Will This USB-C Docking Station Work With My Desktop Computer?

Last Update: May 22nd, 2023
Article ID: 1667194

It is unlikely that a desktop computer would be able to support the minimum requirements for all  three display connections to work with this type of docking station.

 

Many of our docking stations utilize technology called DisplayPort (DP) Alt Mode in order to extend some or all displays. DP Alt Mode is a standard that was created as part of the USB-C connection that allows a docking station or display to connect with the computer's internal graphics card so that additional displays can be added to a laptop computer.

 

Primarily USB-C DP Alt Mode exists on most modern laptop computers as they tend to be small with little room for expansion to the original hardware. While there are some desktop computers that may have USB-C ports in them, typically it is uncommon for desktop computers to support protocols like DP Alt Mode or Power Delivery. Since desktop computers are meant to be stationary they do also tend to be a lot larger intending for future upgrades and expansion utilizing connections to the internal motherboard. As a result, rather than utilizing USB-C DP Alt Mode connections for extending displays, most desktop computers have PCI slots inside the outer casing for other devices to be installed and expand the capability of a desktop computer.

 

Due to the expansion capabilities of desktop computers it tends to be better for a user to install a new graphics card utilizing the computer's PCI slots to achieve the best experience and connection for the computer.

 

When it comes to certain docking stations we carry, such as our 3 display docking stations, these use a mixture of DP Alt Mode as well as USB 3.0 supported DisplayLink display connections. These types of docking stations are typically made for use with laptops that support Alt Mode but they can partially be used with a desktop, or other computer that has a Data only USB-C port, with all ports functioning except for the Alt Mode display and the ability to power or charge the laptop.