Google Pixel phones support USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode for wired video output, but due to Android OS limitations, they cannot produce two extended external displays using MST, DisplayLink, or Thunderbolt docking technologies. This is a platform constraint, not a hardware or dock issue.

Understanding the Limitation

Google Pixel phones are limited by the Android operating system’s handling of external displays. While many Pixel models (such as the Pixel 7 and Pixel 8 series) support USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode, they can only output to a single external display at a time. Android is designed primarily for screen mirroring, and extended display support is extremely limited across Android phones.

Key Point:

Android OS currently restricts Pixel phones to one external display, regardless of the dock or adapter used.

Dock Behavior with Pixel Phones

MST Docks (e.g., Plugable UD-MSTH2)

MST (Multi-Stream Transport) requires the host device to support splitting one DisplayPort signal into multiple independent video streams. While common on Windows and many Chromebooks, Pixel phones do not support MST for extended displays.

When using an MST dock, a Pixel phone will:

• Output to one external display only, or
• Mirror the same content to two connected monitors
• Dual extended desktops are not supported

DisplayLink Docks

DisplayLink technology works on Android through a companion app (e.g., DisplayLink Presenter). However:

• Android only supports a single external display via DisplayLink
• DisplayLink docks cannot be used to achieve multiple extended monitors from a Pixel device
• DisplayLink is not recommended for dual display use on Android

Thunderbolt Docks

Google Pixel phones are not Thunderbolt-certified hosts. When connected to a Thunderbolt dock:

• They revert to basic USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode
• Only a single mirrored display is possible

Visual Summary

Recommended Alternatives

If your goal is to use two independent external displays, consider the following instead:

• Windows laptops with DisplayPort MST support
• Chromebooks that support MST

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I extend my Pixel’s screen to two monitors using any method?
A: No. As of now, Android does not support multiple extended displays. Only mirroring to one display is possible.

Q: Does DisplayLink allow multiple displays on Android?
A: No. Even with DisplayLink’s Android app, you are limited to one external display.

Q: Why do Windows and ChromeOS devices work with MST but not Android?
A: Android lacks support for DisplayPort MST and advanced GPU capabilities required for multiple display outputs. This is a software/platform-level limitation.

Conclusion

While Google Pixel phones are capable of driving a single external display, dual extended monitors are not possible due to Android OS restrictions. This applies across all dock types, including MST, DisplayLink, and Thunderbolt. For users requiring robust multi-display setups, we recommend using a Windows or Chromebook device that supports MST alongside a compatible docking station like the Plugable UD-MSTH2.

If you have any questions or need help selecting a compatible dock, reach out to our support team at support@plugable.com.

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!

No, Plugable products do not support the Apple SuperDrive.

Why do Plugable products not support the Apple SuperDrive?

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

Applicable To

• All Plugable brand products

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

How Pass-Through Power Works

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

Example

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

Important Notes

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

Need Assistance?

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

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

Why Modern Laptops Do Not Require Battery Cycling

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

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

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

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

Legacy Laptop Battery Behavior

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

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

Applicable To

• Plugable docking stations with USB Power Delivery (PD)

Yes, heat generation is a normal byproduct of operation for electronic devices and Plugable products as electrical energy is consumed and transferred. Power delivery, high-speed data transfers, and active peripheral usage naturally convert electrical energy into thermal energy. Plugable designs its products with thermal safety margins to ensure operational temperatures remain within safe limits.

Why Plugable Electronics Generate Heat

Electrical components generate heat as current flows through them, with higher power usage-such as charging host laptops or conducting fast data transfers-increasing thermal output. Many Plugable products, such as the TBT3-UDZ and TBT4-UDZ docking stations, feature aluminum enclosures engineered with internal thermal pads to function as heat sinks. This design transfers internal heat outward to radiate into the room. This protects internal components, however can cause the external surface to feel warm or hot. Higher ambient room temperatures, direct sunlight, and obstructions to air currents around the device may also contribute to increased surface heat. While Underwriters Laboratories (UL) sets a thermal safety threshold of 77°C (170.6°F), Plugable targets a lower operational ceiling of approximately 71°C (160°F) under the heaviest of loads.

How to Manage Heat Generation in Plugable Products

To keep operating temperatures as low as possible, ensure Plugable devices have sufficient ventilation around them and are not placed in enclosed spaces. Avoid connecting an excessive number of power-hungry USB accessories that exceed the power limits of your dock or hub, as higher power draw causes the unit to run warmer (for example USB fans, heaters, cup warmers etc). Expect temporary increases in surface temperature during intensive workloads such as simultaneous multi-device charging and high-bandwidth data transfer.

Conclusion

Experiencing heat from Plugable products is a normal aspect of the operation of high-performance devices. Users can rest assured that we prioritize the safety and efficiency of our devices. By understanding the factors influencing heat generation and following simple usage guidelines, users can make the most of their Plugable products while ensuring a reliable and efficient user experience.

Applicable To

• Plugable docking stations, including TBT3-UDZ and TBT4-UDZ models
• Plugable USB hubs, video adapters, and electronic accessories
• Electronic devices utilizing metal heat-dissipating enclosures

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

Summary

Yes, if your Mac has a USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt port that supports video output, you can use a compatible DisplayPort Alt Mode video adapter to connect an external monitor. The number of external displays your Mac can drive natively depends on its exact model and configuration.

Applicable To

Mac computers with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt ports used with a Plugable USB-C video adapter that relies on DisplayPort Alt Mode.

Before You Buy or Connect

Confirm that the Mac port supports external video and that the adapter supports your monitor connection, resolution, and refresh rate.

Check Apple's display support specifications for your exact Mac model. Display limits differ by model and processor; some models also have different limits when a laptop lid is closed.

If an adapter has two or more outputs, check how it creates those displays. A USB-C MST adapter generally cannot provide multiple independent extended displays on macOS; its outputs may mirror.

What to Expect

A single-output DisplayPort Alt Mode adapter uses the Mac's native video capability and normally does not require DisplayLink Manager. An adapter that uses DisplayLink or Silicon Motion USB graphics is a different type of product and requires its corresponding macOS software and permissions.

For your Mac's native display limit, see Apple's MacBook Air display support guide or the display support specifications for your particular Mac model.

Important Notes

A USB-C connector alone does not establish video capability on every computer, and the number of physical video ports does not by itself establish how many independent displays a Mac supports. Check the adapter and Mac together before assuming a multi-monitor configuration will extend.

Need Assistance?

Email support@plugable.com with your Mac model and chip, macOS version, Plugable adapter model, monitor model, and desired number of extended displays.

Summary

Many modern displays support refresh rates higher than 60Hz. In some cases, the desired refresh rate may need to be selected manually in Windows 11. The resolutions and refresh rates available depend on the capabilities of the display, computer, graphics hardware, docking station or adapter, and the connection between them.

Applicable To

Windows 11 computers using built-in or external displays, including displays connected through compatible Plugable docking stations, video adapters, and cables.

Setting the Display Refresh Rate in Windows 11

1. Right-click on the desktop and select Display Settings from the drop-down menu

2. Scroll down to the Related settings subsection and select Advanced display

3. At the top of the Advanced display window, select the display you want to configure from the drop-down menu.

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

If the Desired Refresh Rate Is Not Listed

If the desired refresh rate is not available, confirm that the display, computer or graphics hardware, docking station or adapter, and video cable all support the desired resolution and refresh rate combination.

Some devices may support a higher refresh rate only at a lower display resolution. Check the specifications for each component in the display connection to confirm the supported resolution and refresh rate combinations.

Refresh Rate Limitations

Windows 11 may display an asterisk (*) next to certain refresh rates in Settings > System > Display > Advanced display. The asterisk indicates that the selected refresh rate is not supported at the display's current resolution. Selecting one of these refresh rates will cause Windows to change the display resolution in order to achieve the selected refresh rate.

In the example below, the display supports 3840 × 2160 (4K UHD) at 60Hz and 2560 × 1440 (1440p) at 120Hz through the connected hardware. After selecting “120 Hz*”, Windows changes the display resolution from 3840 × 2160 to 2560 × 1440 so that the higher refresh rate can be used. Because the display is now operating at a lower resolution, the image may appear less sharp than when using the display's native 4K resolution. After selecting a lower refresh rate, Windows may retain the reduced display resolution. If the original resolution is not restored automatically, return to Settings > System > Display and manually select the desired resolution.

Dynamic Refresh Rate

Windows 11 also supports Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR) on compatible hardware. When enabled, Windows can automatically adjust the display refresh rate based on what you are doing to provide smoother motion when needed while helping reduce power consumption at other times.

DRR requires a display that supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and a refresh rate of at least 120Hz. If supported by the computer and display, DRR can be enabled or disabled under Settings > System > Display > Advanced display.

Need Assistance?

If the desired refresh rate is still unavailable after following the steps above, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

• The Plugable product model
• Your computer model
• Your display model
• The resolution and refresh rate you are trying to use
• How the display is connected to the Plugable product
• The output from Plugable's diagnostic tool, PlugDebug

Summary

Yes. Connecting a compatible Plugable USB-C docking station or hub that supports Power Delivery (PD) to a computer that does not support USB-C charging is generally safe.

USB-C Power Delivery uses a negotiation process between the dock and the connected computer to determine whether the computer can accept power for charging.

If the computer does not support USB-C PD charging, the dock will not force unsupported higher-voltage charging onto the computer.

You may still be able to use the dock's other features, such as USB data connections, Ethernet, and external displays, provided your computer supports the necessary capabilities.

Applicable To

• Plugable USB-C docking stations with Power Delivery
• Plugable USB-C hubs with Power Delivery passthrough
• Computers with USB-C ports that do not support USB-C PD charging

Note: Available features vary by Plugable product and computer. Check the compatibility requirements for your specific docking station or hub.

How USB-C Power Delivery Works

USB-C Power Delivery is designed to allow compatible devices to negotiate their power requirements before higher-voltage charging is enabled.

When a USB-C dock or hub that supports Power Delivery is connected to a computer:

1. The dock communicates its available USB PD power capabilities.
2. A compatible computer negotiates the voltage and power level it can accept.
3. Power Delivery charging is established only when the connected devices support the required negotiation.

If the computer does not support USB-C Power Delivery charging, the dock will not establish an unsupported higher-voltage charging connection.

USB-C connections can still provide standard 5V power without a USB PD contract. However, this should not be confused with the negotiated higher-power charging used by many laptops.

What Happens If My Computer Doesn't Support USB-C Charging?

If your computer has a compatible USB-C port but cannot charge through that port:

• Laptop charging: The dock will not charge the computer using USB-C PD.
• USB data: Compatible USB peripherals connected to the dock may still function.
• External displays: Video output may still work if the computer supports the display technology required by the dock.
• Ethernet and other peripherals: These features may remain available, depending on the dock's requirements.

In this situation, you will typically need to continue using your computer's original power adapter to charge or power the laptop.

A USB-C connector does not guarantee that a computer supports charging, video output, or every feature of a USB-C docking station.

Keep the following in mind:

• The computer must support the data and video capabilities required by the dock.
• Some docking stations require DisplayPort Alternate Mode, USB4, Thunderbolt, or DisplayLink software for specific functions.
• A computer that does not support USB-C PD charging will generally require a separate power source.
• Use the recommended power adapter and host cable for your Plugable docking station or hub.

USB-C Power Delivery compatibility and overall docking station compatibility are separate considerations. A dock can be safe to connect without necessarily supporting every feature on your computer.

Need Assistance?

If you are unsure whether your computer can safely use a particular Plugable USB-C docking station or hub, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

• Your Plugable product model
• Your computer manufacturer and model
• Whether your computer supports charging through its USB-C port
• The features you intend to use, such as external displays, USB devices, or Ethernet
• Any compatibility concerns or unexpected behavior you have experienced

This information will help our support team verify your setup and determine which docking station features your computer can support.

iPadOS Stage Manager is a feature designed to enhance multitasking on the iPad, allowing users to easily switch between apps, resize windows, and have multiple overlapping apps on the screen at the same time. It’s available on supported iPads running iPadOS 16 or later and offers a desktop-like experience that makes navigating multiple tasks more fluid and organized.

Why Use Stage Manager?

Stage Manager on iPad provides a more flexible way to multitask on your iPad, especially if you’re used to working on a laptop or desktop computer. It helps you stay organized by allowing multiple apps to be visible at once, resizing windows to prioritize what’s most important, and easily switching between different tasks without losing your place.

Compatibility

Stage Manager is available on select iPad models, including iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later), and iPad Air (5th generation). Make sure your iPad is updated to iPadOS 16 or later to access this feature.

Compatible Hardware to Get the Most out of Stage Manager

Plugable offers a range of innovative iPad docking stations and hubs designed to enhance productivity on macOS, including full compatibility with iPadOS Stage Manager for seamless multitasking. The UDS-7IN1 and USBC-7IN1E provide versatile connectivity options, combining USB ports and HDMI, and SD card readers in compact designs ideal for streamlined setups. The USBC-4IN1, UD-CUBE and UD-CUBE-15W focuses on portability, featuring essential connections for quick access on the go. 

For ergonomic workspace optimization, the AMS-STAND11 and AMS-STAND13 deliver sturdy and adjustable stands, elevating your MacBook for improved comfort and airflow. Together, these devices ensure a smooth experience with iPadOS Stage Manager, enabling efficient multitasking and enhanced workflow.

How to Use Stage Manager

Turning On Stage Manager

To activate Stage Manager, swipe down from the upper-right corner to open the Control Center. 

Tap the Stage Manager icon (a rectangle with three smaller dots on the left side) to enable Stage Manager.

If asked, tap on Turn on Stage Manager to get started.

Opening and Managing Apps

Open an app as usual, and it will appear in a centered window that you can resize.

To add another app, swipe up from the bottom to open the Dock and drag a second app onto the screen. You can also add another app from the app library. Apps can overlap, allowing you to work across multiple apps seamlessly.

Resizing Windows

Drag the corner of any app window to resize it. Stage Manager makes it easy to arrange multiple app windows in a way that works best for you.

Switching Between Apps

Look for apps on the left side of the screen. You should see a list of recent apps and app groupings. Tap on any of these to quickly switch between different apps or collections of apps.

Note: If you're not seeing your app groupings on the left side in Stage Manager, it likely means the "Show recent apps in Stage Manager" setting is turned off; to fix this, go to your system settings, navigate to "Desktop & Dock," then under Stage Manager, make sure the "Show recent apps" option is enabled

Creating Workspaces

You can group apps together into workspaces by dragging apps into your current setup. You can touch and hold an app in the recent apps list, the dock, or the app library. This allows you to create custom workflows that suit different tasks—for example, having a browser, a note-taking app, and an email client open simultaneously for research.

To see a recent apps list you can swipe right from the left edge of the screen. Tap a group of apps to switch to those windows to bring them back in the same arrangement.

Full-Screen View

To switch to a full-screen view, tap the multitasking button at the top of the window.

Next, Tap Enter Full screen.

Adding an App to a Different Group

You can also add the app to a different group by clicking the multi-tasking button again and selecting Add Another Window.

The opened app will move to the right, and you can now see your other open apps and groups, including the app library and dock. To add the app, tap the group, and the app will be added to that group.

Questions? We're here to help! Feel free to contact support@plugable.com for questions or concerns when setting up your iPad with Stage Manager. 

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 USB-C Video Output Technologies

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

Thunderbolt and USB4

• DisplayPort Tunneling: DisplayPort video data packets are transmitted within Thunderbolt/USB4 data packets from the computer to a Thunderbolt or USB4 docking station, graphics adapter or display.
• Multi-Display supported resolutions
  • Thunderbolt 3 enables up to two DisplayPort 1.2 streams, supporting up to two 4K 60Hz external displays.
  • Thunderbolt 4 & USB4 enables two DisplayPort 1.4 streams, supporting a single 8K display, or upto two 4K 60Hz displays
  • Thunderbolt 5 & USB4 v2 enables two DisplayPort 2.1 streams, optionally with asymmetric bandwidth up to 120Gbps enabling up to two 8K displays, or two 4K displays with high refresh rates (120Hz or higher).
• Identifying the port:
  • Thunderbolt Uses a USB-C connector and features a lightning bolt symbol next to the port.
  • USB4 Uses a USB-C connector and generally has the USB4 logo next to the port.

Note: An example of Thunderbolt 3 ports

USB-C DisplayPort "Alt Mode"

• DisplayPort video data is transmitted directly from the USB-C port, taking up two or four of the USB SuperSpeed data lines.
• DisplayPort 1.2 capable hosts can support a single 4K 60Hz display and USB 2.0 data, or single 4K 30Hz display and USB 10Gbps data (for example when using a docking station).
• DisplayPort 1.4 capable hosts can support a single 8K 30Hz/4K 120Hz display and USB 2.0 data, or a single 4K 60Hz display and USB 10Gbps data.
• 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 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 any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!

Power Delivery (PD) docking stations use their own included power adapter to directly charge your connected laptop while simultaneously powering peripherals. In contrast, Pass-Through Power Delivery hubs do not generate their own power; they require you to plug a separate charger (like your laptop's original power adapter) into the hub, which then passes the power through to your computer.

How Power Delivery (PD) Works

USB Power Delivery (PD) is a fast-charging standard that allows devices to dynamically negotiate power levels to ensure efficient charging. Docking stations with dedicated PD support come with their own AC to DC power adapter, enabling high power transfer directly to laptops, tablets, and smartphones. An example is the Plugable UD-7400PD, which provides its own power to deliver up to 140W of charge to the host while supporting five external displays.

How Pass-Through Power Delivery Works

A hub with pass-through charging relies entirely on an external USB-C power adapter (such as your laptop's original USB-C PD charger) being plugged directly into it. The hub allocates a portion of this incoming power (typically around 7.5W to 15W) to run its own functionality (like data transfer and peripheral connections) and sends the remaining power to the connected laptop. Because of this operating requirement, the total wattage reaching the laptop will be slightly reduced compared to plugging the charger directly into the computer. Examples include the Plugable USBC-9IN1E (up to 140W pass-through) and the USBC-4IN1 (up to 100W pass-through).

How to Choose the Right Option

If you need an all-in-one docking station that can directly charge your laptop without needing extra cables, look for one with dedicated Power Delivery support. If your laptop already has a high-wattage charger and you want to maintain power while expanding connectivity (often ideal for portable setups), a pass-through PD hub may be a better choice. If you have any questions or would like a recommendation for your specific setup, feel free to reach out to our support team at support@plugable.com.

Applicable To

USB-C and Thunderbolt docking stations or hubs with PD

While USB-C and Thunderbolt share the same physical rounded rectangle connector they operate in fundamentally different ways.

The Main Differences Aren't Physical

USB 3 at 5Gbps and 10Gbps with Type-C - often simplified to USB-C - is both the hardware connector standard, and the included data types: USB 5Gbps or 10Gbps data rates, as well as optionally DisplayPort Alternate Mode video and USB Power Delivery for powering and charging both host computers, and downstream devices.

Thunderbolt, specifically Thunderbolt 3 and newer and USB4 use the same physical USB Type-C port, and support a backwards compatibility with USB-C devices, however the signaling and data structure is completely different. Both Thunderbolt and USB4 operate at between four to sixteen times the speed of USB 3. While USB offers optional display and charging, these are mandatory for Thunderbolt hosts. The way display data is transmitted is also different.

DisplayPort Alternate Mode for USB 3 occupies two or four of the physical data lanes in the USB Type-C connector and cable. Tunneled DisplayPort video in Thunderbolt (and USB4) packetizes the DisplayPort video data and transmits it within Thunderbolt/USB4 data packets. Tunneled DisplayPort allows for more native DisplayPort streams enabling multiple external displays at higher resolutions and refresh rates.

Power Delivery is the USB Type-C (as in the port) charging and power standard - this allows a power source and device to negotiate a voltage and maximum amperage both devices can support. For example a phone might negotiate a 9V 3A charge rate which is close to optimal for a phone size battery, while a notebook computer is more likely to negotiate 20V 5A both for improved battery charging and to power the system under moderate to heavy workloads.

Why USB-C and Thunderbolt Capabilities Differ

USB Type-C is a connector standard where features such as video output (DisplayPort Alt Mode) and USB Power Delivery (PD) are optional and depend on the host device manufacturer. In contrast, Thunderbolt sets mandatory performance and hardware requirements across data, video, and power protocols.

• USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen 1: Up to 5Gbps data transfer speed.
• USB 3.2 Gen 2: Up to 10Gbps data transfer speed.
• USB 3.2 Gen 2x2: Up to 20Gbps data transfer speed. This is very rarely implemented and most computers do not support it.
• Thunderbolt 3: Up to 40Gbps data transfer speed, supports dual DisplayPort 1.2 enabling two 4K or a single 5K displays, USB, DisplayPort, PCIe over a single cable, and up to 100W Power Delivery.
• USB4: Up to 40Gbps data transfer speed, supports DisplayPort 1.4 either one or two external displays, PCIe, and optional Thunderbolt 3 compatibility, USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gbps, and Power Delivery.
• Thunderbolt 4: Up to 40Gbps data transfer speed, supports dual 4K or single 8K displays, USB4 compatibility, USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gbps, and Power Delivery.
• Thunderbolt 5: Up to 80Gbps bi-directional bandwidth (DisplayPort up to 120Gbps using Bandwidth Boost), supports dual 6K or single high-refresh-rate 8K displays, PCIe, and backward compatibility with Thunderbolt 4 and USB4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gbps.

Effectively each tier from this list supports all of the features of the tier above as well as some new features. Thunderbolt 4 is Intel's implementation of USB4 with all optional features enabled.

How to Identify Ports and Ensure Compatibility

• Port Identification: Thunderbolt ports are usually marked with a lightning bolt symbol with a downward pointing triangle at the bottom point, this should be next to the port, while USB-C ports may be unmarked or feature symbols indicating power delivery (a simple lightning bolt is common) or DisplayPort capabilities ("DP" logo is often used). Always refer to device technical specifications for confirmation.
• Connecting Thunderbolt Devices to USB-C Ports: Thunderbolt 3, 4, or 5 devices connected to standard USB-C ports typically operate at reduced capabilities, such as lower speeds or fewer display outputs.
• Connecting USB-C Devices to Thunderbolt Ports: USB-C devices connected to Thunderbolt ports function normally, but cannot take advantage of full Thunderbolt features.

Applicable To

• Plugable docking stations, hubs, and video adapters
• USB-C standards (USB 3.0, 3.1 Gen 1, 3.2 Gen 2, 3.2 Gen 2x2, USB4)
• Thunderbolt standards (Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 5)

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

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

Android 16 introduces a Desktop Mode feature that allows supported Pixel phones to output a desktop-style interface to an external display using DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C. When connected to a compatible USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode hub or video adapter, the Pixel can drive a monitor and support peripherals such as a keyboard, mouse, Ethernet, and storage devices.

This article explains device requirements, compatible Plugable products, expected display behavior, and common troubleshooting steps.

Scope

This article applies only to Plugable USB-C hubs and video adapters that rely on DisplayPort Alt Mode.

This article does not apply to:

• DisplayLink-based docking stations (such as UD-3900 series)
• Wireless screen casting
• Charge-only USB-C cables
• Pixel devices without DisplayPort Alt Mode support

Requirements

1. Supported Pixel Device

Desktop Mode requires a Pixel device that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C.

• Pixel 8 series and newer Pixel models that include DisplayPort Alt Mode are required.
• Earlier Pixel models without DP Alt Mode cannot output video to an external display.
• Desktop Mode for external displays requires Android 16 QPR1 Beta (or newer builds that include the connected display desktop feature).
• The Desktop Experience feature must be enabled in Developer Options.

Note: Android 16 Desktop Mode is currently evolving and behavior may change in future Android updates. Google does not currently publish a detailed external display resolution and refresh rate compatibility matrix for Pixel phones, so actual results can vary by phone model, Android build, monitor, cable, adapter, and connection path.

2. Enable Desktop Mode

Enable Developer Options

1. Go to Settings > About phone
2. Tap Build number seven times
3. Confirm Developer Options have been enabled

Enable Desktop Experience

1. Go to Settings > System > Developer options
2. Scroll to the Window management section
3. Enable Desktop experience features

Optional (recommended for better app behavior):

• Enable Force activities to be resizable and Enable non-resizable in multi-window

If Desktop Mode does not activate after enabling these settings, restart the phone before connecting to the external display.

3. Choosing a Hub or Adapter

The following Plugable USB-C DP Alt Mode hubs are compatible:

• USBC-4IN1
• USBC-7IN1
• USBC-7IN1E
• USBC-9IN1E
• UDS-7IN1

The following Plugable USB-C video adapters and cables are compatible:

• USBC-HDMI
• USBC-HDMI-CABLE
• USBC-DP
• USBC-TDP

No drivers are required.

Expected Display Behavior

When properly configured, Android Desktop Mode launches a desktop-style interface on the external display that includes:

• Resizable app windows
• Taskbar with pinned and recent apps
• Keyboard and mouse support
• Independent external workspace while the phone screen remains active

Actual resolution and refresh rate depend on:

• Pixel hardware capabilities
• Overall connection path bandwidth
• Monitor capability
• Cable quality
• Display settings

Important: Plugable hubs and adapters do not determine the final external display resolution or refresh rate. While some Plugable products support up to 4K 60Hz with compatible hosts, Google Pixel phones currently do not support 4K 60Hz in this use case. Actual display behavior depends on the Pixel device, Android build, monitor, cable, and full connection path.

Troubleshooting

External Display Stays Black

Possible causes:

• Pixel device does not support DisplayPort Alt Mode
• Desktop Mode not enabled in Developer Options
• Using a charge-only USB-C cable
• Hub or adapter does not support DP Alt Mode
• Android build does not include Desktop Mode support

Steps:

1. Verify Pixel model supports DP Alt Mode
2. Confirm Android version (Android 16 QPR1 Beta or newer build required)
3. Confirm Desktop Experience is enabled
4. Test with a known-good USB-C DP Alt Mode cable or adapter
5. Restart the phone and reconnect

Display Flickers or Blanks

Possible causes:

• Low-quality HDMI cable
• Monitor input mode not set to high bandwidth
• Hub not receiving power
• HDR or variable refresh rate enabled

Steps:

1. Use a certified HDMI 2.0 cable
2. Set monitor input to HDMI 2.0 / Enhanced mode
3. Connect USB-C power passthrough to the hub
4. Disable HDR or variable refresh rate features
5. Power cycle the monitor and hub

Resolution or Refresh Rate Lower Than Expected

Steps:

1. Confirm monitor input is set to enhanced or HDMI 2.0 mode
2. Test with a shorter or higher-quality HDMI cable
3. Disconnect high-speed USB devices from the hub
4. Lower resolution to test stability
5. Confirm Android build supports Desktop Mode

Important: Current Pixel phones may offer only display modes such as 1920 x 1080 or 2560 x 1440 in many setups. This does not indicate a problem with the Plugable hub or adapter. External display resolution and refresh rate are negotiated by the Pixel and the connected display path.

Current Limitations of Android Desktop Mode

Android Desktop Mode is still evolving and may include:

• Occasional connection instability
• App scaling inconsistencies
• Some apps forcing full-screen mode
• Limited desktop-level system controls
• Notifications and certain settings remaining on the phone display
• Resolution and refresh rate limitations that vary by Pixel model, Android build, and connected display

These behaviors are software-related and not caused by the Plugable hub or adapter.

Important Notes

• Plugable USB-C hubs listed in this article use DisplayPort Alt Mode and do not use DisplayLink technology.
• DisplayLink-based docks are not supported for Android Desktop Mode.
• A hub cannot enable video output if the Pixel device does not support DisplayPort Alt Mode.
• Behavior may change as Android Desktop Mode continues to mature.

Contact Support

If you need assistance verifying compatibility, contact Plugable Support at: support@plugable.com

Please include:

• Pixel model
• Android version
• Plugable hub or adapter model
• Monitor model
• Cable type being used

This information allows us to assist you more quickly.

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

If you routinely discharge your MacBook battery and fully recharge the battery often, macOS may set a battery charge limit to 80% to "reduce battery aging". In most cases this is a good option to have, however if you need the battery to be fully charged this setting can be disabled.

Disable the battery charge limiter

1. Select System Settings the Apple menu
2. Select Battery from the left column in System Settings
3. Select the Info button ("I" inside a circle) on the Charging line near the top of the right panel
4. Toggle off the Optimize Battery Charging option

A bit more detail

Time

Lithium-Ion batteries used in modern notebook computers are significantly more reliable and predictable than previous battery technologies, however like all batteries they both degrade over time regardless of use.

All battery technologies will begin to degrade after production, when in storage, or in active use. When storing a Lithium-Ion battery normally it is recommended to partially discharge the battery to help minimize degradation in storage.

Cycles

Battery life spans are often described in discharge/charge cycles, by limiting the top-end charge (often limiting the charge to 80%) system manufacturers seek to reduce the degradation with each charge cycle. One method is to simply over-spec the battery and set the operating system's 100% threshold to 80% of the battery's maximum capacity, this has the added benefit that over time as the battery degrades the charge controller could allocate more of the top-end charge potential to shift the reported 100% capacity maintaining the same power capacity over a longer period of time. Apple doesn't seem to use this approach, instead using the full capacity of the battery and implementing the battery charge limiter to help maintain that full capacity.

Apple macOS has a battery health report in the System Settings > Battery panel there is an info button for Battery Health which shows the Battery Condition and Maximum Capacity.

Our recommendation

We recommend sticking with the system's default battery charge settings, unless you specifically need to charge the battery to 100%.

The default setting helps to maintain the battery lifespan of the system, however could cause reduced work time while on battery. Batteries are no longer a user serviceable component of MacBook or most modern notebook computers, increasing the cost of battery replacement in both time and labor fees compared to older systems where batteries could easily be removed with one or two locking latches/levers.

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