Yes, the USBC-MD103's HDMI port will support 4K at 60Hz if your host device supports DisplayPort 1.4. 

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!

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!

Overview

The USB-C port on the Plugable USBC-7IN1 is for USB-C Power Delivery pass-through only. It is designed to accept power from a USB-C charger and pass that power through the hub to the connected laptop. This USB-C port does not support USB data transfer, video output, or connection to USB-C peripherals.

The USBC-7IN1 provides three USB-A 3.0 ports for USB data devices, a 4K 30Hz HDMI output, SD and microSD card slots, and one USB-C Power Delivery charging port. The USB-C Power Delivery input supports up to 100W input, with up to 92W available to the host when self-powered. The USB-A ports are the data ports for connecting USB peripherals.

Compatibility

The USBC-7IN1 connects to the host computer using its built-in USB-C cable. The host USB-C port must support the functions you want to use.

For USB data devices, the host connection must support USB data.

For HDMI video output, the host USB-C port must support DisplayPort Alternate Mode. Note that HDMI output and charging require host device support for USB-C Power Delivery charging and DisplayPort over USB-C Alternate Mode. You will need to check your system manufacturer's documentation to verify whether your system has a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode (or Thunderbolt) and Power Delivery. 

For charging through the hub, connect a compatible USB-C Power Delivery charger to the USB-C Power Delivery port on the USBC-7IN1.

Why this happens

USB-C describes the physical connector shape, not the features supported by every USB-C port. A USB-C port may support charging, data, video, or a combination of these features, depending on the product's design.

On the USBC-7IN1, the USB-C port on the hub is a Power Delivery input port. It is intended for connecting a USB-C charger, not USB-C storage drives, phones, keyboards, mice, video adapters, docks, or other USB-C peripherals.

This is expected behavior and does not indicate a defect with the hub.

What to use instead

To connect USB data devices, use the three USB-A 3.0 ports on the USBC-7IN1. These ports support USB 3.0 data transfer and can be used with devices such as:

• USB flash drives
• External USB storage drives
• Keyboards
• Mice
• USB headsets
• Other standard USB-A peripherals

To connect a USB-C peripheral, a different hub or adapter with a USB-C data port would be required. The USB-C Power Delivery port on the USBC-7IN1 cannot be converted into a USB-C data port through a cable or adapter.

Important notes

• The USB-C Power Delivery port on the USBC-7IN1 is not a downstream USB-C data port.
• The USB-C Power Delivery port does not support video output.
• The USB-C Power Delivery port does not support USB-C storage devices or USB-C accessories.

The hub can still be used for USB-A data devices, HDMI video output, SD and microSD cards, and power pass-through when connected to a compatible host system. Plugable lists the USBC-7IN1 as including 3 USB 3.0 ports, 1 HDMI output, 1 SD card reader, 1 microSD card slot, and 1 USB-C Power Delivery charging port.

How to verify expected behavior

To confirm the hub is working as expected:

• Connect the USBC-7IN1 to a compatible USB-C port on the computer.
• Connect a USB-A device, such as a flash drive, keyboard, or mouse, to one of the USB-A ports.
• Confirm the USB-A device is detected by the computer.
• Connect a compatible USB-C Power Delivery charger to the USB-C port on the hub.
• Confirm the computer begins charging, if the host system supports USB-C Power Delivery charging through the hub.

Do not connect USB-C data devices to the USB-C Power Delivery port, since they will not be detected.

Summary

If a USB-C device is not recognized when connected to the USB-C port on the USBC-7IN1, this is expected behavior. That USB-C port is for Power Delivery pass-through only. Use the USB-A ports for USB data devices, or choose a different hub model if a downstream USB-C data port is required.

Need more help?

Still have questions or concerns? Please reach us at support@plugable.com for additional support. 

Unfortunately Plugable products do not support the Apple SuperDrive.

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

If you have purchased a Plugable product to use with your Apple SuperDrive, and would like some additional assistance please do not hesitate to reach out. You can do so by emailing support@plugable.com, or going to Plugable.com/Support.

Problem:

In some situations full sized SD Cards may not be detected when in the read only or 'locked' position when inserted into a USBC-7IN1. The lock position on full sized SD Cards is not meant to lock access to these cards, it is intended to make the card read only.

Pictured below, a full sized SD Card with the card lock enabled.

Solution:

At this time the best solution to mitigate this problem is to 'unlock' the SD Card before inserting the card into the USBC-7IN1. We do understand that perhaps this is not a viable solution for you, and if this is the case please reach out to us for further assistance. You can do so by emailing us at support@plugable.com, please be sure to describe the problem.

* Please Note: This problem is only known to affect the USBC-7IN1.

We are often asked if it is okay to leave a notebook computer connected to one of our USB-C docking stations with Power Delivery for extended periods of time.  The short answer is yes, it is no different from leaving the laptop connected to the manufacturer's original USB-C power supply for the same time.  The long answer is yes for modern laptops, and maybe for older (1990s-early 2000s laptops) and involves going into the different battery technologies used in consumer electronics devices.

Another common question is if it is possible to use the docking station but to disable powering and charging the computer.  When a modern notebook computer runs on battery power it will often set the system to a reduced power state which may impact performance, or connected devices and we recommend always powering the computer when using a desktop docking station.  For all of our docking stations that provide power to the host computer this will not affect the lifespan of the computer's battery.

Modern Laptop Batteries: Lithium-Ion

Lithium-ion (li-ion) batteries are found in a wide range of consumer electronics from notebook computers and cell phones, to electric cars, power tools, and wearable electronics like wireless earbuds.  Li-ion offers fast charging, high-current discharging, fairly long service live compared to other rechargeable battery technologies and are relatively inexpensive.

The life-span of a rechargeable battery depends on many factors including age, temperature history, charging patterns, the chemical composition of the specific battery, and usage.  For example batteries stored at 100% charge will degrade faster than batteries stored at 50% charge, this is why most consumer electronics devices arrive from the manufacturer with between 25% to 75% charge.

Lithium-ion batteries are consumable components, however in most modern computers, cell phones, and tablets these are not user serviceable components.  To help maintain the battery all modern computers and most consumer electronics will include battery charge and protection circuits.  These can be fairly simple, charging up the battery at preset rates depending on the charge level to help maintain the battery life, or complex software controlled charging that monitors battery temperature, voltage and current draw to maintain the fastest charging while maintaining the battery longevity.

Modern notebook computers can be left connected to the original power cable or a docking station with charging capability for extended periods, and do not benefit from regular discharge/recharge cycles.  Our docking stations with charging capability rely on USB Type-C Power Delivery to power and charge compatible computers.  USB Type-C Power Delivery is a negotiated charging protocol between the host computer and the docking station or USB Type-C power supply, this allows the computer to draw only the power it requires, and even select the best voltage level for powering the computer.  In combination with a computer's built-in battery charging controller the computer is capable of maintaining the battery's optimal state even when left connected to a power source for an extended period of time.

Legacy Laptop Batteries: NiCad and NiMH

Older laptops, from the 1990s and some early 2000s, as well as some consumer electronics, and most rechargeable AA or AAA battery replacements use Nickel-Cadmium (NiCad) or Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries.  These batteries are slower to charge and discharge than li-ion batteries, and require very simple charge controllers, and in some cases can even be trickle-charged ( very low-current continuous charging ) if desired.

These batteries generally don't have smart charging controllers and to prolong the life of the battery required "training" or fully discharging and recharging the battery every so often.  Many laptop manufacturers recommended fully charging and discharging a new laptop 2-3 times to train the battery, this is not necessary with modern laptops.

Conclusion

Modern notebook batteries are managed by the computer's built-in battery charging circuit, and require little to no user intervention to maintain optimal battery health.  It does not harm the battery to leave the computer connected to an external power supply, so long as the computer is being used regularly.  If the computer is to be stored for a prolonged period then discharging the battery to between 50-75% can help to maintain the battery life.

Batteries are consumable components and degrade over time, however modern notebook computers can extend the battery life generally to meet or exceed the life of the computer's other electronic components.

It's not uncommon for users to notice a certain level of heat generation from electronics and by extension, Plugable products during operation. In this knowledge base article, we'll explore the reasons behind this heat generation and why it is considered a normal experience within reasonable limits.

Electronics, by their nature, generate heat during operation. This is primarily a result of the electrical current flowing through various components, such as integrated circuits, transistors, and other electronic elements. As Plugable products are designed to efficiently process and transfer data (among other functionality), some level of heat generation is inherent.

Factors Influencing Heat Generation:

1. Power Consumption: The power consumption of a device directly influences the amount of heat it generates. Higher power usage, especially during data transfer or charging processes, can lead to increased heat.
2. Enclosure Design: The design of the product's enclosure and its ability to dissipate heat play a crucial role. Adequate ventilation and heat sinks are often incorporated to manage and disperse generated heat effectively. This is evident in our TBT3-UDZ and TBT4-UDZ designs. The metal case in these docks are designed to function as a heatsink with thermal pads placed throughout the enclosure. This allows heat dissipation from inside to the outside, but will also make it feel as if the device is “too hot”. 
3. Ambient Temperature: The external environment may also play a role. Higher ambient temperatures can contribute to increased perceived heat from the product. This means that summer temperatures may increase the heat generation of not just Plugable products, but many other electronic devices.

Normal Heat Levels: While it is normal for electronic devices to generate heat, Plugable products are engineered to operate within safe temperature ranges. We conduct rigorous testing to ensure that the heat generated during normal operation falls within industry-standard safety parameters. While not all products are or need to be UL certified, we try to go by UL guidelines for thermal readings. The UL threshold is 77C/170.6F, and we aim for around 71C/160F.

Tips for Users:

1. Ventilation: Ensure that Plugable products have sufficient ventilation around them. Avoid placing them in enclosed spaces where heat dissipation may be impeded.
2. Usage Patterns: Intensive tasks such as high-speed data transfer or charging multiple devices simultaneously may result in increased heat generation. This is generally normal but may be more noticeable in such scenarios.
3. Accessories: A number of our devices will allow for the connection of USB accessories and as such, these will require power. If too many “power-hungry” devices are connected, this will cause the device to run much hotter than expected. Be sure to keep in mind the power limits of your dock/device.

In conclusion, experiencing heat from Plugable products is a normal aspect of their operation. 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.

What is Alt Mode, and how does it 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 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!

Troubleshooting For 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.

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.

Alt Mode supported devices from Plugable

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.

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

Most modern MacBooks with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt 3/4 ports support Alt Mode-based video adapters, making them compatible with Plugable Alt Mode video adapters. This includes:

• MacBook Pro (2016 and later)
• MacBook Air (2018 and later)
• Mac Mini (2018 and later)
• iMac (2017 and later)
• Mac Studio

Important Note:

M1, M2, M3, and newer MacBooks support only one external display via Alt Mode (with exceptions for the MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch with M1 Pro/Max, M2 Pro/Max, M3 Pro/Max). If you need multiple external displays for a Mac with a base M1, M2, or M3 chip, consider Plugable’s USB Graphics Adapters instead.

Many modern displays can support above the default 60Hz refresh rate, however this may need to be manually set within Windows 11. Please note, not all computers, graphics adapters, and docking stations can support all resolutions and refresh rates.

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 external display from the drop-down menu

4. From the Choose a refresh rate drop-down menu select the desired refresh rate

Refresh Rate Limitations

With Windows 24H2 and newer, dynamic refresh rates are supported, this allows the system to adjust the display refresh rate to save power, up to the selected refresh rate. As a consequence of this new mode, when selecting the display refresh rate you may see an asterisk. This indicates that selecting the specific refresh rate may reduce the display resolution or image quality in order to prioritize the refresh rate. This exposes the refresh rate option from the display even if the display cable or computer is incapable of supporting that refresh rate at the native resolution and is the intended behavior per Microsoft. [1]

In the screenshot below the left side shows the 4K 120Hz capable display limited to 60Hz refresh rate without asterisks, and on the right the same display after setting the refresh rate to “120 Hz*”, the “Desktop mode” resolution has been reduced to 2560 x 1440 (1440p) instead of 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD). Unlike when using the display scaling option this also causes a reduction in image quality. On the right side asterisks are no longer shown in the refresh rate list. Setting the refresh rate back to 60Hz does not change the resolution, you will have to go back one page and set the resolution manually.

References

[1] Windows Insider description of new behavior (https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2023/08/31/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25941-canary-channel/)

USB-C Power Delivery (PD) is negotiated between the power-sourcing equipment (e.g., a dock or multiport hub) and the connected host device. During this negotiation, the device offering power communicates its capabilities, and the host determines whether it can accept the power. If the host does not support Power Delivery, no power will be sent to the computer over the USB-C connection. This will allow you to take advantage of other capabilities such as data transfer or video output without risking damage to the computer.

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

under

Understanding your laptop's video output capabilities is essential when connecting to external displays. This guide will help you identify what video technologies your laptop supports and how to find the relevant information.

Common Video Output Technologies

Modern laptops commonly use one or more of the following technologies to transmit video to external monitors:

1. Thunderbolt 3

• Supports video output using the DisplayPort protocol.
• Capable of driving up to two 4K displays at 60Hz or one 5K display at 60Hz.
• Uses a USB-C connector and features a lightning bolt symbol next to the port.

Note: An example of Thunderbolt 3 ports

2. Thunderbolt 4

• Provides improved performance over Thunderbolt 3.
• Supports up to two 4K displays at 60Hz or one 8K display.
• Uses a USB-C connector with the same lightning bolt symbol but may also include the number "4" for identification.

Note: Thunderbolt 4 has the same physical connection and “lightning” bolt icon as Thunderbolt 3

3. Thunderbolt 5 (As of 2024)

• Up to 80 Gbps bi-directional bandwidth (Double that of Thunderbolt 4’s 40 Gbps).
• Up to 120 Gbps bandwidth for displays (With Bandwidth Boost — 120 Gbps upstream and 40 Gbps downstream for display-intensive use cases).
• Support for dual 6K or 8K displays (Compared to Thunderbolt 4’s dual 4K support).

4. USB-C DisplayPort "Alt Mode"

• Allows video output directly through the USB-C port using DisplayPort technology.
• Commonly supports one 4K display at 60Hz, but capabilities may vary.
• Often marked with a DisplayPort ("DP") symbol, but this feature may also be specified in your system's documentation.

Note: An example of a USB-C port with DisplayPort capabilities

How to Identify Your Laptop's Video Capabilities

To determine what video technologies your laptop supports, follow these steps:

1. Check Your Laptop's User Manual:

• Locate your laptop's user manual (often available online from the manufacturer's support site).
• Search for keywords like "Thunderbolt," "DisplayPort Alt Mode," or "video output capabilities."

2. Visit the Manufacturer's Website:

• Go to the support page for your laptop model and find the technical specifications section.
• Look for details on Thunderbolt or USB-C video capabilities.

3. Inspect Your Laptop's Ports:

• Check for identifying symbols next to USB-C ports:
  • Thunderbolt 3/4 ports may have a lightning bolt symbol.
  • DisplayPort Alt Mode may be marked with a "DP" icon.

“What if I do not have the above technologies?”: USB 3.0 (Type-A) and Display Expansion

While USB 3.0 (Type-A) ports do not support native video output, they can still be used to extend to two or more displays using software-based solutions like DisplayLink or Silicon Motion's InstantView. These technologies enable video through USB-A ports by utilizing dedicated drivers and software.

If your laptop lacks Thunderbolt or USB-C video capabilities, DisplayLink or InstantView may be a viable alternative for expanding your display setup. A few other things to consider:

• Not all USB-C ports support video output. Checking your laptop's documentation is crucial to confirm this capability.
• Thunderbolt ports are backward compatible with USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode but provide enhanced performance and flexibility.

If you have further questions about connecting your Plugable docking station or adapter to your laptop, please reach out to our support team for guidance.

When choosing a docking station or USB hub, it's important to understand the difference between Power Delivery (PD) and Pass-Through Power Delivery. While both terms refer to charging capabilities, they function differently and impact how power is distributed to connected devices.

What is Power Delivery (PD)?

USB Power Delivery (PD) is a fast-charging standard that allows devices to negotiate power levels dynamically. Key aspects include:

• Enables higher power transfer (up to 100W or more, depending on the device and cable).
• Ensures efficient charging by dynamically adjusting voltage and current.
• Commonly used in USB-C chargers, docking stations, and hubs that provide power directly to laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

Example: A USB-C docking station with PD output can charge a connected laptop while simultaneously powering other peripherals. Additionally, these tend to come with their own AC adapter.

What is Pass-Through Power Delivery?

Pass-Through Power Delivery refers to a hub or docking station that does not generate power itself but instead allows power to pass through from an external power adapter. Key aspects include:

• Requires a dedicated power adapter (e.g., a USB-C PD laptop charger) plugged into the docking station or hub.
• Typically, a portion of the incoming power is allocated to the dock’s functionality (such as data transfer and peripheral connections), and the remaining power is sent to the connected laptop or device.
• May reduce the total power available to the laptop compared to direct charging.

Example: A USB-C hub with pass-through PD allows a laptop's original USB-C PD charger to be connected to the hub, which then distributes power to the laptop while also supporting external peripherals.

Choosing the Right Option

• If you need a docking station that can directly charge your laptop, look for one with dedicated Power Delivery (PD) support.
• If your laptop already has a high-wattage charger and you want to maintain power while expanding connectivity, a pass-through PD hub may be a better choice.
• Be mindful of power limitations with pass-through charging, as some hubs may reserve power for their own operation, reducing the power available for the laptop.

Some examples of hubs with PD pass-through would be our USBC-9IN1E with 140w pass-through charging or our smaller USBC-4IN1 with 100w pass-through.

On the flip side, we have our docking stations that power your devices by themselves. Examples such as our UD-7400PD which is capable of 140w of charge and 5 displays.

Understanding these differences will help ensure you select the right docking station or USB-C hub for your setup. If you have any questions or would like a recommendation, feel free to reach out to our support at support@plugable.com

Many users assume that USB-C devices can work with older Thunderbolt 2 Macs if they use a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter, such as the one made by Apple. However, this is not the case. These adapters are specifically designed to support Thunderbolt devices only - not standard USB-C peripherals.

While Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C share the same connector type, they use different underlying data protocols. Non-Thunderbolt USB-C devices, rely on USB standards for data and power. The Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter does not carry USB signals; it only passes Thunderbolt data. Because of this, plugging a USB-C device into a Thunderbolt 2 Mac using this adapter will not work - the computer will not detect or communicate with the device.

If you need to connect peripherals to a Thunderbolt 2 system, we recommend using a USB-A dock or hub (if available on your system). This ensures compatibility without relying on unsupported adapter chains.

In short, even though the connectors may fit, USB-C devices are not compatible with Thunderbolt 2 Macs via Thunderbolt adapters - only Thunderbolt devices will work in that setup.

Summary

A hardware revision of the Plugable USBC-7IN1 USB-C Hub increases the maximum HDMI output from 4K at 30Hz to 4K at 60Hz when connected to compatible host systems that support DisplayPort 1.4 Alt Mode.

This article outlines what changed, system requirements for achieving 4K at 60Hz, and how to determine which revision you have.

Applicable To

• Plugable USBC-7IN1 USB-C Hub
• Systems with USB-C or Thunderbolt ports that support DisplayPort Alt Mode

This article does not apply to DisplayLink-based docking stations.

Background

The Plugable USBC-7IN1 provides HDMI, USB-A, SD, microSD, and USB-C Power Delivery through a single USB-C connection. Video output is delivered using DisplayPort Alternate Mode (Alt Mode), which relies on the host system’s native graphics capabilities.

Original Version

• Supports HDMI output up to 3840 × 2160 at 30Hz

Revised Version

• Maximum HDMI resolution: 3840 x 2160 at 60Hz
  (Requires DisplayPort 1.4 Alt Mode support from the host system)
• Hub dimensions (cm): 16 (L) x 3.5 (W) x 1.5 (H)

All other hub functionality remains unchanged. The update affects only the HDMI video capability and dimensions of the hub.

System Requirements for 4K 60Hz

To achieve 3840 x 2160 at 60Hz, the following are required:

• A host system that supports DisplayPort 1.4 Alt Mode over USB-C or Thunderbolt
• A monitor that supports 4K at 60Hz over HDMI
• An HDMI cable rated for HDMI 2.0 (18Gbps) or higher

If the host system supports only DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode, the maximum supported output will remain 4K at 30Hz, even when using the revised hub.

Important Bandwidth Note

DisplayPort Alt Mode shares bandwidth with USB 3.x data on many USB-C hubs.

On some systems:

• Enabling USB 3.0 data functionality may reduce available video bandwidth
• Reduced bandwidth may limit refresh rate or resolution

If 4K at 60Hz is not available:

1. Disconnect high-bandwidth USB 3.0 devices (such as external storage).
2. Recheck available display settings.

This can help determine whether bandwidth sharing is limiting video performance.

Expected Display Behavior

On DisplayPort 1.4 Alt Mode Systems

• 3840 × 2160 at 60Hz should be selectable in operating system display settings
• Lower resolutions will also support 60Hz

On DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode Systems

• 3840 × 2160 will default to 30Hz
• Lower resolutions such as 2560 × 1440 or 1920 × 1080 may support 60Hz

Supported operating systems include Windows, ChromeOS, Linux distributions, and other systems that support DisplayPort Alt Mode.

How to Identify Which Version You Have

As inventory transitions, customers may receive either hardware revision.

To determine which revision you have:

• Connect the hub to a system confirmed to support DisplayPort 1.4 Alt Mode
• Connect a monitor confirmed to support 4K at 60Hz over HDMI
• Use a certified HDMI 2.0 (or higher) cable
• Check available refresh rate options in your operating system display settings

If 3840 x 2160 at 60Hz is selectable, you have the revised version.

If the maximum selectable refresh rate at 3840 x 2160 is 30Hz and the host system, monitor, and cable are confirmed to support 4K at 60Hz, you likely have the original revision.

If you are unsure, please contact Plugable Support for assistance.

Additional Notes

• The USBC-7IN1 is a driverless DisplayPort Alt Mode hub and does not use DisplayLink technology.
• Video capability depends on the combined capabilities of the host system, graphics processor, monitor, and cable.
• The hub cannot increase video capability beyond what the host system supports.

Need Assistance?

If you need help verifying system compatibility or identifying your hub revision, contact Plugable Support at: support@plugable.com

Up to date graphics drivers are necessary for ensuring the best performance of your computer's built-in display, as well as the capability and compatibility with external displays and docking stations.

Windows has a built-in system update service: Windows Update, however this may not provide up to date drivers or timely updates. We often see systems with out of date drivers, in some cases systems may not receive updated graphics drivers for months or even years, leaving the computer with drivers incompatible with the installed version of Windows 11.

However, we can manually update the graphics drivers to ensure the best possible performance, reliability, and compatibility.

The first step is to identify the graphics hardware, then downloading, and installing the latest drivers.

Identifying Graphics Controller

For notebooks and many desktop computers, the primary graphics controller is embedded in the processor, both AMD and Intel provide graphics driver updates based on the processor model, as well as for discrete graphics controllers. Our first step is to identify up the processor or graphics hardware model details:

1. Right-click on the Start Menu and select Settings from the pop-up menu
2. From the left column select System and from the bottom of the right side select About
3. From the top of the about page the processor details will be on the right side, and duplicated lower down on the page.
   
4. In this example the processor is a 12th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-1260P, we'll keep that detail for the next step.

If your computer has two graphics controllers (it may show "Multiple GPUs Installed" under Graphics Card) then we can get the graphics card model details from the Windows System Information Utility.

1. Open the Start menu and search for "msinfo32"
2. Select the first result
3. From the left-column expand the Components section, then select Display
   
4. In this example the Intel Iris(R) Xe Graphics is enabled by the processor, while the Intel(R) Arc(TM) Pro B60 Graphics is a discrete graphics controller.

Downloading the Drivers

Intel Graphics

1. In a web browser navigate to the Intel Driver Download Page
2. In the "Search Drivers & Software" field, search for the Intel graphics card model or CPU model, "Arc Pro B60" in this example
   
3. Select the appropriate "Intel Arc Pro Graphics - Windows" or similar entry from the search results, for modern hardware Intel will normally have at least one release per month, the list should return recent results within the last month
4. Select the Download button to save the installer to your Downloads folder or selected location

AMD Graphics

AMD provides an Auto-Detect utility, this works relatively well and can be used to update the system available from the AMD Drivers and Support page.

This page also provides a search and browse option for finding drivers and specific compatibility details, we'll look up the drivers for an AMD Ryzen Pro 5650U processor with Radeon Graphics:

1. Navigate to AMD Drivers and Support page
2. From the Browse section, fill out the processor details and click the Submit button
   
3. Expand the "Windows 11 - 64-Bit Edition" section and select the Download button for the latest graphics drivers

NVIDIA Graphics

Like AMD, NVIDIA provides an automatic installation utility, as well as a Manual Driver Search on the NVIDIA Drivers support page. We will look up the drivers for an NVIDIA RTX 5080 graphics card.

1. Navigate to NVIDIA Drivers support page
2. Fill out the Manual Driver Search drop-downs and select the "Find" button when complete
   
3. From the search results, select the "View" button for the GeForce Game Ready Driver or NVIDIA Studio Driver (if you need the studio driver features)
4. Select the green Download button for the latest graphics drivers

Installing the Graphics Drivers

For the most part this is relatively simple, we recommend disconnecting any external docking stations or devices that are not necessary for the driver installation, and for notebook computers connecting the system's original power supply.

Double-click on the downloaded driver installation executable and follow the on screen steps.

For more in-depth details on Intel, AMD, and NVIDIA's driver installation processes check out our step-by-step guides here:

• Intel Driver Installation In Detail
• AMD Driver Installation In Detail
• NVIDIA Driver Installation In Detail

If you have any questions or would like a recommendation, feel free to reach out to our support at support@plugable.com

For a step-by-step guide to identify your graphics hardware and download the appropriate drivers, check out our KB article here

Download the drivers for your GPU or Processor Graphics

1. In a web browser navigate to the Intel Driver Download Page
2. In the Search Drivers & Software field, search for the Intel graphics card model or CPU model, "Arc Pro B60" in this example
3. Select the appropriate Intel Arc Pro Graphics - Windows or similar entry from the search results, for modern hardware Intel will normally have at least one release per month, the list should return recent results within the last month
4. Select the Download button to save the installer to your Downloads folder or selected location

Install the Intel Graphics Driver

To update the Intel Graphics Drivers to the latest version from Intel's website:

1. Save and close any open applications
2. Navigate to the downloaded graphics driver, then right-click on the saved driver installation file and select Run as administrator to start the installation process
3. Allow the Intel driver installation through the User account control window, the drivers will be extracted
   
4. When the extraction is complete select the Begin installation button
   
5. Agree to the Intel Software License Agreement by selecting the I agree button
   
6. Ensure all applications are saved and closed before selecting the I agree button
   
7. For most installations, we recommend not selecting the Execute a clean installation checkbox. This option will remove previous driver versions and can lead to Windows Update reverting to an even older graphics driver. Select the Start button to proceed
   
8. The installation process will proceed, but can take some time to complete
   
9. When the installation has completed, deselect the Launch Intel Graphics Software checkbox - we don't need that right now, select the Reboot Now button to restart the computer applying the new graphics drivers
   

Windows should now detect the Intel Graphics Controller in the Device Manager and show the latest drivers.

If you have any questions or would like a recommendation, feel free to reach out to our support at support@plugable.com

For a step-by-step guide to identify your graphics hardware and download the appropriate drivers, check out our KB article here

Download the drivers for your GPU or Processor Graphics

1. In a web browser navigate to the AMD Drivers and Support page
2. In the Search for your AMD product field, type in the model name, for example “RX 5600XT” for the AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT graphics controller, or a processor model like "AI 9 365", then select the best fitting result and select the Search button - note: Searching for a processor the "™" is required, so I recommend searching for the text after that symbol.
   
3. On the results page, expand the section for Windows 11 64-bit then select the Download button for the latest AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition drivers, AMD may not provide a direct download for all hardware, in that case use the Auto-Detect and Install option
4. Save the installer to your Downloads folder or selected location

Install the AMD Graphics Driver

To update the AMD Graphics Drivers to the latest version from AMD’s website:

1. Save and close any open applications
2. Navigate to the downloaded graphics driver, then right-click on the saved driver installation file and select Run as administrator to start the installation process
3. Allow the Intel driver installation through the User account control window, the drivers will be extracted
   
4. For most users the express installation is fine, ensure all applications are saved and closed selecting the Accept & Express Install button. If you have been having issues with older graphics drivers causing crashes or errors the Factory Reset (Optional) checkbox may be selected, but it isn’t necessary for most installations.
   
5. The installation will proceed, the displays may flicker or flash off/on while the drivers are installing.
   
6. When complete you will be prompted to Launch AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition and Keep AMD software up to date, you can uncheck the Launch AMD Software option
   
7. Restart the computer to ensure the latest drivers are loaded from boot Start Menu > Power Icon > Restart

Windows should now detect the Intel Graphics Controller in the Device Manager and show the latest drivers.

If you have any questions or would like a recommendation, feel free to reach out to our support at support@plugable.com

For a step-by-step guide to identify your graphics hardware and download the appropriate drivers, check out our KB article here

Download the drivers for your GPU

Check your invoice for the specific model of NVIDIA graphics card, for this example we will use the RTX 5080 (the manufacturer is not relevant).

1. In a web browser navigate to the NVIDIA Driver Download Page
2. In the Manual Driver Search field, search for the NVIDIA graphics card model, "RTX 5080" in this example
3. Select the GeForce RTX 50 Series | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 | Windows 11 entry from the list
4. Left-click the Find button
5. Select either View buttons from the GeForce Game Ready Driver or NVIDIA Studio Driver
6. Select the Download button to save the installer to your Downloads folder or selected location

Install the NVIDIA Graphics Driver

To update the NVIDIA Graphics Drivers to the latest version from NVIDIA's website:

1. Save and close any open applications
2. Navigate to the downloaded graphics driver, then right-click on the saved driver installation file and select Run as administrator to start the installation process
3. Allow the NVIDIA driver installation through the User account control window
4. Click OK to extract the NVIDIA Display Driver package contents
   
5. At the System Check step, select either the NVIDIA Graphics Driver with NVIDIA App or the NVIDIA Graphics Driver alone, the NVIDIA App is gaming oriented and unnecessary for most users. Select AGREE AND CONTINUE
   
6. At the License Agreement step, select the Express (Recommended) radio button then select NEXT to continue
   
7. The installation will take some time to complete
   
8. When complete please restart the computer Start > Power > Restart
   

Windows should now detect the NVIDIA Graphics Controller in the Device Manager and show the latest drivers.

If you have any questions or would like a recommendation, feel free to reach out to our support at support@plugable.com