Troubleshooting: USB-C video problems

I agree though, since alt-mode DP is really the most common one and it’s a disappointment to me too.
So far my ThinkPad and HTC 10 works though and I just wish my PinePhone will work on it too.

For what it’s worth I have USB-C working fine with the PPM connected to a Dell Precision 5520 with Windows 10 Pro1909

Good point, it should be made clearer.

But do note that PicoPix Max is not advertised as supporting DisplayPort, VGA, Component video, SCART or similar video input formats, whether through their native connector or through USB-C. Remember that USB-C is simply a type of connector which can carry a lot of different signals like USB2, USB3, HDMI, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, Power Delivery etc. It’s not required for a device to support all those, and should also not be assumed as such. The most popular consumer devices like iPad Pro, MacBook etc. work fine with PicoPix Max via USB-C video output. If your device doesn’t support alt-HDMI mode, it can also be considered a limitation of your device! We know at least the 2019 16" MacBook Pro has an issue with this (we are investigating).

I think it should be mentioned here, in the connection specifications:
Firefox_Screenshot_2020-02-12T15-45-52.382Z
Somehting like “2x power and video (HDMI alt-mode)”

I was just about to ask, did you get a chance to test the PPM on a MBP 16" in the Apple store or elsewhere?

@Philips_Support_P Did you have a chance to test the 16" MBP USB-C compatibility before Covid-19 struck? Can’t find much else mentioning HDMI alt-mode (haven’t received my unit so can’t test myself yet)

Hi @wernerj yes this is already fixed. However this requires the type-C chip’s firmware to be modified. New shipments have it, old ones don’t. I think the strategy will be to offer an upgrade to those who need this feature. As the MacBook 2019 was released after PicoPix Max, there was no way for us to test it before production.

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About the USB C video : is it possible to plug and external DD onto USB-C video ?
Will it be recognized ?

DiskDrive(USB-C) <–> USB-C (video)

Hi @liink no, this is not supported, please use the USB-A port for this.

Do you mean the newer PPM can support DP alt-mode and HDMI alt-mode? or am I understanding it wrong?

Thank you.
I do not need to search why it’s not working now :slight_smile:
…and by the way i’am really happy with my ppmax

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Hdmi alt-mode only as far as I understand it, was working from day 1 with older Macs but some issues occurred with the 16" Macbook Pro.

Edit: The only video alt-mode supported by the PPM USB-C video port is alt-mode DP, not HDMI -> Connecting laptop using USB-C cable

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Thanks for verifying! Let’s see if I need to reflash mine. My backer I’d showed up in the current shipment about to head to EU, maybe it’ll have correct firmware, maybe not.

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It is possible to flash the firmware using PC tools without specialized hardware. The problem is, the affected people have MacBooks.

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But perhaps have friends / family / coworkers with Windows laptops :bulb:

Sounds simple enough. Is it the Cypress programmer tool? Most of the others are rapidly embracing cross-platform tools.

Hit or miss - the USB-C cable for video output needs to be Thunderbolt.

To ensure 100% compatibility - APPLE’s TB-3 cable is compatible (not the one that comes with a MacBook) you will need to BUY the MOST expensive Apple TB-3 Cable. I don’t trust many other cables because you will be risking it not working and that is just not worth that time or money.

Hi @AndrewMD of course you need a USB-C video cable. Many cables are charging-only and will not work. Further, the included cable will work as well.

Actually the MacBook Cable (the one that comes with MacBook) can usually work with some USB-C based devices for display.

I think Philips should have stated it is a USB-C/TB-3 port instead which is a bit more accurate given that TB cables are working with video input…

So… will the included USB-C cable from my MBP 2018 work on the PPM? It is working on my LG monitor including charging my MBP.