Looking at a Dell S3220DGF monitor that has 2 USB A ports. Can I use those ports to connect an external SSD HD or another device like a iPhone charger. If I'm using this monitor with a M1 mini mac I could avoid buying a Satechi hub?
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Monitors with USB a ports
- Thread starter omeletpants
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BrianBaughn
macrumors G4
With any computer you have to connect the "USB upstream" port on that monitor to your computer so, assuming there aren't any issues between the monitor and the M1 Mini, you'll only gain one USB port.
dwig
macrumors 6502a
BrianBaughn is correct. This monitor has what is essentially a built-in 2 port USB hub that is independent of the monitor's video functions except that it shares a power source. To use the two USB-A ports on the monitor you would need to connect from a USB port on your computer to the monitor's USB-B port, thus gaining 1 additional port total.
So, the HDMI connection isn't enough. I would have to run a usb a cable between the Mini and the monitor?
CWallace
macrumors G5
Correct. HDMI only carries video and audio, not data and power like USB.
And yes, that is the correct cable - USB-A male (M1 Mac mini) to USB-B male (Dell monitor).
dwig
macrumors 6502a
BrianBaughn
macrumors G4
That is correct…not sure where I got the "2" from.
The 3 ports that aren't "charging" ports…can they power a 2.5" external drive?
Another topic: people have been complaining that external monitors are unmounting when the mini goes to sleep. If that it ture, what would keep that from happening with this Dell monitor?