Intel’s latest connectivity technology, Thunderbolt™ 4, is redefining what’s possible with peripherals. Since Intel began developing Thunderbolt™ in 2009 (then known as Project Light Peak), the technology has become the standard for high-speed data and video capabilities.
Throughout the evolution of Thunderbolt™, consumers have faced many connectivity challenges. VGA ports were reliable but outdated, HDMI did not support data or power transfer, and USB could not carry high-definition video. Intel solved the “too many ports” problem by combining power delivery, data transfer, and light output. In 2010, the first generation Thunderbolt™ port successfully combined high-speed video and data transfer into a single cable and port.
Apple quickly recognized the value of Thunderbolt™ and adopted it in its device designs. Reducing the number of ports not only saves design space, but also makes devices more stylish and efficient. Apple’s adoption has opened up new markets for Thunderbolt™ and fueled its ongoing collaboration with Intel.
As Thunderbolt™ 3 and USB-C began working together to achieve a unified standard in 2015, the influence of Thunderbolt™ technology has further expanded. By joining the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) and integrating into the USB standard, Thunderbolt™ has enhanced the port's capabilities and brought more choices to consumers. Now, more devices can implement both USB-C and Thunderbolt™ technologies, providing features such as universal adapters, power delivery and data output, data transfer rates of up to 40Gbps (Thunderbolt™ 3) and 10Gbps (USB-C 3.2 Gen2), and support for dual 4K 60Hz video output.
The introduction of Thunderbolt™ 4 further enhances these features. Although it does not bring a large number of new features, it enhances existing technologies such as doubling the PCIe speed, adding VT-d PMA protection, and complying with the USB4 standard. Thunderbolt™ 4 guarantees the same excellent speed (40Gbps) as Thunderbolt™ 3 and provides the minimum specification guarantee of dual 4K video or single 8K video output. Additionally, it supports having four fully functional Thunderbolt™ 4 ports (one upstream and three downstream) in a docking station, making it the perfect choice for maximum productivity.
For users who already have a Thunderbolt™ 3 docking system, the good news is that their system will still work with Thunderbolt™ 4 devices. However, to maximize connectivity, they can consider combining the latest Thunderbolt™ 4 devices with a compatible dock. For example, Purplelec’s Thunderbolt™ 4 Dual 4K Docking Station comes with a 90W Power Supply (PD), provides universal compatibility, VT-d DMA protection, and supports up to three downstream Thunderbolt™ 4 device connections.
As Thunderbolt™ 4 technology becomes more popular, both Apple and PC users can start taking advantage of this technology and finally enjoy universal compatibility. Choosing a Thunderbolt™ 4 docking solution can future-proof your desk configuration and ensure that you can use the latest connectivity technology no matter what device you use to power your primary workstation.
It’s important to note that while the new Apple M1 powered devices can be used with Thunderbolt™ 4 docks (even though the M1 MacBook only supports Thunderbolt™ 3), to connect multiple monitors you may need to look for a hybrid USB-C DisplayLink dock or utilize a USB-A DisplayLink adapter for use with your current dock.
