What’s the simplest way to connect a USB-C monitor to a desktop PC?

How to Connect a USB-C Monitor to a Desktop PC: A Comprehensive Guide

Connecting a high-quality monitor to your desktop PC can significantly enhance your computing experience, especially when you’re aiming for seamless power and video transmission. If you’re considering a USB-C monitor—such as an e-ink display like the Dasung Paperlike 103—here’s a detailed overview of the best approach to establish a stable, native connection.

Understanding Your Hardware and Requirements

Before delving into the connection process, it’s essential to understand your system specifications and specific needs:

• Motherboard: Gigabyte X670 Aorus Elite
• Graphics Card: NVIDIA RTX 5080 Founders Edition
• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7800X3D
• Monitor: Dasung Paperlike 103 (an e-ink display with USB-C connectivity)

Your goal is to connect the monitor via USB-C for both power (if possible) and video signal, ensuring a direct, native connection without relying on mirroring or secondary measures.

Key Considerations for USB-C Monitor Connectivity

1. Native Support for Video and Power over USB-C:
   Look for monitors that support DisplayPort over USB-C (DP Alt Mode) for video transmission and Power Delivery (PD) for charging and powering the monitor.

2. Separate Power Input:
   Since your monitor has a secondary port for power, determine if it supports powered operation solely through USB-C or requires an external power source.

3. Compatibility with Graphics Card and Motherboard:
   Confirm that your RTX 5080 and motherboard support DisplayPort/USB-C output. Modern graphics cards typically do, but verify the output ports available.

4. Cable Quality:
   Use high-quality, certified USB-C cables capable of handling the desired data transfer and power delivery rates.

Recommended Connection Method

Given these considerations, the most straightforward and reliable solution involves:

• Using a USB-C to DisplayPort (Alt Mode) cable or adapter:
  If your RTX 5080 provides a DisplayPort output, use a USB-C to DisplayPort cable to connect directly to the monitor’s USB-C port configured for video input.

• Ensuring Power Delivery (PD):
  If the monitor supports receiving power over USB-C, connect it to a compatible power source or use a USB-C cable that supports Power Delivery to eliminate the need for a secondary power connection.

• Configuring Display Settings:
  Once connected,