How to solve the compatibility issue of M1, M2, M3 chips?

How to solve the compatibility issue of M1, M2, M3 chips?

 

 

Apple's revolutionary M1, M2, and M3 chips have significantly enhanced the performance and efficiency of MacBooks. However, one limitation users have encountered is the chips' support for connecting only one external monitor directly through the Thunderbolt C port. This presents a challenge for professionals who rely on multiple monitors for enhanced productivity and multitasking capabilities.

Why Does the Issue Occur?

The M1, M2, and M3 chips are designed to recognize the signal from only one Thunderbolt C port when connecting external displays. This inherent design decision restricts the direct connection of multiple monitors, allowing only one screen to be recognized and utilized.

Solution 1: Using an HDMI Hub with USB-A/USB-C to HDMI Adapter

To overcome this limitation and effectively use dual monitors with a MacBook that has an M1, M2, or M3 chip, a specific setup involving a hub and adapters is required. Here's how you can set up your dual monitor configuration:

  1. USB-A/USB-C to HDMI Hub/Adapter with MST: The first step is to acquire a USB-A/USB-C to HDMI hub or adapter that supports Multi Stream Transport (MST). MST is essential for enabling the connection of additional monitors beyond the first, supporting both mirror and extend modes for your displays.

  2. Connecting the Second Monitor: Once you have the USB-A/USB-C to HDMI hub/adapter with MST, use the HDMI port on the hub to connect to your second monitor using the provided HDMI to USB-C cable. This connection is for the video signal transmission.

  3. Power Supply to the Monitor: To power the second monitor, connect the USB-A port on the hub to the monitor using a USB-A to USB-C cable. This step ensures your second monitor receives the necessary power to operate.

  4. Driver Installation: Before you start using the hub to connect the second portable monitor, remember to install the necessary drivers for the USB-A/USB-C to HDMI adapter. This is a crucial step to ensure the adapter functions correctly with your MacBook and monitors.

  5. Avoid HDMI Splitters: It's important to note that an HDMI splitter is not a viable solution for this setup. HDMI splitters can only support mirror mode, which means both screens display the same content. They cannot support extend mode, where each monitor displays different content, limiting the effectiveness of a multi-monitor setup.

Solution 2: Using KEFEYA Customized H5-T Cable

Designed for KEFEYA S1/S2/S3/S6, USB-A to HDMI adapter, Non full-featured USB-C to HDMI adapter, USB-C to HDMI adapter for Macbook Air/Pro with M1/M2/M3 chips. Note: The H5 TYPE-C output port can only be connected to the port wihich mark "HDMI" on back of the portble monitors.

  1. Driver Installation: Before you start using the cable to connect the second portable monitor, remember to install the necessary drivers for the H5-T cable. This is a crucial step to ensure the functions correctly with your MacBook and monitors.

  2. Where to Buy: Click here