The DisplayLink software is necessary to have installed on your laptop in order to use a DisplayLink docking station. MHC faculty and staff members who have two external monitors will need the software installed on their MHC-issued laptop in order for the displays to function with the docking station.
Overview
The DisplayLink docking station and software allow Windows laptops and MacBooks with M1, M2, and M3 chips to connect to multiple external monitors. MacBooks with an M4 chip do not require a docking station in order to use multiple displays.
Request a docking station
To request a docking station, please submit a computer accessory request. Docking stations are not funded by LITS, so a cost center code is needed to complete the request. Please confirm funds are available with your department's cost center manager before submitting the computer accessory request. More information on docking stations and other computer accessories can be found in the Specifications for LITS-procured computer accessories article.
Download the DisplayLink software
Each new docking station comes with an instructions card for downloading the DisplyLink software. Follow the instructions provided; if you need assistance, please contact the LITS Help Desk.
For MacBook users, there is an alternative method for downloading the software.
- Open the Self-Service application. It's usually located on the menu bar, with the Jorge Icon, or can be found in the Applications folder.
- In the Self-Service application, under the Browse folder on the left side, select Graphics & Video.
- Select Install under the DisplayLink icon.
- After the software is installed, a Screen Recording window will pop up. Select Open System Settings. Make sure that the DisplayLink Manager is turned on. You may be prompted to enter the password you use to log into the Mac computer.
- Choose Quit & Reopen.
- Now plug the dock in via the USB-C port. When you plug the dock in you’ll see a window asking for permission for the dock to connect to your computer. Select Allow.
- Expect that there will be a delay between when you choose Allow and when your screen shows up on the monitors. Please wait about 15 seconds without clicking on anything.
- If your computer is plugged into its charger, you may now close the lid to use just the 2 external monitors. You may also keep the laptop open as a 3rd display.
- If you need to rearrange your display, open System Settings, and select Displays > Arrange where you can drag images to line up left to right or right to left.
Connect laptop to docking station
- In the box, you will find a power supply. Connect this into the docking station and plug it into a power outlet.
- Also in the box, a USB-C to USB-C cable is provided. Plug one end of this cable into the USB-C port on the back of the docking station and the other end to a USB-C port on your laptop.
- Identify the type of display inputs that are available on your monitors; either HDMI or display port (DP). Using the appropriate cable, connect one end to the output port on the back of the docking station and the other to the input port on the back of one of the monitors. Using a second HDMI or DP cable, connect one end to another output on the back of the docking station and the other end to the input on the back of the second monitor.
- If you have USB-A accessories, such as a wireless mouse/keyboard, you can plug the dongle into the docking station as well.
- Open the laptop display settings to adjust the screen arrangement and cursor movement.
Troubleshooting tips
- If you run into any issues, try restarting your computer as a first step.
- Make sure the cable from the dock is all the way seated in the USB-C port on your laptop.
- Make sure that the docking station in receiving power. There will be a blue light on the front of the dock if it is powered on.