Usb-devices not working on Dell U2721DE docking display

Question

Usb-devices not working on Dell U2721DE docking display

Have the same issue as others. The Mac does not recognize any items plugged into the Dell docking display without unplugging and replugging the USB C cable while the Mac is on. This is a problem with my MacPro and Mac mini. Both M1. It is not a problem with my Surface Pro or HP Inspiron.

Again, booting the Mac(s) with the cable/monitor attached fails to see any attached peripheral on any port, keyboards, cameras, USB Drives though video is normal. Unplugging and replugging after boot, does establish access. Previous entries provide a link to the DELL troubleshooting pages. It's not a DELL issue. Monitor function work fine with no Apple hardware.

Mac mini 2018 or later

Posted on Apr 16, 2022 12:59 PM

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Answer 1

hcsitas

Level 6

13,964 points

Apr 16, 2022 2:15 PM in response to sven from colorado

Use HDMI for video and connect the Dell’s USB-C upstream port to the mini’s USB-A port using a suitable C-A cable/adapter (if not already supplied by Dell), should fix.

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Answer 2

Apr 16, 2022 3:56 PM in response to sven from colorado

That actually does seem to work for the Mini. Not as great an option for those with MacBook. No HDMI out of the MacBook, without an adapter, and no USB-A, again without an adapter. So, two adapters to use, two cables to connect and it won't charge the MacBook, which would be one of the features, if using just one USB C cable worked as it is supposed to.

Appreciate the suggestion though. It makes the Mini setup more usable. Probably the Apple solution would be to buy a Studio Display, and then everything would 'just work'. I actually considered that, but they are 8-10 weeks out right now, and this buys me time to think about it.

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Answer 3

Apr 16, 2022 6:33 PM in response to hcsitas

I had similar issues with the MacBook. The setup is for the Mini, but I hooked the MacBook up to the cable to see if it was a monitor or mini issue. I also tried a MS Surface. Didn’t have issues with the Surface or another Windows PC, but did with both Apples.

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Answer 4

tbirdvet

Level 6

17,090 points

Apr 16, 2022 4:40 PM in response to sven from colorado

ilo Studio display you could get the LG 5k display which is what I have and no issues.

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Answer 5

hcsitas

Level 6

13,964 points

Apr 16, 2022 6:35 PM in response to sven from colorado

That’s a different issue with the Dell dock, which quite honestly, is a piece of hit as far as Apples are concerned. Avoid forever.

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Answer 6

Apr 16, 2022 7:18 PM in response to hcsitas

You still talking about the Dell USB C monitor? I am. Works fine with everything not Apple that I have. Have to jerry rig for Apple it seems. Considering they didn’t make monitors you could afford when I bought this, you’d think they’d be more compatible with what did exist. In any case, it is now usable.

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Answer 7

Apr 16, 2022 2:46 PM in response to hcsitas

I will give that a shot.

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Answer 8

Apr 16, 2022 4:54 PM in response to tbirdvet

Is that the LG 27MD5KL-B 27 Inch Ultrafine 5K? I see it has a built-in camera and speakers like the Studio Display. It's a consideration. Think it has more PD than the Studio too.

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