When the world watched Apple announcing their new-generation Apple Macs now powered with Apple's own 1M silicon, there was a very curious reference about Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports. In reality, the detailed technical specifications of the three new Macs announced that day detail Thunderbolt 3 (up to 40Gb/s) and USB 3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10Gb/s), same as every new Mac shipping for the past two years, and a few rare Windows PCs. USB4 and Thunderbolt4 computers still have to make an appearance, given that the controllers are just now starting to be certified and available. But one thing is certain, when those products start to ship they will fully compatible with current Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.1 Gen 2 specifications, all sharing the same USB Type C connectivity.
Anyway, the news that, for the first time, a Thunderbolt-certified SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Dual 4K Docking Station with 90W Power Delivery (K35175NA) is now available is certainly a good indicator of progress. This means that very soon we can expect to connect up to three additional Thunderbolt devices directly (up to five additional in total) while providing 40Gbps of total bandwidth, up to Dual 4K @ 60Hz video output, and audio; all through the included 0.8m (2.6ft) Thunderbolt 4 cable. In addition to performance, Intel VT-d based DMA protection keeps the setup secure.
The Kensington SD5700T docking station was actually one of the products that was featured in Intel's presentation of Thunderbolt 4, and it is obviously based on Intel's Thunderbolt 4 controller 8000 series chips. The docking station helps create a future-ready desktop setup with 11 ports of connectivity, including four Thunderbolt 4 ports; four USB-A ports (one 5V/1.5A charging port on the front and three USB-A 3.2 Gen2@10Gbps ports on the rear); one Gigabit Ethernet port; one audio combo jack; and one UHS-II SD 4.0 card reader.
Single 8K or Dual 4K (@ 60 Hz) video output for Thunderbolt 4-enabled hosts lets users extend visual productivity with the crisp resolution, contrast, and color depth of Ultra HD. A zero-footprint mounting option, security cable lock slots, free Kensington DockWorks software, and a three-year warranty helps users create a personalized, clutter-free, and secure desk environment.
"Kensington is proud to work closely with Intel to deliver accessories that enable users to take advantage of Thunderbolt 4’s industry-leading data, video, and power connectivity," says Ben Thacker, Vice President and General Manager at Kensington. "Kensington looks forward to continuing to design innovative accessories like the SD5700T that support next-gen technologies to create a best-in-class user experience."
"Thunderbolt 4 makes possible new levels of performance and connectivity through a single port, and certified accessories like Kensington’s SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 docking station enable users to fully utilize Thunderbolt 4’s industry leading capabilities," says Jason Ziller, General Manager, Client Connectivity Division at Intel. "Intel supports our accessory partners to provide an unsurpassed connectivity experience to ensure reliability and ease of use for Thunderbolt 4 users."
The SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Dual 4K Docking Station with 90W PD is just the first of a robust portfolio of Kensington Thunderbolt solutions designed to unleash the productivity and connectivity of this next-gen technology, the company confirmed.
Headquartered in San Mateo, California, Kensington is the inventor and worldwide leader in laptop security locks. The division of ACCO Brands is one of the world’s largest designers, marketers, and manufacturers of branded business, academic, and consumer products, sold in more than 100 countries across the globe. In office and mobile environments, Kensington’s extensive portfolio of products provides trusted security, desktop productivity innovations, and ergonomic well-being.
www.kensington.com
