How Using the Right USB-C Multiport Adapter Can Boost Productivity
StarTech.com
Solving IT Professionals' Unique Hardware Connectivity and Business Challenges
As we continue to shift how we work, be it in the office, at home, or in a hybrid model, it is vital to make sure we are equipped with the right tools for the job. In years past, laptops came with all the ports you would need to connect to various peripherals no matter where you were. However, today’s laptops have dramatically reduced the number of ports pursuing a slim, lightweight ultraportable design. In most cases, traditional laptop docking stations would be the go-to choice. Unfortunately, the semiconductor chip shortage continues to impact the availability of docking stations worldwide. This is where a USB-C Multiport adapter can help. These adapters offer most of the same functionality of a fully-fledged laptop dock with the added benefit of increased portability. Read on to see how selecting the right adapter can maximize your or your team’s productivity.
To many, one multiport adapter may look more or less the same as the next, but once you look closer, each adapter can contain a differing variety of powerful and practical functions depending on your needs. So, we’ve broken them down into three categories to help you select the right one.
These multiport adapters are designed with the fundamental ports needed to get the job done. Designed with portability in mind, these docks contain a single display output such as HDMI, one to two additional USB-A and/or USB-C ports and Power Delivery Pass-Through, to your laptop charged.
Options Available:
USB-C Multiport Adapter 4K HDMI - 2x USB 3.0 - GbE - DKT30CHPD
USB-C Multiport Adapter 4K HDMI - PD 3.0 - DKT30CSDHPD3
USB-C Multiport Adapter 4K HDMI 2.0 - PD 3.0 - DKT31CHPD3
Who should consider this type of multiport adapter?
These adapters are ideal for someone who is typically stationary and is likely using a traditional docking station already. However, when their work does take them to a different location, they may need to connect a peripheral such as an SSD, a microphone or charge their phone. With 60W power delivery, they can charge or top off their battery but do not need to achieve quick, full charging.
Our second class of multiport adapters offer added productivity features such as dual-display functionality with a mix of USB-C, USB-C, and Gigabit Ethernet.
Options available include:
USB-C Multiport Adapter - Dual Monitor – 4K HDMI - DK30C2HAGPD
USB-C Multiport Adapter - Dual Monitor – 4K DP - DK30C2DAGPD
Who should consider this type of multiport adapter?
These adapters are excellent for someone who is primarily working from a single, stationary workstation, needs to connect peripherals from time to time and benefits from the added productivity boost thanks to a second display. If their work takes them to a new location, the multiport adapter is still small enough that it won’t take up too much space in your StarTech.com IT Pro Laptop Backpack.
Our final class of USB-C Multiport adapter offers the complete package of both power and performance. These adapters offer the same USB-A and USB-C ports selections but are feature-packed with SD card readers, Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm audio, and USB Fast Charging for a smartphone or tablet. Another major differentiator for this type of multiport adapter is 4K 60Hz and HDR10 video functionality.
Options available include:
USB C Multiport Adapter, 4K 60Hz HDMI, 100W PD - DKT31CSDHPD3
USB-C Multiport Adapter 4K 60Hz HDMI 2.0 - 100W PD Passthrough - DKT30CHSDPD1
Who should consider this type of multiport adapter?
If your team consists of users who move a lot of data to and from their devices or to the cloud and require the high-resolution life-like imagery offered by HDR, such as photographers or videographers, these adapters should be a top consideration.
