Hi there,
I basically look for a docking station solution like this:
https://www.amazon.com.au/Plugable-UD-3900-universal-resolut…
I do need it to work under Linux though. Ubuntu 19.04 to be specific.
Above product has all the features I need (mainly 2 external displays, FHD is fine, network, usb etc), but I clearly states that Linux is not supported.
Is there an alternative product that supports Linux or does have anyone experience with above product under Linux?
Cheers
I just bought a new Metabox Alpha-X
Even though it says Linux not supported, it may still work. It would depend if any drivers are needed. That's unlikely. I think it'll work
Most USB docking stations will be using displaylink chips for the video support.
Note that these are not great if you want full gaming performance on the external monitor. Should be OK for video/web browsing/word processing etc.
Drivers are here for Ubuntu: https://www.displaylink.com/downloads/ubuntu
Your other option, if you have the 1660Ti or 2060 video card in your Alpha-X, is a USB-C dock that uses DisplayPort Alternate Mode to get the video signal from the laptop. There might be some that support MST to allow for multiple displays with the single available stream.
If you only have the 1050 or 1650 then that doesn't seem to be an option for your laptop.
thanks shiftyphil,
Yes I ordered the Alpha-X with a 1660Ti. Do you have a product in mind that uses DisplayPort Alternate Mode?
And no, the hub is not for gaming.
I believe the cablematters one posted below does - the drop to USB 2.0 speeds when you switch it to '4k mode' only makes sense for a DP Alt Mode based dock.
The dock you linked won't worked. It requires drivers.
A USB-C dock might work. https://www.amazon.com.au/Cable-Matters-Docking-DisplayPort-…
Something like this indicates Linux is supported. I didn't look to deeply into the specs other than that.
If you're even considering gaming then I'd highly recommend not using a dock for displays. I assume you are gaming considering the beast of a laptop!
Thanks zeggie,
My plan is to use the laptop at work with Linux (that's where I need the 2 additional screens) and for gaming etc at home.
Idea is to dual boot Win10/Ubuntu with Ubuntu for work. The hub would be for work, so no gaming through that.
The one you posted looks great. Just not available on Amazon.
Additional question. Could such a dock charge my laptop as well via USB-C?
That dock only charges 80W. Need to check your specs, but your laptop will likely need a lot more.
I guess worst case is I use the available 2 ports on the laptop for the displays and get a decent usb-c hub for network, peripheral devices. All-in-one would be ideal, especially if I could charge the laptop via the usb-c hub as well
What model is your laptop?