Thunderbolt 3 docking station and Thunderbolt 3 are closely related in nature, but their definitions and uses are slightly different.
1. Definition
Thunderbolt 3:
Thunderbolt 3 is an interface standard that combines PCI Express data transmission technology and DisplayPort display technology.
It not only supports high-speed data transmission, but also supports video signal transmission and power supply. Each channel provides a bidirectional rate of 20Gb/s, and the overall bandwidth is up to 40Gb/s.
The Thunderbolt 3 interface usually adopts the physical form of Type-C, but not all Type-C interfaces are Thunderbolt 3 interfaces. Generally, there will be a Thunderbolt (⚡️) logo next to the Thunderbolt interface.
The Thunderbolt 3 docking station is an external device designed for the Thunderbolt 3 interface.
It connects to a computer or other Thunderbolt 3 devices through the Thunderbolt 3 interface, providing a variety of additional interfaces and functions, such as HDMI, DP, USB, Gigabit Ethernet, SD/TF card reading port, etc.
The Thunderbolt 3 docking station can greatly expand the device's connectivity capabilities and meet the user's needs to connect multiple peripherals.
2. Relationship
Complementary: The Thunderbolt 3 docking station is an external device based on the Thunderbolt 3 interface technology. It uses the high bandwidth and versatility of the Thunderbolt 3 interface to provide users with more connection options and convenience.
Same purpose: Both are designed to enhance the device's connectivity and flexibility, meeting users' needs for high-speed data transmission, multi-screen display, and rich interface expansion.
3. Main differences
Definition scope: Thunderbolt 3 is an interface standard and technical specification, and the Thunderbolt 3 docking station is a specific product form designed based on this interface standard.
Functional focus: Thunderbolt 3 focuses on the technical characteristics and performance parameters of the interface itself; while Thunderbolt 3 docking station focuses more on the functional expansion and practical application achieved through the interface.
4. Summary
Thunderbolt 3 docking station and Thunderbolt 3 are closely linked in nature. Thunderbolt 3 is an interface standard and technical specification, while Thunderbolt 3 docking station is an external device designed based on this interface standard. Together, they provide users with solutions for high-speed data transmission, multi-screen display, and rich interface expansion, meeting the needs of different users for device connectivity and flexibility. When choosing, users need to choose the right product based on their actual needs and device interface conditions.
