In the computing world, change is the only constant. As technology continues to advance, the way we connect computers and peripherals is also constantly innovating to provide higher performance. Especially as laptops become thinner and lighter, we need a more compact input/output port to replace the numerous power, video, audio and data ports on traditional large computers. Thunderbolt 3 technology came into being, meeting this need with its ultra-thin port design, lightning-fast data transfer speeds, support for two 4K 60 Hz displays, and efficient laptop charging capabilities.
The origin and development of Thunderbolt technology
Thunderbolt technology originated from the cooperation between Intel and Apple. In 2011, Apple first introduced the Thunderbolt port on its new MacBook Pro laptops. Thunderbolt 1 uses the same connector shape as Mini DisplayPort, but can be distinguished by the tiny Thunderbolt symbol. It provides 10Gbps data transfer speeds and video capabilities, surpassing the USB 3.0 port at the time.
Then, Thunderbolt technology ushered in the upgrade of Thunderbolt 2. In 2013, when USB 3.1 Gen 2 caught up with Thunderbolt 1 in data transfer speed, Apple introduced Thunderbolt 2 in the updated MacBook Pro. Thunderbolt 2 also uses the Mini DisplayPort connector, but the data transfer speed is doubled to 20Gbps, and supports video streaming to a single 4K display or two QHD displays.
In 2014, the emergence of the USB-C connector brought innovation to the port shape. Its rounded edge reversible design, compact size and powerful functions make it a standard port shape. Thunderbolt 3 takes full advantage of the advantages of the USB-C connector and becomes the pinnacle of USB-C performance. In 2015, Thunderbolt 3 adopts a slim oval USB-C connector shape, transmits data at speeds of up to 40Gbps, supports Thunderbolt devices, USB devices and dual 4K display connections, and provides power to the host device at the same time.
Features and Benefits of Thunderbolt 3
Thunderbolt 3 has a data transfer speed 8 times that of USB 3.0 and 4 times the number of pixels of HDMI 1.4. It can transfer a 4K movie in 30 seconds, connect two 4K UHD monitors, and provide 85W of power to charge devices, and all operations can be completed simultaneously with only one cable. Thunderbolt 3 also supports two 60Hz 4K video streams or one 60Hz 5K video stream, bringing breakthrough changes to data-intensive industries such as digital photography and video. In addition, it also supports standard 15W power supply for peripheral bus-powered devices, enabling higher speed and capacity storage, portable displays or 10GbE high-performance adapters to increase network speed.
Wide Application of Thunderbolt 3 Technology
Today, Thunderbolt 3 has been integrated into PCs by many companies such as Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc. It not only provides business people, designers, etc. with the speed, pixels and power required for ultra-high productivity, but also provides comprehensive connection support for peripheral devices through a suitable base. For example, Purplelec's Thunderbolt 3 docking station can connect Thunderbolt devices with various peripherals, simplify operations and improve work efficiency.
For users who own Thunderbolt 3 laptops or other devices, it is essential to choose a suitable Thunderbolt 3 docking station. Purplelec's Thunderbolt 3 docking station is designed to meet the needs of different users. Whether it is a business person, a designer, or a user who wants to simplify a 4K workspace, Purplelec's Thunderbolt 3 docking station can provide the required speed, pixels and power. Users can easily expand the productivity capabilities of thin and light laptops by connecting one 5K or two 4K monitors, USB-C ports, USB 3.0 ports, Gigabit Ethernet ports, and 3.5mm headphone and microphone jacks. In addition, up to five Thunderbolt 3 devices can be connected via daisy chain to further improve work efficiency.
In summary, the continuous development of Thunderbolt technology and its docking solutions provide us with a more efficient and convenient computer experience. Choosing the right Thunderbolt 3 dock will help you realize the full potential of this technology.