When configuring Windows for Thunderbolt, some aspects of the system may require close attention.
This article shows the necessary steps to configure your Thunderbolt Windows PC for use with UAD Thunderbolt devices.
- Check System Requirements
- Perform Windows Optimizations
- Install System Updates
- Optimize Settings in the BIOS/UEFI
- Check Device Permissions in Thunderbolt Control Center
Check System Requirements
Ensure your PC confidently meets the System Requirements of your UA device.
Note: Systems without Thunderbolt support are not compatible with UAD Thunderbolt devices.
How Can I Tell if My Windows PC Has Thunderbolt?
Thunderbolt 2 devices are not compatible with Windows systems that have Thunderbolt 4, including with adapters. Rack-mount Apollos can be upgraded to support Thunderbolt 4 on Windows with a Thunderbolt 3 option card.
Perform Windows Optimizations
Perform all guidelines detailed in the Windows Optimization Guide for UA Devices.
Proper optimization of Windows settings is critical to maintaining a stable system with UA devices.
Install System Updates
Ensure Windows is fully up to date: Get the latest Windows update
Visit the computer or motherboard manufacturer’s website to get critical system updates. This may include:
- BIOS version
- Chipset drivers
- Thunderbolt drivers
- Firmware version
To find the correct updates on the web, first identify the system manufacturer and model.
This info can be found by searching and opening System Information using the Start menu.
The System Summary section of the report will show manufacturer, model, and product information.
Updates can typically be found in the Drivers, Downloads, or Support section of the manufacturer’s website.
Optimize Settings in the BIOS/UEFI
Visit the computer’s BIOS to ensure critical system settings are properly configured for Thunderbolt.
For info on accessing, updating, and configuring the BIOS, refer to the manufacturer’s product documentation. Contacting the system manufacturer is also highly advised for additional qualified help with the BIOS.
Action may be required to enable Thunderbolt in the BIOS. This includes settings such as:
- Thunderbolt Support
- Thunderbolt Controller
- Thunderbolt Adapter
Connectivity and performance may improve if settings related to reduced power states are disabled. This includes:
- ASPM (Active State Power Management)
- PCIe Native Power Management
Some systems may benefit from significantly improved audio playback when CPU throttling settings are disabled in BIOS. Settings include:
- Intel TurboBoost
- Intel SpeedStep
- CPU C-States
Connectivity with Thunderbolt devices may improve if settings related to PCIe and Thunderbolt security are disabled or set to lowest level. These BIOS settings include:
- Kernel DMA Protection
- Thunderbolt Security
Notes: Disabling security settings is generally not advised for vulnerable systems. For example, a public work computer with sensitive information may want to leave security settings enabled.
The BIOS settings listed above may be phrased differently across various PC manufacturers. Some PCs have limited BIOS options where some settings may not be available. Please check your system's documentation or contact the PC manufacturer for more info.
Check Device Permissions in Thunderbolt Control Center
On some Thunderbolt systems, connected devices may be approved automatically.
Action may otherwise be required to grant permission for connected devices.
Search and open Thunderbolt Control Center using the Start menu.
Approve all Universal Audio devices by selecting Always connect.