HP EliteBook 8 G1i16 Compatibility Issue with DELL Docking Station - External Monitors Disconnect

[AmirRZ]

Hi HP Community,

We’re currently experiencing a widespread issue across our organization involving the new HP EliteBook 8 G1i (16") laptops and Dell docking stations; specifically the WD19 and the new Dell Pro Smart Dock - SD25 models.

🔍 Issue Summary

When connecting the HP EliteBook 8 G1i to either of the Dell docks via USB-C:

• We have 2 monitors, USB Keyboard and Mouse connected to the docks
• The laptop powers on and everything functions normally for about 1–2 minutes 
• Then the Monitors suddenly disconnect, followed by an automatic reconnect after about 10 seconds.
• This cycle continues indefinitely while connected to the dock.

✅ What We've Tried

We’ve done extensive testing and troubleshooting:

• Multiple HP EliteBook 8 G1i laptops tested – all show the same behavior.
• Multiple Dell WD19 and SD25 docks tested – same result.
• All firmware and drivers (laptops and docks) are fully up to date.
• Connected the original Laptop Charger at the same time in case there is a power issue – no change.
• Dock hard resets performed.
• HP G5 USB-C Dock tested – works flawlessly with the same laptops.

⚠️ Additional Notes

• The Dell WD19 provides up to 90W to non-Dell laptops, which should be sufficient for the EliteBook 8 G1i (which typically requires 65–90W).
• The SD25 provides up 96W, yet the issue persists.
• This appears to be a compatibility or power negotiation issue between HP laptops and Dell docks.
• Replacing all Dell docks across the organization is not a feasible solution due to cost and logistics.
• I checked an old forum post with similar symptoms, but none of the fixes suggested there worked:
  https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/latitude/dell-wd19-docking-station-keeps-connecting-...

---

❓ Looking for Help

• Has anyone else experienced this issue with the new HP EliteBook 8 G1i and Dell docks?
• Are there any known compatibility limitations or firmware fixes in the pipeline?
• Is there a way to force the laptop to accept power from the dock without triggering a disconnect and reconnect?
• Any HP-side configuration or driver that might help?

We’d greatly appreciate any insights, workarounds, or official guidance from HP or the community.

Thanks in advance!

[banhien]

@AmirRZ 

Thousands of my replies/posts saying Please do NOT mix machines and accessories from vendors. They all say STANDARD but actually their STANDARD specislly USB-C ports. Even SAME vendor, not all USB-C ports are the same. If you wish to use docking station, please use the list on page 26 of the following manual

                 https://kaas.hpcloud.hp.com/pdf-public/pdf_11959162_en-US-1.pdf

Regards.