Any idea why this cable wont work with this dock?

[thecomputerguy]

This Dock: https://a.co/d/0gza0iRt
This Cable: https://a.co/d/06KYvU38

The dock is nice but the cable it comes with is only 3 feet long. I attempted to order the above cable as an option but in two cases one of the screens would not light up.

Tried with the same result:
- 2 Different Docks
- 2 Different 10FT Cables
- 2 Different Laptops (Brand new)

Both with the same end result. Using the original cable everything works fine...

What cable am I supposed to buy?

Edit: Laptop in question is: https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-laptops/dell-pro-16-plus-laptop/spd/dell-pro-pb16250-laptop

With two USBC Thunderbolt ports.

 

[YeOldeStonecat]

Check the specs of the dock..it may be using a thunderbolt class...or at least a more "premium" USB-C cable. Wiring can be different inside based on which spec it is. higher wattage. Higher video throughput.

 

[backwoodsman]

Did you notice the note on the cable: "This is a data transfer and charging cable, and does not support video output." I see some USB-C cables that say they support video; I don't know what makes the difference, but I'd try one of them.

 

[thecomputerguy]

So maybe just try a thunderbolt cable? Any suggestions?

 

[Markverhyden]

So maybe just try a thunderbolt cable? Any suggestions?

Tbolt. The webpage clearly says charging and no mention of video in the top header. USB-C is the name for the connector. Tbolt supports the same connector.

 

[thecomputerguy]

I'm gunna try this one:

https://a.co/d/05Ugr9VW

 

[timeshifter]

I'm gunna try this one:

https://a.co/d/05Ugr9VW

I think that will work.

These cables create quite the rabbit hole to do down.

 

[Blues]

This is what I dislike about USB-C is that it doesn't feel so standard it is a unified port for multiple standards now.

 

[YeOldeStonecat]

We have similar with HDMI cables ...different specs.

 

[Markverhyden]

We have similar with HDMI cables ...different specs.

Yep there, seen that. Including HDMI 1.4 which is tcp/ip over hdmi.

 

[britechguy]

The idea of a "grand, unified" cable has been a sort of "holy grail" for many years, and, so far, USB-C is the thing that comes closest.

And, of course, the Universal Serial Bus Type-C Cable and Connector Specification, v2.5, covers it in nauseating detail, including backward compatibility with "virtually everything."

 

[Blues]

HDMI though most people don't notice or use the extra features of the different specs but yes it does technically suffer the same problem. I will also say HDMI has the identification aspect a little more simplified with it just being the spec number. With USB-C it is a pick and chose type issue with what features are on the cable and requires more review of what you are selecting to ensure it does or should support needed functions.