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Article Number: 000141328

Guide to DisplayPort over USB-C

Summary: Learn about DisplayPort over USB Type-C, also called USB-C and it's advantages. Find information about how to identify if the USB Type-C port on your PC supports DisplayPort technology. ...

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Article Content

Instructions

Table of Contents:

  1. What is DisplayPort over USB-C?
  2. Advantages of DisplayPort over USB-C
  3. Frequently Asked Questions

What is DisplayPort over USB-C?

DisplayPort over USB-C enables the delivery of full DisplayPort A/V performance (driving monitor resolutions of 4K and beyond), SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.1) data and up to 100 watts of power with the convenience of reversible plug orientation and cable direction. DisplayPort is the first A/V protocol to be carried over USB-C.

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Advantages of DisplayPort over USB-C

Advantages of DisplayPort over USB-C

  • Full DisplayPort audio/video (A/V) performance (up to 8K at 60Hz).
  • SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.1) data transfer.
  • Up to 100 watts of power over a single cable.
  • Reversible plug orientation and cable direction.
  • Backwards compatibility to VGA, DVI with compatible adapters.
  • Supports HDMI 2.0a on select products and is backwards compatible with previous versions.

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DisplayPort over USB-C?

DisplayPort over USB-C enables the USB-C connector and cable to support the DisplayPort interface for audio/video (AV) transport capability.

Is DisplayPort over USB-C a VESA Standard?

Yes, it is published by VESA and called the DisplayPort Alt Mode for USB-C Standard.

What type of products will use this standard?

The USB-C connector is the next generation USB interface and it will appear on devices such as Smart Phones, Tablets, PCs, Notebooks, Docking Stations, Displays, and Peripherals. Many of these systems are expected to support DisplayPort over USB-C, refer to the product documentation for more information.

Will DisplayPort over USB-C provide the same level of performance and features as the standard DisplayPort connection?

Yes. Just like in standard DisplayPort connectors and cables, DisplayPort over USB-C can take advantage of the four high-speed data lanes in the USB-C connector and cable to provide 4K display resolutions and beyond on supported products.

How will I know if the USB-C connector on my device supports DisplayPort over USB-C?

USB-C connectors that support the DisplayPort over USB-C will normally include the DisplayPort (DP) logo near the connector.

Can I connect an existing monitor to a new computer, tablet or phone that uses the USB-C connector with DisplayPort over USB-C?

Yes. Adapters and Adapter cables are available to connect DisplayPort over USB-C to DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI, and VGA monitor inputs.

Can I connect my HDTV to a device that uses DisplayPort over USB-C for video output?

Yes. Adapters and Adapter cables are used to connect DisplayPort over USB-C to an HDMI/VGA input on the HDTV. If the HDTV has a DisplayPort input, then a USB-C to DisplayPort adapter cable can be used to provide DisplayPort display capability.

What happens if I plug my display into a USB-C port that does not support DisplayPort over USB-C?

No video data will be received by the display, hence there will be no image on the screen. Doing this will not harm your device. A warning message might also be displayed on the screen of the USB product to notify the user about the incompatibility.

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Article Properties

Affected Product

Dell Dock WD15, Dell Thunderbolt Dock TB15, Dell Thunderbolt Dock TB16, Dell Precision Dual USB-C Thunderbolt Dock - TB18DC

Last Published Date

02 Nov 2023

Version

5

Article Type

How To

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