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Plugable USB-C Laptop Dock for Portable Work Stations
$49.95 USD
SKU: UD-CUBEAmazon Rating : (74 Reviews)
Features
- Connectivity - Enables compatible USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 equipped Mac, Windows and Chromebook systems to connect to a single 4K HDMI monitor, 2 USB 2.0 devices, 1 USB 3.0 device and wired gigabit Ethernet. Note—DisplayPort monitors not supported.
- Compact Design—Small-scale cube form factor saves valuable desk space at any workstation. Sleek design makes this light-weight dock (130g) perfectly suited for travel, quick setup at conferences or simple connectivity in the meeting room. Unlike unpowered USB-C hubs, this dock includes its own power adapter, ensuring it won’t drain your laptop’s battery while keeping all your essential devices connected.
- USB-C Compatibility - Host laptops must be equipped with a USB-C port supporting Alternate Mode. Examples include 2018 MacBook Pro, 12" Retina MacBook, Microsoft Surface Book 2, HP Spectre x360 13", Dell XPS (9360, 9560, 9370, 9380). Note—Does not charge the attached laptop.
- Performance—With Alternate Mode over USB-C, the Cube establishes a direct pipeline to your host graphics processor. Enjoy native level display performances up to the host system's GPU capabilities.
- 2-Year Coverage, Lifetime Support—Every Plugable product, including this USB C docking station, is covered against defects for 2 years and comes with lifetime support. If you ever have questions, contact our North American-based team - even before purchase
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Meet Plugable’s smallest USB-C docking station yet—the Plugable Cube (UD-CUBE).
At just 2.5 x 2.3 x 1.4 inches, the Cube is Plugable's smallest docking station on the market. Extend the connectivity and usability of your USB-C system with the mobile Cube that fits in the palm of your hand. Drive an external HDMI display while having access to three USB ports for your USB peripherals such as a mouse and keyboard and a wired gigabit Ethernet connection.
The display functionality of the Cube dock is powered by one of USB 3.1’s most exciting new features: support for Alternate Mode (Alt Mode) video. Alt Modes allow certain non-USB data and protocols (such as native video) to be sent over a USB-C cable, so you don’t need a separate video cable running to your system. Instead, the Cube enables you to connect your HDMI display directly to the dock and enjoy native level display performances up to the host system’s graphics capabilities.
Note: Not all USB-C ports support video, please refer to your system manual to confirm compatibility.
Tiny but Mighty
The Cube is smaller than most cellphones and can save valuable deskspace by eliminating clutter. With the Cube, Plugable helps users streamline their workspaces and become more efficient and productive by getting their ports back in a compact and convenient dock.
Vast Multi-Connectivity
The Cube provides users the ability to connect a single 4K HDMI display, one USB 3.0 port, two USB 2.0 ports for connecting peripherals such as a keyboard and mouse, and a wired gigabit Ethernet connection—all through a single 91cm/3ft USB-C cable.
Specifications
Supported Resolutions
The HDMI port supports a maximum resolution of 4K 30Hz (3840x2160 @ 30Hz) as outlined in the HDMI 1.4 specification. All resolutions below 4K—such as 2560x1440 and 1080p—are supported at 60Hz refresh rate.
System Requirements
The system must have a USB-C port that supports USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode. Alternatively, a system with a Thunderbolt 3 port is also compatible.
Not a Charging Dock
Please note that the UD-CUBE will not charge your connected host laptop.In the Box
- 1x Plugable Cube Mini Dock
- 1x USB-C to USB-C cable (91 cm / 36 in)
- 1x Power Adapter (20W 5V/4A, UL60950-1)
- 1x Quick Start Guide
Performance
- USB-C Alternate Mode (Alt Mode) allows for a direct pipeline to the host graphics processor (GPU) in your system. As a result, the connected HDMI monitor will perform as a natively attached display, up to the system's GPU capabilities.
Compatibility
- The UD-CUBE is compatible with Windows, MacOS, iPadOS, and ChromeOS computers with a USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 / Gen 2 port that supports USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode.
- Examples include:
- 2018 MacBook Pro
- 12" Retina MacBook
- Microsoft Surface Go / Surface Book 2
- HP Spectre x360 13"
- Dell XPS (9360, 9560, 9370, 9380)
Non-Compatible Systems and Setups
- The UD-CUBE relies upon new functionality introduced with the USB 3.1 Type-C specification and as such is not compatible with USB 3.0/2.0 Type-A legacy systems. Adapters cables do not enable this functionality required.
- DisplayPort monitors are not supported.
Power and Charging
- The Cube is self-powered to function with the included power adapter (20W 5V/4A, UL60950-1).
- The Cube will not be able to charge your connected host laptop. You will need to keep the original power adapter connected to your computer.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
# of Displays |
1 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
Video Ports |
1x HDMI |
1x HDMI |
1x HDMI 1.3, 1x DVI |
2x HDMI |
1x HDMI 1.4, 1x HDMI 1.3, 1x Single-Link DVI-I |
Max Resolutions Supported |
1920x1080 (1080p) |
1920x1080 (1080p) |
2x 1920x1200 @ 60Hz |
2x 1920x1200 @ 60Hz |
1x 4K 30Hz, 2x 1920x1200 60Hz |
# of USB Ports |
3 |
3 |
6 |
6 |
4 |
USB Port Specifications |
1x USB 3.0 port, 2x USB 2.0 ports |
1x USB 3.0 port, 2x USB 2.0 ports |
2x USB 3.0 front, 4x USB 2.0 rear |
2x USB 3.0 front, 4x USB 2.0 rear |
4 x USB-A 3.0 , 1 USB-C |
Laptop Charging |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Yes - 60W |
Laptop Connection |
USB 3.0, USB 2.0 and USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 |
USB 3.0, USB 2.0 and USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 |
USB4, Thunderbolt 4 / 3, USB-C, USB 3.0 |
USB 3.0 and USB-C |
USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 |
Host laptops must be equipped with a USB-C port supporting DisplayPort Alternate Mode (DP Alt Mode) or Thunderbolt. Some examples include:
Windows:
- Dell XPS 13 (9310)
- HP Spectre x360 14
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9
- ASUS ZenBook Flip S
- Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio
- Acer Swift 3
Mac:
- MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac mini models that support DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt over USB-C
ChromeBook:
- Google Pixelbook Go
- Asus Chromebook Plus CX34
- Acer Chromebook 317
- HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
- Dell Latitude 7410 Chromebook
Dock does not charge host system. You must have a power adapter conencted to the system in order to keep it charged while dock is in use.
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You can always contact support if you need help too!
USB Port Types
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-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, Thunderbolt™ 3, and Thunderbolt™ 4
Niridya , CC0, 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 and Thunderbolt 4.
It is important to note that while all Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 connections are USB-C, not all USB-C connections can be used with Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 devices.
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.
Does the HDMI Port Support 4K Resolution at 60Hz?
Yes, the USBC-MD103's HDMI port will support 4K at 60Hz if your host device supports DisplayPort 1.4.
Can I Connect a DisplayPort (DP) Monitor to the HDMI Port on This Device Using an Adapter or Cable?
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.
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 have built-in adapters to output a HDMI signal for use with passive DisplayPort to HDMI adapters.
HDMI uses a video signal, similar to DVI, this requires more power to operate at the same cable lengths as DisplayPort and requires significantly more processing power to create DisplayPort packet-based data.
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.
Understanding and Troubleshooting Network Performance
Computer networking is a complex topic. In this article, we'll be taking a deep dive on the nuances of network performance for those who need some additional explanation while striving to be concise, and to educate users of various experience levels relating computer hardware and computer networking.
If you just need to know how to perform a network performance test/benchmark, jump down to configuring iPerf.
Core Network Concepts
LAN vs WAN
With regards to network performance, it is crucial to first separate whether an issue is with Wide Area Network (WAN) performance, or if the issue is with Local Area Network (LAN) performance.
Your LAN is essentially the network inside your home or business. Many homes use a combination modem/router device provided by their Internet Service Provider (ISP). In some cases, especially in businesses, you may have a separate modem and router, along with other equipment connecting to the router such as a network switch.
Your modem, and the connection it establishes to your ISP—whether through coaxial cable, fiber, phone lines, or long-range wireless—essentially marks the point between the WAN and the LAN. The connection your modem makes to your ISP is the WAN, and any devices you connect through your router behind that modem belong to the LAN.
Link Rate
Almost every type of connection your computer makes to any piece of hardware will have a link rate of some kind. The link rate establishes how fast data can possibly be transferred across any given connection, but it does not guarantee how fast the hardware on either end of the connection will actually transfer data.
The concept of link rates, and their related bottlenecks, is likely best conveyed by giving an example of what connections might be involved in transferring a file from one computer on your LAN to another.
- 800Mbps—The file source is a USB 3.0 thumb drive capable of 100MB/s (800Mbps) read/write.
- 480Mbps—The USB 3.0 thumb drive is plugged into a USB 2.0 port on the PC, which has a maximum throughput of 480Mbps
- 1000Mbps—PC1's Ethernet connection establishes 1Gbps (1000Mbps) link to the router via Ethernet
- 300Mbps—The router connects to a second PC (we'll refer to this as PC2) via Wi-Fi, and it has established a 300Mbps link to the Wi-Fi adapter on PC2
- 480Mbps—The Wi-Fi adapter on PC2 is connected via a USB 2.0 port. The link rate of the USB connection to PC2 is at 480Mbps
- 6000Mbps—PC2 is going to store the file on an internal hard drive with a link rate of 6Gbps
- 1600Mbps—File Destination: SATA hard drive capable of 200MB/s (1600Mbps) read/write.
Following this chain, we see that 300Mbps is the slowest link rate established. This means that, regardless of the link rates established elsewhere, the absolute maximum the data can possibly be transferred is 300Mbps.
if we were to change the Wi-Fi connection to a wired Ethernet connection capable of 1Gbps, our performance bottleneck would then become the USB 2.0 connection to the USB drive where the file is stored.
Ports and Interfaces
Interfaces
A network interface represents connections, whether wired or wireless, that are made to form a network between devices.
Ports
Some may refer to physical hardware connections as "ports". For the purposes of networking, ports are logical constructs that can also be referred to as "network ports". Each network interface has 65,535 of these logical ports. Each port on a network interface is a separate data connection.
Benchmarking Network Adapter Performance
To properly benchmark network adapter performance, we need to:
- Use a simple LAN configuration
- Eliminate bottlenecks, especially link rate bottlenecks
Websites like speedtest.net, fast.com, and other performance tools in your web browser are going to use your WAN connection, and are not appropriate for determining if a network adapter is working well.
Transferring files from one computer to another on your LAN is typically not the best way to benchmark a network adapter. File transfers are bottlenecked by a number of things, including performance limitations of the disk the data is on, and often times a lack of establishing parallel network connections to perform the task.
One of the most accurate ways to benchmark network performance on a LAN is by using iPerf . To more effectively benchmark network adapter performance, it is best to establish a point-to-point connection between two PCs, rather than connecting through a router or switch.
Configuring iPerf
To test a connection using iPerf, you'll need at least two network interfaces, and preferably two computers. You'll also need to know the IP (Internet Protocol) address assigned to each network interface . One network interface will function as an iPerf server, and the other network interface will function as an iPerf client. Lastly, you'll need to download the version of iPerf 3.x that's appropriate for your computer's operating system and extract/install it .
Windows
- Make sure the drivers for both network interfaces involved in the test are using up-to-date drivers. Drivers for Plugable products can be found here.
- Download and extract iPerf for Windows
- Open Command Prompt
- Press Windows Key + R or + R, then enter
cmdin the window that appears - Search the Start Menu for
Command Prompt, and open it
- Press Windows Key + R or + R, then enter
- Navigate Command Prompt to the directory the directory where iPerf is located
- The
cdcommand is for 'change directory'- If you have a folder named 'iperf' on your Windows desktop, you can reach it in command prompt with the command
cd %USERPROFILE%\Desktop\iperf
- If you have a folder named 'iperf' on your Windows desktop, you can reach it in command prompt with the command
- The
- Run iperf in server mode via Command Prompt
iperf3.exe -s
macOS
- Usually it is best to install iperf on macOS using brew in Terminal
- Make sure the drivers for both network interfaces involved in the test are using up-to-date drivers
- Open Terminal
- Run iPerf in server mode
iperf3 -s
Linux
- Usually it is best to install iperf using the package manager in your Linux distro. For example, in Ubuntu, use
apt: sudo apt install iperf3
- Make sure the drivers for both network interfaces involved in the test are using up-to-date Drivers
- Open Terminal
- Run iPerf in server mode
iperf3 -s
Next, you'll need to run iPerf in client mode, targeting the IP address of the server/interface where iPerf is running in server mode. Additionally, we'll run the test for 30 seconds using -t 30 and with four parallel connections using -P 4. Running 4 parallel connections is optimal for saturating a network link.
Windows
- Open Command Prompt
- Press Windows Key + R or + R, then enter
cmdin the window that appears - Search the Start Menu for
Command Prompt, and open it
- Press Windows Key + R or + R, then enter
- Navigate Command Prompt to the directory the directory where iPerf is located
- The
cdcommand is for 'change directory'- If you have a folder named 'iperf' on your Windows desktop, you can reach it in command prompt with the command
cd %USERPROFILE%\Desktop\iperf
- If you have a folder named 'iperf' on your Windows desktop, you can reach it in command prompt with the command
- The
- Run iperf in client mode via Command Prompt (replace 192.168.0.200 with the IP address of the server/interface where iPerf is running in server mode)
iperf3.exe -c 192.168.0.200 -t 30 -P 4
macOS / Linux
- Open Terminal
- Run iPerf in client mode (replace 192.168.0.200 with the IP address of the server/interface where iPerf is running in server mode)
iperf3 -c 192.168.0.200 -t 30 -P 4
iPerf should start performing a network performance test. If the test fails to start, make sure that iPerf is not being blocked by your PC's/Mac's firewall.
Why iPerf is Ideal for Benchmarking
Unlike a file transfer, iPerf runs in memory on the PC and generates data to send using the CPU directly. This alleviates potential bottlenecks generated by storage devices, and allows you to explicitly control how many parallel connections are being used to transfer data rather than being unsure if parallel network connections are being used by other means.
Conclusion
There's a lot more to networking that isn't covered in this article, but we hope this helps explain enough to get an accurate measure of your network performance.
If you need assistance with your Plugable product that features network connectivity, please contact us for further assistance.
Does the UD-CUBE Charge My Laptop?
Typically, it does not. While the UD-CUBE does provide up to 15W of power over USB-C (USB Type-C ), this is not enough to meet most computers' power requirements and therefore you will need to keep the original power adapter that came with the computer attached.
If charging is a requirement, you may want to consider our other USB-C docking station options. For example, the UD-CAM is a similar USB-C docking station option that provides 85W of power.
Why Do I See a Charging Indicator That My Computer Is Being Powered Even Though You State the UD-CUBE Doesn’t Charge My Laptop?
Depending on whether or not your computer supports charging through its USB-C (USB Type-C ) port, you may see a misleading indication that your system is charging when docked. However, the 15W of power is not enough to charge your system while it is in use.
Please make sure to keep the original power adapter that came with the system connected to charge it properly.
Can the Blue LED Around the UD-CUBE Be Turned Off?
No, the LED is powered on when it is connected to a power source and cannot be turned off unless this power source is removed.
However, when the Cube is bus-powered (i.e. no power adapter), the blue LED will only turn on when it is connected to a host system through the USB-C (USB Type-C ) cable.
My Docking Station/Adapter Works Well With My Windows Laptop, but When I Close the Lid the Displays and Laptop Turn Off or Sleep. How Do I Fix This?
Most Windows notebook computers power management settings will default to putting the computer to sleep with the lid closed, regardless of any external displays, keyboard, or mouse connected to the computer. If this is happening but you would prefer the system to remain active with the lid closed utilizing the external display or displays, these settings can be changed by performing the following:
For Windows 10:
- Start by right-clicking on the Start button and select Power Options from the menu.
- From the right side of the Power Options settings page, select the blue link for Additional power settings
- From the choices present on the left-hand side of the Power Options window, please click on Choose what closing the lid does
- Make sure the setting for When I close the lid under the Plugged In column is set to Do Nothing
- 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.
For Windows 11:
- Start by right-clicking on the Start button and select Power Options from the menu.
- 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
- Make sure the setting for When I close the lid under the Plugged In column is set to Do Nothing
- Click the Save Changes button to apply the new settings.
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.
The lid may still need to be opened to perform the following tasks:
- 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 )
My Windows Laptop Will Not Boot Properly When My Docking Station Is Connected
If your Windows laptop will not boot properly when a docking station is connected to the laptop, most often the cause is an external device connected to the docking station (for example an external USB storage drive) as opposed to the dock itself.
If you are affected by this condition, please follow these steps in order to isolate the behavior further:
- Disconnect all USB devices from the docking station and put them aside for the moment.
- Disconnect any displays connected to the dock's video outputs.
- Disconnect any audio devices connected to the dock's audio ports (if present).
- Disconnect the Ethernet network cable from the dock's Ethernet port (if present).
- The only remaining connections should be the dock's power adapter cable and the USB cable used to connect it to the laptop. No other external devices should be connected to the dock.
- While in this state, reboot the laptop to test the behavior.
- Assuming the laptop boots as expected, please reconnect each device back to the dock one at a time and reboot after each one to test the behavior again. Please reconnect the displays first, then the audio devices, then the Ethernet cable. Please reconnect any USB devices to the dock last, again rebooting after each one is added to test the behavior.
In our experience helping others, the most common cause of this behavior is an external USB storage drive connected to one of the dock's USB ports. In some cases, a laptop may try to boot from an external storage drive by mistake as opposed to the laptop's built-in storage drive. Since most external USB storage drives are not 'bootable', this can interrupt the boot process.
If this behavior occurs, the most common way to mitigate the behavior is to access the laptop's System BIOS (also known as UEFI firmware) to change the 'boot order' settings to ensure that the laptop's internal storage drive is the first boot option. Doing so helps ensure that the laptop will not try to boot from an external USB storage device.
Every laptop system is different, so the best resource for accessing the System BIOS and changing the settings is the manual for the laptop provided by the laptop manufacturer.
Docking Station Power Adapters
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.
| Dock Models | Power Supply Model Number | Replacement Power Supply (if available) |
|---|---|---|
| USB 3.0 / USB-C Docking Stations | ||
| UD-3900 UD-3000 UD-5900 UD-PRO8 UD-3900C |
DSA-24PFS-05 |
|
| UD-3900H | P120W2000U |
|
| UD-3900PDZ | ADS-110CL-19-3 2000090E |
|
| UD-3900Z | ADS-26SGP-12 12024E |
|
| UD-6950 | A16-045N3A |
|
| UD-6950H | P200W2000UG |
|
| UD-6950Z | ADS-40SGP-19 20040G |
|
| UD-CA1 UD-CA1A |
EA10953D-200 |
|
| UD-ULTCDL (MK1 original and MK2 updated version) Note: Check here to determine what version of dock you have |
A16-065N2A (MK1 model) A18-135P1B-Rev3 (MK2 model) Note: MK2 model adapters will work with MK1 docks |
|
| UD-ULTC4K (MK1 original and MK2 updated version) Note: Check here to determine what version of dock you have |
A16-100P1A (MK1 model) A18-135P1B-Rev3 (MK2 model) Note: MK2 model adapters will work with MK1 docks |
|
| UD-3900C4 |
A18-135P1B-Rev3 |
North America plug |
| UD-3900PDH |
PS200D06500G1 |
North America plug |
| UD-768PDZ |
PA-1131-72 v2 |
North America plug |
| UD-6950PDZ |
A16-100P1A rev 3 |
North America plug |
| UD-MSTH2 |
ADS-110DL-19-1 200110E |
North America plug |
| UD-MSTHDC |
ADS-110DL-19-1 200110E |
North America plug |
| UD-CAM |
A16-100P1A |
|
| UD-CUBE |
EA1024CR-050 |
|
| UD-6950PDH |
PS200D06500G1 (v1 of dock*) F-J-SW202720006700 (v2 of dock with serial numbers 4157 or newer*) *For more details about v1 and v2 UD-6950PDH docks visit our Knowledge Base article |
North America plug (v1) North America plug (v2) |
| Thunderbolt / USB4 Docking Stations | ||
| TBT4-UDZ |
PA-1131-72 v2 |
North America plug |
| TBT3-UDC1 | PA-1131-72 v1 |
|
| TBT3-UDV | A18-135P1B-Rev1 |
|
| TBT3-UDZ | PA-1171-72 |
|
| TBT3-UDC3 | PA-1171-72 |
|
| TBT4-HUB3C | ADS-110DL-19-1 200110E |
|
| USB4-HUB3A |
ADS-110DL-19-1-200100E |
North America plug |
| TBT4-UD5 | FJ-SW202720006400 |
North America plug |
| TBT4-UDX1 | A18-135P1B-Rev4 A18-135P1B-Rev3 (Large Barrel) |
|
| TBT-6950PD | YW180A2-2100858 |
|
| UD-4VPD |
PA-1171-72 |
North America plug |
My Plugable Dock Is Missing a Component Such As the Power Supply, USB Cable, or Other Adapter.
If your package is missing one or more of the items that should be included with your Plugable dock (included items are listed on a chart on the side of the box), start by double checking if the part is still in the packaging. Pieces can occasionally get stuck in the corners under the main insert in the box.
If you are still unable to locate the piece, please contact support@plugable.com with the following information:
1. Amazon Order ID (or other proof of purchase) associated with your Plugable device.
2. A description of the parts that are missing from your order.
3. Your preferred shipping address (and a phone number associated with that address).
4. The serial number of your Plugable Dock.
Can I Connect My High Refresh Rate Monitor (e.g. 120Hz, 144Hz) to a Plugable Dock?
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 fresh 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.
Do Plugable products support the Apple SuperDrive?
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.
My Plugable product with wired Ethernet is no longer working on macOS. What can I do?
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
- Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your primary monitor, and select ‘System Preferences’
- Next select ‘Network’ in the ‘System Preferences' window.
- In the now visible list, please select the Plugable Ethernet, or Thunderbolt Ethernet device that may not be working as expected.
- Once selected click on the minus button in the bottom left of the network window.
- Click on Apply in the bottom right.
- Next click on the plus button in the bottom left of the network window, and add the previously removed device.
- Click on Apply in the bottom right.
- Test to see if this has resolved the unexpected behavior, and assure that your Ethernet is now working.
- If this does not resolve the problem, please proceed to the next section (As noted previously the next section is for advanced users only!)
Manually erase your macOS Network Settings to fully reset the Network configuration
(Advanced! Click to reveal)
- Open the ‘Finder’ app, then in the ‘Go’ menu at the top of your screen select ‘Computer’
- Click on ‘Macintosh HD’ then Library, Preferences, SystemConfiguration
- Copy the file named ‘NetworkInterfaces.plist’ to your desktop as a backup of your current configuration.
- Delete the original version of the ‘NetworkInterfaces.plist’ located in the SystemConfiguration directory.
- Restart your Mac
- Login to your Mac, and return to System Preferences → Network
- If the list is now empty, please re-add the Plugable or Thunderbolt network adapter by clicking on the plus button in the bottom left of the Network window. Once done click on 'Apply'.
- Test to see if this has resolved the unexpected network behavior
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.
Understanding Heat Generation in Electronics
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:
- 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.
- 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”.
- 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:
- Ventilation: Ensure that Plugable products have sufficient ventilation around them. Avoid placing them in enclosed spaces where heat dissipation may be impeded.
- 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.
- 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.
How To - Set a Network to Private or Public in Windows 10 & 11
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, 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”
Understanding USB-C Alt Mode
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.
-
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.
- 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.
- Reboot your system and perform a power reset on your docking station or hub (if applicable)
-
If you are using a docking station, ensure that you are using a USB-C cable that supports Alt Mode.
- 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.
- Do not use USB-C to USB-A adapters, as they are not designed to support video transmission.
- 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.
- Check if your Alt Mode-capable device has any firmware updates listed specifically for Alt Mode.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
How to Use Two External Displays with the Lid Closed on MacBook Air and MacBook Pro M3
Overview
With the release of Apple’s M3 CPU chips and the Sonoma 14.6 update your base MacBook Air and MacBook Pro systems with M3 chips can now host two external displays natively in clamshell mode. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and using two external displays with the lid closed on your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro equipped with an Apple M3 chip.
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.
Steps to Set Up Dual External Displays with the Lid Closed
1. Set Up Your External Keyboard and Mouse
- If you’re using a wired keyboard and mouse, connect them directly to your MacBook or Plugable dock.
- For wireless peripherals, ensure they are paired with your MacBook and functioning properly.
- An AC adapter/power cable of some kind will also need to be connected for clamshell mode to function properly. This adapter can be one from a docking station or the included Apple adapter.
2. Connect Your Displays
- Connect the first external display to your MacBook using the appropriate cable (e.g., HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C)
- Close your laptop’s lid.
- Connect the second external display using a similar method.
- Ensure both displays are powered on and set to the correct input source.
3. Configure Display Settings
- Open System Settings on your MacBook.
- Go to Displays.
- You should see both external displays listed. Arrange them according to your preference by dragging the display icons.
- Adjust the resolution, refresh rate, and other settings as needed.
4. Enable "Clamshell Mode" (Lid Closed Mode)
- With your external displays connected and set up, close the lid of your MacBook.
- Your MacBook will automatically switch to "Clamshell Mode," where the internal display turns off, and the external displays become your primary screens.
- Ensure your MacBook is connected to a power source to prevent it from entering sleep mode.
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.
Thunderbolt Dock Users
With these steps, one can use Plugable Thunderbolt docks to enjoy a dual-display setup without the need for additional software installation. The dock leverages the native capabilities of the MacBook Air M3 and MacBook Pro M3, providing a straightforward and efficient solution for expanding your workspace with additional USB ports, audio, and ethernet (as well as the dual displays).
Additional Resources
If you should need any assistance with your setup, please feel free to reach out to our support team at support@plugable.com.
How To: Set the Display Refresh Rate in Windows 11
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/)
Is there a way to add more displays to my dock?
Extra displays can be added to your docking station by using USB graphics adapters. This allows you to expand your workspace beyond the number of displays natively supported by your dock or computer.
Here’s how it works:
- Ensure your dock has open USB-A or USB-C ports to connect the USB graphics adapter(s).
- Select a Plugable USB graphics adapter compatible with your operating system and monitor specifications. Feel free to contact Plugable support (support@plugable.com) for assistance in selecting the appropriate adapter for your setup.
- Download and install the driver from the "Downloads" section of the product page for the USB graphics adapter on Plugable's website.
- Plug the adapter into an available USB port on your docking station.
- Use an appropriate video cable (e.g., HDMI, DisplayPort) to connect the adapter to your monitor.
Important Considerations:
- Windows supports up to 8 DisplayLink/SiliconMotion-based monitors.
- macOS has a hard limit of 4 DisplayLink/SiliconMotion-based monitors.
- USB graphics adapters use bandwidth and system resources. Connecting multiple adapters can reduce performance.
Why is the Alt Mode video output on my dock not working?
Alt Mode video works by creating a direct pipeline from the host device's graphics processor through USB-C to the dock which allows it to output video to connected display. This relies on a few key factors to function correctly, including the host device's graphics processor, the host device's USB-C port, and the cable used to connect the dock.
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.
How Can I Check the Ethernet Adapter Link Rate on my Mac?
One helpful way to identify your ethernet link rate speed is through the System Settings app in macOS. This can help us identify if your Plugable ethernet adapter is negotiating either 1Gbps or 2.5Gbps network speeds. Some routers have a mix of 1Gbps or 2.5Gbps ports, and in the macOS System Settings this will be shown in the Speed field.
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:
Navigate to the Network section, 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.
Choosing the Right USB Type-C Cable for Your Docking Station
At Plugable, we rigorously test our docking stations with the included accessories to ensure they work seamlessly together. One key reason for using the included cable is that not all USB Type-C cables on the market support the same features. Therefore we strongly recommend using the USB Type-C or Thunderbolt cable that comes with your Plugable dock for best results.
Understanding the differences between charging and data cables is essential to fully enable your new docking station, or if you are ever in need of a replacement or longer cable for your docking station. Let’s break it down.
USB Type-C Cables: Charging vs. Data
USB Type-C cables may look identical, but their capabilities can vary significantly. Unfortunately, the USB specifications do not require cables to be clearly labeled, which can make identifying the right cable a challenge.
There are two main categories:
USB Type-C Charging Cables
Charging cables are among the most common Type-C cables available. They typically support:
✔ USB 2.0 data (up to 480Mbps)
✔ USB Power Delivery for charging devices
These cables are often included with smartphones, tablets, and some laptops. They are also frequently sold specifically for charging purposes. However, they lack the necessary conductors for high-speed data transfer and video output.
Fully Featured USB Type-C Cables
Fully featured USB Type-C cables offer full functionality and are required for docking stations. The cables we include with our USB Type-C docks support:
✔ USB4 or USB 3.0/3.1 data (5Gbps or faster)
✔ USB 2.0 data
✔ USB Power Delivery
✔ USB Type-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode for video output
These cables ensure full compatibility with our docking stations, allowing for both high-speed data transfer and external display support.
Thunderbolt Data Cables
Thunderbolt cables are a specialized subset of USB Type-C data cables. They are Intel-certified and typically marked with the Thunderbolt logo (⚡).
✔ Interchangeable with USB Type-C data cables when using USB 3.x devices
✔ Required for Thunderbolt devices to ensure proper functionality
If you're using a Thunderbolt docking station or device, a certified Thunderbolt cable is essential for maximum performance.
What Makes These Cables Different?
The key difference lies in the internal wiring:
🚫 Charging cables lack the conductors required for high-speed data (USB 5Gbps or higher) and video output. Even if a device supports USB Type-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, a charging cable won’t transmit video.
✅ Data cables include additional wiring to support higher data rates, video output, and greater flexibility in bandwidth allocation.
How Can I Tell the Difference?
🔎 Charging cables are generally thinner and may have smaller connector grips, as they often lack electronic markers. They are typically advertised as:
- "Charging cable"
- "480Mbps data rate"
- Advertised primarily for phones and tablets, not laptops
🔎 Data cables are usually thicker and slightly more expensive due to their additional complexity. Look for statements such as:
- "USB 3.0/3.1," "USB4," or "Thunderbolt"
- "5Gbps" or faster data rates
- Mention of video support for use with external displays
⚠ Cable Length Matters!
Fully featured data cables are typically limited to 1 meter (3.3 feet) to comply with USB Type-C specifications. Charging cables, on the other hand, can be much longer.
Need a Longer or Replacement Cable?
If you need a replacement or a longer cable for your USB Type-C or Thunderbolt docking station, consider these options:
For USB 3.1/3.2 Type-C Docking Stations:
🔗 USB Type-C 10Gbps 1m (3.3ft) Cable
For Thunderbolt & USB4, and USB 3 Type-C Docking Stations:
🔗 Thunderbolt 4 40Gbps 1m (3.3ft) Cable
🔗 Thunderbolt 4 40Gbps 0.8m (3ft) 90° Right-Angle Cable
🔗 Thunderbolt 4 40Gbps 2m (6.6ft) Cable
Note: The USB Type-C 10Gbps cable is only recommended for USB 3.x docking stations, not Thunderbolt docks.
Do Plugable docking stations support automatic Ethernet hardware address (also known as Media Access Control or MAC address) pass through from the host computer?
Plugable does not officially support automatic or automated MAC address pass through functionality from the host computer with any of our currently available docking station products.
As of this writing, the only current exception is the upcoming UD-7400PD docking station → LINK and we speak to its capabilities in this regard here → LINK
However, when our docking station products are used within a Windows environment such behavior can be approximated by other means. The methods to do so and their complexity can vary depending upon the Ethernet network technology on which the dock is based.
To be clear, Plugable does not officially support these approximated solutions. However, we wanted to mention them should they prove helpful to others.
With that said, Plugable docking stations will vary in regard to the Ethernet network chipset used within the product. For general reference, the specific Ethernet chipset used within the product will be listed within the 'Specifications' tab of the docking station's product page.
For example, here are the specifications for the Plugable UD-6950Z docking station which is based on DisplayLink technology, which also provides the Ethernet network chipset functionality.
Note, all Plugable docking station products based on DisplayLink technology will have the DisplayLink logo printed on the product. For general reference, we have a list of all of our DisplayLink-based docking stations available here --> LINK
A DisplayLink-based Ethernet adapter can be configured to use a 'virtual' MAC address that is manually configured within the Windows Device Manager via the adapter's 'Advanced' settings tab, specifically the 'MAC Address' field.
Manually entering a hexadecimal value for the MAC Address field will override the MAC address stored in the Ethernet chipset within the docking station product (in so far as it is presented to the Windows operating system).
To be clear, this only affects the current Windows installation. This does NOT change the Ethernet MAC address stored within the dock itself.
Further to this, Synaptics (the separate company from Plugable who created the DisplayLink technology and also developed the software), have additional options available for configuring a DisplayLink-based MAC address. Some of these options provide a certain level of automation, while others require manual inputs.
DisplayLink outlines the available options within this knowledge base article --> LINK which for general reference is part of their broader 'Corporate Deployment' knowledge base category --> LINK
To be clear, since DisplayLink develops the software DisplayLink also supports the Corporate Deployment options directly.
Should additional assistance be required in regard to the Corporate Deployment options, please contact DisplayLink directly for further assistance --> LINK
Plugable also offers docking station products based on a variety of Realtek, Intel, and ASIX Ethernet network chipsets. For those products, the only option available is to manually configure a 'virtual' MAC address in a similar manner to what we described above.
However, please note that the description of the option to do so within Device Manager will vary. For example, for Intel Ethernet chipsets the option will be called, 'Locally Administered Address'. When using Realtek Ethernet chipsets the option will be called, 'Network Address'.
How to Determine Your USB-C Port Video Capabilities
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. 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.
Understanding Power Delivery vs. Pass-Through Power Delivery
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
