USB-C cannot connect to external monitor (Error code 43 when using USB-C to HDMI cable or adapter)

[leofox]

I have a HP Pavilion Laptop 14-bf010na (UK).

I needed to connect the laptop to 2 external displays. I was advised I can do this by using the HDMI port for one, and using the USB-C on the laptop for another by using either a USB-C to HDMI adapter or cable.

While the HDMI port on the laptop is able to display to external monitor, the USB-C cannot when a USB-C to HDMI adapter or cable is used.

I get Error code 43 with differing error messages. It started off with something like "Port cannot be reset", followed by "....... Compliance ....". I am unsure of the exact message now as both messages have now disappeared following a BIOS update, but the 'Compliance ....' one appears every now and then. The external monitor is still not detected.

I have already tried the usual advice about disabling, reinstalling drivers.

I hope someone who had a similar experience with this or a similar laptop can advise.

Cheers

[erico · Accepted solution]

This happens to be a subject that HP Experts have discussed with HP employees.

USB type-C port is such new technology that the capabilities that the port will have on a notebook from one manufacturer are not what it will have from another. 

There is no defacto standard for USB type-c across manufacturers in the notebook marketing segment.

See the following article at the How-to-Geek.

https://www.howtogeek.com/306237/how-to-use-mulitple-external-monitors-with-your-laptop/

You may be able to get it to work, but it will take trying many different brands of adapters and even docking stations.

Good luck!

[Huffer]

And there are some USB-C ports which are for data only and yours appears to be one of them per the Service manual:

Manual

See p. 3:

USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port (supports data transfer)

[leofox]

Dear Huffer,

Thanks for your valuable  input.

Eventually I returned the laptop to the retailer, as they accepted they have provided me with the wrong information.

Cheers!

[leofox]

Dear Provost,

Thanks for your input.

I did try a variety of options in vain, including HP's own USB-C to multiport adapter.

Eventually was able to return the laptop. 

Didn't know much about the variations in the USB-C port. Better for the experience 🙂

Cheers,
Suraj

[ScaryBiscuits]

This isn't true.  There is a usb-c standard and manufacturers that advertise their goods as having usb-c ports should comply with it. You should not just rebadge stuff made in China and then shrug when it doesn't work. 

[Huffer]

Yes but those standards do not include a requirement that the port provide a video signal. The standard contemplates various types of USB-C ports. All the HP USB-C ports meet minimum USB-C standards. And nobody is just "rebadging stuff made in China". There are some different type Forums on other other sites that are more tolerant outlets for such sentiments. 

[erico]

In order to keep this solved  thread content current, I will be closing it to new comments.