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Connectivity Issues with the Espresso Pro 17Updated 8 months ago

1. Why does my Espresso Pro 17 sometimes connect but then drop out?

If your Espresso Pro 17 display occasionally drops its connection after initially connecting, the issue is likely due to insufficient power being supplied to the display. Because the Espresso Pro 17 is a 4K screen, it requires more power than a standard display. A single USB-C connection might not be able to meet its power needs, especially if it's also responsible for charging your laptop or device and transmitting video data simultaneously.

2. How does insufficient power affect the connection?

When the Espresso Pro 17 doesn’t receive enough power, it may function intermittently, leading to connection drops or unstable performance. This issue is exacerbated if your device’s USB-C port is attempting to power both the display and your laptop or device at the same time, which can overwhelm the port’s power capacity.

To ensure a stable and consistent connection for your Espresso Pro 17, we recommend the following:

  • Use the EspressoCharge accessory: The EspressoCharge is specifically designed to provide the necessary power to the Espresso Pro 17, ensuring that it receives adequate power while maintaining a 4K video connection. This accessory is optimized to support both the display and your device without overloading the power supply.

4. What if I don’t have the EspressoCharge? Can I still use the Espresso Pro 17?

Yes, if you don’t have the EspressoCharge, you can still use the Espresso Pro 17 by providing additional power through a second USB-C cable. Here’s how:

  • Connect the first USB-C cable: This cable should connect your device (like a laptop) to the Espresso Pro 17, handling video data and partial power.
  • Connect a second USB-C cable: Use a second USB-C cable to connect the Espresso Pro 17 to an additional power source, such as a wall charger or a power bank. This setup ensures that the display receives sufficient power independently of your device.

5. Why isn’t the device power pass-through sufficient for both the display and the laptop?

While the USB-C power pass-through from your laptop or device can handle certain tasks, powering both a 4K display and charging your laptop at the same time often exceeds the power capabilities of a single port. This can lead to instability in the connection, causing the display to drop out as it competes with the laptop for limited power.

If you notice that your Espresso Pro 17 works fine initially but then begins to drop the connection or flicker, it’s a strong indication that the display isn’t receiving enough power. This is particularly likely if you’re using only one USB-C cable for both power and video.

7. Does the type of USB-C cable matter?

Yes, the type and quality of the USB-C cable can impact the performance of your Espresso Pro 17. Ensure that the cables you use support both power delivery and 4K video output. Using high-quality, certified USB-C cables is essential to avoid power or connectivity issues.

8. What other factors can affect the connection stability?

In addition to power supply issues, other factors could include:

  • Low-quality or damaged cables: Poor-quality cables might not deliver sufficient power or data.
  • Multiple peripherals connected: Using a USB-C hub with multiple peripherals connected might also reduce the power available to the display.
  • Insufficient power from the laptop: Some laptops or tablets may not supply enough power through their USB-C ports, especially when running on battery.

9. Is the EspressoCharge the only accessory that can help?

While the EspressoCharge is designed to complement the Espresso Pro 17 perfectly, any reliable USB-C power source with sufficient wattage should work. The key is to ensure that the power source can deliver enough power to support both the 4K display and your laptop’s charging needs.

10. What should I do if I continue to experience issues?

If you continue to experience connection drops or instability even after providing additional power:

  • Check all connections: Ensure that all USB-C cables are securely connected.
  • Test with different cables or power sources: Sometimes, the issue could be with the cable or power source itself.
  • Contact Support: If issues persist, reach out to Espresso Displays customer support for further assistance.
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