Introduction
Welcome to the instruction manual for your Plugable UD-6950Z Dual DisplayPort & HDMI Docking Station. This document provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device. Please read through these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and optimal performance.
Product Overview
The Plugable UD-6950Z is a versatile docking station designed to expand the connectivity of your laptop, supporting dual 4K monitors via DisplayLink technology. It offers a range of ports for peripherals and network connectivity, enhancing your workspace productivity.
Key Features:
- Flexible Expandability: This versatile laptop docking station includes dual HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, Gigabit Ethernet, an audio jack, and six USB 3.0 ports. It supports both USB-C and USB 3.0 host connections.
- Dual 4K Monitors with HDMI and DisplayPort: Enjoy ultra-clear visuals with support for two 4K monitors via DisplayLink docking station technology, outputting 3840x2160 @ 60Hz using DisplayPort or HDMI.
- Optimized for Work, Not Gaming: Best suited for web browsing, productivity, and office applications. This laptop dock does not support gaming or protected content (HDCP) playback.
- Compatibility: Compatible with Windows 11/10/8.x/7, macOS 10.14+ (driver required), and ChromeOS 100+. Offers plug-and-play functionality for Windows and ChromeOS. Not compatible with Linux; manual driver installation required on Mac. This docking station does NOT charge the host computer.
- Transform Your Workspace: Enhance your setup with a sleek vertical USB dock that supports dual monitor displays, ideal for 4K productivity and clean cable management.
Package Contents
Please verify that all the following items are present in your package:
- Plugable UD-6950Z Dual DisplayPort & HDMI Docking Station
- Power Cable
- USB-C Cable (3ft)
- USB 3.0 Cable (3ft)
- Quick Start Guide
Figure 1: Package Contents of the UD-6950Z Docking Station
Setup
Step 1: Power Connection
Connect the provided power adapter to the docking station's power input port, then plug the power adapter into a functional wall outlet. The power LED on the docking station should illuminate.
Step 2: Host Connection
Connect the docking station to your laptop using either the provided USB-C cable (for USB-C compatible laptops) or the USB 3.0 cable (for USB-A compatible laptops). Use the appropriate cable for your laptop's available port.
Figure 2: Laptop connected to the docking station with dual monitors
Important Note: This docking station requires its own power supply and does not provide power delivery to charge your host computer. Ensure your laptop's power adapter is connected for charging.
Figure 3: Docking station does not provide laptop charging
Driver Installation
For optimal performance and display functionality, driver installation is required for macOS and recommended for Windows. ChromeOS typically offers plug-and-play functionality.
Windows & ChromeOS
For Windows 11/10/8.x/7 and ChromeOS 100+, the docking station generally offers plug-and-play functionality. If displays do not activate automatically, visit the DisplayLink website to download the latest drivers.
macOS (10.14+)
macOS requires driver installation. Follow these steps:
- Navigate to the Plugable DisplayLink drivers page: plugable.com/displaylink.
- Download the DisplayLink Manager application for macOS.
- Install the downloaded driver package by following the on-screen prompts.
- During installation, you may be prompted to grant "Screen Recording" permissions. This is necessary for DisplayLink to function and does not record or store your screen content. Click "Open System Settings" and enable "DisplayLink Manager" under "Screen & System Audio Recording" or "Privacy & Security" settings.
- Restart your computer if prompted to finalize the installation.
Figure 4: DisplayLink Driver Installation Steps
Video 1: Guide to installing DisplayLink Manager for macOS. This video demonstrates the process of downloading and installing the necessary drivers for your Plugable docking station to function correctly with macOS, including granting screen recording permissions.
Connecting Displays
The UD-6950Z supports dual 4K monitors at 60Hz, allowing for an expanded and efficient workspace.
- Connect your primary monitor to either the DisplayPort or HDMI port labeled "Display 1" on the docking station.
- Connect your secondary monitor to either the DisplayPort or HDMI port labeled "Display 2" on the docking station.
Figure 5: Dual monitor setup with the docking station
Ensure your monitors are powered on and set to the correct input source (DisplayPort or HDMI) to receive the signal from the docking station.
Connecting Peripherals
The docking station provides multiple ports for connecting your essential peripherals.
- USB Devices: Connect your USB 3.0 devices such as keyboards, mice, external hard drives, or other USB accessories to any of the six available USB 3.0 ports on the docking station.
- Ethernet: For a stable and high-speed wired network connection, connect an Ethernet cable from your router or modem to the Gigabit Ethernet port on the docking station.
- Audio: Connect your headphones or speakers to the 3.5mm audio output jack, and a microphone to the 3.5mm microphone input jack, conveniently located on the front of the dock.
Figure 6: Docking station ports for peripherals
Operating Instructions
Once all connections are made and necessary drivers are installed, your laptop should automatically detect the external displays and peripherals connected to the docking station.
- Display Modes: You can configure your display settings (e.g., extend your desktop, duplicate your display, or use only one external display) through your operating system's display settings. Refer to your operating system's documentation for detailed instructions on configuring multiple displays.
- Power Management: The docking station requires continuous power from its dedicated power adapter to function. It does not provide power to charge your connected laptop.
Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Plugable UD-6950Z docking station, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the docking station. Avoid using liquid cleaners or aerosols, which may damage the device.
- Ventilation: Ensure the docking station is placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Do not block the ventilation slots.
- Cable Management: Keep cables organized and untangled to prevent damage to the ports and cables.
- Software Updates: Regularly check the Plugable website for updated DisplayLink drivers and firmware to ensure compatibility and performance improvements.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your docking station, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Display on External Monitors:
- Verify all video cables (HDMI/DisplayPort) are securely connected between the dock and monitors.
- Ensure the docking station is powered on and its power LED is lit.
- Check if DisplayLink drivers are correctly installed and updated, especially for macOS.
- Confirm that your monitors are powered on and their input sources are correctly selected (e.g., HDMI 1, DisplayPort).
- Try restarting your computer and reconnecting the dock.
- Flickering or Intermittent Display:
- Update DisplayLink drivers to the latest version from the Plugable website.
- Try using different video cables or connecting to different ports on the dock/monitors.
- Ensure your system meets the minimum requirements for dual 4K displays.
- USB Devices Not Working:
- Try connecting the USB device to a different USB port on the dock or directly to the laptop to isolate the issue.
- Ensure the docking station is powered on.
- No Audio Output:
- Check your computer's audio output settings to ensure the docking station's audio device is selected.
- Ensure headphones/speakers are correctly plugged into the dock's 3.5mm audio jack.
Video 2: Overview of the Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C Dual 4K Display Docking Station. This video provides a visual guide to the features and connectivity options of the docking station, which can be helpful for troubleshooting setup issues.
Specifications
| Model Number | UD-6950Z |
| Product Dimensions | 1.97 x 2.76 x 1.97 inches (5.31"L x 2.76"W x 7.48"H with stand) |
| Item Weight | 12.3 ounces (350 Grams) |
| Hardware Interface | USB 3.0, USB Docking Station, USB Type C |
| Total USB Ports | 6 (USB 3.0) |
| Total HDMI Ports | 2 |
| Total DisplayPort Ports | 2 |
| Display Output | Dual 4K (3840x2160) @ 60Hz via DisplayPort or HDMI |
| Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Audio | 3.5mm Audio In/Out |
| Compatible Devices | Apple M1 / M2 / M3 and Intel Macs (with macOS 10.15 or later), ChromeOS 100 or later, Microsoft Surface line, HP Spectre x360 series, Dell XPS 13 & XPS 15 / Latitude, Lenovo ThinkPad T series |
| UPC | 819927012016 |
Warranty and Support
Plugable products are designed for reliability and are backed by a 2-year warranty. Our dedicated North American support team is available to assist you with any questions or technical issues you may encounter.
For technical assistance, troubleshooting guides, or to contact customer service, please visit the official Plugable support website: plugable.com/support.
Figure 7: Plugable Warranty and Support Information