Philips 346B1c ultra wide monitor and MacBook Air 2020

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Level 1

12 points

Philips 346B1c ultra wide monitor and MacBook Air 2020

Hi, This week I bought a Philips 346B1c ultra wide monitor to connect to my MacBook Air 2020 running Catalina. I attempted to connect using the Apple USB-C but it just won't connect. Telephone Apple support couldn't fix (the very polite person took control of the Mac and eventually decided all I was attempting was correct).

The monitor works with my Firestick (HDMI). Apple support suggested I might need to update firmware on the monitor. I can't find any firmware that works online.

Philips customer services are not open until Monday in the UK. Can anybody out there help point me in the right direction to solve this weekend? Help!

MacBook Air

Posted on May 16, 2020 3:15 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

m@rcopolo

Level 1

4 points

Jun 5, 2020 2:12 AM in response to Leedsmacky

The USB-C that came with your MBA is for charging only, it cannot be used to carry data / video / audio. For that you need a Thunderbolt 3 cable which is sold separately.

It's confusing, I know!

Here is more info re: USB-C vs Thunderbolt: https://www.howtogeek.com/449991/thunderbolt-3-vs.-usb-c-whats-the-difference/

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Answer 2

Axel Foley

Level 10

150,972 points

May 16, 2020 3:42 AM in response to Leedsmacky

Are you using the Apple branded USB-C to USB-C cable? Try switching the ends of the cable.

Try a different cable if you have one or if one came with the monitor.

How about trying a USB-C to HDMI cable?

Looks like you have tried several methods to address this and probably Phillips customer service may be the only option left for Monday.

Axel F.

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Answer 3

Leedsmacky Author

Level 1

12 points

Jun 5, 2020 2:17 AM in response to m@rcopolo

Thankfully I had ordered a spare cable from Amazon that came a couple of hours after I posted and it worked. All solved.

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Answer 4

Leedsmacky Author

Level 1

12 points

May 16, 2020 4:07 AM in response to Leedsmacky

OMG - a cable just arrived this minute - Cable Matters Thunderbolt 3 (£22.99) ... I plugged it in and it words!!

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Answer 5

Leedsmacky Author

Level 1

12 points

May 16, 2020 3:52 AM in response to Axel Foley

Thanks for the reply. Yes, I’m using the USBc to USBc that came with the new MBA this week. I’ve swapped it around to every possible combination.

A longer / different cable is arriving today.

i haven’t got a Usb-c to HDMI but might as well order one now.

so frustrating.

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Answer 6

Axel Foley

Level 10

150,972 points

May 16, 2020 4:06 AM in response to Leedsmacky

I know that events like these will drive you nuts. Make sure that whatever you order is returnable and refundable if things don't work out. Don't want you to go on a buying spree under frustrating conditions.

Axel F.

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