docking station compatibility

[bradyetucker]

i recently bought a laptop [HP Laptop 17-cn2070cl (8L5Y2UA)] and thought i could hook it up to an HP thunderbolt docking station i've had for a few years. the light at the BACK of the docking station lights up when it's plugged in, but when i connect it to the laptop the light on TOP that's supposed to light up remains dark. i've tried two identical docking stations and neither works with the laptop. i guess i assumed since the laptop is new and connects to the docking station via USB-C it wouldn't be an issue. i also tried a firmware update but my laptop simply will not recognize that it's plugged in to a docking station. now i'm on HP's website looking at my laptop and trying to figure out which docking stations are compatible, but i'm having a hard time. any help will be much appreciated.

[Max3Aj]

Hi @bradyetucker,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Your HP Laptop 17-cn2070cl (8L5Y2UA) does have a USB-C port, but unfortunately, it does not support Thunderbolt or USB-C Display Alt Mode. This means it cannot output video or fully communicate with a Thunderbolt docking station. That’s likely why your laptop isn't recognizing the dock.

Why Isn't It Working?

• The USB-C port on your laptop is data-only (likely USB 3.2 Gen 1).
• It does not support Power Delivery (PD) for charging or DisplayPort Alt Mode for external displays.
• Thunderbolt docks require Thunderbolt support, which your laptop doesn’t have.

Compatible Docking Stations:

You need a USB-C (non-Thunderbolt) or USB-A dock that relies on DisplayLink technology for video output. Here are a few options:

1. HP USB-C Dock G5 – Works with USB-C but may have limited display functionality.
2. HP Universal USB-C Multiport Hub – Supports USB-A and USB-C devices.
3. HP USB 3.0 Docking Station (using DisplayLink) – Uses a USB-A or USB-C connection and external drivers to enable video output.

Alternative Solutions:

If your goal is connecting external monitors, you could:

• Use an HDMI adapter directly from your laptop.
• Get a DisplayLink-based dock, which processes video through USB.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Max3Aj

HP Support