Thunderbolt Software

In many Laptops, we have seen USB type-C connectors. However, these connectors don’t​ just support the USB type-C interface, they also support Thunderbolt.

Thunderbolt is the brand name of a hardware interface developed by Intel (in collaboration with Apple) that allows the connection of external devices to a computer. Initially, Intel used optical cables for transmission that only allowed data to be transmitted. With the introduction of Copper cables in thunderbolt software, data and power became easily transmittable.

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Working

Thunderbolt process
Thunderbolt process

Thunderbolt transmits via duplex lanes that use data lanes to form connections to PCIs and DisplayPort devices. A single Thunderbolt port can use hubs or daisy chains to support up to six devices at once. Initially, the Thunderbolt Software connector looked like a Mini Display Port, the only difference was that the supported devices and cables had a thunderbolt logo that identified them as Thunderbolt cables.

Thunderbolt Cable. Look at the Logo
Thunderbolt Cable. Look at the Logo

There are 3 versions of Thunderbolt Software: Thunderbolt 1, Thunderbolt 2, and Thunderbolt 3. Let’s look at the features of each.

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