USB-C problems on Macbook Air 2020 M1 using MacOS Big Sur 11.2.1

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USB-C problems on Macbook Air 2020 M1 using MacOS Big Sur 11.2.1

Just got the computer yesterday, plugged it in to Philips monitor with USB-C hub built in, and it worked fine (Brilliance 272P7VUBNB 27" Monitor). Then I upgraded the OS. Now it is not workee. Here are details.

I can plug my new Toshiba external hard drive in and it works, as does my Warrky card reader, using the internal USB-C ports. And the charger works too.

But when I plug the monitor in, it does not work. No video, no charging from the monitor, no hub activity, nothing. Every few seconds I see it TRY to activate the monitor, as the display settings window quickly flashes the arrangement tab and you see a quick window pop up, but it is gone in a flash, just to repeat a few seconds later. I've tried 3 cables. And remember, it worked for a while but doesn't anymore, post OS update.

Also, my new Creative Pebble speakers worked at first through the monitor (USB), but now do not, even direct connected to the computer via USB-C.

So I think the OS update has messed up the USB-C usability some how, as both monitor and speakers are not working.

Advice?

MacBook Air

Posted on Feb 18, 2021 10:00 AM

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Answer 1

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RocketzRKewl Author

Level 1

4 points

Mar 10, 2021 3:52 AM in response to RocketzRKewl

OK, final update. I used another device that is primarily USB-C, a Microsoft Surface Go, to test the monitor and it worked for a while but then stopped (mirroring). Tried a few other cables, no joy. So I sent the monitor back and got another one, same model, Philips Brilliance 27". This one works fine with both the Surface Go and the Macbook Air! All functions working: screen extender, USB hub, hardwired ethernet, charging, etc. So it was not the update to the Macbook, just unfortunate timing of the failure that made that a suspect event. It was really just the monitor. Thanks for the help.

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Answer 2

Jeff_W.

Community Specialist

Feb 23, 2021 11:59 AM in response to RocketzRKewl

RocketzRKewl,

Since this began after an update, there may be corresponding firmware updates for your speakers and monitor. We recommend checking with the manufacturers to see if firmware updates for your devices. Additionally, try the other troubleshooting steps from Get help with video issues on external displays connected to your Mac.

Have a great day!

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Answer 3

Feb 23, 2021 1:33 PM in response to RocketzRKewl

Just to make sure that it is not a coincidence that there may have been a

monitor failure, have you tried connecting to any other device via standard

video connections?

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Answer 4

SnickZ.

Community Specialist

Feb 21, 2021 7:46 AM in response to RocketzRKewl

Hi RocketzRKewl,

Welcome to Apple Support Communities. We understand that you are having issues with an external monitor and speakers when connected via USB-C.

You've tried some great troubleshooting steps to isolate this issue. Since this occurs with both an external monitor and speakers, this may be an issue related to power. Resetting the SMC can help with issues related to power, battery, fans and other features so we recommend trying that next. Check out how to reset the SMC of your Mac.

Take care.

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Answer 5

RocketzRKewl Author

Level 1

4 points

Feb 23, 2021 2:33 PM in response to woodmeister50

Yes, I have used an adapter to HDMI, which worked with the Macbook Air in question. Also tried an HP laptop via HDMI and that worked fine too.

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Answer 6

RocketzRKewl Author

Level 1

4 points

Feb 22, 2021 4:09 AM in response to SnickZ.

Thanks for the reply, but this did not work. I do note that the instructions say it is for an Intel Mac only, and this is an M1 Air, but I tried it anyway a couple of times, to no avail. You can still see the 2nd monitor's display settings window pop up every couple of seconds on the internal monitor for just a fraction of a second before it disappears. I still get the sense this was induced by the 11.2.1 update and that there is a USB-C problem within the OS.

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Answer 7

RocketzRKewl Author

Level 1

4 points

Feb 23, 2021 2:34 PM in response to Jeff_W.

I'll check this angle and get back with you.

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USB-C problems on Macbook Air 2020 M1 using MacOS Big Sur 11.2.1

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