USB Devices Not Working Windows 10 DELL : If you’ve discovered that some, or all, of your USB ports don’t seem to be working, try these troubleshooting steps to resolve the most common issues.
In this video, we’ll provide a Dell Guide to USB-C and Thunderbolt ports, including how to fix common issues. Though Thunderbolt and USB-C ports look similar, they are not interchangeable. Thunderbolt and Type-C are small, oval shaped, and reversible, meaning you don’t have to worry about the orientation when inserting the connector. Both can charge devices, transfer data, and support up to 130 watts of charging power. Each port can transfer data between your smartphone, tablet, camera, or any device and your computer.
Thunderbolt transfers data much faster and reaches up to 40 gigabits per second compared to USB-C’s 20 gigabits per second. This makes Thunderbolt capable of a wider range of applications, including delivering superior video quality. Thunderbolt’s bandwidth is the biggest difference because it can do all these things simultaneously: transmit large amounts of data, supply a charge, and achieve high-quality video, all while using a single Thunderbolt connection. In other words, an ideal expansion slot perfect for docking stations.
It can easily handle connecting multiple external devices to a PC, such as a charger, external displays, storage devices, Ethernet cables, headphones, and more. Because of the higher data bandwidth, USB-C ports will not support Thunderbolt devices.
A Thunderbolt docking station must use a Thunderbolt port. So how do you tell them apart? There are a couple of distinct symbols to look for. A thunderbolt port is identified by a lightning bolt next to it. A port with the letter P indicates a Display Port.
This signifies that the USB-C port can also be used for video interface, but unlike Thunderbolt, it cannot do it all at the same time. If using a USB-C DisplayPort to charge or transfer data while using video, the video quality will be impacted.
Additionally, when connecting a monitor, be sure to use a cable that supports video transmission. For example, a typical USB-C charging cable for smartphones will not work. So if you’re having video issues and can’t get any video through a standard USB-C port, this is probably the reason why. If you’re going to use USB-C ports when connecting two or more displays, it's important to use separate connections.
This has to do with the data bandwidth limitations. Also, you shouldn’t daisy-chain your monitors. Use separate cable connections for the video signals and separate connections for the added USB devices on the monitor. This will avoid poor video quality. If you’re having issues connecting a Dell, USB-C, or Thunderbolt docking station to your laptop, the best place to start is by visiting Dell’s official support articles, where you’ll find complete details to ensure a proper connection. Each article takes an in-depth look at the process, including some precautionary measures.
The guides take you step by step and contain important information on updating the necessary drivers and firmware. If you encounter “System policy prohibition” when connecting a Thunderbolt docking station, contact your system administrator for assistance with adjusting your user permissions. If you have any questions about USB-C, Thunderbolt cables, or docking stations, contact us via one of the support options on our website.
