Connecting a G-Drive to Thunderbolt port?

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Connecting a G-Drive to Thunderbolt port?

I just purchased a 4TB G-Drive with Thunderbolt interface. Unfortunately, my MacBook Pro 9,1 only has one Thunderbolt port, which is currently being used for a LG 34UM95 display, which is similar to the Apple Display. The 34UM95 has two Thunderbolt ports, but when I connect the G-Drive it doesn't power on. I went to the G-Technology website to see if I could find out why and I was presented with this:

FROM G-TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT

Why won’t my G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt power on?

If your G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt will not power on, make sure that the USB or Thunderbolt cable is properly connected to a computer that is powered on. The G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt will not power on without a USB Cable or Thunderbolt cable with power running through it. Keep in mind that you have to plug your G-DRIVE Thunderbolt directly into a Thunderbolt port on your computer. A Thunderbolt to FW adapter, or Thunderbolt cables plugged into Display Ports will not work and the G-DRIVE with Thunderbolt will not turn on.

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Why does a hard drive need to be first in the Thunderbolt daisy chain of devices?

Posted on Mar 3, 2016 9:49 PM

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Answer 1

Niel

Community+ 2026

Level 10

744,397 points

Mar 3, 2016 9:52 PM in response to Kelly Crossley

Drives which are powered through the Thunderbolt bus need to be connected to a high-powered port; ones on hubs may not supply the device with enough power. This also applies to USB drives.

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Answer 2

Mar 3, 2016 9:55 PM in response to Niel

What I don't understand is that this G-Drive also receives power from a 120V adapter. Since my MacBook Pro only has (1) Thunderbolt port and this G-Drive doesn't have a Thunderbolt out there's no way for me to connect a Thunderbolt hard drive and a Thunderbolt display, unless there's some kind of adapter. Any suggestions?

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