On June 8, Other World Computing announced a full-featured 11 port USB-C Dock for use with the new Apple MacBook and other computers that use the USB-C port. Available in silver, space gray or gold, the new dock is available for pre-order and will ship in October.
Image credit Other World Computing
According to OWC, this USB-C Dock includes eleven ports for easy connectivity:
- Five fully-powered USB 3.1 Generation 1 ports [see note below] including: two high-power USB Type-A ports for fast mobile device charging, two USB Type-A ports, and one USB Type-C port.
- One full-speed Gigabit Ethernet port adds high-speed wired networking support for use when speed and stability are essential.
- One HDMI port provides connectivity for an external display, including support up to 4K resolution.
- One Secure Digital (SD) card reader to easily transfer photos, video or other content from an SD card.
- Two audio ports, including audio in and audio out.
- One USB-C port for connecting to your MacBook or other USB-C-enabled host machine.
Note that according to current USB nomenclature, USB 3.1 Gen 1 means USB 3.0 (5 Gbps) and USB 3.1 Gen 2 means USB 3.1 (10 Gbps).
Image credit: Other World Computing
Of significant importance, OWC states:
Included with every OWC USB-C Dock is an 80 watt power adapter. This is in contrast to other dock solutions relying on the power adapter that ships with the Apple MacBook, resulting in insufficient and unreliable power for many bus-powered USB peripherals.
The included 80 watt adapter shipping with the OWC USB-C Dock is capable of powering not only the new MacBook but also all of the USB peripherals users will directly attach. As an added benefit, users can keep the original Apple MacBook 29 watt power supply in their bag for when they are on the go.
Image credit: Other World Computing
The OWC USB-C Dock is currently available for pre-order and is scheduled to ship in October. During the pre-order period, the product is priced at US$129. The company points out that the product images provided are preliminary and subject to change.
The Mac Observer will be receiving one for review.