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Thunderbolt port- can it be used to charge the device?

JX313 7,045 Reputation points
2022-03-24T06:17:04+00:00

Hey there,

My brother just got a new Dell Vostro as a gift, and the specs are pretty impressive.

The device comes with a Thunderbolt port but I don't know the type.

Yesterday after finishing the setup and leaving it in hibernation, the battery died. The adapter works and the light glows up but the device isn't charging. I wanted to test if the TB port can be used for charging. I've read many articles and none of them are convincing.

So my questions are:

  1. Can I charge it through the TB port?
  2. What type of cable is required? Any special one? I have a USB Type-C charger from a Redmi 9 Power and it fits well.

I haven't even got to know the model number of the Vostro LOL, so if you need the model number, I'm sorry IDK because the laptop is dead.

And no, I don't need help in fixing the not-charging issue, it's at the Dell service centre now so it'll be fixed.

Joe13 b-) 2.0

PS: if this should be in the Dell forums, I will create a thread there, but first I'd need opinions from you guys. :)

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Devices and drivers

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  1. Sakiko 38,795 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2022-03-24T06:55:12+00:00

    Hello, I'm A&K, here to help.

    The Thunderbolt port is designed to support charging, but it depends on the design of the computer. Some computers' Thunderbolt port can only be used to communicate with the device, but some computers' Thunderbolt port can be used for charging. In theory, you can charge through the Thunderbolt port, but you need to consult the device manufacturer about whether your computer supports charging through the Thunderbolt port.

    The charging power of the Thunderbolt port is not fixed, you need to purchase a suitable cable according to the charging power of your computer.

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  1. JX313 7,045 Reputation points
    2022-03-24T11:05:25+00:00

    If you don't mind me asking, will it damage the system if I charge through the TB port IF in case it doesn't support PD?

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  2. JX313 7,045 Reputation points
    2022-03-24T07:15:31+00:00

    Thanks for the answer, I connected the regular Type-C cable to the device and it wasn't charging or turning ON. Oh well, I think he'll be fine with the adapter and not the TB one. ;)

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