USB-C External SSD

[tecboy]

I just purchased an external SSD. I plug in the cable in the left side of my laptop with a purchased cable and SSD.  My laptop does not detect the SSD.  However, I use different USD-C cable, and it works okay at slower speed.  When I plug in the back side of my laptop with purchased cable and SSD, my laptop is detecting the SSD at higher speed.  Is the USB-C port on the left side of my laptop cannot detect a high-speed cable?

[A_Gayathri · Accepted solution]

Hi @tecboy ,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

I understand you are facing an issue with the USB-C port on the left side of your OMEN Transcend 14-inch Gaming Laptop. Not all USB-C ports are created equal in terms of functionality and speed. Some USB-C ports support higher data transfer rates (like USB 3.2, Thunderbolt 4) and are designed for faster connections, while others might be limited to slower data speeds or basic power delivery.
 

Here are some possibilities to consider:

• Port Specifications: The left-side USB-C port on your laptop might have a lower data transfer rate (e.g., USB 2.0 or 3.0), which would explain why your external SSD works but only at slower speeds. On the other hand, the USB-C port on the back could be a higher-speed port (like Thunderbolt or USB 3.2), allowing the SSD to run at its full speed.
• Cable Compatibility: It is possible that the purchased cable is optimized for higher data transfer speeds, but the left-side port might not support those speeds. Using the same cable in a high-speed port (like the back-side one) works better. When you use a different cable (with slower capabilities), the SSD is detected because it matches the speed of the left-side port.
• Power Delivery: Some USB-C ports are designed primarily for power delivery and might not support high-speed data transfer, especially if the port is being used to charge other devices or peripherals.
• Check Laptop Specifications: You can confirm the USB-C port capabilities of your OMEN Transcend 14 by reviewing the official specs in the manual or on HP’s website. It should list the speed and type of each USB-C port.
• Use the High-Speed Port: Since your laptop is detecting the SSD at higher speeds when connected to the back, it might be better to use that port for high-speed SSD operations.
• Try Another High-Speed Cable: Even though you tried one cable that didn't work at full speed on the left, it may be worth testing a few other high-speed cables to rule out any cable-specific issues.
   

Refer to this document: OMEN Transcend 14 inch Gaming Laptop PC 14-fb0000 User manual 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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