j5create USB C Dual 4K 60Hz Display Docking Station (12-in-1) JCD552 Instruction Manual

Product Overview

The j5create USB C Dual 4K 60Hz Display Docking Station (Model JCD552) is a versatile 12-in-1 solution designed to expand the connectivity and capabilities of your USB-C compatible laptop. It supports extended dual 4K displays, offers high-performance storage expansion via an M.2 SSD slot, and provides multiple high-speed USB ports for peripherals.

• Dual 4K 60Hz Displays: Supports extended dual 4K displays (HDMI & DisplayPort) on Intel MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. For Macs with M1/M2 chips, display support may vary (M1 supports 1 display, M2 supports 1 HDMI display).
• High-Performance Storage: Features a built-in M.2 NVMe/SATA PCIe SSD Slot (supports M.2 NVMe or SATA M key 2230/2242/2260/2280) for storage expansion.
• High-Speed Performance: Provides three SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps ports (1 USB-C and 2 USB Type-A) for connecting various peripherals.
• 100W Power Delivery Pass-Through: Allows charging of your laptop and powering connected peripherals when used with a USB-C power adapter.
• Detachable Magnetic Connectors: Flexible design for connecting to a variety of compatible devices.

Figure 1: Overview of the j5create JCD552 Docking Station highlighting its 12 functions including M.2 SSD slot, 10Gbps USB, 4K@60Hz display, 100W PD, and magnetic connectors.

Setup Instructions

1. Connect to Host Device:
   • For MacBook Pro/Air: Connect both USB-C host cables from the docking station to your compatible MacBook Pro/Air.
   • For other USB-C laptops: Connect the 1st USB-C host cable. To ensure optimal capability, the 2nd USB-C host cable must be connected to the 10 Gbps USB-C Gen 2 port on the docking station.
   

   Figure 2: Detachable magnetic USB-C connectors for flexible host device connection.
2. Power Connection: Attach a USB-C PD power adapter (not included) to the "USB-C power In" port on the docking station to ensure maximum performance and charge your laptop. The docking station supports up to 100W Power Delivery pass-through.
3. M.2 SSD Installation (Optional):
   • Locate the M.2 NVMe/SATA PCIe SSD Slot on the docking station.
   • Insert your M.2 NVMe or SATA M key 2230/2242/2260/2280 SSD into the slot.
   • Secure the SSD as per the instructions provided with your SSD.
   

   Figure 3: Step-by-step illustration of M.2 NVMe SSD installation for enhanced data storage.

Operating Instructions

1. Connecting Displays:
   • Connect your 4K monitors to the HDMI and DisplayPort outputs on the docking station.
   • Ensure your laptop's USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode for video output.
   • Adjust display settings on your operating system for extended or mirrored displays.
   

   Figure 4: Example of a dual 4K monitor setup with a laptop connected to the docking station.
2. USB Peripherals: Connect USB-A and USB-C peripherals (e.g., external hard drives, keyboards, mice) to the available 10 Gbps USB ports.
3. Card Reader Usage: Insert SD or microSD cards into the respective slots for data transfer.
4. Ethernet Connection: For a stable wired network connection, plug an Ethernet cable into the RJ45 port on the docking station.

Video 1: Official j5create video demonstrating the features and connectivity of the M.2 NVMe USB-C Gen 2 Docking Station.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your j5create docking station, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the docking station. Avoid liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
• Ventilation: Ensure the docking station is placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Cable Management: Keep cables organized and free from kinks or excessive bending to prevent damage to the cables and ports.
• Storage: When not in use, store the docking station in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your docking station, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Display Output:
  • Ensure all display cables (HDMI/DisplayPort) are securely connected to both the docking station and the monitors.
  • Verify that your laptop's USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode.
  • Check your laptop's display settings to ensure monitors are detected and configured correctly (extended/mirrored).
  • If using a MacBook with an M1/M2 chip, remember that M1 chips typically support only one external display, and M2 chips support one HDMI display.
• Peripherals Not Detected:
  • Ensure USB devices are properly connected to the docking station's USB ports.
  • Try connecting the peripheral directly to your laptop to rule out device issues.
  • Ensure the docking station is receiving adequate power, especially if multiple power-hungry devices are connected.
• Intermittent Disconnections/Overheating:
  • Ensure a USB-C PD power adapter is connected to the docking station's "USB-C power In" port for stable operation, especially when using multiple devices or external storage.
  • Avoid placing the docking station in enclosed spaces that restrict airflow.
  • If using a laptop that tends to run hot (e.g., some MacBook Pro models), consider using the docking station in a well-ventilated environment or with fewer power-intensive peripherals.
  • Perform a power cycle: unplug the docking station from the laptop and power source, wait a few seconds, then reconnect.
• Ethernet Not Working:
  • Check the Ethernet cable connection to both the docking station and your router/modem.
  • Verify network settings on your laptop.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

j5create products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official j5create website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

For additional assistance, visit the j5create Store on Amazon.