Thunderbolt is a specialized type of mini displayport connectivity.
Thunderbolt vs mini displayport cable.
Thunderbolt is the brand name of a hardware interface developed by intel in collaboration with apple that allows the connection of external peripherals to a computer thunderbolt 1 and 2 use the same connector as mini displayport mdp whereas thunderbolt 3 re uses the usb c connector from usb.
Thunderbolt also uses the usb c port but that s where the similarities end.
Thunderbolt can carry data so it can be used to connect devices such as docking stations and hard drive enclosures.
Apple s new thunderbolt technology uses the same displayport connection that has been available in older macs which may be a source of confusion down.
Usb 3 2 gen 2 is a passive technology that offers up to 20 gbps.
Confusing mini displayport with thunderbolt.
If possible also test the thunderbolt 1 port with another monitor.
Cable matters mini displayport to displayport cable mini dp to dp in black 3 feet thunderbolt and thunderbolt 2 port compatible 4 5 out of 5 stars 2 004 8 99 8.
Although these two technologies use the same usb c port they re not interchangeable.
When you use a thunderbolt 1 computer with a displayport monitor you do need to use a mini displayport cable not a thunderbolt 1 or 2 cable.
Thunderbolt provides for unmatched peripheral flexibility due to its mix of pci express and displayport connectivity whereas the mini displayport is a digital display interface capable of sending high definition video and audio from a source to a display.
Technically the plug is the same and the only difference is that the thunderbolt connector can carry in addition to the classic mini displayport a thunderbolt signal which is a signal pci express 4 lines.
Thunderbolt 3 is an active technology offering up to 40 gbps throughput with the use of a thunderbolt 3 cable.
It was initially developed and marketed under the name light peak and first sold as part of an.