Connection issues between a HP32f and a MacBook Air (M3) 2025

[JazzyJJazzy]

Hi - I previously had a  2015 MacBook Air and it connected without any problems to my HP32f with a Thunderbolt 2 to HDMI cable. I've just upgraded my MacBook Air to a 2024 (M3) model. I'm using an Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter, to then connect to my orginal Thunderbolt 2/HDMI cable that connects to my monitor. However, the monitor is not detecting the signal. I've tried rebooting my Mac, checking the cables, etc.. However, in System Preferences, my Mac is not detecting the monitor. Any idea what the problem is? It's really frustrating. Thanks.

[Garp_senchau · Accepted solution]

@JazzyJJazzy, Welcome to HP Support Community,

Thank you for posting your query; I’m here to help by guiding you through steps to resolve this issue

The problem here lies in how the Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter works.

This adapter only supports Thunderbolt data — not video over Mini DisplayPort, which is what your HDMI cable is likely relying on. That means:

❌ It does NOT convert USB-C/DisplayPort Alt Mode video to Mini DisplayPort or HDMI video.
It only allows Thunderbolt-to-Thunderbolt connections.

Reference:

About the Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter - Apple Support (IN)

Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter - Apple (IN)

Instead of trying to go through Thunderbolt 2, you should bypass that whole chain and go directly from USB-C to HDMI using a video-capable USB-C to HDMI adapter.

Recommended Setup:

Plug a USB-C to HDMI adapter or cable directly into your new MacBook Air’s USB-C port.

Connect that to your HP32f monitor’s HDMI input.

These adapters support DisplayPort Alt Mode, which the MacBook Air supports — so your Mac will properly output video via USB-C.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reply here if you have any questions or if you need further clarification on any of the steps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Regards,

[JazzyJJazzy]

That makes sense. Thanks for your help!