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Created February 9, 2025 18:19
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USB-C port types
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USBC_port_types.md

USB-C port types

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Disclaimer: ChatGPT generated document.

Some USB-C ports on laptops support display output through a feature called USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3/4. These types of USB-C ports allow you to connect external monitors or displays directly to the laptop without needing a separate HDMI or DisplayPort connector.

How a USB-C Port with Display Output Differs from Other USB-C Ports:

  1. DisplayPort Alt Mode:

    • Supported USB-C Ports: These ports support DisplayPort Alternate Mode (Alt Mode), which enables the USB-C port to carry video signals alongside data and power. This lets you connect to monitors using USB-C to DisplayPort, HDMI, or even USB-C monitors that support video input.
    • Standard USB-C Ports: Some USB-C ports may only support data transfer and charging but lack video output capabilities. These ports can't be used for connecting external displays.

  2. Thunderbolt 3/4:

    • Thunderbolt 3/4 Ports: These are USB-C ports that support data, power, and video, often with higher bandwidth (up to 40 Gbps). Thunderbolt 3 and 4 ports support DisplayPort output, allowing for high-resolution displays, including 4K or even 8K monitors, and also support daisy-chaining multiple displays from a single port.
    • Regular USB-C Ports: Unlike Thunderbolt 3/4, standard USB-C ports might only support USB 2.0 or 3.1 standards for data transfer, without the high-speed video or daisy-chaining features.

Key Differences:

  • Video Output Capability: Not all USB-C ports can output video; only those with DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt support can do so.
  • Speed and Bandwidth: Thunderbolt 3/4 USB-C ports offer much higher data transfer speeds (up to 40 Gbps), while regular USB-C ports typically support 5 to 10 Gbps.
  • Compatibility: USB-C ports with display output usually need the right cable (e.g., USB-C to HDMI or USB-C to DisplayPort) or adapters to connect to external monitors, while regular USB-C ports are limited to data transfer and charging.

So, if you want to use a USB-C port for display output, ensure that it explicitly supports DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3/4.

USB-C types

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