How to connect two thunderbolt devices to Macbook Air?

Question

How to connect two thunderbolt devices to Macbook Air?

I have been using an Apple thunderbolt to VGA adapter to connect my digital projector to a Macbook Air. Now I need to also connect a pro audio firewire mixer, which has a firewire 400 cable. If I didn't have to connect the projector as well, I presume that the way to go would be to use an Apple thunderbolt to Firewire 800 adapter with an 800 to 400 adapter on the end, but as I have two devices I am rather stumped.

I know that thunderbolt/mini display is for daisy chaining, so there isn't such a thing as a thunderbolt hub, except that I could maybe use the Belkin Thunderbolt Express Dock (expensive as it is, it may be a cheaper option than others). I have read mixed reviews of this device, but it looks like it could essentially work - one thunderbolt cable to connect the Macbook to the dock, then use the Firewire 800 port on the dock with an 800-400 adapter for the mixer and the second thunderbolt port on the dock for the projector with the VGA adapter. I am wondering if there are any other possible solutions though, other than buying a Macbook Pro!

Thanks,

Nick

MacBook Air, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.5), 2 GHz Intel Core i7 8GB RAM

Posted on Oct 2, 2013 12:08 AM

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Answer 1

dwb

Level 7

32,920 points

Oct 2, 2013 8:00 AM in response to nick_harambee

I have no experience with the product: but look here.

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Answer 2

hands4

Level 4

2,246 points

Oct 2, 2013 8:39 AM in response to dwb

Sounds like a good suggestion but it is from 2009 and out of stock at Amazon.

This URL lists a newer one and says it is Mac compatible. I also do not have any experience with this product.

http://www.amazon.com/Plugable-UGA-165-1920x1080-1600x1200-DisplayLink/dp/B004AI JE9G/ref=pd_sim_sbs_e_7

General advice: Keep all the packaging material in case you need to to return it in the 30 day Amazon return period (assuming it qualifies for a return). Purchase it on a credit card with consumer protection that entitles you to a refund if the seller will not accept the return.

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