[Article published March 10, 2020]
Windows 10 is the first Microsoft Operating System to fully support the Thunderbolt protocol.
Some computers have the ability to add a Thunderbolt option card while some already provide a dedicated port marked with the Thunderbolt logo.
Thunderbolt 3 ports are completely backward compatible with Thunderbolt 2 and Thunderbolt 1*
When installing an option card:
- The Thunderbolt option card must be compatible with the motherboard you are using it with.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.
- BIOS settings must be enabled to use Thunderbolt. (Some are on by Default)
- The option card firmware must be updated: https://thunderbolttechnology.net/updates
- Universal Control must be installed.
- Thunderbolt Software must be set to "Always Connect".
When using a built-in Thunderbolt port:
- BIOS settings must be enabled to use Thunderbolt. (Some are on by Default)
- The onboard chipset firmware must be updated: https://thunderbolttechnology.net/updates
- Universal Control must be installed.
- Thunderbolt Software must be set to "Always Connect".
Power Plan
Universal Control offers the ability to disable C-states from within the program. The previous method can be found here: https://support.presonus.com/hc/en-us/articles/360028620552-Pops-and-Clicks-on-Windows-10-with-Quantum-Series
To access the power profile from within Universal Control, click Settings\Options...\General to select "Enable optimized PreSonus power plan for Thunderbolt Audio Streaming"
For Articles Related to Thunderbolt 3 Adapters and backward compatibility see:
https://support.presonus.com/hc/en-us/articles/360040365252-Connecting-Thunderbolt-with-Quantum-2626