2021-02-19 - SEND FEEDBACK
Related:
8K display, bandwidth, computer display, Other World Computing, OWC Thunderbolt Dock, OWC Thunderbolt Hub, SSD, Thunderbolt, Thunderbolt dock, Thunderbolt hub, USB, USB-C, video
Thunderbolt 4 takes the Thunderbolt 3 specification and adds requirements designed to make life a lot easier for connecting stuff.
OWC Thunderbolt Dock
- A Thunderbolt hub and/or Thunderbolt Dock are now possible—never before has it been possible to use a hub; it was always finicky and unreliable daisy-chaining until now.
- 8K display support.
- Guaranteed/required 32 Gbps potential bandwidth (up from 16 Gbps).
- VT-d based DMA protection helps prevent security threats by remapping requests from external devices and checking for proper permissions.
- Gauranteed minimum power delivery.
- Wake from sleep — allows a PC to be brought out of hibernation with peripherals that are connected through a dock.
- Cable specifications that guarantee interoperability between Thunderbolt and USB-C devices with guaranteed available bandwidth. See Universal and Fully Compatible Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cables.
- Compatible with many connection standards, including previous versions of Thunderbolt, USB, DisplayPort, and PCle.
OWC Thunderbolt Hub
Limitations of Thunderbolt 4
macOS requirements
For Macs, using a Thunderbolt hub or Thunderbolt dock requires macOS Big Sur. This single requirement might be what pushes me to upgrade from macOS Catalina on my 2019 Mac Pro, as it is a real benefit.
Bandwidth
The 40 Gpbs specification includes both data and video bandwidth, so it’s slightly misleading—the limit on data bandwidth has been and remains 32 Gbps (3.5 GB/sec with 9-bits per byte) for both Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4.
While Thunderbolt 4 requires minimum data bandwidth of 32 Gbps (up from 16 Gbps), it does not increase the maximum bandwidth versus Thunderbolt 3.
Thus, with a single Thunderbolt cable from the computer to a Thunderbolt hub or Thunderbolt dock or other device, the total data bandwidth is still limited to 40 Gpbs (total of display and data bandwidth, max of 32 Gbps for writes and 32 Gpbs for reads, bidirectionally).
However, for most users it is rarely the case that all peripherals are demanding bandwidth at the same time*. For example, reading at maximum speed from one device to write to another device is not a problem as there is 64Gpbs available in total, 32 Gbps for writes and 32 Gbps for reads.
When/if more simultaneous read or write bandwidth is required, you still must use another port on a separate Thunderbolt bus for devices that must have full bandwidth simultaneously. Some Macs have only one Thunderbolt bus (e.g. 2019 iMac 5K, and some laptops).
8K video vs write bandwidth
Thunderbolt 4 allows for 8K video using new compression techniques (otherwise the bandwidth would not suffice). However, an 8K display will eat up nearly all of the Thunderbolt write bandwidth. So don’t plug in something like an ultra-fast OWC Thunderblade SSD along with an 8K display on the same bus (or hub) or write speed will plummet on the SSD.
CLICK TO VIEW: OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cables
CLICK TO VIEW: Recommended Storage from Large to Huge
2021-02-19 - SEND FEEDBACK
Related:
8K display, bandwidth, computer display, Other World Computing, OWC Thunderbolt Dock, OWC Thunderbolt Hub, SSD, Thunderbolt, Thunderbolt dock, Thunderbolt hub, USB, USB-C
OWC Thunderbolt Hub
Thunderbolt 4 is essentially Thunderbolt 3 with additional specifications, including the ability to use a Thunderbolt hub, required 40 Gpbs performance, power-delivery requirements, 8K display support, and USB-C.
But perhaps most practical of all, Thunderbolt 4 makes it possible to use a hub, which heretofore has not been possible with any prior Thunderbolt specification.
The new OWC Thunderbolt Hub solves a thorny problem for Macs with only two Thunderbolt ports by in effect turning a single Thunderbolt port from the Mac into three Thunderbolt ports and one 10 Gbps USB 3.2 port. Of course any of those 3 ports can also be used for USB-C devices.
- Performance — Your devices will deliver the same performance and compatibility as when they’re plugged directly into your computer.
- Reinvents the daisy chain — Create multiple independent “tree branches,” and connect multiple bus-powered devices.
- Adjustable LED — Customize the illumination for your work setting.
- Thunderbolt certified —comes Thunderbolt Certified with built-in OWC reliability and dependability.
- More Ports = more devices — Connect more storage, two 4K displays or one 5K/6K/8K display, accessories... you name it, you can use it.
- Dynamic charging — Up to 60W to keep the power flowing through real-world uses.
- Securable — Kensington Nano slot for anti-theft cabling.
- Cable included — 0.8m Thunderbolt cable. It’s in the box.
For users who need even more, the OWC Thunderbolt Dock incorporates the OWC Thunderbolt Hub functionality with even more more ports.
Bandwidth
With a single Thunderbolt cable from the Mac to the Hub, the total bandwidth is still limited to 40 Gpbs (bidirectionally), but it is rarely the case that all peripherals are demanding bandwidth at the same time*. For example, if you are reading at maximum speed from one device to write to another device, no problem as there is 80Gpbs available (40 Gpbs each way).
8K video vs write bandwidth
Thunderbolt 4 allows for 8K video using new compression techniques (otherwise the bandwidth would not suffice).
An an 8K display can be connected to one of the Thunderbolt ports of the OWC Thunderbolt Hub. But since 8K eats up nearly all the Thunderbolt write bandwidth, it is probably best to connect an 8K display on its own Thunderbolt bus/port, and not through a hub since other devices on the hub are presumably going to need write bandwidth. In other words, don’t plug in an OWC Thunderblade SSD along with an 8K display on the same bus (or hub).
CLICK TO VIEW: OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cables
CLICK TO VIEW: Recommended Storage from Large to Huge
OWC Thunderbolt Hub
OWC Thunderbolt Dock
Thunderbolt 4 makes a Thunderbolt hub possible and the new OWC Thunderbolt Dock not only incorporates the capabilities of a Thunderbolt hub, but adds additional ports of its now.
The new OWC Thunderbolt Dock solves a multitude of connectivity challenges, expanding on the capabilities of the OWC Thunderbolt Hub:
- Performance — Your devices will deliver the same performance and compatibility as when they’re plugged directly into your computer.
- Reinvents the daisy chain — Create multiple independent “tree branches,” and connect multiple bus-powered devices.
- Adjustable LED — Customize the illumination for your work setting.
- Reliable streaming — Great for IP-based workflows and secured network access.
- Speedy content transfers — Import photos and video footage quickly via the SD card reader.
- Thunderbolt certified —comes Thunderbolt Certified with built-in OWC reliability and dependability.
- More Ports = more devices — Connect more storage, two 4K displays or one 5K/6K/8K display, accessories... you name it, you can use it.
- Powerful — 90W of power to charge your laptop + power delivery to your connected devices.
- Securable — Kensington Nano slot for anti-theft cabling.
- Cable included — 0.8m Thunderbolt cable. It’s in the box.
CLICK TO VIEW: Recommended Storage from Large to Huge
CLICK TO VIEW: OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cables
OWC Announces New Thunderbolt Dock – Adding to its Line of Thunderbolt Solutions
New Dock adds the ports you know and more Thunderbolt ports too
OWC®,the premier zero-emissions Mac and PC technology company,and a respected provider of Memory, External Drives, SSDs, Mac & PC docking solutions, and performance upgrade kits announces the new OWC ThunderboltTM Dock for Mac and PC. The OWC Thunderbolt Dock massively expands the functionality of the latest Intel 11th Gen Core and Evo PCs with Thunderbolt 4, as well as expanding the functionality of the new M1 Macs and Thunderbolt 3 equipped Macs once they are upgraded to the new Apple MacOS 11 'Big Sur'. Connect more, display more, and charge more with this new Thunderbolt solution. The OWC Thunderbolt Dock joins OWC's award-winning and Thunderbolt certified line of docking solutions for Mac and PC like the Thunderbolt 3 Pro Dock, Thunderbolt 3 14-port Dock, and Thunderbolt 3 Mini Dock.
With the OWC Thunderbolt Dock you can now have four Thunderbolt ports, plus four USB ports, as well as a port for your SD Card, Gigabit Ethernet, and a combo audio in/out. You gain convenient access for all of your essential Thunderbolt and USB devices all through a single cable to your Mac or PC. Utilizing the latest Thunderbolt technology, the OWC Thunderbolt Dock enables users with Intel 11th Gen Core and Evo PCs with Thunderbolt 4, existing Macs or new M1 based Macs to add a mix of ports, including additional Thunderbolt ports. OWC Thunderbolt 3 docks without the Thunderbolt hub are compatible with OS 10.12 or later. Our Thunderbolt 4 based docks will continue to work great with our existing Thunderbolt 3 solutions such as storage, adapters, and more.
"Being a leader in Thunderbolt integration and accessories, OWC is excited to offer the Thunderbolt Dock," said Larry O'Connor, CEO and Founder of OWC. "These new solutions will give users, especially on the Mac side, what they have been asking for, for years. The ability to expand upon the number of Thunderbolt devices they can add to their machines and create new workflows to optimize their workflows better."
OWC Thunderbolt Dock Highlights:
- The Thunderbolt hub you've always wanted: Have four fully functional Thunderbolt 4 ports for your computer. All Thunderbolt ports also support USB devices and monitors
- Plug it all in: The same Thunderbolt device compatibility and performance, whether plugged into this dock or directly into your machine
- Reimagining the daisy chain: Create three separate device chains, so you can remove devices from one chain without affecting or disconnecting the others. You can even add three Thunderbolt bus-powered devices.
- Powerful charging capabilities: Thunderbolt 4 host port also keeps your notebook charged with 90W power delivery
- Four USB ports: Connect and charge through USB
- Manage additional devices: Connect more storage, up to two 4K displays or one 5K/6K/8K display, or other accessories, you name it, you can use it
- More reliable sharing and streaming: Gigabit Ethernet eliminates low-quality, patchy Wi-Fi - ideal for IP-based workflows and secured networks
- More content: Access photos and movies via the SD card reader at speeds up to 312MB/s
- More audio: Plug headphones and mics into the audio combo jack
- Adjustable LED: Customize the illumination for your work setting
- Built-in security: Kensington Security Slot™ and Nano Security Slot™ for anti-theft cabling
“OWC Thunderbolt dock, with up to four multi-purpose Thunderbolt 4 ports, makes it simple to connect your monitors and favorite accessories while charging your laptop. Thunderbolt™ 4 ports, cables and accessories are tested and certified to help increase reliability”, said Jason Ziller, General Manager, Client Connectivity Division at Intel. “Thunderbolt 4 docks deliver the performance and capability headroom that content creators need, to improve their workflows.”
Pricing & Availability
The OWC Thunderbolt Dock is available for order now through MacSales.com for $249. OWC Thunderbolt 3 docks are available ranging from $119.00 for the OWC Thunderbolt 3 mini Dock, $249.00 for the OWC Thunderbolt 3 14-port Dock, and $299.00 for the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Pro Dock.
OWC Thunderbolt Dock
OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C cables in MacBook Pro
Macs and PCs with mixes of Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C and differing devices and power requirements make cable compatibility a real concern, particularly for those of us with multiple devices and/or multiple computers.
For example you can plug in a high performance SSD like the OWC Thunderblade using a 20 Gbps Thunderbolt cable and the system won’t warn you that the speed is throttled-down. I’ve done this myself, and it’s why I never buy intermediate-speed Thunderbolt cables.
It’s not like it’s easy to tell at a glance which cable supports what, particularly rooting around under a desk or in dim light. All Thunderbolt 4 connectors are marked with the Thunderbolt symbol and the number 4, so all you need to be able to see is the “4”.
Till now, my practice was to only buy 40 Gbps cables. Now, the smart move is to buy Thunderbolt 4 cables free of limitations. Then you can plug in your stuff on convenient new devices like the OWC Thunderbolt Hub.
Cable length, color
So far, the new OWC Thunderbolt 4 cable is available in 0.8 meter lengths and only in black.
CLICK TO VIEW: Recommended Storage from Large to Huge
OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cables
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OWC Announces The Only Universal and Fully Compatible Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable You Will Ever Need
One cable that can do it all - 100% compatible and certified reliable solution for interconnecting devices, and hundreds of millions of Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, and USB4 equipped Macs, PCs, tablets, and phones.
OWC®,the premier zero-emissions Mac and PC technology company,and a respected provider of Memory, External Drives, SSDs, Mac & PC docking solutions, and performance upgrade kits, announces its next-generation connectivity solution, the OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable. Whether connecting accessories, power, video or even networking the OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable is universal for everything making it the only cable you will ever need. Connecting with USB-C on both ends, this cable is safe, certified, and always reliable for Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB 4, USB 3.2, USB 3.1, USB Power, Video, etc. And you get 100% of both the maximum power allowed and the full data capability supported from/between any USB-C port-equipped device and host.
No matter what kind of device or power level; be it a Mac, PC, tablet, or mobile device, the OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable never lets you down for your USB-C to USB-C connectivity needs. Contrast this with USB-type cables, which often carry no certification, have more limited and varying data speeds, and are not all rated and safe for the power level a system can demand. OWC Thunderbolt 4 cables take all the guesswork out for your USB-C to USB-C connectivity needs. Full certification for power and data capabilities provides peace of mind and ensured reliability regardless of what you need connecting.
From our research and first-hand experience, USB-C to USB-C cables are among the largest causes of technical support headaches. While many USB-C to USB-C cables 'look' and feel of quality, even being the highest quality USB cable doesn't mean it supports Thunderbolt or even high-speed USB-C 5Gb/s or 10Gb/s needed for modern USB-C docks and drives. This causes frustration, lost time, and lost productivity as devices fail to operate correctly, if at all, and with no apparent reason to the end-user. Using some USB cables for power connections is even dangerous when overpowering can risk excessive heat or worse.
"With the OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable, you never have to worry or wonder if you have the right cable because it's a perfect cable for all of your C-to-C connectivity needs," said Larry O'Connor, Founder, and CEO of OWC. "If it fits your ports, it 100% does support. No other USB-C cable, other than one that is Thunderbolt 4 certified, can make this claim. As I introduce these new cables to individuals and groups, I can't tell you how many people have said they will be cutting all their other USB-C cables. Incorrect cable use is a real issue and headache we are excited to have solved."
OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable Highlights
- 100% USB-C Compatible: connect to today’s, tomorrow’s, and yesterday's Macs, PCs, iPads, Chromebooks, Surface and other devices with a Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, or USB4
- Certified for All Uses: enjoy lab test certified safe power delivery up to 100W of power, up to 40Gb/s of data performance, and up to 8K of video capability
- Versatile Connections: connect any drive, dock, display, eGPUs, PCIe expansion, external SSDs, RAID storage, Power adapters, accessories, anything that goes USB-C to USB-C
- Powerful: Certified safe delivery of up to the maximum 100 watts of power/charging from docks, adapters, and other devices that USB-C and Thunderbolt support.
- Stunning visuals: connect up to 4K, 5K, 6K and 8K Thunderbolt or USB-C display
- Guaranteed quality: 3 Year OWC Limited Warranty
Pricing & Availability
The OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable is available now for $27.99 in 0.8 m length on MacSales.com.