes button and restart the system (making sure that the laptop's power adapter is also connected) and test the behavior again.

Closing the lid should no longer put the computer into sleep mode when an external display and power source is connected, instead one of the external displays should now become the Primary display with the desktop icons instead of the laptop's built-in display.

When to open the lid?

The laptop lid may still need to be opened when performing any of the following:

• To power on the computer from a fully powered off state
• To log into the computer if logged out or if the computer is restarted with the lid closed
• To wake the computer from a deep sleep state (hibernation, or Windows hybrid sleep states)

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!

Unsure which version of macOS you have installed? Click on the ‘Apple’ icon in the menu bar on your desktop and select ‘About this Mac’. A new window will open and display the system’s macOS version.

'Legacy' DisplayLink Driver installation for macOS 10.15 Catalina

We also have a video that demonstrates this process here –> https://youtu.be/ixWKrd5SLKs

Before you begin

If have installed a previous version of the DisplayLink driver, please uninstall it and then reboot your system before proceeding.

1. Download the latest driver for macOS 10.15 Catalina from here -> Link

2. Navigate to your Downloads folder and double-click on the DisplayLink driver download

3, The disk image of the driver will mount, and automatically open the DisplayLink Installer main landing page.

4. Double-click on the ‘DisplayLink Software Installer.pkg’ file. The Install DisplayLink Driver page will open.

 *** Depending on your system’s security settings, the installer may not open and instead present you with a warning ***

Click on the ‘OK’ button to dismiss the warning, and then open ‘System Preferences’ (gear icon) and then open the ‘Security & Privacy’ application.

Click on the ‘Open Anyway’ button in the lower right-hand portion of the application window. Then click the ‘Open’ button within the next prompt.

5. Click the ‘Continue’ button shown within the installer’s ‘Introduction’ screen.

6. Click the ‘Agree’ button to accept the license.

7. Click the ‘Install’ button.

8. Click the ‘Continue Installation’ button. The system will need to be restarted when the installation is complete.

9. Enter your system password and click the ‘Install Software’ button.

10. After a few moments, the installer should report a successful installation.

11. The system should also prompt you to access the System Preferences to grant necessary permissions to the DisplayLink driver. Click on the ‘Open System Preferences’ button.

*** If the prompt described above did not appear automatically, manually open the ‘System Preferences’ application (gear icon in the macOS dock at the bottom of the screen) and select the ‘Security & Privacy’ application. Within the ‘Security & Privacy’ application click on the ‘Privacy’ tab. Scroll down in the list of items on the left-hand side of the application window and click to select ‘Screen Recording’. The proceed to the next step ***

12. The ‘Security & Privacy’ application should open and default to showing the ‘Privacy’ tab. On the right-hand side of the application window there should be a single entry entitled, ‘DisplayLinkUserAgent’. Click to place a checkmark next to this entry.

*** Important note – the contents of your screens (displays) are not being recorded. This setting just enables the DisplayLink driver to access the information generated by the system’s built-in graphics adapter to generate the image shown on the DisplayLink-connected displays. ***

13. After having placed a checkmark next to the ‘DisplayLinkUserAgent’ entry, click the ‘Quit Now’ button in the prompt that appears.

14. Close the ‘Security & Privacy’ application, and then restart your system. The DisplayLink device should start working after the restart is complete.

'Legacy' DisplayLink Driver installation for macOS 10.14 Mojave

** Before you begin **

If have installed a previous version of the DisplayLink driver, please uninstall it and then reboot your system before proceeding.

1. Download the latest driver for macOS 10.14 Mojave from here -> Link

2. Navigate to your Downloads folder and double-click on the DisplayLink driver download

3. The disk image of the driver will mount, and automatically open the DisplayLink Installer main landing page

4. Double-click on the ‘DisplayLink Software Installer.pkg’ file. The Install DisplayLink Driver page will open

5. Click ‘Continue’

6. Click the ‘Agree’ button

7. Click ‘Install’

8. Click ‘Continue Installation’ The system will need to be restarted when the installation is complete

9. Enter your system password and click the ‘Install Software’ button

10. There is a chance that the security settings in macOS may block the installation of the DisplayLink extension

11. If that occurs, click on the ‘Open Security Preferences’ button and click the ‘Allow’ button at the bottom of the window to grant permission for the extension to be loaded. ** Important note – this approval must be granted within 30 minutes of the driver installation or the process will not work. A fresh installation must be performed to reset this timer. **

There is also a chance that the warning message about the blocked System Extension will not appear, but macOS may still block the extension. After the driver installation completes, please double-check that the necessary approval was granted by clicking the ‘System Preferences’ icon (the gear) and then clicking on the ‘Security & Privacy’ icon. From the window that appears please ensure the DisplayLink driver is Approved by clicking the ‘Allow’ button.

12. Close the ‘Security and Privacy’ window. The DisplayLink installation should now complete

13. Click on the ‘Restart’ button to restart your system. The DisplayLink device should start working after the restart is complete.

'Legacy' DisplayLink Driver removal for macOS 10.14 Mojave and 10.15 Catalina

We also have a video that demonstrates this process here –> https://youtu.be/VRRLJf6D7vc

1. Click the Spotlight magnifying glass icon in the Apple Menu, and search for ‘DisplayLink Software Uninstaller’. Double-click on the result

2. The uninstall window will appear

3. Click the ‘Uninstall’ button

4. Enter your account password and click ‘OK’

5. After a few moments the process will complete. Click the ‘Restart’ button to complete the removal process.

If your Windows computer will not boot properly when a docking station, USB hub, or USB hub adapter is connected, the cause is most often an external device connected to the product rather than the product itself. In some cases, a Windows computer may mistakenly attempt to boot from a non-bootable external storage drive instead of the host computer's built-in storage drive, which can interrupt the boot process.  

Instructions

1. Disconnect all external devices from the product, leaving only the product's external power source (if it has one) and the cable connecting the product to the host computer.
2. Reboot the host computer while in this simplified physical configuration in order to test the behaviour.
3. Reconnect each external device to the product one at a time and reboot after each connection to test the behaviour again, assuming the host computer boots as expected in the simplified configuration.
4. Disconnect the USB storage device from the host computer and reboot to test the behaviour if only an external USB storage device is in use.
5. Access the host computer's System BIOS (UEFI firmware) and change the boot order settings to ensure the internal storage drive is the first boot option.
   1. Consult the host computer manual provided by the manufacturer for instructions on how to access the System BIOS and change the settings.

If the Issue Persists

After consulting your computer’s manual, contact the manufacturer directly if you are unsure how to check or change the system BIOS settings, as changing the wrong setting can cause unexpected issues. You can also reach out to us at support@plugable.com with any questions.

Applicable To

• UD-3900
• USBC-HUB7C
• USBC-7IN1E
• USBC-NVME
• External USB storage devices

Background Information

Docking stations and video adapters based on DisplayLink USB video technology are in essence a 'virtual' graphics adapter that relies on the host computer's CPU and internal physical graphics processing unit (GPU) to generate the information shown on the attached displays.

In rare instances, Windows applications that use a technology known as OpenGL to draw the image shown on the display will attempt to direct OpenGL related tasks to the DisplayLink-based product's virtual graphics adapter, and not to the 'real' or 'physical' GPU within the host computer.  

Since the DisplayLink device is not a physical GPU that supports OpenGL, this can sometimes cause applications that make use of OpenGL (such as Google Earth, SketchUp or AutoCAD) to not work as expected or result in various types of error messages. 

The true root cause of this behavior can vary, and ultimately lies outside of the DisplayLink based product or its associated DisplayLink driver. In some cases the root cause lies within the Windows driver for the host system's physical GPU and in rarer cases within the Windows operating system itself.  

Possible Workarounds

In some instances updating either the driver for the host system's internal GPU or updating Windows itself can help, however that is unfortunately not always the case.

If updating those components does not help, in most cases there are two possible workarounds:

1. The first is to configure Windows to have the ‘Main’ display set to a display directly connected to the host system's built-in internal GPU, whether that is an internal laptop display or another external display connected to one of the system's built-in video outputs.

A guide to configuring the 'Main' display within Windows 10 is here -> LINK

A guide to configuring the 'Main' display within Windows 11 is here --> LINK

2. If the first option does not prove a suitable workaround, the second option is to boot the host  system without the DisplayLink-based device connected, launching the affected application, and then connecting the DisplayLink-based device to the computer. This process can sometimes help direct the OpenGL requests to the host computer's internal physical GPU. 

Summary

During a DisplayLink Manager update, the previous version of the application closes. If the new version does not start automatically, monitors driven by DisplayLink may remain blank until DisplayLink Manager is opened again.

Applicable To

Mac computers using the DisplayLink Manager application with a Plugable DisplayLink-based dock or USB graphics adapter. This article does not cover the older legacy DisplayLink macOS driver.

Start DisplayLink Manager

1. Open Finder and select Applications.
2. Double-click DisplayLink Manager to start the newly installed application.
3. Wait a moment, then check whether the DisplayLink-connected displays appear.
4. If macOS asks you to allow the app to run or access your screen, follow the prompts.

If the Displays Are Still Blank

Check Apple menu > System Settings > Privacy & Security > Screen & System Audio Recording and confirm that DisplayLink Manager has permission. Quit and reopen the app if macOS requests it.

• Check that the DisplayLink dock or adapter is connected to the Mac and that the monitors are powered on and set to the correct input.
• If you want the app to start when you log in, open DisplayLink Manager from the menu bar and enable its Automatic app startup setting, if available.
• For full installation and permission steps, see DisplayLink Manager App Installation Instructions for macOS.

Important Notes

• Only displays driven by DisplayLink depend on the DisplayLink Manager application. A display connected through a different video method may continue working while the app is closed.
• The information above is only applicable to the new DisplayLink Manager Graphics Connectivity App. This information does not apply to the older 'legacy' version of the DisplayLink driver for macOS.

Need Assistance?

If the displays remain blank, contact support@plugable.com with your Mac model, macOS version, Plugable product model, DisplayLink Manager version, and a description of what happens when you open the app.

Plugable offers several DisplayLink-based docking stations and graphics adapters that are recommended for compatible Mac computers. To use DisplayLink-controlled displays, install DisplayLink Manager and grant it the required macOS permissions.

How Do the Recommended DisplayLink Products Differ?

DisplayLink Docks With USB-A or USB-C Host Connectivity

DisplayLink Docks With USB-C Power Delivery

DisplayLink Graphics Adapters

How Do I Set Up a DisplayLink Product on macOS?

DisplayLink-based video outputs require the DisplayLink Manager application on macOS. The application must also be granted the required macOS permissions for the connected displays to function.

For the current Plugable-recommended DisplayLink software and installation information:

https://plugable.com/pages/displaylink

For detailed DisplayLink Manager installation instructions for current versions of macOS:

https://kb.plugable.com/en_US/1595423

DisplayLink technology also has limitations that may affect certain workflows, including playback of HDCP-protected or encrypted video content on macOS. For more information:

https://kb.plugable.com/en_US/1339791

Applicable To

• UD-3900, UD-3900H, UD-3900Z, UD-6950Z, UD-7400PD, TBT-6950PD, UD-6950PDH, UD-6950PDZ, UD-3900PDZ, UD-ULTC4K, UD-ULTCDL, UD-3900C4, USBC-6950PDZ, USBC-6950M, USBC-7400H4

If you find that your Plugable Ethernet adapter or docking station is not connecting to the internet or is experiencing slower than expected speeds on your Mac, it may be related the macOS Network Service Order. This is a list of the network connections available to the computer setting the priority for network connections.

macOS attempts to connect to the internet using the network service at the top of your list first. If a wireless network is listed above your Plugable Ethernet adapter, this often leads to users unknowingly using a slower wireless connection when they intended to use a wired one.

To ensure you are getting the full speed and stability of your wired connection, you must prioritize the Plugable Ethernet adapter above Wi-Fi.  Normally wired network connections take priority, however if priority has been modified in the past it can affect newly connected devices.

Set the order of network services

Navigate through these steps to Set Service Order:

1. Click the Apple Menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings.
2. In the sidebar, click Network. 
   1. 
3. Look for the Action Menu (a circle with three dots ...) located at the bottom right of the main window area.
   1. 
4. Click the three dots and select Set Service Order.…
5. A list will appear showing all your network interfaces. Click and drag your Ethernet Adapter (often named "USB 10/100/1G/2.5G LAN" or “Plugable Docking Station”) to the very top of the list, above Wi-Fi.
   1. 
6. Click OK to save your changes.

Your network traffic will now automatically prioritize the wired connection, ensuring you receive the best possible speeds and stability from your Plugable adapter.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!

Below is a list of power adapter models used by Plugable docking stations. We offer refurbished replacement power adapters on eBay as they are available for purchase, however, we may not have replacement power adapters available for all of our docking stations.

If the power adapter for your docking station or region is not listed, out of stock on eBay or if you have any other questions regarding replacement power adapters for our docks please contact us at support@plugable.com and we will be happy to assist further.

We offer a 30-day return period for our replacement power adapters listed on eBay.

Can Silicon Motion and DisplayLink-Based Docking Stations and Graphics Adapters Work Together?

Yes, Silicon Motion and DisplayLink-based products can work together and be used at the same time on the same computer. This requires that the software drivers for both types of products are installed on the host system.

How Silicon Motion and DisplayLink Products Work Together

Both Silicon Motion and DisplayLink utilize USB graphics technology that can coexist on a single operating system. To ensure proper functionality, users must download and install the specific drivers associated with each respective chipset.

While Windows limits are typically performance-based recommendations, the actual ceiling of adding external monitors is much higher.

Plugable recommends up to 8 external 4K displays via DisplayLink for productivity workloads, but more is theoretically possible for high-end computers.

With Silicon Motion Plugable recommends up to 4 displays using Silicon Motion based adapters. macOS often enforces a hard limit on the number of addressable displays.

Applicable To

USBC-7400H4

USBC-6950M

USBC-6950UE

USBC-6950U

UGA-4KHDMI

UGA-HDMI-2S

UGA-HDMI-S

USBC-768H4

USBC-MSTH2

UGA-DP-S

USB3-3900DHE

USB-VGA-165

UGA-4KDP

UGA-2KHDMI

UGA-165

USBC-MSTH3

UGA-3000

Summary

DisplayLink publishes deployment guidance for organizations that install its software across multiple computers. The available approach depends on the operating system and your management tools. Plugable can help identify the software required for a Plugable product, while DisplayLink provides the corporate deployment documentation and support for those installation methods.

Applicable To

IT administrators deploying Plugable DisplayLink-based docks or USB graphics adapters in managed Windows or macOS environments.

Deployment Options

DisplayLink maintains a Corporate Deployment knowledge base with guidance for Windows installation packages and management methods, as well as macOS deployment with tools such as Jamf Pro and Munki.

DisplayLink Corporate Deployment documentation

Before Deployment

• Identify the exact Plugable product, operating system versions, and DisplayLink software release you intend to deploy.
• Review DisplayLink's current instructions for the deployment tool and operating system in use. Test with a small group before broader deployment.
• On macOS, plan for the required screen access permission. Installing the software silently does not grant that permission automatically; the end user must approve it.

Important Notes

The DisplayLink software is developed by Synaptics DisplayLink. Plugable does not provide support for configuring or troubleshooting DisplayLink corporate installation methods. For deployment-specific questions, use DisplayLink's documentation and support resources. For Plugable product compatibility questions, contact Plugable Support.

Need Assistance?

For help identifying the correct software for your Plugable product, email support@plugable.com with the product model and operating systems. For a question about an enterprise installation method, consult DisplayLink Support.

No. Plugable USB video adapters and docking stations that use DisplayLink technology do not support HDCP-protected video playback through DisplayLink-connected displays.

What You May Experience

Protected video may show a black screen, play audio without video, display an error, or play at a lower-than-expected resolution.

Examples include:

• HDCP-protected Blu-ray content
• Some protected content from Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, the Apple TV app, Disney+, YouTube TV, and other streaming services

Availability and behaviour can vary by service, application, browser, operating system, and content.

Workaround and Alternative Options

Connect the display directly to a native video output on the computer, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, or a USB-C port that supports Alt Mode or Thunderbolt. Do not route the display connection through a DisplayLink video output.

On macOS, protected content may remain unavailable on all screens while a DisplayLink-connected display is active. Disconnect all displays using DisplayLink before attempting playback. 

If protected-content playback is an important requirement, consider a docking station that uses a native USB-C Alt Mode or Thunderbolt video connection. Display support depends on the computer's capabilities.

Non-protected video files and ordinary desktop applications should continue to work on DisplayLink-connected displays.

Applies To

• TBT-6950PD, UD-3900, UD-3900C, UD-3900C4, UD-3900H, UD-3900PDH, UD-3900PDZ, UD-3900Z, UD-6950, UD-6950H, UD-6950PDH, UD-6950PDZ, UD-6950Z, UD-7400PD, UD-ULTC4K, UD-ULTCDL, UGA-165, UGA-2KHDMI, UGA-3000, UGA-4KDP, UGA-4KHDMI, USB-VGA-165, USB3-3900DHE, USB3-6950-DP, USB3-6950-HDMI, USBC-6950-DP, USBC-6950-HDMI, USBC-6950M, USBC-6950PDZ, USBC-6950U, USBC-6950UE, USBC-7400H4
• All future DisplayLink products

If an item that should have been included with your Plugable dock is missing, check the packaging once more, including beneath the insert and inside the corners of the box. If you still cannot find it, contact Plugable Support so we can review what was included and help with the missing part.

Applicable To

Plugable docks or other Plugable products with a missing in-box power supply, host cable, adapter, or other included accessory.

Before You Contact Support

Check the included-items list on the product packaging or product page. Some cables and accessories pictured in setup examples may be sold separately rather than included in the box.

What to Send Us:

• Your Plugable product model and the specific component you cannot find.
• Your Amazon order ID or another proof of purchase.
• The product serial number, if present, or a photo of the product label.
• The full recipient name, shipping address, and a phone number for the shipment, if a replacement part needs to be sent.

Need Assistance?

Email the details above to support@plugable.com, and we will review the package contents and next steps with you.

Most Plugable docks do not officially support monitors over 60Hz including 120Hz or 144Hz refresh rate unless otherwise specified on the Plugable product page or listing. 

DisplayLink USB Graphics technology and Silicon Motion based docking stations and graphics adapters, like our USB 3.0 dual display and USB Type-C triple display docking stations, are limited to 60Hz refresh rate by the USB graphics controller hardware.

USB Type-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode docking station and ports on our USB Type-C Triple Display Docking Stations can support higher refresh rates, but may be limited by the computer's capability and available bandwidth to the docking station.  Additionally, when paired with DisplayLink or Silicon Motion USB graphics, having displays at different refresh rates may reduce overall system performance.  Due to this we normally recommend limiting all connected displays to 60Hz refresh rate when using DisplayLink and Silicon Motion graphics technology with directly connected, or USB Type-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode controlled displays.

Monitors with refresh rates higher then 60Hz may be connected to a docking station operating at up to 60Hz, or connected directly on the computer's HDMI or DisplayPort to ensure the display is powered by the system's native GPU.

Applicable To:

All Plugable Docking Stations

No, Plugable products do not support the Apple SuperDrive.

Why do Plugable products not support the Apple SuperDrive?

The Apple SuperDrive has stringent power requirements that can only be met by directly connecting the SuperDrive directly to the host computer. As a result at this time Apple recommends only using their USB-C adapter cables. Apple provides more information on this topic here → How to connect the Apple USB SuperDrive

Applicable To

• All Plugable brand products

Please Note

The below guide is an advanced troubleshooting step, and we do not recommend doing so unless you are comfortable manually altering files on your Apple product running macOS. You may not be able to perform the below troubleshooting step if you are unable to execute administrative credentials on your laptop. Please reach out to our support first if you do not wish to attempt the below instructions. You can do so at plugable.com/support

How to delete a specific Ethernet adapter from your Network devices on macOS

1. Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your primary monitor, and select ‘System Preferences’
2. Next select ‘Network’ in the ‘System Preferences' window.
3. In the now visible list, please select the Plugable Ethernet, or Thunderbolt Ethernet device that may not be working as expected.
4. Once selected click on the minus button in the bottom left of the network window.
5. Click on Apply in the bottom right.
6. Next click on the plus button in the bottom left of the network window, and add the previously removed device.
7. Click on Apply in the bottom right.
8. Test to see if this has resolved the unexpected behavior, and assure that your Ethernet is now working.
9. If this does not resolve the problem, please proceed to the next section (As noted previously the next section is for advanced users only!)

I am still unable to get my Ethernet connection working on my Mac

If this is the case please reach out to our support team. When you do please include a diagnostic log gathered using our PlugDebug tool (instructions are provided on the PlugDebug page). If you are not able to gather the PlugDebug diagnostics do not worry we are still here to help! Please reach out to our support team at support@plugable.com or plugable.com/support with a detailed description of your problem, and the model of Plugable product you are using.

Before you begin

Unsure which version of macOS you have installed on your Mac? Click on the ‘Apple’ icon within the menu bar located at the top of your macOS desktop and select ‘About this Mac’. A new window will open and display the host system’s macOS version.

Please note, this guide describes the DisplayLink Manager installation process using macOS 26 Tahoe. The process is very similar when using macOS 27 Golden Gate, macOS 15 Sequoia, and macOS 14 Sonoma, however there may be slight differences due to the specific operating system version in use. 

Guided Video Demonstration

For those who prefer, we have a video demonstration of the installation procedure available (an embedded link is below). The video demonstrates the process on macOS 26 Tahoe, however the process is virtually identical in macOS 27 Golden Gate, macOS 15 Sequoia and macOS 14 Sonoma.

For those who prefer, a detailed text-based description of the installation process (including screenshots) is available within the sections below.

How to install the DisplayLink Manager application

IMPORTANT NOTE - The screenshots in this article (and the demonstration video) were produced using macOS 26 Tahoe however the process and appearance is virtually identical in macOS 15 Sequoia and macOS 14 Sonoma

1. Download the correct version of the DisplayLink Manager Application for your version of macOS from here → https://plugable.com/pages/displaylink

2.  Double-click on the file you downloaded to start the application installer:

3. From within the ‘Introduction’ section of the application installer,  click on the ‘Continue’ button to start the installation process:

4. After having read the license information from within the ‘License’ section of the application installer, click on the ‘Continue’ button

5. Click on the ‘Agree’ button in order to agree to the software license agreement.

6. From within the ‘Installation Type’ section of the application installer, click on the ‘Install’ button:

7. When prompted, please enter your system password and click on the ‘Install Software’ button to start the installation. The installation process will begin:

8. The application installer will notify you when the installation process has been completed. Please click on the ‘Close’ button in order to close the application installer.

IMPORTANT NOTE - If the installation process does not complete successfully, please see this knowledge base article --> https://kb.plugable.com/question/1807081  for a list of potential causes and possible solutions.

9. Once the initial installation process has been completed, you should see a request from the DisplayLink Manager Application to allow the application to display notifications, when necessary.  Click on the ‘Options’ button within the request and click the ‘Allow’ option

Note, we have more information in regard to notifications while using DisplayLink on macOS here → https://kb.plugable.com/question/3137440

10. You should also see two Login Item notifications from macOS:

Both notifications are intended to inform that the DisplayLink Manager Application can run in the background once you have logged in to the host Mac.

These notifications are informational only, and can be freely dismissed.

IMPORTANT NOTE - The DisplayLink Manager Application must be running in order for any monitors powered by DisplayLink technology to function.

11. Starting with DisplayLink Manager version 16.0 and later versions, a DisplayLink Installation Wizard will now appear and the DisplayLink Installation Wizard is composed of three steps.

The first step of the Wizard is to ensure that the required Background Activity permissions are in place (as described in step #10) and this step should be completed automatically.

12. The second step of the Wizard is to connect your DisplayLink device to the host Mac. On portable Mac computers (such as laptops), depending on how macOS is configured you may see a prompt to allow the accessory to connect.  If prompted, please click ‘Allow’.  

13. Once the DisplayLink device is connected, the third step of the Wizard is to grant permission to the DisplayLink Manager application to record your screen within the macOS System Settings. Click the ‘Open System Settings’ button at the top of the DisplayLink Installation Wizard in order to open the System Settings application.

IMPORTANT NOTE - The DisplayLink Manager Application does NOT in fact record, store or transmit any information. This permission must be granted in order for the DisplayLink Application to access the information it needs in order to generate the image shown on the DisplayLink-connected displays.

14. After clicking on the ‘Open System Settings’ button, the macOS System Settings application will open, with the ‘Screen & System Audio Recording’ section opened by default:

15. Click the toggle switch next to the ‘DisplayLink Manager’ entry in order to grant the required permission. When doing so, you will be prompted to enter your password. Enter your password and click the ‘Modify Settings’ button to continue:

16. You will be prompted to ‘Quit and Reopen’ the DisplayLink Manager application in order for the change to take effect. Please do so:

17. As a result of quitting the DisplayLink Manager Application, the DisplayLink Installation Wizard will disappear momentarily.  The DisplayLink Installation Wizard will reappear once the DisplayLink Manager Application has been reopened.

18. You will receive a notification from macOS to allow the DisplayLink Manager application to access your screen and audio. Please click the ‘Allow’ button to continue:

19. When the DisplayLink Installation Wizard reappears, it should indicate that setup has completed successfully.  Click the ‘Finish’ button to close the DisplayLink Installation Wizard.

20. Once the DisplayLink Installation Wizard has been completed, the macOS System Settings application window as shown in step #14 may still be visible. If still visible, please close the application window.

21. Once the System Settings application has been closed, a macOS prompt to open the System Settings application window may be visible.  If visible, the prompt can be dismissed by clicking on the ‘Deny’ button.  No changes will in fact be made, as the necessary changes will have already been completed as of step #15.

IMPORTANT NOTE - In macOS 26 Tahoe, macOS 15 Sequoia and macOS 14 Sonoma, whenever the DisplayLink Manager Application is running and a DisplayLink device is connected to your computer you will see a notification within the Apple Menu bar that the DisplayLink Manager Application is capturing your screen.  This is both normal and expected behavior.

22. Now that the DisplayLink Manager Application is installed and running, a DisplayLink Manager icon will appear within the Apple menu bar at the top of your screen. Click on the DisplayLink Manager icon in order to open the application status window.

23. The first tab of the DisplayLink Manager Application status window is the ‘Displays’ tab. As the name implies, all of the DisplayLink driven displays that are connected to your Mac will be displayed here, similar to the example below:

IMPORTANT NOTE - only displays driven by DisplayLink technology will be shown here. Displays driven by other methods (such as USB Type-C or Thunderbolt) will NOT be displayed.

Next to each display is a small toggle switch that will allow you to selectively toggle a display off or on as desired.

Below each display name will be two sliders that allow you to control the brightness or contrast of that display, according to your preference.

If multiple displays with identical names are present, you can differentiate between each display by hovering the mouse pointer over each display name.  When doing so, a red identification box will appear on-screen within the selected display.

24. The second tab of the DisplayLink Manager Application status window is the ‘Settings’ tab.

The items listed will vary depending upon which version of the DisplayLink Manager Application that is installed and the type of processor within the host Mac (Intel processor or Apple processor).

An example of the ‘Settings’ tab from DisplayLink Manager version 16.1 running on a Mac with an Apple processor is provided below:

The following list describes the features present within the ‘Settings’ tab while using DisplayLink Manager version 16.1 with a Mac with an Apple processor:

Automatic app startup
As the name suggests, toggling on the ‘Automatic app startup’ option allows the DisplayLink Manager Application to start automatically each time you log on to your Mac. This option should be enabled by default during a standard installation. If not already enabled, we recommend doing so in the interest of efficiency.

Additional HiDPI modes
In brief, HiDPI mode is a feature of macOS that can make images within a display appear sharper. In some cases, the host Mac will not enable HiDPI mode for the displays connected to a DisplayLink-based product.

Clicking the toggle to enable the ‘Additional HiDPI modes’ option will create new resolution choices for the DisplayLink-connected displays within the ‘Displays’ section of the macOS ‘System Settings’ application that may help improve the sharpness of the image.

Synaptics (the creators of DisplayLink technology) have more information on this feature here → https://support.displaylink.com/knowledgebase/articles/1993915-displaylink-manager-app-experimental-hidpi-modes

System sleep in display-closed mode
Mac laptops running macOS 26 Tahoe, macOS 15 Sequoia, macOS 14 Sonoma can be used in one of two ways when used in conjunction with a DisplayLink-based product.

The first way is with the laptop lid open, with the laptop's built-in internal display enabled.  

The second way is with the laptop lid closed, with the laptop's built-in internal display disabled.  This is known as closed display mode or 'clamshell' mode.

In order to enter closed display mode while connected to a DisplayLink-based product, the host Mac must have an external power source connected and an external keyboard and mouse connected.

Clicking the toggle to enable the 'System sleep in display-closed mode’ option changes this behavior, in that closing the laptop lid will cause the host Mac to go to sleep.

This feature is of course optional, and its use is a matter of personal preference.

Enhance video conferencing apps
The ‘Enhance video conferencing apps’ option, which is enabled by default, helps ensure that screen sharing or content controls while using the Microsoft Teams application appear as expected.

DisplayLink has more information about this feature here → https://support.displaylink.com/knowledgebase/articles/2022489-how-to-fix-missing-screen-sharing-controls-in-micr 

Summary

Yes. Many Plugable products that use DisplayLink USB graphics technology support ChromeOS and can provide additional external displays without requiring a separate driver installation.

However, ChromeOS compatibility varies by Plugable product. Always confirm that your specific Plugable product lists ChromeOS as a supported operating system before use.

For Plugable products that support ChromeOS, Plugable recommends using ChromeOS version 100 or later with the latest Stable channel updates installed.

Applicable To

This article applies to:

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations and USB graphics adapters that list ChromeOS as a supported operating system
• Chromebooks, Chromeboxes, and other supported computers running ChromeOS

Not every Plugable product that contains DisplayLink technology necessarily supports ChromeOS. Refer to the individual Plugable product page for operating system compatibility.

Answer

DisplayLink support is built directly into ChromeOS, so a separate DisplayLink driver does not normally need to be downloaded or installed.

Synaptics, the developer of DisplayLink technology, has included DisplayLink support in ChromeOS since ChromeOS release R51. Plugable currently recommends ChromeOS version 100 or later for Plugable DisplayLink products that support ChromeOS.

To use a supported Plugable DisplayLink product with ChromeOS:

1. Update the Chromebook or ChromeOS device to the latest available Stable channel version of ChromeOS.
2. Connect the Plugable dock or graphics adapter directly to a compatible USB port on the ChromeOS device.
3. Connect the external display or displays to the Plugable product.
4. Open the ChromeOS display settings to arrange, mirror, or extend the connected displays as desired.

No separate DisplayLink software installation is required.

Performance Considerations

DisplayLink USB graphics uses processing resources from the host computer to generate and transmit the image shown on the connected displays. As a result, DisplayLink performance can vary depending on the Chromebook's processor, memory, USB connection, number of connected displays, display resolution, and the applications being used.

Synaptics currently recommends the following minimum system characteristics for Chromebook systems using DisplayLink:

• A 2GHz or faster processor with NEON or SSE2 instruction support
• 4GB of RAM or more when using two or more DisplayLink-connected displays
• A USB 3.0 connection

Systems with more capable processors and additional memory may provide better performance, particularly when using multiple high-resolution displays or playing video.

Intel, AMD, and ARM-Based Chromebooks

DisplayLink support in ChromeOS is not limited to Intel or AMD processors.

Current DisplayLink requirements support processors with either SSE2 or NEON instruction support. SSE2 is commonly associated with x86 processors from Intel and AMD, while NEON is used by ARM-based processors.

As a result, processor architecture alone does not determine DisplayLink compatibility. Performance depends on the capabilities of the specific Chromebook and the workload being performed.

For the best experience, confirm that the Chromebook meets the recommended DisplayLink system requirements and that the specific Plugable product supports ChromeOS.

ChromeOS Version and Updates

Plugable recommends ChromeOS version 100 or later with the latest available updates installed for Plugable DisplayLink products that support ChromeOS.

Plugable recommends using the ChromeOS Stable release channel for normal use and troubleshooting. Beta, Developer, and Canary builds are prerelease versions of ChromeOS and may introduce behavior that has not been validated with Plugable products.

Because the DisplayLink driver is built into ChromeOS, DisplayLink driver updates and fixes are distributed through ChromeOS updates. There is no separate DisplayLink driver package for a user to manually install on ChromeOS.

Important Notes

Product Compatibility Varies

DisplayLink technology being present in a Plugable product does not by itself guarantee that the complete product supports ChromeOS.

Some docks combine DisplayLink with other technologies and features that may have additional operating system or host requirements.

Always check the Compatibility or Supported Operating Systems section of the individual Plugable product page before purchasing or connecting the product to a Chromebook.

Display Performance

Higher resolutions, multiple external displays, video playback, and graphics-intensive applications require more host processing resources.

A configuration that works well for normal office applications may provide lower performance with demanding video or graphics workloads.

No Manual DisplayLink Driver Installation

ChromeOS includes its DisplayLink support within the operating system. Unlike Windows or macOS, there is no DisplayLink software package that needs to be manually downloaded and installed.

PlugDebug Is Not Available for ChromeOS

Plugable's PlugDebug diagnostic utility is available for Windows, macOS, and supported Linux distributions, but it cannot be run on ChromeOS.

When requesting support for a ChromeOS device, please provide the exact Chromebook or ChromeOS device model and ChromeOS version.

For instructions, see:

How to Identify Your Chromebook Model and ChromeOS Version

Need Assistance?

If a supported Plugable DisplayLink product is not working as expected with your Chromebook or ChromeOS device, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

• Your Plugable product model
• The exact Chromebook or ChromeOS device model
• Your ChromeOS version
• The number, make, and model of connected displays
• The display resolution you are attempting to use
• A description of the issue you are experiencing

Support for color adjustment features on DisplayLink-connected displays varies by operating system. Windows and macOS may require additional DisplayLink-specific configuration or software, while ChromeOS supports its built-in Night Light feature.

How Does Color Adjustment Support Vary by Operating System?

For Windows Night Light information:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/set-your-display-for-night-time-in-windows-18fe903a-e0a1-8326-4c68-fd23d7aaf136

For DisplayLink-specific Windows Night Light and f.lux setup:

https://support.displaylink.com/knowledgebase/articles/1886413-how-to-enable-night-light-or-f-lux-on-displaylink

For ChromeOS Night Light information:

https://support.google.com/chromebook/answer/9145848?hl=en

For macOS Night Shift information:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/102191

Applicable To

• UD-3900, UD-3900-EU, UD-3900C4, UD-3900PDZ, UD-3900Z, UD-6950PDH, UD-6950PDZ, UD-6950Z, UD-ULTC4K, UD-ULTCDL, UGA-2KHDMI, UGA-3000, UGA-4KDP, UGA-4KHDMI, USBC-6950M, USBC-6950PDZ, USBC-6950U

What is DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (DP MST)?

DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (also known as DP MST) is a function of the DisplayPort protocol introduced with version 1.2 of the DisplayPort specification. DP MST allows multiple uncompressed video streams to be delivered over a single DisplayPort connection via a process known as multiplexing. DP MST can be used over several different types of video connections, such as DisplayPort, Mini-DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 3 or 4, and USB-C ports that support DisplayPort Alt-Mode video output.

There are two methods by which DP MST can implemented. A 'daisy-chain' connection where you can link multiple monitors together or an 'hub' configuration that can split one DisplayPort cable into multiple video outputs.

For DP MST to work in a daisy-chain or MST Hub configuration, monitors must support either DisplayPort 1.2 version or higher or Thunderbolt, provide a video 'output' port on the monitor, and have DP MST mode enabled. Note that HDMI is not supported. 

Daisy-chain example

In many cases, a monitor will not have a video 'out' option; this is where an MST Hub will become necessary to break out the video signal to each monitor individually. 

Plugable's USBC-11IN1E shown in this MST Hub example

Will I need additional software to use DP MST?

DP MST does not require any additional software and will make use of the host computer's graphics processing unit (GPU) in order to bring high-resolution, uncompressed video that is beneficial in a variety of applications such as graphics design and video editing. Resolutions will vary depending on the specifications of the GPU. DisplayPort 1.4 GPUs will support higher resolutions and refresh rates than DisplayPort 1.2, for example. 

It is recommended to use the most up-to-date GPU drivers from your laptop or GPU manufacturer to ensure the best overall performance. 

Which operating systems support DP MST?

MST is supported by Windows 11, 10, Windows 8/8.1, Windows 7, and Chrome OS.    
MST is currently not supported by macOS.

Plugable devices that implement DP MST

Plugable makes several hubs and docking stations that make use of DP MST that can help boost productivity by providing external monitor support, and other capabilities such as USB, Ethernet, and even audio. Examples of Plugable products which use DP MST are:

• USBC-11IN1E
• UD-3900C4
• UD-MSTHDC
• UD-MSTH2

Some of our Thunderbolt supported products include:

• TBT3-UDC3
• TBT3-UDC1
• TBT3-UDZ
• TBT4-UDZ 

Summary

The DisplayLink Manager application is required to enable DisplayLink-based video outputs on compatible Plugable docking stations and USB graphics adapters when used with macOS.

In most cases, DisplayLink Manager installs without issue. However, the macOS installer may occasionally report an “Unexpected Error” and fail to complete the installation.

Common causes include insufficient installation permissions, macOS privacy restrictions, an installation file being accessed from an unsuitable location, an incomplete or damaged download, or remnants of a previous DisplayLink installation.

Applicable To

This article applies to:

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations used with macOS
• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB graphics adapters used with macOS
• macOS 10.15 and later when using the DisplayLink Manager application

macOS 10.14 Mojave uses the legacy DisplayLink software and is not covered by these instructions.

Answer

If DisplayLink Manager fails to install with an “Unexpected Error,” first confirm that you are using the correct DisplayLink Manager version for your version of macOS and that your Mac account has permission to install software.

If the error continues, check the macOS Files & Folders privacy permissions for the Installer application, confirm that the installation package is stored locally on the Mac, and remove any existing DisplayLink software before attempting the installation again.

Before You Begin

Before troubleshooting the installation:

1. Confirm your version of macOS by selecting Apple menu > About This Mac.
2. Download the correct DisplayLink Manager version for your version of macOS from Plugable's DisplayLink driver page:

DisplayLink Drivers and Software

3. Make sure the downloaded installation package is completely downloaded before opening it.
4. If the Mac is owned or managed by a company, school, or other organization, confirm that you are authorized to install software.

1. Confirm That Your Account Can Install Software

DisplayLink Manager installation requires authorization to make changes to macOS.

During installation, macOS may prompt you to enter an administrator password or authenticate using Touch ID.

If your Mac is managed by an employer, school, or other organization, security policies or Mobile Device Management (MDM) settings may prevent software installation even if you can log in normally.

If you do not have permission to install software, contact your organization's IT administrator for assistance.

2. Run the Installation Package From Local Storage

For troubleshooting, make sure the DisplayLink Manager installation package is stored on the Mac's local storage before opening it.

Avoid running the installer directly from:

• A network drive
• An external storage device
• Microsoft OneDrive
• Dropbox
• Google Drive
• Another cloud-synchronized or remotely mounted location

If necessary, download a new copy from Plugable's DisplayLink driver page and save it to the Mac's Downloads folder.

Also confirm that the Mac has sufficient available storage space for the installation.

3. Check the macOS Files & Folders Permission

The macOS Installer application may need permission to access the folder containing the DisplayLink Manager installation package.

For example, if the installation package is located in the Downloads or Desktop folder, macOS may display a prompt asking whether the Installer application should be allowed to access that folder.

If prompted, click Allow.

If permission was previously denied, macOS may remember that choice and may not display the same prompt again.

To check the permission manually:

1. Open Apple menu > System Settings.
2. Select Privacy & Security.
3. Scroll down and select Files & Folders.
4. Look for Installer in the list.
5. If Installer is listed, expand the entry if necessary and enable access to the folder containing the DisplayLink Manager installation package, such as Downloads Folder or Desktop Folder.
6. Close System Settings.
7. Close the DisplayLink installer if it is still open.
8. Open the DisplayLink Manager installation package again and retry the installation.

If Installer is not listed under Files & Folders, continue to the next section.

4. Download a New Copy of DisplayLink Manager

An incomplete or damaged installation package can also prevent the installation from completing.

Delete the existing DisplayLink Manager installation package, then download a new copy appropriate for your version of macOS from Plugable's DisplayLink driver page:

DisplayLink Drivers and Software

Once the download is complete, open the new installation package and attempt the installation again.

5. Remove Existing DisplayLink Software

If DisplayLink Manager or an older DisplayLink driver was previously installed on the Mac, remaining software components may interfere with a new installation.

Plugable recommends completely removing the existing DisplayLink installation before reinstalling.

For instructions, see:

How to Uninstall DisplayLink Manager Software on macOS

When troubleshooting installation problems, the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner can be used to remove DisplayLink Manager and associated components.

After the cleanup is complete:

1. Restart the Mac.
2. Download the correct DisplayLink Manager version for your version of macOS.
3. Run the installation again.

6. Complete the DisplayLink Manager Setup

Once DisplayLink Manager installs successfully, additional macOS permissions are required before DisplayLink-connected displays can operate.

Follow Plugable's DisplayLink Manager installation instructions for your version of macOS. Installation guidance is available from Plugable's DisplayLink Drivers and Software page.

This may include allowing DisplayLink Manager to run in the background and granting the required Screen & System Audio Recording or Screen Recording permission.

Note: Screen Recording permission is required for DisplayLink video functionality after installation. It is separate from the Files & Folders permission used by the macOS Installer during the installation process.

Need Assistance?

If DisplayLink Manager still reports an “Unexpected Error” after completing the steps above, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

• Your Plugable product model
• Your Mac model
• Your macOS version
• The DisplayLink Manager version you are attempting to install
• A screenshot of the “Unexpected Error” message
• Whether the Mac is personally owned or managed by an organization
• The output from Plugable's diagnostic tool, PlugDebug

USB Power Delivery (USB PD) pass-through allows a compatible USB-C hub or dock to receive power from an external USB-C charger and supply some of that power to a connected computer. The hub or dock reserves power for its own operation, so the computer may receive less than the charger's rated output.

How Pass-Through Power Works

The charger connects to the hub or dock's designated PD input, and the hub or dock connects to a computer that supports charging through its USB-C port. The devices negotiate a supported power level. How much reaches the computer depends on the charger, cable, hub or dock, computer, and connected devices.

Example

The Plugable USBC-6950PDZ accepts up to 100W from a compatible USB-C charger and can provide up to 82W to the connected computer. These are two different ratings. A lower-wattage charger leaves less power available for the dock and computer to share.

Important Notes

• A 100W PD input rating does not mean the computer receives 100W. Check the maximum host charging output for the specific product.
• If the computer requires more power than the setup can provide, charging may be slow or the battery may discharge under heavy use.
• USB PD specifications allow up to 240W with compatible equipment. That is a specification maximum, not a capability shared by every USB-C product.

Need Assistance?

If you are unsure how much power a Plugable product can supply to your computer, contact support@plugable.com with the Plugable model, computer model, and charger wattage.

Yes. Modern notebook computers can safely remain connected to a charging dock for extended periods without damaging the battery or requiring regular discharge and recharge cycles. Leaving the laptop connected is functionally equivalent to leaving it connected to the manufacturer's original power adapter.

Why Modern Laptops Do Not Require Battery Cycling

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are used in a wide range of consumer electronics, including notebook computers, cell phones, electric vehicles, power tools, and wireless earbuds. They offer fast charging, high-current discharge, a relatively long service life, and a comparatively low cost.

The lifespan of a rechargeable battery depends on factors such as age, temperature history, charging patterns, chemical composition, and usage. For example, batteries stored at 100% charge generally degrade faster than those stored at around 50%, which is why many consumer electronics arrive with a partial charge.

Although Li-ion batteries are consumable components, they’re typically not user-serviceable in modern computers, phones, and tablets. These devices include built-in charging and protection circuits that prevent overcharging and monitor factors such as battery temperature, voltage, current draw, and overall health. Charging systems can range from simple preset charging rates to advanced software-controlled management designed to balance charging speed with battery longevity.

Modern notebook computers can remain connected to their original power adapter or a compatible docking station for extended periods and don’t benefit from regular discharge and recharge cycles. Plugable docking stations with charging capability use USB Type-C Power Delivery, a negotiated protocol that allows the computer to request only the power and voltage it requires. Together with the computer’s built-in battery management system, this helps maintain the battery appropriately while connected to power. Disconnecting power simply forces the laptop to operate from its battery, which may trigger reduced-power modes that can affect system performance and connected devices.

Legacy Laptop Battery Behavior

Older laptops from the 1990s and early 2000s, some consumer electronics, and many rechargeable AA and AAA batteries used Nickel-Cadmium (NiCad) or Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) technology. These batteries generally charged and discharged more slowly than lithium-ion batteries and used relatively simple charge controllers. Some could also be trickle-charged using a continuous, very low current.

Because these older batteries often lacked smart charging controllers, manufacturers sometimes recommended “training” them by fully charging and discharging the battery periodically, including two or three full cycles when a laptop was new. Modern lithium-ion batteries don’t have this requirement and don’t benefit from periodic manual discharging.

Applicable To

• Plugable docking stations with USB Power Delivery (PD)

Updated 2021-06-02

Problem Description:

Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C docking stations with DisplayLink DL-3900 network adapters may have sub-Gigabit Ethernet performance when used with Apple computers. This only affects the wired Ethernet connection on the docking station or graphics adapters with Ethernet during large file transfers or speed tests on upstream connections that exceed 300Mbps. It does not affect the 4K DL-6950 based docking stations or graphics adapters with Ethernet.

Network performance may be limited to 250-300Mbps download and between 500-700Mbps upload when using these products, internet speed tests and file downloads may be further limited based on some customer feedback we have received.

While this issue is under investigation, it is unclear if drivers will be released to improve Mac network performance. Customers that require maximum network throughput may wish to utilize WiFi or another USB Ethernet adapter based on a different chipset. For example our USB3-E1000 USB 3.0 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter can be connected to one of the docking station's USB 3.0 ports to provide improved network performance. This network adapter requires installing separate drivers with detailed installation instructions available here: https://kb.plugable.com/question/936739

Affected products:

• UD-3900 Dual Display Universal Docking Station
• UD-3900C USB-C and USB 3.0 Dual HDMI USB Docking Station
• UD-3900C4 USB-C Quad HDMI Docking Station
• UD-3900H USB 3.0 Dual Monitor Horizontal Docking Station
• UD-3900Z Dual HDMI USB Universal Docking Station For Windows
• UD-3900PDH USB-C Triple HDMI Display Horizontal Docking Station
• UD-3900PDZ USB-C Triple HDMI Display Docking Station
• UD-ULTCDL USB-C Triple Display Docking Station
• USB3-3900DHE USB 3.0 Dual Display Adapter for Multiple Monitors with Gigabit Ethernet

Mitigation:

Using a USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet adapter connected to a USB 3.0 port on one of the above docking stations, or a USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter connected to the system directly allows for greater network performance. However we have also found that many USB Ethernet adapters have limited network performance with new M1 based Apple Mac systems.

• USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter with ASIX chipset
• USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter with ASIX chipset
• USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter with Realtek chipset

Both of the above ASIX based USB Ethernet adapters require installing the ASIX network driver for macOS 11, we provide detailed installation instructions in our Plugable Knowledge Base. The Realtek based USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter uses macOS built-in USB network drivers.

Summary

Most DisplayLink-connected monitors can be rotated in macOS, but the correct setting location depends on your macOS version, DisplayLink Manager version, and Mac processor type.

For current macOS installations using newer versions of DisplayLink Manager, display rotation is normally adjusted in System Settings > Displays. Older Apple silicon systems using earlier DisplayLink Manager versions may instead need to use the rotation controls inside the DisplayLink Manager application.

This article explains which method to use and how to rotate a DisplayLink-connected monitor to Standard, 90°, 180°, or 270°.

Applicable To

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations
• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB graphics adapters
• Mac computers using DisplayLink Manager for macOS
• macOS 11 Big Sur and newer, with notes for unsupported older configurations

This article applies to displays connected through DisplayLink technology. It does not apply to displays connected directly through native USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, Thunderbolt, USB4, HDMI, or DisplayPort video outputs unless the product also uses DisplayLink for that specific display output.

Answer

For most current setups, rotate the DisplayLink-connected display from the macOS Displays settings:

1. Open the Apple menu.
2. Select System Settings.
3. Select Displays.
4. Select the external display you want to rotate.
5. Use the Rotation or Rotate menu to choose the correct orientation.
6. Select Confirm if macOS asks you to confirm the change.

If the Rotation option does not appear, review the compatibility table and troubleshooting section below.

Which Method Should I Use?

For best results, Plugable recommends using the latest DisplayLink Manager version available for your version of macOS. Current DisplayLink Manager installers are available here: Plugable DisplayLink Driver and Software Downloads.

Before You Begin

Confirm the following before changing display rotation:

• The DisplayLink Manager application is installed.
• DisplayLink Manager is running. A DisplayLink Manager icon should appear in the Apple menu bar when the application is active.
• The Plugable DisplayLink-based product is connected to the Mac.
• The monitor is connected to a DisplayLink-controlled video output on the Plugable product.
• The monitor itself can safely be used in the physical orientation you plan to use.

If you are using macOS 14 Sonoma, macOS 15 Sequoia, macOS 26 Tahoe, or newer, DisplayLink Manager also needs the required macOS screen recording permission in order for DisplayLink-connected displays to work.

Rotate a Display in macOS 13 Ventura or Newer

Use these steps for current macOS versions, including macOS 13 Ventura, macOS 14 Sonoma, macOS 15 Sequoia, and macOS 26 Tahoe, when using DisplayLink Manager 1.12.0 or newer.

1. Open the Apple menu in the upper-left corner of the screen.
2. Select System Settings.

3. In the System Settings sidebar, select Displays. You may need to scroll down to find it.
4. Select the display you want to rotate from the display thumbnails at the top of the window.
5. Find the Rotation or Rotate option.
6. Open the rotation menu and select the desired orientation, such as Standard, 90°, 180°, or 270°.

7. If macOS displays a confirmation prompt, select Confirm to keep the new rotation setting.

Rotate a Display in macOS 11 Big Sur or macOS 12 Monterey on an Intel-based Mac

On Intel-based Macs running macOS 11 Big Sur or macOS 12 Monterey, DisplayLink-connected displays can be rotated from the built-in macOS display settings.

1. Open the Apple menu.
2. Select System Preferences.

3. Select Displays.
4. Select Display Settings....

Select Display Settings to configure each connected display.

5. Select the external display you want to rotate.
6. Use the Rotation or Rotate menu to choose the desired orientation.

Select the display, then choose the desired rotation.

7. If macOS asks you to confirm the change, select Confirm.

Legacy Apple Silicon Method: DisplayLink Manager 1.6 through 1.11.x

Use this section only if you are using an Apple silicon Mac on macOS 12 Monterey with DisplayLink Manager 1.6 through 1.11.x. On these older configurations, rotation is adjusted from within the DisplayLink Manager application instead of the macOS Displays settings.

For current macOS versions and current DisplayLink Manager versions, use the macOS System Settings > Displays method above instead.

1. Click the DisplayLink Manager icon in the Apple menu bar to open the DisplayLink Manager window.

2. Find the display you want to rotate in the Display rotation and toggle section.
3. If multiple displays are listed with the same name, move your pointer over a display name. A red border should appear on the matching physical display.
4. Open the rotation menu next to the display and choose the desired orientation.

If You Do Not See the Rotation Option

If the Rotation or Rotate option does not appear, check the following:

• Make sure the monitor is connected to a DisplayLink-controlled video output on the Plugable product.
• Make sure DisplayLink Manager is installed and running.
• Make sure the DisplayLink-connected display is active and not toggled off in DisplayLink Manager.
• Install the latest DisplayLink Manager version available for your version of macOS.
• Confirm that the monitor is not being mirrored in a way that prevents separate rotation controls from appearing.
• Confirm that the display supports rotation in macOS. Apple notes that the Rotation option appears only when a compatible external display is connected.
• If you are using an Apple silicon Mac running macOS 11 Big Sur, DisplayLink display rotation is not supported in that configuration.
• If you are using macOS 10.15 Catalina, DisplayLink display rotation is not supported in that configuration.

Troubleshooting

1. The DisplayLink display is not listed in System Settings

If the DisplayLink-connected display does not appear in System Settings > Displays, first confirm that DisplayLink Manager is installed, running, and allowed in macOS privacy settings.

For full setup steps, see Plugable’s current DisplayLink Manager installation guide: DisplayLink Manager App Installation Instructions for macOS.

2. The display rotates, but the image looks sideways or upside down

Try a different rotation value. The correct selection depends on how the physical monitor is positioned. For example, a monitor physically rotated clockwise may need a different setting than a monitor physically rotated counterclockwise.

3. The display goes blank after choosing a rotation value

Wait for the macOS confirmation timer to expire, or choose Revert if the confirmation prompt is visible. Then try another rotation value or return the display to Standard.

4. The rotation option only appears for some displays

Rotation support can depend on the display, macOS version, DisplayLink Manager version, and how the display is connected. Confirm that the display is connected through a DisplayLink-controlled output and that your macOS and DisplayLink Manager versions support rotation.

Important Notes

• The rotation setting location has changed across DisplayLink Manager versions. Current versions normally use macOS System Settings > Displays.
• The older DisplayLink Manager rotation controls are included here only for legacy Apple silicon configurations using DisplayLink Manager 1.6 through 1.11.x.
• macOS may ask you to confirm a rotation change. If you do not confirm, macOS may automatically revert to the previous setting.
• Some displays may not expose a rotation control in macOS.
• Always confirm that your physical monitor stand or mount supports portrait or rotated operation before rotating the monitor.

Need Assistance?

If you are unable to rotate a DisplayLink-connected display after following the steps above, contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com. Please include the Plugable product model, your Mac model, your macOS version, your DisplayLink Manager version, and a brief description of how each monitor is connected.

For the fastest assistance, please also include the output from Plugable’s PlugDebug diagnostic utility: PlugDebug.

Summary

When using a Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter with macOS, you may see a notification in the Apple menu bar stating that DisplayLink Manager is capturing your screen.

This message is normal and expected when the DisplayLink Manager application is running and a DisplayLink-based device is connected. DisplayLink Manager requires macOS screen recording permission in order to generate the image shown on monitors connected through DisplayLink technology.

DisplayLink Manager is not recording, storing, or sending your screen contents to Plugable. DisplayLink also states that DisplayLink Manager does not send data or pixels back to DisplayLink or Synaptics.

Applicable To

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations
• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB graphics adapters
• Mac computers running macOS 14 Sonoma or newer, including macOS 15 Sequoia and macOS 26 Tahoe
• Systems with the DisplayLink Manager application installed and running

This article applies to products that use DisplayLink technology. It does not apply to Plugable products that use only native USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, Thunderbolt, USB4, or HDMI/DisplayPort video without DisplayLink.

Answer

This notification appears because macOS is informing you that DisplayLink Manager is actively using screen capture access.

DisplayLink-based products use an indirect display technology. Instead of the external monitor being driven directly by the Mac’s built-in graphics output, DisplayLink Manager helps create the display image in software and sends the required display data over USB to the DisplayLink hardware.

Because DisplayLink Manager must access the screen image in order to create the output shown on the DisplayLink-connected monitors, macOS requires the application to be granted screen recording permission. Starting with macOS 14 Sonoma and newer versions of macOS, Apple also shows a visible menu bar notification when this type of screen access is active.

As long as your DisplayLink-connected monitors are working normally, no corrective action is required.

Why This Happens

macOS includes privacy controls for applications that can access screen contents. Apple uses this permission category for screen sharing, screen recording, and applications that need screen access to provide a display-related function.

DisplayLink Manager uses this access so it can generate the pixels shown on monitors connected to a DisplayLink-based dock or adapter. This is required for DisplayLink video output on macOS.

The wording used by macOS can sound concerning because it uses terms such as capturing or recording. In this context, the permission allows DisplayLink Manager to access the screen information needed to render the external display. It does not mean that DisplayLink Manager is saving a video recording of your screen.

What the Notification Means

The notification means that DisplayLink Manager is currently running and using the macOS screen access permission needed for DisplayLink video output.

This is expected when:

• The DisplayLink Manager application is open or running in the background
• A Plugable DisplayLink-based dock or adapter is connected to the Mac
• One or more monitors are connected through the DisplayLink-based product

The notification may disappear if DisplayLink Manager is quit, if the DisplayLink device is disconnected, or if the required permission is removed. However, DisplayLink-connected monitors will not work correctly if DisplayLink Manager is not running or does not have the required permission.

Do I Need to Change Any Settings?

No. If your DisplayLink-connected monitors are working normally, this notification can be ignored.

Plugable recommends leaving the required permission enabled if you want to continue using monitors connected through a DisplayLink-based product.

If you want to confirm that the required permission is enabled:

1. Open the Apple menu.
2. Select System Settings.
3. Select Privacy & Security.
4. Select Screen & System Audio Recording.
   On some older macOS versions, this may appear as Screen Recording.
5. Confirm that DisplayLink Manager is enabled.
6. If macOS asks you to quit and reopen DisplayLink Manager, follow the prompt so the change can take effect.

Can I Disable the Notification?

The notification is generated by macOS as part of Apple’s privacy and security design. There is not a Plugable setting that removes this notification while DisplayLink Manager is actively using the required screen access permission.

If you quit DisplayLink Manager, disconnect the DisplayLink-based product, or remove the screen recording permission, the notification may stop. However, monitors connected through DisplayLink technology will also stop working or may not work correctly.

If Your DisplayLink Displays Are Not Working

If you see the notification but your DisplayLink-connected monitors are not working as expected, check the following:

1. Make sure the latest DisplayLink Manager application for macOS is installed. The latest DisplayLink Manager installer is available here: Plugable DisplayLink Driver and Software Downloads.
2. Make sure DisplayLink Manager is running. A DisplayLink Manager icon should appear in the Apple menu bar when the application is active.
3. Confirm that DisplayLink Manager is enabled under System Settings > Privacy & Security > Screen & System Audio Recording.
4. If prompted by macOS, choose the option to quit and reopen DisplayLink Manager after changing the permission.
5. Disconnect the Plugable DisplayLink device from the Mac, reconnect it, and allow any macOS accessory approval prompt that appears.
6. Restart the Mac if the displays do not begin working after the permission has been granted.

For full installation steps, please see Plugable’s DisplayLink Manager installation guide: DisplayLink Manager App Installation Instructions for macOS.

Important Notes

• The message is expected behavior in macOS 14 Sonoma and newer when DisplayLink Manager is running and a DisplayLink device is connected.
• The required permission is a macOS privacy requirement, not a defect with the Plugable dock or adapter.
• DisplayLink Manager must be running for DisplayLink-connected monitors to function on macOS.
• Removing the screen recording permission may cause DisplayLink-connected monitors to stop working.
• DisplayLink states that DisplayLink Manager does not record or store screen content, and does not send data or pixels back to DisplayLink or Synaptics.

Need Assistance?

If your DisplayLink-connected monitors are not working after confirming the items above, contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com. Please include the Plugable product model, your Mac model, your macOS version, the DisplayLink Manager version installed, and a brief description of what appears in the DisplayLink Manager application.

For the fastest assistance, please also include the output from Plugable’s PlugDebug diagnostic utility: PlugDebug.

For products which have multiple USB-C ports, normally only one port is capable of connecting the product to a computer. USB-C ports capable of connecting the product to a computer are sometimes called “Host” or “Upstream” ports. 

On Plugable products with multiple USB-C ports, the dedicated port for connecting to the computer will be marked with a small laptop icon or the words “To host”.

A product may not be able to function if it is connected to a computer through a different USB-C port. These ports are also known as “Hub" or “Downstream” ports. 

Note, for those who prefer a visual answer to this question, Plugable has produced a video that demonstrates how to fix this issue:

For those that prefer a written explanation and solution, please continue reading.

Summary

When a Windows desktop computer is used with a Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter, and no monitor is connected directly to the desktop computer’s built-in video output, Windows may list an extra display in Display Settings even though no monitor is physically connected to that output. Plugable refers to this as a phantom display.

If Windows sets the phantom display as the main display, desktop icons, application windows, or the Windows sign-in screen may appear to be missing because Windows is placing them on a display that is not actually present.

This can usually be resolved by moving the Windows Display Settings window onto a visible monitor, setting one of the Plugable-connected displays as the main display, and setting the phantom display to Disconnect this display.

Applicable To

• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB docking stations
• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB graphics adapters
• Windows desktop computers
• Setups where the only connected monitors are attached through the Plugable DisplayLink device
• Setups where desktop icons, application windows, or the Windows sign-in screen appear missing, off-screen, or on the wrong display

Answer

This behavior is usually caused by a phantom display being configured as the Windows main display.

In Windows Display Settings, each detected display appears as a numbered box. In this scenario, one numbered display may represent a video output on the desktop computer’s built-in graphics adapter even though no monitor is actually connected to that output. If Windows treats that non-visible display as the main display, Windows may place desktop icons, the sign-in screen, and new application windows there.

To resolve the issue:

• Bring the Windows Display Settings window onto a visible monitor.
• Use Identify to determine which display number does not appear on any physical monitor.
• Select a real display connected through the Plugable DisplayLink device and enable Make this my main display.
• Select the phantom display and change it to Disconnect this display.

Why This Happens

DisplayLink-based docking stations and USB graphics adapters transmit display data over a USB data connection. This is different from connecting a monitor directly to the computer’s built-in HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA output.

Because the monitors connected through DisplayLink are not connected directly to the desktop computer’s built-in graphics output, some Windows desktop systems may still show an additional display associated with the system’s native graphics hardware. This display may remain listed even though no physical monitor is connected to it.

If Windows makes this phantom display the main display, desktop icons and application windows can become difficult to find because they are being opened on a display that is not visible.

Before You Begin

The steps below are written for Windows 11 and assume the following example setup:

• The desktop computer is already running Windows.
• No monitors are connected directly to the video outputs built in to the desktop computer.
• A Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter is connected to the computer.
• Two external displays are connected to the Plugable DisplayLink device.
• At least one Plugable-connected display is visible enough to use the Windows taskbar, mouse, and keyboard.

The same general process applies if your display numbers or number of connected displays are different from the example shown below.

Optional Video Reference

Before starting, you may want to review Plugable’s short video on using Windows keyboard shortcuts to move application windows between displays. This is useful if the Display Settings window opens on the phantom display and is not visible.

How to move application windows using keyboard shortcuts in Windows

How To Fix the Phantom Display in Windows

1) Right-click on an empty area of the Windows desktop on one of the visible displays connected to the Plugable DisplayLink device.

2) Select Display settings.

In many cases, the Display Settings window will open on the phantom display and will not be visible. However, you may see the Display Settings icon on the Windows taskbar.

3) Select the Display Settings icon on the Windows taskbar to make sure the Display Settings window is active.

4) Press Windows key + Shift + Right Arrow to move the active window to another display.

If the Display Settings window does not appear, press the shortcut again. You can also try Windows key + Shift + Left Arrow. Repeat until the Display Settings window appears on a visible display.

5) At the top of Display Settings, look for the numbered display boxes. Select Identify.

Windows will briefly show a number on each physical display. Make a note of the display number that does not appear on any physical monitor. That number represents the phantom display.

For example, if Windows shows display numbers 1, 2, and 3, but only numbers 2 and 3 appear on your real monitors, display 1 is the phantom display.

6) Select one of the real displays connected through the Plugable DisplayLink device. In this example, display 2 is selected.

7) Under Multiple displays, place a check mark next to Make this my main display.

This sets the selected real display as the Windows main display. The Windows sign-in screen, desktop icons, and newly opened application windows should now appear on that display.

8) Next, select the numbered display box for the phantom display. In this example, display 1 is the phantom display.

9) Under Multiple displays, open the display mode drop-down menu and select Disconnect this display.

After this change, the phantom display will be disabled. One of the real displays connected to the Plugable DisplayLink device should now be configured as the main display, and desktop icons and application windows should appear on the visible displays.

Important Notes

• Even after the phantom display is disconnected, its display number may still appear in Windows Display Settings. This is expected. The disconnected display may appear smaller than the active displays.
• Windows does not provide a way to completely hide the disconnected display from the Display Settings page.
• Do not disconnect a display number if that number appears on a real physical monitor that you want to use.
• When possible, Plugable recommends connecting at least one monitor directly to a desktop computer’s native graphics output, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA, and using DisplayLink-connected displays as additional monitors.
• If none of the displays connected to the Plugable DisplayLink device are working, or if the Plugable device is not detected at all, follow Plugable’s DisplayLink driver clean installation process instead: My DisplayLink-based USB Docking Station or USB Video Adapter Is Not Working As Expected with a Windows computer.

Troubleshooting

Display Settings does not appear on a visible monitor

Select the Display Settings icon in the Windows taskbar, then press Windows key + Shift + Right Arrow or Windows key + Shift + Left Arrow. Repeat the shortcut until the Display Settings window appears on one of the visible displays.

I cannot tell which display is the phantom display

Use the Identify button in Windows Display Settings. The display number that does not appear on any physical monitor is the phantom display. If every display number appears on a real monitor, do not disconnect any of them.

The display changes do not save

When Windows asks you to confirm the display change, make sure to keep or confirm the new setting before the timer expires. If the setting does not save, restart the computer and repeat the steps.

Displays are still not working correctly after disconnecting the phantom display

Try the following:

1. Restart the computer.
2. Disconnect and reconnect the Plugable DisplayLink device.
3. If possible, connect one monitor directly to the desktop computer’s native graphics output and confirm that Windows is using that display as the main display.
4. Perform a clean installation of the DisplayLink driver using Plugable’s DisplayLink troubleshooting guide.
5. If the issue continues, collect logs with Plugable’s PlugDebug diagnostic utility and contact Plugable Support.

Need Assistance?

If the issue continues after following the steps above, contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com. Please include the Plugable product model, your Windows version, the desktop computer make and model, the number of connected displays, how each display is connected, and whether any monitor is connected directly to the desktop computer’s built-in video output.

For the fastest assistance, please also include the output from Plugable’s PlugDebug diagnostic utility: PlugDebug.

Summary

The most common reason a Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter stops outputting video after a Mac is updated or restarted is that the DisplayLink Manager application is not running, did not reopen after login, or no longer has the required macOS screen recording permission.

DisplayLink Manager is the software component that allows DisplayLink-based video outputs to work in macOS. If the application is not running, or if macOS is blocking the required permission, the displays connected through the DisplayLink-based device may remain blank, not appear in macOS Display Settings, or stop working until the application and permissions are restored.

Applicable To

• Plugable DisplayLink-based docking stations used with macOS
• Plugable DisplayLink-based USB graphics adapters used with macOS
• Mac systems where DisplayLink-connected displays stopped working after a macOS update, restart, shutdown, or login
• Mac systems where the DisplayLink Manager icon is missing from the macOS menu bar

This article applies only to products that use DisplayLink technology. It does not apply to Plugable USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode adapters, Thunderbolt-only docks, or MST-based adapters that do not use DisplayLink Manager.

Answer

First, confirm whether DisplayLink Manager is running. When DisplayLink Manager is running, its icon should appear in the macOS menu bar at the top of the screen.

If the DisplayLink Manager icon is not present, the application is not currently running. Open DisplayLink Manager from the Applications folder, then enable the setting that allows DisplayLink Manager to start automatically after you log in.

How To Reopen DisplayLink Manager

1. Open Finder.
2. Select Applications in the left sidebar.
3. Locate DisplayLink Manager.
4. Double-click DisplayLink Manager to open it.
5. Confirm that the DisplayLink Manager icon appears in the macOS menu bar.

After DisplayLink Manager opens, the displays connected through the Plugable DisplayLink-based device should begin working again if the only issue was that the application was not running.

Enable DisplayLink Manager to Start Automatically

After a restart or macOS update, DisplayLink-connected displays may not work until DisplayLink Manager starts. We recommend enabling DisplayLink Manager to start automatically after login.

1. Click the DisplayLink Manager icon in the macOS menu bar.
2. Open the Settings tab.
3. Enable Automatic app startup.

Older versions of DisplayLink Manager may show this setting as Launch automatically after login instead.

Confirm macOS Screen Recording Permission

If DisplayLink Manager is running but the displays are still not working, confirm that macOS is allowing DisplayLink Manager to access the screen. macOS requires this permission in order for DisplayLink Manager to generate the image shown on DisplayLink-connected displays.

Important: DisplayLink Manager does not record, store, or send your screen content to DisplayLink or Synaptics. The macOS permission is required because DisplayLink technology needs access to the screen image in order to send display data over USB to the connected monitor.

1. Open the Apple menu and select System Settings.
2. Select Privacy & Security.
3. Select Screen & System Audio Recording.
4. Find DisplayLink Manager in the list and enable the toggle.
5. Enter your Mac password or use Touch ID if prompted.
6. When macOS asks, select Quit & Reopen so the permission change can take effect.

On some older macOS versions, this setting may be listed as Screen Recording instead of Screen & System Audio Recording.

Allow the Accessory to Connect When Prompted

On Mac laptops with Apple silicon, macOS may ask for permission before allowing a newly connected USB or Thunderbolt accessory to pass data. If this prompt appears when connecting your Plugable DisplayLink-based product, select Allow.

If Don’t Allow is selected, the device may receive power but data may not pass through correctly. This can prevent DisplayLink Manager from detecting the Plugable device and connected displays.

Why This Happens

Plugable DisplayLink-based products use a USB data connection to drive external displays. On macOS, this requires the DisplayLink Manager application to be installed, open, and granted the required macOS permissions.

After a macOS update, restart, shutdown, or login, one or more of the following may occur:

• DisplayLink Manager may not reopen automatically.
• The DisplayLink Manager icon may be missing from the macOS menu bar.
• macOS screen recording permission may need to be confirmed again.
• An Apple silicon Mac laptop may require the Plugable device to be allowed as a USB accessory.
• A DisplayLink software update or clean reinstall may be needed if the system was recently updated.

Important Notes

• DisplayLink Manager must be running for displays connected through DisplayLink technology to work in macOS.
• Enabling Automatic app startup starts DisplayLink Manager after you log in. It does not necessarily make DisplayLink-connected displays available before login.
• If you need DisplayLink-connected displays available at the macOS login screen, DisplayLink provides a separate Login Screen Extension. DisplayLink notes that DisplayLink screens will not display the login screen when FileVault is enabled, even when the Login Screen Extension is installed.
• macOS may show a menu bar notification indicating that DisplayLink Manager is capturing the screen while a DisplayLink display is active. This is expected behavior in current macOS versions.

Troubleshooting

1. The DisplayLink Manager icon is missing from the menu bar

Open DisplayLink Manager manually from the Applications folder. Then enable Automatic app startup in the DisplayLink Manager Settings tab so the application starts after you log in.

2. DisplayLink Manager is running, but the displays are still blank

Check the macOS screen recording permission under System Settings > Privacy & Security > Screen & System Audio Recording. Make sure DisplayLink Manager is enabled, then select Quit & Reopen if macOS prompts for it.

3. The Mac asks whether to allow the accessory to connect

Select Allow. If the prompt was missed or Don’t Allow was selected, disconnect the Plugable device, reconnect it, and allow the accessory when prompted. You can also review the Allow accessories to connect setting under System Settings > Privacy & Security.

4. The displays stopped after a macOS update and these steps did not resolve the issue

Recommend perform a clean reinstall of DisplayLink Manager. Plugable's current DisplayLink Manager installation guide is available here: DisplayLink Manager App Installation Instructions for macOS 26 Tahoe, macOS 15 Sequoia, and macOS 14 Sonoma.

5. A message says the screens have been stopped by the system

On macOS 15 Sequoia and later, DisplayLink notes that macOS may stop DisplayLink screen streaming if available disk space falls below a required threshold. Free additional disk space, restart the Mac, and try the DisplayLink-connected displays again.

6. The Plugable device is not detected by DisplayLink Manager

Disconnect all cables from the Plugable device, reconnect power if the device uses an external power adapter, and then reconnect the USB cable to the Mac. If possible, test a different USB port, a different USB cable, and another computer. Also confirm that macOS has allowed the accessory to connect and that the DisplayLink Manager App is running.

Need Assistance?

If the displays still do not work after completing the steps above, Plugable Support will be happy to help.

Please contact us at support@plugable.com

Yes, heat generation is a normal byproduct of operation for electronic devices and Plugable products as electrical energy is consumed and transferred. Power delivery, high-speed data transfers, and active peripheral usage naturally convert electrical energy into thermal energy. Plugable designs its products with thermal safety margins to ensure operational temperatures remain within safe limits.

Why Plugable Electronics Generate Heat

Electrical components generate heat as current flows through them, with higher power usage-such as charging host laptops or conducting fast data transfers-increasing thermal output. Many Plugable products, such as the TBT3-UDZ and TBT4-UDZ docking stations, feature aluminum enclosures engineered with internal thermal pads to function as heat sinks. This design transfers internal heat outward to radiate into the room. This protects internal components, however can cause the external surface to feel warm or hot. Higher ambient room temperatures, direct sunlight, and obstructions to air currents around the device may also contribute to increased surface heat. While Underwriters Laboratories (UL) sets a thermal safety threshold of 77°C (170.6°F), Plugable targets a lower operational ceiling of approximately 71°C (160°F) under the heaviest of loads.

How to Manage Heat Generation in Plugable Products

To keep operating temperatures as low as possible, ensure Plugable devices have sufficient ventilation around them and are not placed in enclosed spaces. Avoid connecting an excessive number of power-hungry USB accessories that exceed the power limits of your dock or hub, as higher power draw causes the unit to run warmer (for example USB fans, heaters, cup warmers etc). Expect temporary increases in surface temperature during intensive workloads such as simultaneous multi-device charging and high-bandwidth data transfer.

Conclusion

Experiencing heat from Plugable products is a normal aspect of the operation of high-performance devices. Users can rest assured that we prioritize the safety and efficiency of our devices. By understanding the factors influencing heat generation and following simple usage guidelines, users can make the most of their Plugable products while ensuring a reliable and efficient user experience.

Applicable To

• Plugable docking stations, including TBT3-UDZ and TBT4-UDZ models
• Plugable USB hubs, video adapters, and electronic accessories
• Electronic devices utilizing metal heat-dissipating enclosures

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!

Applicable To

Supported Plugable DisplayLink or Silicon Motion USB graphics adapters connected directly to a computer or through a compatible USB data port on a dock or hub.

Before You Connect

1. Check the USB graphics adapter's product page for supported operating systems, monitor count, maximum resolution, and required software.
2. Use a USB data port that meets the adapter's requirements. The port does not need to support DisplayPort Alt Mode because the USB graphics adapter receives data over USB.
3. Make sure the dock or hub has enough power and USB bandwidth for the adapter and other attached devices. A direct connection to the computer can help isolate hub-related issues.
4. On macOS, install the software required for the adapter technology and grant the macOS permissions it requests. DisplayLink Manager and Silicon Motion InstantView are different applications.

A productive work space for technology professionals has much to benefit from adding multiple screens for increased productivity by as much as 42%. Our blog post “Can Multiple Monitors Really Double Productivity” highlights several ways to add additional monitors using our USB graphics adapters, docking stations, and USB hubs.

Most docking stations are limited to adding 1, 2, or up to 4 displays, depending on the model. But what if you want to add more monitors without replacing your docking station? Whether you have a Plugable dock or a dock from Dell, HP, Belkin, Anker, or virtually any other brand, adding USB graphics adapters lets you connect more displays than your current setup would otherwise support.

Both DisplayLink and Silicon Motion, with its unique graphics transport technology, enable users to add additional monitors via USB and with minimal use of your computer's resources. All you need is an open USB port on your existing docking station or hub and a USB graphics adapter from Plugable.

No matter what type of connection your monitor uses, Plugable offers several different types of USB Graphics Adapters with HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, and VGA, including models with multiple outputs and port types. Our USB Graphics Adapters are available in options for single-, dual-, and quad-display configurations.

For Windows and Mac users, the Plugable USBC-6950U, which uses DisplayLink technology, can do precisely this by enabling you to easily add two 4K HDMI or DisplayPort monitors to your computer. The adapter can connect to either a USB 3.0 or USB-C connector. At this time, Plugable recommends only a maximum of 8 external monitors on Windows if using 4K resolution monitors with DisplayLink, and a maximum of 4 external monitors with Silicon Motion. This setup is ideal for adding screens for day traders, spreadsheets, and productivity use cases.

On macOS, there are limitations to how many external monitors can be supported natively, and this can vary depending on the model of the Mac. With the popular base M1 / M2 / M3* MacBooks, those laptops are limited to supporting only a single external monitor. Our Plugable USBC-768H4 Quad-HDMI adapter is a great option to exceed this limitation by adding up to four 1080p monitors for MacBooks that would otherwise only support a single monitor for a total of 5 monitors.

Curious to see this expandability in action? As a proof of concept, Plugable has tested using as many as 14 external monitors using a combination of our DisplayLink graphics adapters and our USB hubs, featured on our YouTube channel.

Important Notes

Adding an adapter does not guarantee a particular total number of external displays. The practical limit varies with the computer, operating system, adapter models, display resolutions, USB bandwidth, and workload. On macOS, a USB graphics adapter may add displays beyond a Mac's native display limit, but its software must be running and permissions enabled. Avoid assuming that a dock's native video outputs and USB graphics outputs work through the same technology.

For example, the Plugable USBC-6950U is a DisplayLink adapter with two video outputs; check its product specifications and host compatibility before choosing it for a setup.

Additional Notes

• Base M3 can output to 2 external displays when the built-in screen is disabled, or the lid is closed (clamshell mode). This feature is planned for a later date on the base M3 MacBook Pro and is currently available on the M3 MacBook Air.
• Additional SKUs: USBC-6950M, USB3-3900DHE, USBC-6950UE, UGA-HDMI-S, USBC-768H4, UGA-HDMI-2S, UGA-DP-S, USB-VGA-165, UGA-4KHDMI, UGA-4KDP, UGA-3000, UGA-2KHDMI, UGA-165

Need Assistance?

For help planning a multi-monitor setup, email support@plugable.com with your computer and operating system, dock or hub model, adapter model, monitor models, and desired display count and resolution.

How Do I Enable Screen Recording for DisplayLink on macOS?

Applicable To

• Plugable DisplayLink Docking Station
• Plugable DisplayLink graphics adapters
• macOS 10.15 Catalina and later, including macOS 13 Ventura, macOS 14 Sonoma, macOS 15 Sequoia, macOS 26 Tahoe, and macOS 27 Golden Gate

If your DisplayLink docking station or adapter is installed and the DisplayLink Manager software is downloaded, but your displays stay blank, the most common cause is that macOS hasn't given DisplayLink Manager the screen recording permission. Turning on this permission with the steps below usually fixes the issue right away.

Note: DisplayLink Manager needs this permission only to read the pixels it renders to your external displays (mirrored or extended) and send them over USB. It does not record, store, or send any data.

Troubleshooting Steps

macOS 13 Ventura Through macOS 27 Golden Gate

The setting is called Screen & System Audio Recording in macOS 15 Sequoia, macOS 26 Tahoe, and macOS 27 Golden Gate. In macOS 13 Ventura and macOS 14 Sonoma, it's called Screen Recording.

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings.
2. Click Privacy & Security in the sidebar.
3. Scroll down and click Screen & System Audio Recording (or Screen Recording on macOS 13 and 14).
4. Find DisplayLink Manager in the list and check whether its toggle is on. If it's off, the permission hasn't been granted. Use the image below as a reference.

1. Turn on the toggle next to DisplayLink Manager.
2. If DisplayLink Manager isn't in the list, click the + button below the list, select DisplayLink Manager from your Applications folder, and click Open.
3. If prompted, enter your Mac password or use Touch ID to approve the change.
4. When prompted, click Quit & Reopen.
5. On macOS 15 Sequoia and later, if macOS asks whether DisplayLink Manager can access your screen and audio, click Allow.

macOS 10.15 Catalina Through macOS 12 Monterey

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Preferences.
2. Click Security & Privacy.
3. Select the Privacy tab.
4. Scroll through the list on the left and click Screen Recording.
5. Click the lock icon in the bottom-left corner to make changes.
6. If prompted, enter your Mac password.
7. Check the box next to DisplayLink Manager.
8. When prompted, click Quit & Reopen.
9. Click the lock icon again to save your changes.

Expected Result

DisplayLink Manager shows as enabled in the screen recording settings, and your displays connected to the docking station or adapter turn on and show your desktop, either mirrored or extended. On macOS 14 Sonoma and later, you may also see a menu bar notice that DisplayLink Manager is capturing your screen. This is normal and means the permission is working.

If the Issue Persists

• Disconnect the docking station or adapter from your Mac, wait 10 seconds, and reconnect it.
• On a Mac laptop with Apple silicon running macOS 13 Ventura or later, click Allow if macOS asks whether to let the accessory connect.
• After a macOS update, check that the DisplayLink Manager toggle is still on, since you may need to confirm the permission again.
• Restart your Mac, then confirm that DisplayLink Manager is running. Its icon should appear in the menu bar at the top of your screen.
• Do a clean reinstall of DisplayLink Manager using our guide: DisplayLink Manager App Installation Instructions for macOS 26 Tahoe, macOS 15 Sequoia, and macOS 14 Sonoma. You can also get the latest version from the Synaptics DisplayLink macOS download page.
• If your displays stopped working after an update or restart, see Why Did My Displays Stop Working After My Mac Updated or Rebooted?
• If your displays still don't work, contact our support team at support@plugable.com.

Summary

If an external monitor is not detected after your Mac wakes from sleep or starts up, the monitor's automatic input-source detection feature may be contributing to the issue.

Setting the monitor to use the specific HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C input connected to your Plugable product can help the monitor reconnect more reliably.

Applicable To

This article applies to:

• Macs using external displays
• Plugable docking stations and video adapters used with macOS
• Monitors that support automatic input-source detection

Depending on the monitor manufacturer, automatic input detection may be called Auto Select, Auto Detect, Auto Source, Input Auto Switch, or something similar.

Answer

Some monitors automatically scan their available video inputs when waking from sleep or when a connected computer starts.

In certain configurations, this additional input-switching behavior can interfere with the timing of display detection, resulting in the monitor remaining blank or not appearing in macOS Display Settings.

If this occurs, disable automatic input-source detection and manually select the input connected to the Plugable product.

Disable Automatic Input-Source Detection

The exact steps vary by monitor model, but the setting is typically available through the monitor's built-in on-screen display (OSD).

1. Open the monitor's on-screen display menu.
2. Locate the Input, Source, or similar settings menu.
3. Disable any automatic input-selection option, such as:
   • Auto Select
   • Auto Detect
   • Auto Source
   • Input Auto Switch
4. Manually select the input being used with the Plugable product, such as:
   • HDMI
   • DisplayPort
   • USB-C
5. Put the Mac to sleep and wake it again to test the connection.

For instructions specific to your monitor, refer to the monitor manufacturer's documentation.

If the Display Is Still Not Detected

If disabling automatic input detection does not resolve the issue:

1. Open Apple menu > System Settings > Displays.
2. Press and hold the Option key. The Detect Displays button should appear.
3. Select Detect Displays.

You can also try:

• Disconnecting and reconnecting the Plugable product
• Power cycling the monitor
• Trying a different video cable
• Restarting the Mac
• Installing the latest available macOS updates

DisplayLink Products and the macOS Login Screen

If you are using a Plugable DisplayLink-based docking station or USB graphics adapter and the displays work after you log in but remain blank before login, this is a different issue.

DisplayLink Manager normally begins running after you log in to macOS. DisplayLink provides an optional Login Screen Extension for users who need DisplayLink-connected displays available before login.

For more information, see:

Why Don't My DisplayLink-Connected Screens Show Anything Before Logging Into macOS?

Need Assistance?

If your external displays are still not detected after completing the steps above, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

• When contacting support, please include:
• Your Plugable product model
• Your Mac model
• Your macOS version
• The make and model of each connected monitor
• How each monitor is connected to the Plugable product
• A description of what happens after waking or starting the Mac
• The output from Plugable's diagnostic tool, PlugDebug

The Windows Firewall may block some networking features when the local network is not set to Private.  This article will describe the process for setting the local network, either wired Ethernet or Wi-Fi to be a Private network.

Windows 11

1 - Connect the computer to the network, either wired or wireless

2 - Open the Windows Settings: right-click on the Start Menu and select Settings from the pop-up menu

3 - On the left column select Network & internet

For Wired Networks

4 - Select the Ethernet option

5 - The connected network should be expanded, if not click on Network Connected to expand the section

6 - Select the Network profile type either Public network or Private network to suite your needs

For Wi-Fi Networks

4 - Select the Wi-Fi option

5 - Select your Wi-Fi network name properties

6 - Select the Network profile type either Public network or Private network to suite your needs

Windows 10

1 - Connect the computer to the network, either wired or wireless

2 - Open the Windows Settings - right-click on the Start Menu and select Settings from the pop-up menu

3 - Select Network & Internet fro the bottom section

4 - Select the Ethernet option from the left pane

5 - Select the Connected network from the right pane

6 - Select the Network profile type either Public network or Private network to suite your needs

Windows PowerShell

If the option does not show up in the Windows Settings GUI, for example if the network is not connected to the internet, or if you prefer to use the terminal.

1 - Open a new terminal: Right-click on the Start Menu and select Terminal 

2 - Run the following command to list the available networks

Get-NetConnectionProfile

PS C:\Users\plugable> Get-NetConnectionProfile
Name                     : Network
InterfaceAlias           : Ethernet Instance 0
InterfaceIndex           : 7
NetworkCategory          : Private
DomainAuthenticationKind : None
IPv4Connectivity         : Internet
IPv6Connectivity         : NoTraffic

3 - Run the following command to set the network to Private

Set-NetConnectionProfile -Name Network -NetworkCategory Private

Where Network is the network name from step #2 and Private can be either Public or Private

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!

What Is USB-C Alt Mode, and Does My Computer Support It?

USB-C Alt Mode allows a compatible USB-C port to carry native video, such as DisplayPort, in addition to data and power. To use it, both the host USB-C port and the connected device must support Alt Mode; the best way to confirm support is to check the system specifications or user manual for DisplayPort, DP, or Alt Mode support.

How Does USB-C Alt Mode Work?

USB-C is a truly versatile connection that supports a range of functions, including power delivery, data transfer, and video. Alt Mode leverages this versatility by repurposing high-speed data pins to enable alternative video data protocols. Many of our docking stations support this protocol, but there is a catch! To take advantage of this feature, your host system must support Alt Mode via the host USB-C port and controller. If the host system and device support Alt Mode, the USB-C ports automatically switch from its default data protocol to the required Alt Mode protocol for video. 

How Do I Determine if My System Supports USB-C Alt Mode?

Reviewing your manufacturer's system specifications or user manual is the easiest way to determine if your system supports Alt Mode via the USB-C port, but unfortunately, it’s not always consistent or straightforward. Below, we have included examples of how some system manufacturers mention the capabilities of the USB-C ports on their laptops. This information will usually be included in the user manuals or system specification sheets.

Please note that mention of DisplayPort or DP 1.2, 1,4, and 2.1 indicates Alt Mode support.

Lenovo

HP

Dell

Additionally, some manufacturers, but not all, will also include a DP symbol next to the port to illustrate its ability to support video. If your USB-C port is unmarked, check your user manual or consult the system specifications. 

What About Thunderbolt 4 and USB4?

Unlike earlier iterations of USB-C, which use Alt Mode for video support, USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 primarily use video tunnelling to transmit video over the USB-C connection. Video tunnelling dynamically allocates bandwidth for video and data to ensure optimized performance. If a device does not fully support video tunnelling, your Thunderbolt 4 or USB4-capable system can fall back to Alt Mode, ensuring compatibility with devices that support Alt Mode for video. So you don’t have to worry about a Thunderbolt or USB4 connection supporting USB-C Alt Mode!

How Can I Troubleshoot USB-C Alt Mode?

When using a USB-C video cable, adapter, docking station, or hub, it's important to ensure that your laptop supports Alt Mode. If you encounter any issues, the following steps can help you troubleshoot and determine why video may not be working through your USB-C Alt Mode cable or device.

1. First and foremost, check to ensure that your system supports Alt Mode. This is vital as Alt Mode is an optional feature that not all manufacturers include on their systems.
   1. If your system does not support Alt Mode, unfortunately, this is a hardware limitation, and there is no workaround for achieving Alt Mode compatibility. However, it’s possible to still drive external monitors through DisplayLink.
2. Reboot your system and perform a power reset on your docking station or hub (if applicable)
3. If you are using a docking station, ensure that you are using a USB-C cable that supports Alt Mode. 
   1. Not all cables are created equal—USB-C cables that support USB 2.0 only or “charging only” cables are not built to support video. To ensure compatibility, all of our Alt Mode-capable products will come with a USB-C cable that supports this feature.
   2. Do not use USB-C to USB-A adapters, as they are not designed to support video transmission.
4. Be sure to check your operating system's display settings. The connected display can sometimes be disabled within the display settings, or the resolution and refresh may need to be adjusted to match what your device or display can support.
5. Check if your Alt Mode-capable device has any firmware updates listed specifically for Alt Mode.
6. Ensure that your system is up to date with all its latest drivers, firmware, and BIOS, especially your USB and internal graphics controller. Outdated drivers can often lead to connectivity issues, and at times, a BIOS update is needed, which the system manufacturer will generally mention on their official support page.
7. Check BIOS and UEFI settings; some manufacturers add settings that control USB-C functionality. Ensure that your settings are enabled and correctly configured for Alt Mode.
8. Test out another USB-C port on your system if you have more than one. This is beneficial in determining if the issues are related to the specific port.

What Are the Benefits of USB-C Alt Mode?

Alt Mode over USB-C provides a direct connection to the GPU, allowing you to take advantage of the capabilities of your built-in GPU. This ensures native-level performance without the need for extra software or drivers. As a result, your USB-C Alt Mode-connected display will have reduced latency compared to other methods of adding additional displays, making it perfect for users who require sharp and detailed visuals at optimal refresh rates. Unlike traditional video connectors like HDMI or DisplayPort, which only support video, a USB-C connection with Alt Mode is more flexible and multifunctional, allowing a single connection to carry video, data, and power delivery.

Which Plugable Devices Support USB-C Alt Mode?

If your system supports Alt Mode or if you are looking to get more out of your laptop, especially Apple M1, M2, or M3 base chipsets (which are limited to one external display), we have compiled some options below that utilize Alt Mode or a combination of Alt Mode and DisplayLink for even more monitor expandability.

Plugable USB-C Docking Station with HDMI, 60W Laptop Charging
SKU: UD-CA1A

The UD-CA1A is a versatile docking station that enables you to connect a 4K HDMI display via Alt Mode. In addition, it comes equipped with high-speed Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 ports, 3.5mm jacks for headphones and microphone, and will provide 60W of power delivery to your host device—all via a single USB-C port. It is compatible with macOS, Windows, ChromeOS, Linux, iOS, and iPadOS, making it the ideal solution for any setup. You can enjoy seamless plug-and-play functionality and save space with its sleek vertical design or lay it flat for a more subtle look.  

Plugable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub with Ethernet
SKU: USBC-7IN1E  

The USBC-7IN1E instantly transforms a single USB-C with Alt Mode or Thunderbolt port into a versatile hub featuring 2x USB 3.0 ports, a 4K HDMI output, Gigabit Ethernet, and SD and microSD card readers. For hosts that support Power Delivery over USB-C, this hub also supports 100W PD passthrough, allowing you to plug in your included USB-C power adapter to further simplify your setup for greater portable productivity.

The products mentioned above demonstrate the versatility of a single USB-C connection. Plugable offers a wide range of solutions to meet your needs. Whether you are looking for a full-featured docking station that utilizes DisplayLink and USB-C Alt mode, such as our UD-ULTC4K, or a USB-C cable that supports video, data, and charging, like our USBC-240W-1M, you can rest assured that we have you covered. If you have any questions or need help building a solution that takes full advantage of your laptop's USB-C connection, please reach out to us at support@plugable.com.

Applicable To

• USB-C host systems that support DisplayPort Alt Mode
• Thunderbolt, and USB4 systems used with compatible USB-C video devices
• Plugable USB-C video adapters, hubs, docking stations, and cables that rely on DisplayPort Alt Mode
• UD-3900PDZ, UD-4VPD, UD-6950PDZ, UD-MSTH2, UD-MSTH3, UD-ULTC4K, UD-ULTCDL, USBC-10IN1E, USBC-4IN1, USBC-MD101, USBC-MD103, USBC-MSTH2, USBC-MSTH3, USBC-DP, USBC-DVI, USBC-HDMI, USBC-HDMI-CABLE, USBC-HDMI8K, USBC-TDP, USBC-THDMI, USBC-TVGA, USBC-VGA, USBC-VGA-CABLE

Follow the steps below to completely remove DisplayLink Manager and its associated components from your Mac.

Step 1: Disconnect the Dock or Adapter

Disconnect the DisplayLink-based dock or adapter from your Mac.

Before continuing, save any open work and close DisplayLink Manager. You can quit the application by selecting the DisplayLink Manager icon in the macOS menu bar, navigating to the Settings tab, and choosing Quit.

Step 2: Run the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner

Synaptics provides the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner for macOS to remove DisplayLink Manager, associated components, user preferences, and the Login Screen Extension. Full Instructions available here. 

1. Download the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner for macOS.
2. Open and run the Cleaner.
3. Select the items you want to remove.
4. Click Clean.
5. Enter your macOS administrator password when prompted.

All cleanup options are selected by default. The Reset Screen Layout option will also reset macOS display settings, including display arrangement and rotation. Leave this option selected when troubleshooting display configuration issues, or deselect it if you want to preserve your current display layout.

If DisplayLink Manager Will Not Close

If you cannot quit DisplayLink Manager normally:

1. Open Finder.
2. Select Go > Utilities > Activity Monitor.
3. Search for DisplayLink Manager.
4. Select the process and click the Stop button at the top of Activity Monitor.
5. Choose Force Quit, if prompted.

Then run the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner again.

Deleting DisplayLink Manager from the Applications folder may not remove all associated components, including the Login Screen Extension. For a complete removal, we recommend using the DisplayLink Installation Cleaner.

Step 3: Restart Your Mac

After the cleanup is complete, restart your Mac by selecting Apple menu > Restart.

DisplayLink Manager should now be completely removed. Should you have any trouble completing these steps, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

Applicable To

• DisplayLink Manager Application
• macOS 

Base MacBook Air and MacBook Pro systems with M3 chips can natively host two external displays in clamshell mode when running macOS Sonoma 14.3 or 14.6 respectively. Connect your external displays, a power source, and an external keyboard and mouse, then close the laptop lid to switch to this mode. Plugable Thunderbolt docks can also be used to expand connectivity with dual displays, USB ports, audio, and ethernet without requiring additional software.

Requirements

Before getting started, ensure you have the following:

• MacBook Air or MacBook Pro with an Apple M3 chip.
• macOS Sonoma 14.3 or later for an M3 MacBook Air or macOS Sonoma 14.6 or later for an M3 MacBook Pro.
• Two external displays with compatible video inputs (e.g., HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C).
  • A dock or graphics adapter can be used as well.
• External keyboard and mouse (wired or wireless).
• Power adapter or power source for your MacBook
  • A docking station that provides adequate charge can be used in place of the native power adapter, be sure to check the wattage your dock provides.

How to Set Up Dual External Displays With the Lid Closed

1. Set Up Your External Keyboard and Mouse
   1. If you’re using a wired keyboard and mouse, connect them directly to your MacBook or Plugable dock.
   2. For wireless peripherals, ensure they are paired with your MacBook and functioning properly.
       
2. Ensure the MacBook is charging from an external power source to prevent it from entering sleep mode.
   1. A docking station that provides adequate charge can be used in place of the native power adapter, be sure to check the wattage your dock provides.
       
3. Connect your displays through the Plugable dock using the appropriate cable (e.g., HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, etc.)
    
4. Ensure both displays are powered on and set to the correct input source.
    
5. Enable "Clamshell Mode" (Lid Closed Mode)
   1. With your external displays connected and set up, close the lid of your MacBook.
   2. Your MacBook will automatically switch to "Clamshell Mode," where the internal display turns off, and the external displays become your primary screens.
       
6. Configure Display Settings
   1. Open System Settings on your MacBook.
   2. Go to Displays.
   3. You should see both external displays listed. Arrange them according to your preference by dragging the display icons.
   4. Adjust the resolution, refresh rate, and other settings as needed.

5. Check the Display Arrangement

• With the lid closed, check that the external displays are functioning as expected.
• If necessary, re-open the Displays settings to adjust the arrangement, resolution, or other preferences.

Troubleshooting Tips

• No Display on External Monitors: If the external displays are not showing anything, open the lid of your MacBook and check the connections.
• MacBook Sleeps When Lid Is Closed: Make sure your MacBook is connected to a power adapter. Clamshell Mode requires the MacBook to be plugged into an external power source.
• Performance Issues: If you experience lag or performance drops, try lowering the resolution or refresh rate of the external displays.

Applicable To

• Plugable Thunderbolt Docking Stations

The 'Allow For One Month' prompt is a macOS 15 Sequoia security reminder for applications that access screen content. DisplayLink Manager requires this access to generate the image shown on monitors connected through a DisplayLink dock or USB graphics adapter.

Applicable To

Mac computers running macOS 15 Sequoia with DisplayLink Manager and a Plugable DisplayLink-based dock or USB graphics adapter.

What Should I Do?

If this macOS prompt appears while you are using a DisplayLink product, select 'Allow For One Month'. If macOS presents the reminder again later, allow access again to continue using your DisplayLink-connected displays.

Example of the macOS 15 prompt:

Why Is This Permission Needed?

DisplayLink Manager needs macOS screen access to send the desktop image to DisplayLink-connected displays. DisplayLink Manager does not record or store screen content as part of this display function. The permission prompt comes from macOS.

Need Assistance?

If your DisplayLink-connected displays do not return after allowing access, email support@plugable.com with your Mac model, macOS version, Plugable product model, and a screenshot of the prompt or permission setting.

Yes. The UD-3900C4 is compatible with Intel, M1, M2, and M3 Mac computers. However, macOS supports a maximum of three unique extended displays through the dock.

Why Does macOS Support a Maximum of Three Extended Displays?

The UD-3900C4 uses two different display technologies across its four HDMI outputs.

HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 use DisplayLink technology and can operate as separate extended displays on macOS when DisplayLink Manager is installed and configured.

HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 use the Mac's native DisplayPort video output. macOS does not support Multi-Stream Transport (MST), so HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 cannot operate as two separate extended displays. Instead, these two outputs will mirror each other.

As a result, the UD-3900C4 can provide up to three unique extended displays on macOS:

• Two displays through HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 using DisplayLink
• One unique native display across HDMI 3 and HDMI 4

For the latest DisplayLink Manager software, installation information, and downloads for older macOS versions:

https://plugable.com/pages/displaylink

For more information about DisplayLink and Alt Mode MST:

https://kb.plugable.com/question/1390565

For more information about DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport:

https://kb.plugable.com/question/1731339

Applicable To

• UD-3900C4

The UD-3900C4 uses DisplayLink technology for HDMI 1 and HDMI 2, so you need DisplayLink software on Windows and macOS for these outputs to work. On Windows, the required driver will typically install automatically through Windows Update, while macOS requires the DisplayLink Manager application. ChromeOS 100 or later does not require a separate DisplayLink driver installation.

How Do I Install the Required DisplayLink Software?

For the latest recommended DisplayLink software, installation instructions, and downloads for supported and legacy operating systems:

https://plugable.com/pages/displaylink

On Windows 10 and Windows 11, the DisplayLink driver typically installs automatically through Windows Update when you connect the dock.

On macOS, install and configure the DisplayLink Manager application. DisplayLink Manager is required for displays connected to HDMI 1 and HDMI 2.

On ChromeOS 100 or later, you don't need to download a separate DisplayLink driver.

HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 use the host computer's native DisplayPort video capabilities and do not rely on DisplayLink software.

macOS does not support DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (MST). As a result, displays connected to HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 cannot operate as two separate extended displays on a Mac.

What Can I Do if My Work Computer Restricts Software Downloads?

If your organization restricts software downloads or installations, you may need approval from your IT administrator before installing DisplayLink software.

Contact your IT department and provide them with the DisplayLink software page:

https://plugable.com/pages/displaylink

If company policy permits the software, your IT administrator can approve or install it on your behalf.

Applicable To

• UD-3900C4

Yes. The UD-3900C4 is compatible with most computers equipped with Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 ports.

How Does the UD-3900C4 Work With Thunderbolt Hosts?

When connected to a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 computer, the UD-3900C4 operates as a USB-C docking station using the USB and DisplayPort capabilities provided by the Thunderbolt port.

HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 use DisplayLink technology and require DisplayLink software. HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 use the host computer's native DisplayPort video output through Alt Mode and Multi-Stream Transport (MST).

For the latest DisplayLink software and installation information:

https://plugable.com/pages/displaylink

Are There Any Limitations on macOS?

Yes. macOS does not support DisplayPort MST for multiple independent extended displays.

As a result, HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 cannot operate as two separate extended displays on a Mac and will mirror each other. The UD-3900C4 can therefore support up to three unique extended displays on macOS: two through DisplayLink on HDMI 1 and HDMI 2, and one native display across HDMI 3 and HDMI 4.

Applicable To

• UD-3900C4, Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4

The UD-3900C4 officially supports up to 1920x1080 at 60Hz on each of its four HDMI outputs.

Can HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 Support Higher Resolutions?

In some configurations, HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 may support resolutions higher than 1920x1080, depending on the host computer's DisplayPort capabilities.

However, Plugable officially supports resolutions up to 1920x1080 at 60Hz when using these outputs through the UD-3900C4.

HDMI 3 and HDMI 4 use the host computer's native DisplayPort video output through  Alt Mode and Multi-Stream Transport (MST), so their behaviour can also depend on the capabilities of the connected computer.

Applicable To

• UD-3900C4

Summary

The number of external monitors you can connect to a computer depends on its graphics hardware, operating system, and the technology used to connect the displays.

Most computers have a limit on the number of monitors they can support directly through their built-in video outputs. However, Plugable docking stations and USB graphics adapters that use DisplayLink or Silicon Motion technology can allow you to connect additional monitors through USB, beyond the computer's native display limitations.

Depending on the operating system, display resolution, and computer specifications, up to eight additional displays may be supported using compatible USB graphics products.

These additional displays can generally operate alongside monitors connected directly to the computer's native video outputs.

Applicable To

How Does USB Graphics Technology Add More Displays?

Most computers have a maximum number of external displays they can support natively. This limitation is primarily determined by the computer's graphics processing unit (GPU), operating system, and available video connections.

DisplayLink and Silicon Motion use an approach commonly referred to as indirect display technology.

Instead of requiring each monitor to connect directly to a native graphics output, these technologies use software and the computer's processing resources to generate display information and transmit it over USB to a compatible docking station or graphics adapter.

This allows additional monitors to be connected without relying entirely on the computer's native display output capabilities.

However, indirect display technology still depends on the computer's CPU, GPU, USB connection, and operating system. Adding more displays increases the resources required to operate them.

Maximum Number of USB Graphics Displays Supported by Plugable

The following table outlines Plugable's general supported display limits for DisplayLink and Silicon Motion technologies across different operating systems.

Important Notes:

For multi-monitor setups approaching these limits, we recommend contacting Plugable Support to verify compatibility before purchasing additional adapters.

Performance and Technical Limitations

Although USB graphics technology can expand the number of displays connected to a computer, several factors determine how many monitors can operate reliably.

Host Computer CPU and GPU Resources

DisplayLink and Silicon Motion graphics solutions rely on the host computer's CPU and GPU resources to process the content displayed on connected monitors.

As additional USB graphics displays are connected, more system resources are required.

The amount of processing power needed depends on the content being displayed.

For example:

A computer that can comfortably support several monitors displaying office applications may not deliver the same performance when running demanding content across every display.

USB Connection and Device Limitations

USB graphics adapters communicate with the computer through its USB subsystem.

Although USB supports multiple connected devices, practical limitations can affect how many USB graphics adapters and other peripherals can operate simultaneously.

These limitations depend on several factors:

As additional USB devices are connected, some systems may encounter bandwidth limitations, reduced performance, or issues recognizing connected devices.

Using USB 3.0 or faster connections, when supported by the product, is recommended for the best experience with multiple USB graphics displays.

Operating System and Software Requirements

DisplayLink and Silicon Motion products require compatible software support to function properly.

Before connecting multiple monitors, confirm that your Plugable products support your operating system and that any required software is installed and configured correctly.

Important Notes

Need Assistance?

If you're planning a multi-monitor setup and aren't sure how many displays your computer can support, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

This information will help our support team evaluate your system's capabilities and recommend an appropriate configuration for your multi-monitor setup.

To solve this issue, click on the "View" option within the KeePassXC application's menu bar and enable the "Allow Screen Capture" option. Enabling this setting will allow the application to be visible on your DisplayLink-connected displays.

Why the KeePassXC Window Disappears

In order for DisplayLink-based video adapters or docking stations to work with modern versions of macOS, the DisplayLink Manager application must be granted "Screen Recording" permission. The KeePassXC application hides its window when it believes the screen is being recorded. Even though the DisplayLink software only uses this permission to generate the image for connected displays and does not record, store, or send any information externally, the application hides the window as a precaution.

Applicable To

• Plugable DisplayLink-based video adapters and docking stations

Summary

Many modern displays support refresh rates higher than 60Hz. In some cases, the desired refresh rate may need to be selected manually in Windows 11. The resolutions and refresh rates available depend on the capabilities of the display, computer, graphics hardware, docking station or adapter, and the connection between them.

Applicable To

Windows 11 computers using built-in or external displays, including displays connected through compatible Plugable docking stations, video adapters, and cables.

Setting the Display Refresh Rate in Windows 11

1. Right-click on the desktop and select Display Settings from the drop-down menu

2. Scroll down to the Related settings subsection and select Advanced display

3. At the top of the Advanced display window, select the display you want to configure from the drop-down menu.

4. From the Choose a refresh rate drop-down menu select the desired refresh rate

If the Desired Refresh Rate Is Not Listed

If the desired refresh rate is not available, confirm that the display, computer or graphics hardware, docking station or adapter, and video cable all support the desired resolution and refresh rate combination.

Some devices may support a higher refresh rate only at a lower display resolution. Check the specifications for each component in the display connection to confirm the supported resolution and refresh rate combinations.

Refresh Rate Limitations

Windows 11 may display an asterisk (*) next to certain refresh rates in Settings > System > Display > Advanced display. The asterisk indicates that the selected refresh rate is not supported at the display's current resolution. Selecting one of these refresh rates will cause Windows to change the display resolution in order to achieve the selected refresh rate.

In the example below, the display supports 3840 × 2160 (4K UHD) at 60Hz and 2560 × 1440 (1440p) at 120Hz through the connected hardware. After selecting “120 Hz*”, Windows changes the display resolution from 3840 × 2160 to 2560 × 1440 so that the higher refresh rate can be used. Because the display is now operating at a lower resolution, the image may appear less sharp than when using the display's native 4K resolution. After selecting a lower refresh rate, Windows may retain the reduced display resolution. If the original resolution is not restored automatically, return to Settings > System > Display and manually select the desired resolution.

Dynamic Refresh Rate

Windows 11 also supports Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR) on compatible hardware. When enabled, Windows can automatically adjust the display refresh rate based on what you are doing to provide smoother motion when needed while helping reduce power consumption at other times.

DRR requires a display that supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and a refresh rate of at least 120Hz. If supported by the computer and display, DRR can be enabled or disabled under Settings > System > Display > Advanced display.

Need Assistance?

If the desired refresh rate is still unavailable after following the steps above, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

• The Plugable product model
• Your computer model
• Your display model
• The resolution and refresh rate you are trying to use
• How the display is connected to the Plugable product
• The output from Plugable's diagnostic tool, PlugDebug

Summary

Yes. Connecting a compatible Plugable USB-C docking station or hub that supports Power Delivery (PD) to a computer that does not support USB-C charging is generally safe.

USB-C Power Delivery uses a negotiation process between the dock and the connected computer to determine whether the computer can accept power for charging.

If the computer does not support USB-C PD charging, the dock will not force unsupported higher-voltage charging onto the computer.

You may still be able to use the dock's other features, such as USB data connections, Ethernet, and external displays, provided your computer supports the necessary capabilities.

Applicable To

• Plugable USB-C docking stations with Power Delivery
• Plugable USB-C hubs with Power Delivery passthrough
• Computers with USB-C ports that do not support USB-C PD charging

Note: Available features vary by Plugable product and computer. Check the compatibility requirements for your specific docking station or hub.

How USB-C Power Delivery Works

USB-C Power Delivery is designed to allow compatible devices to negotiate their power requirements before higher-voltage charging is enabled.

When a USB-C dock or hub that supports Power Delivery is connected to a computer:

1. The dock communicates its available USB PD power capabilities.
2. A compatible computer negotiates the voltage and power level it can accept.
3. Power Delivery charging is established only when the connected devices support the required negotiation.

If the computer does not support USB-C Power Delivery charging, the dock will not establish an unsupported higher-voltage charging connection.

USB-C connections can still provide standard 5V power without a USB PD contract. However, this should not be confused with the negotiated higher-power charging used by many laptops.

What Happens If My Computer Doesn't Support USB-C Charging?

If your computer has a compatible USB-C port but cannot charge through that port:

• Laptop charging: The dock will not charge the computer using USB-C PD.
• USB data: Compatible USB peripherals connected to the dock may still function.
• External displays: Video output may still work if the computer supports the display technology required by the dock.
• Ethernet and other peripherals: These features may remain available, depending on the dock's requirements.

In this situation, you will typically need to continue using your computer's original power adapter to charge or power the laptop.

A USB-C connector does not guarantee that a computer supports charging, video output, or every feature of a USB-C docking station.

Keep the following in mind:

• The computer must support the data and video capabilities required by the dock.
• Some docking stations require DisplayPort Alternate Mode, USB4, Thunderbolt, or DisplayLink software for specific functions.
• A computer that does not support USB-C PD charging will generally require a separate power source.
• Use the recommended power adapter and host cable for your Plugable docking station or hub.

USB-C Power Delivery compatibility and overall docking station compatibility are separate considerations. A dock can be safe to connect without necessarily supporting every feature on your computer.

Need Assistance?

If you are unsure whether your computer can safely use a particular Plugable USB-C docking station or hub, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

• Your Plugable product model
• Your computer manufacturer and model
• Whether your computer supports charging through its USB-C port
• The features you intend to use, such as external displays, USB devices, or Ethernet
• Any compatibility concerns or unexpected behavior you have experienced

This information will help our support team verify your setup and determine which docking station features your computer can support.

Summary

Yes. You can add additional monitors to an existing docking station by using compatible Plugable USB graphics adapters. This allows you to expand your workspace beyond the number of displays natively supported by your docking station or computer, without replacing your existing dock.

Plugable USB graphics adapters use DisplayLink or Silicon Motion technology to transmit display information over USB, allowing additional monitors to connect through available USB-A or USB-C data ports.

The number of additional displays supported depends on your computer, operating system, USB graphics adapter, and monitor configuration.

Applicable To

How to Add Additional Monitors to Your Dock

To expand your docking station's display capabilities:

1. Check for available USB ports: Confirm your docking station has an available USB-A or USB-C data port that meets the requirements of your USB graphics adapter. A USB 3.0 or faster connection is recommended for most adapters.
2. Select a compatible USB graphics adapter: Choose a Plugable USB graphics adapter that supports your operating system and desired monitor resolution and refresh rate.
3. Install the required software: Visit the adapter's product page on Plugable.com and download the appropriate DisplayLink or Silicon Motion software from the Downloads section, if required. On macOS, additional permissions may be necessary.
4. Connect the adapter: Plug the USB graphics adapter into an available compatible USB data port on your docking station.
5. Connect your monitor: Use the appropriate video cable, such as HDMI or DisplayPort, to connect your monitor to the USB graphics adapter.
6. Configure your display settings: Open your operating system's display settings to arrange your monitors and select your preferred extended desktop configuration.

Important Notes

For additional information about expanding your docking station's display capabilities, see our Knowledge Base article:

Adding Additional Monitors to Expand Any Docking Station or Hub Using Plugable USB Graphics Adapters

Need Assistance?

If you're unsure which USB graphics adapter is compatible with your docking station or how many additional monitors your computer can support, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

Alt Mode video works by creating a direct pipeline from the host device's graphics processor through USB-C to the dock to output video to connected displays. This relies on the host device's graphics processor, the host device's USB-C port, and the cable used to connect the dock supporting this specific functionality.

It's recommended to check these possible causes if the Alt Mode video output on your dock is not working:

• USB-C Port Limitations: Not all USB-C ports support video output (Alt Mode). Check your host device's specifications to confirm it supports Alt Mode video output.
• Incompatible USB-C Cable: Some USB-C cables support power and data, but not Alt Mode video. Use the USB-C cable that was originally included in the box with your dock to ensure it supports Alt Mode video output. 
• Incorrect Host Connection: Ensure you’re connecting to the correct USB-C port on the dock, typically labeled a laptop icon. Other USB-C ports on the dock may not function for connecting the dock to a host device, and using them could result in no function.
• Outdated Drivers: Ensure your operating system and graphics drivers are up to date. USB-C Alt Mode primarily relies on the laptops graphics processor to produce video, so outdated drivers can often cause issues.

Why the Alt Mode Video Output Requires Specific Hardware

For many Plugable docking stations that utilize Alt Mode, the video output port is etched with "Alt Mode" to indicate this specific requirement. This connection type is not a standard USB data stream and requires the host laptop's USB-C port to be wired internally for DisplayPort Alternate Mode.

Workaround or Alternative Options

If your laptop does not support Alt Mode, consider using a DisplayLink docking station or USB graphics adapters to add additional monitors. These solutions use a driver-based approach that does not rely on the host's physical Alt Mode capabilities.

Applicable To

UD-768PDZ, UDS-7IN1, UD-CUBE, UD-CAM, UD-CA1A, UD-MSTHDC, UD-MSTH2, UD-6950PDZ, UD-ULTC4K, UD-ULTCDL, UD-3900PDZ, UD-3900PDH, UD-3900C4, UD-4VPD, TBT3-UDZ, TBT3-UDC3, UD-7400PD, TBT4-UDX1, TBT4-UD5, TBT-UDM, TBT-UDT3, TBT-6950PD, TBT4-UDZ

Barrel-Type Power Supplies for Hubs and Docks

Plugable recommends and supports using only the external power adapter originally included in the box with a Plugable product to power the device.

Plugable does NOT normally recommend or support using any type of alternate or 3rd-party power adapters in conjunction with our products that originally included a power adapter in the box.

This is because 3rd-party power adapters may not work as expected, and in some cases can potentially cause damage to the Plugable product if they do not match the specifications of the original power adapter. Counterfeit and incorrectly labeled power supplies are also a concern as these may not meet the specifications on their labels or may have inferior safety features.

Should you require a replacement for an original Plugable provided power adapter, Plugable offers a multitude of power adapters for purchase separately → https://kb.plugable.com/question/1081115

USB Type-C Powered Devices

Please also note, this provision does not apply to Plugable products that rely on a computer's original power supply or recommend using a separate USB Type-C power source.

For example, the PS-10CC → https://plugable.com/products/ps-10cc does not include a power adapter in the box with the product. The intention with the PS-10CC (and other similar products like the USBC-9IN1E → https://plugable.com/products/usbc-9in1e) is to use a USB Type-C power adapter that supports USB Power Delivery that you already have in conjunction with the product most often these are included with a computer and provided by a reputable brand.

This works because USB Power Delivery is an industry standard while barrel-type power adapters are not well standardized. Products that support USB Power Delivery are intended to work with a variety of different USB Type-C power adapters that support the USB Power Delivery standard.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!

Apple's macOS Network Settings can identify the network link rate - this isn't necessarily the Internet speed, but the link rate negotiated between the computer's Ethernet adapter and the first network switch.

How is the link rate helpful?

When troubleshooting a network performance issue, or when purchasing new network equipment it can help to ensure the computer, Ethernet adapter, and Ethernet switch are negotiating the correct data rate.

In this example, we will be analyzing our USBC-E2500, which is a 2.5Gbps Ethernet adapter. This method applies to all of our Ethernet adapters, such as:

• USB3-E1000
• USBC-E1000
• USBC-E2500
• USBC-E2500PD
• USBC-E5000

Open the Apple Menu and select System Settings from the drop-down menu, then Network from the left column. Select the entry named “USB 10/100/1G/2.5G LAN” with the Green - Connected icon. Expand the Details button, and go to Hardware.

In the field that says Speed, you should see 2500Base-T if the Ethernet adapter is connected to a 2.5G Ethernet LAN port on your router. If you see 1000Base-T, this means the adapter is connected to a 1G Ethernet LAN port. If you are expecting faster network speeds, please see your router's documentation on its multi-gig LAN port.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!

Applicable To

Plugable USB 3.1/3.2 Type-C, Thunderbolt, and USB4 docking stations.

Using an incorrect USB Type-C cable, such as a charging-only cable, can prevent your docking station from transmitting high-speed data or outputting video. Replacing an incompatible cable with a fully featured data cable or the original cable included with your Plugable dock typically resolves these functionality issues.

Instructions

Inspect your current cable to determine if it is a charging cable, which is generally thinner, lacks electronic markers, and is advertised for 480Mbps data rates rather than for laptops.

Identify a fully featured data cable or Thunderbolt cable by looking for thicker wiring and labels such as "USB 3.0/3.1", "USB4", "5Gbps", or a Thunderbolt logo.

Verify the length of your fully featured data cable is 1 meter (3.3 feet) or less, as they are typically limited to this length to comply with USB Type-C specifications.

Connect your docking station to the host system using the original USB Type-C or Thunderbolt cable that came in the box with your Plugable dock.

Replace your cable with a certified USB Type-C 10Gbps 1m cable or a Thunderbolt 4 40Gbps 1m cable if you require a longer or replacement cable.

Expected Result

Your docking station will be fully enabled to support high-speed data transfer, Power Delivery for charging, and video output to external displays.

If the Issue Persists

If you are unsure what type of cable you have and if there are potential cable issues with your setup, please reach out to us directly via support@plugable.com with the output of our PlugDebug diagnostic utility and we will be happy to help.