How do you check if your USB-C port transfers a video signal?

The USB-C port is an oval port. It's also smaller than a USB-A port. Aside from that, the USB-C connector is symmetrical. That means you can put a USB-C plug in a USB-C port 2 ways.

Next to the ports on a Windows laptop, you'll find symbols/logo that show you what you can do with a particular port.

• Is there a symbol of a lightning bolt (Thunderbolt 3) next to the USB-C port? Then you can use this port to charge and to transfer a video signal. That means you can connect a monitor to the port. This port supports DisplayPort alt mode.
• Is there a symbol of a D (DisplayPort) next to the USB-C port? Then you can use this port to transfer a video signal. That means you can connect a monitor. This port supports DisplayPort alt model.
• Is there a symbol of a battery next to the USB-C port? Then you can use this port to charge your laptop. This port doesn't support DisplayPort alt mode.

Do you have a cable to connect a monitor to the USB-C port of your laptop? Great, use this cable to connect your laptop to the monitor. If the monitor shows an image, the USB-C port of your laptop supports DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3, and it's suitable to use with a docking station.

If your laptop doesn't have a USB-C port, there are alternative ports. You can connect various peripherals to the USB-A port, like a mouse, keyboard, and printer. There are various USB-A port types, like 2.0, 3.0, and 3.1. The latest version offers the fastest data transfer. Do you want to connect a monitor? Check if your laptop has an HDMI or DisplayPort. These ports are suitable for both monitors.

MacBook models don't have a logo or symbol next do the port. Follow the steps down below on a MacBook:

• Boot the MacBook.
• Go to the Apple logo in the top left corner of the desktop and click it.
• Click 'About this Mac'.
• Check which model/introduction year you have.
• Use the scheme down below to check what the type of USB-C port on your MacBook model can do.