Using Thunderbolt with Apple M1 Processor

I’ve just replaced my MacBook Pro with a new MacBook Pro with an M1 Processor. My Thunderbolt 3 no longer works. I desperately need to be able to use 2 additional monitors with the MacBook. Currently, the LAN and power work but even 1 display is blurry and the 2nd doesn’t work. Everything, including 2 monitors, worked perfectly before. What can I do please. This is quite urgent as my work as an online presenter is dependent. Thanks for your help.

Hello,

Thank you for contacting Plugable support! Sorry to hear about this issue. I’d be more than happy to assist you.

We should be able to resolve the single blurry display issue you’re encountering with some troubleshooting, but you will not be able to make two displays work with your existing dock with this new M1 computer due to the M1 limitations that older Intel Macs did not have.

All M1 based Macs are limited to a single display only with Thunderbolt 3 docks. For reference, this is mentioned in the Apple specifications for your computer:

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We have a blog post here for how to connect additional displays to M1 Macs: https://plugable.com/blogs/news/how-to-connect-more-external-displays-to-apple-silicon-m1-macs

You may also still use your existing dock, but for a second display add a DisplayLink USB graphics adapter like this one for example (http://plugable.com/products/uga-2khdmi or http://plugable.com/products/uga-4khdmi) to bypass the non-functional second output on the dock itself. Like this: M1 Mac → TBT3-UDZ → DisplayLink USB graphics adapter → 2nd monitor.

Please don’t hesitate to let us know of other questions.

Thanks again for contacting Plugable support and best wishes!

Joshua Henry
Senior Engineer | Product Owner
Plugable Technologies
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I purchased the plugable USB 3.0 4K HDMI Adapter and plugged it into one of the USB slots in the Thunderbolt and I don’t get any connection/recognition.

I have resolved the blurry monitor that does work so now just need the 2nd monitor to kick in.

Thanks for your help.

I just opened the Display Link manager and it asked for permission to record the screen. When I accepted suddenly the 2nd monitor popped on. 100% working. Yayyy. Not sure how/why that worked but if it helps anyone else I’m glad.

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Thanks for the update! Glad you were able to get it working!

“Not sure how/why that worked but if it helps anyone else I’m glad.”
That’s a required step from the DisplayLink driver installation process. The DisplayLink drivers use the macOS screen recording mechanism to operate. If curious: https://support.displaylink.com/knowledgebase/articles/1950940-macos-big-sur-11-screen-recording-permission

If you ever need any further assistance just let us know!

Best wishes,
Josh

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