Dell WD19TBS User Guide

Dell Docking Station WD19TBS Thunderbolt

User Guide

Reg ula tor y M ode l: K20 A
Reg ula tor y T ype : K 20A 001
Feb rua ry 202 1
Rev . A 00

Notes, cautions, and warnings

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your product.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid

the problem.

WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

© 2021 Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. All rights reserved. Dell, EM C, and other trademarks are trademarks of Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. Oth er
trademarks may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction................................................................................................................. 4

Chapter 2: Package contents ....................................................................................................... 5

Chapter 3: Hardware requirements................................................................................................ 7

Chapter 4: Identifying Parts and Features .................................................................................... 8

Chapter 5: Important Information................................................................................................ 12

Chapter 6: Quick Setup of Hardware ........................................................................................... 13

Chapter 7: Setup of External Monitors......................................................................................... 18

Updating the graphics drivers for your computer......................................................................................................18

Configuring your Monitors............................................................................................................................................... 18

Display bandwidth.............................................................................................................................................................. 19

Display Resolution Table................................................................................................................................................... 19

Chapter 8: Removing the USB Type-C cable module ................................................................... 22

Chapter 9: Technical specifications............................................................................................. 26

LED Status Indicators..................................................................................................................................................26

Power Adapter LED................................................................................................................................................. 26

Docking Status Indicator...................................................................................................................................... 26

Docking specifications..................................................................................................................................................... 26

Input/Output (I/O) Connectors.............................................................................................................................. 28

Dell ExpressCharge and ExpressCharge boost overview........................................................................................ 28

Chapter 10: Dell docking station firmware update .......................................................................29

Chapter 11: Frequently asked questions....................................................................................... 32

Chapter 12: Troubleshooting the Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS .............................34

Symptoms and solutions..................................................................................................................................................34

Chapter 13: Getting help..............................................................................................................37

Contacting Dell...................................................................................................................................................................37

Contents 3

Introduction

The Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS is a device that links all your electronic devices to your system using a
Thunderbolt 3 (Type-C) cable interface. Connecting the system to the docking station allows you to access all peripherals
(mouse, keyboard, stereo speakers, external hard drive, and large-screen displays) without having to plug each one into the
system.

CAUTION: Update your system’s BIOS, graphic drivers, Thunderbolt driver, Thunderbolt firmware and the

Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS drivers to the latest versions available at www.dell.com/support

BEFORE using the docking station. Older BIOS versions and drivers could result your system not recognizing the

docking station or not functioning optimally. Always check if any recommended firmware is available for your

docking station at www.dell.com/support.

1

4 Introduction

Package contents

Your docking station ships with the components shown below. Ensure that you have received all the components and contact
Dell (see your invoice for contact information) if something is missing.

Table 1. Package contents

Contents Specifications

1. Docking station
with USB Type-C
cable

2. Power adapter

3. Power cord

2

Quick Setup Guide
(QSG)

Package contents 5

Table 1. Package contents (continued)

Contents Specifications

Safety, Environmental,
and Regulatory
Information

6 Package contents

Hardware requirements

Before using the docking station, ensure that your system has a DisplayPort (Supported) or Thunderbolt port (Recommended)
over USB Type-C designed to support the docking station.

NOTE: Dell Docking stations are supported with select Dell systems. See the Dell Commercial Docking Compatibility Guide

for the list of supported systems and recommended docking.

3

Hardware requirements 7

4

Identifying Parts and Features

Figure 1. Top view

1.

NOTE:

Station WD19TBS to supported Dell systems, the dock button works like your system's power button and you can use it to

power on/sleep/force shutdown the system.

NOTE: The dock button is not functional when connected to unsupported Dell systems or non-Dell systems.

8 Identifying Parts and Features

Sleep/Wake up/Power button

The dock button is designed to replicate your system's power button. If you connect the Dell Thunderbolt Docking

Figure 2. Front view

1. USB 3.1 Gen1/Gen2 Type-C port

2. USB 3.1 Gen1 port with PowerShare

Figure 3. Left view

1. Wedge-shaped lock slot

2. Kensington lock slot

Identifying Parts and Features

9

Figure 4. Back view

1. DisplayPort 1.4 (2)

2. HDMI2.0 port

3. USB 3.1 Gen1/Gen2 Type-C port with DisplayPort 1.4

4. USB 3.1 Gen1 port (2)

5.

6.

7. Type-C with Thunderbolt 3 port (connected to a Thunderbolt 3 host)/ Type-C USB2.0 port (connected to a
non-Thunderbolt host).

10

Network connector (RJ-45)

Power connector

Identifying Parts and Features

Figure 5. Bottom view

1. Service tag label

Identifying Parts and Features

11

5

Important Information

Dell Docking Station drivers (Realtek USB GBE Ethernet Controller Driver) are required to be installed before using the docking
station for full functionality. Dell recommends updating the system BIOS, graphics driver, Thunderbolt driver, and Thunderbolt
firmware to the latest version before using the docking station. Older BIOS versions and drivers could result in the docking
station not being recognized by your system or not functioning optimally.

Dell highly recommends the following applications to automate the installation of BIOS, firmware, driver, and critical updates
specific to your system and docking station:

● Dell | Update - for Dell XPS systems only.

● Dell Command | Update - for Dell Latitude, Dell Precision, or XPS systems.

These applications are available for download on the Drivers & Downloads page for your product at www.dell.com/support

Updating the Dell Docking Station driver set

To fully support the new generation Dell Docking Station , it is highly recommended to install the following BIOS/Drivers on a
64–bit Windows operating system:

1. Go to www.dell.com/support and click Detect Product to Autodefect your product, or enter your system’s Service Tag in
the Enter a Service Tag or Express Service Code field, or click View Products to browse to your system model.

2. Flash the latest BIOS available for the system. This is available for download at dell.com/support under the “BIOS” section.
Restart the system before the next step.

3. Install the latest Intel HD/NVIDIA/AMD Graphics drivers available for the system. This is available for download at

www.dell.com/support/drivers. Restart the system before the next step.

4. Install the Realtek USB GBE Ethernet Controller Driver for available for your system. This is available for download at
dell.com/support under the “Docks/Stand” section.

12 Important Information

Quick Setup of Hardware

Steps

1. Update your system's BIOS, graphics and drivers from www.dell.com/support/drivers.

6

Quick Setup of Hardware 13

2. Connect the AC adapter to a power outlet. Then, connect the AC adapter to the 7.4 mm DC-in power input on the Dell
Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS .

14

Quick Setup of Hardware

Figure 6. Connecting the AC Adapter

3. Connect the USB Type-C connector to the system.

Update the Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS firmware from www.dell.com/support/drivers.

Quick Setup of Hardware

15

Figure 7. Connecting the USB Type-C connector

4. Connect multiple displays to the docking station, as needed.

16

Quick Setup of Hardware

Figure 8. Connecting the multiple displays

Quick Setup of Hardware

17

7

Setup of External Monitors

Topics:

• Updating the graphics drivers for your computer

Configuring your Monitors

•

• Display bandwidth

• Display Resolution Table

Updating the graphics drivers for your computer

The Microsoft Windows operating systems include the VGA graphics drivers only. Therefore, for optimum graphics performance,
it is recommended that Dell graphics drivers applicable for your computer be installed from dell.com/support under the “Video”
section

NOTE:

1. For nVidia Discrete Graphics solutions on the supported Dell systems:

a. First, install the Intel Media Adapter Graphics Driver applicable to your computer.

b. Second, install the nVidia Discrete Graphics Driver applicable to your computer.

2. For AMD Discrete Graphics solutions on the supported Dell systems:

a. First, install the Intel Media Adapter Graphics driver applicable to your computer.

b. Second, install the AMD Discrete Graphics driver applicable to your computer.

Configuring your Monitors

If connecting two displays, follow these steps:

Steps

1. Click the Start button, and then select Settings.

2. Click System and select Display.

18 Setup of External Monitors

3. Under the Multiplay displays section, select Extend these displays.

Display bandwidth

External monitors require a certain amount of bandwidth to work properly. Monitors with higher resolution require more
bandwidth.

● DisplayPort High Bit Rate 2 (HBR2) is DP 1.2 (5.4 Gbps maximum link rate per lane). With DP overhead, the effective data
rate is 4.3 Gbps per lane.

● DisplayPort High Bit Rate 3 (HBR3) is DP 1.4 (8.1 Gbps maximum link rate per lane). With DP overhead, the effective data
rate is 6.5 Gbps per lane.

Table 2. Display bandwidth

Resolution Minimum bandwidth required

1 x FHD (1920 x 1080) display @60 Hz 3.2 Gbps

1 x QHD (2560 x 1440) display @60 Hz 5.6 Gbps

1 x 4K (3840 x 2160) display @30 Hz 6.2 Gbps

1 x 4K (3840 x 2160) display @60 Hz 12.5 Gbps

Display Resolution Table

Table 3. WD19TBS for Non-Thunderbolt systems

Display Port
Available
Bandwidth

HBR2 (HBR2 x2
lanes - 8.6 Gbps)

Single Display
(maximum
resolution)

DP1.4/HDMI2.0/
MFDP Type-C: 4K
(3840 x 2160) @30
Hz

Dual Display
(maximum
resolution)

● DP1.4 + DP1.4:
FHD (1920 x

1080) @60 Hz

Triple Display (maximum
resolution)

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 +
HDMI2.0:

○ 1 x FHD (1920 x

1080) @60 Hz

Setup of External Monitors 19

Quad Display (maximum
resolution)

NA

Table 3. WD19TBS for Non-Thunderbolt systems (continued)

Display Port
Available
Bandwidth

HBR3 (HBR3 x2
lanes - 12.9 Gbps)

Single Display
(maximum
resolution)

DP1.4/HDMI2.0/
MFDP Type-C: 4K
(3840 x 2160) @60
Hz

Dual Display
(maximum
resolution)

● DP1.4 + HDMI2.0:
FHD (1920 x

1080) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + MFDP
Type-C: FHD
(1920 x 1080)
@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4:
QHD (2560 x

1440) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + HDMI2.0:
QHD (2560 x

1440) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + MFDP
Type-C: QHD
(2560 x 1440)
@60 Hz

Table 4. WD19TBS for Thunderbolt systems

Display Port
Available
Bandwidth

Single Display
(maximum
resolution)

Dual Display
(maximum
resolution)

Triple Display (maximum
resolution)

○ 2 x HD (1280 x 720)

@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 + MFDP
Type-C:

○ 1 x FHD (1920 x

1080) @60 Hz

○ 2 x HD (1280 x 720)

@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 +
HDMI2.0: FHD (1920 x

1080) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 + MFPD
Type-C: FHD (1920 x

1080) @60 Hz

Triple Display (maximum
resolution)

Quad Display (maximum
resolution)

NA

Quad Display (maximum
resolution)

HBR2 (HBR2 x8
lanes - 34.5 Gbps)

HBR3 (HBR3 x4
lanes + HBR3 x1 -

32.4 Gbps)

For Precision
7530/7540/7730/
7740 with discrete
graphics card

DP1.4/HDMI2.0/
MFDP Type-C/USB
Type-C TB: 4K (3840
x 2160) @60 Hz

DP1.4/HDMI2.0/
MFDP Type-C/USB
Type-C TB: 8K
(7689x4320) @30
Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4:
QHD (2560 x

1440) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + HDMI2.0:
QHD (2560 x

1440) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + MFDP
Type-C: QHD
(2560 x 1440)
@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + USB
Type-C TB: 4K
(3840 x 2160)
@60 Hz

● HDMI2.0 + USB
Type-C TB: 4K
(3840 x 2160)
@60 Hz

● MFDP Type-C +
USB Type-C TB:
4K (3840 x 2160)
@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4:
4K (3840 x 2160)
@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + HDMI2.0:
4K (3840 x 2160)
@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + MFDP
Type-C: 4K (3840
x 2160) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 +
HDMI2.0: 2 x QHD
(2560 x 1440) @60 Hz
+ 1 x FHD (1920 x

1080)

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 + MFDP
Type-C: 2 x QHD (2560
x 1440) @60 Hz + 1 x
FHD (1920 x 1080)

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 + USB
Type-C TB: 3 x QHD
(2560 x 1440) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + MFDP Type-C
+ USB Type-C TB: 3
x QHD (2560 x 1440)
@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + HDMI2.0 +
USB Type-C TB: 3 x
QHD (2560 x 1440)
@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 +
HDMI2.0:

○ 1 x 4K (3840 x

2160) @60 Hz

○ 2 x QHD (2560 x

1440) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 + MFDP
Type-C:

NA

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 +
HDMI2.0 + USB Type-C
TB: QHD (2560 x 1440)
@60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 + MFDP
Type-C + USB Type-C
TB: QHD (2560 x 1440)
@60 Hz

20 Setup of External Monitors

Table 4. WD19TBS for Thunderbolt systems (continued)

Display Port
Available
Bandwidth

Single Display
(maximum
resolution)

Dual Display
(maximum
resolution)

● DP1.4 + USB
Type-C TB:

○ 1 x 4K (3840 x

2160) @60 Hz

○ 1 x QHD

(2560 x 1440)
@60 Hz

● HDMI2.0 + USB
Type-C TB:

○ 1 x 4K (3840 x

2160) @60 Hz

○ 1 x QHD

(2560 x 1440)
@60 Hz

● MFDP Type-C +
USB Type-C TB:

○ 1 x 4K (3840 x

2160) @60 Hz

○ 1 x QHD

(2560 x 1440)
@60 Hz

Triple Display (maximum
resolution)

○ 1 x 4K (3840 x

2160) @60 Hz

○ 2 x QHD (2560 x

1440) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + DP1.4 + USB
Type-C TB:

○ 2 x 4K (3840 x

2160) @60 Hz

○ 1 x QHD (2560 x

1440) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + MFDP Type-C
+ USB Type-C TB:

○ 2 x 4K (3840 x

2160) @60 Hz

○ 1 x QHD (2560 x

1440) @60 Hz

● DP1.4 + HDMI2.0 +
USB Type-C TB:

○ 2 x 4K (3840 x

2160) @60 Hz

○ 1 x QHD (2560 x

1440) @60 Hz

Quad Display (maximum
resolution)

NOTE: HDMI2.0 and MFDP (Multi-Function DisplayPort) Type-C ports on the back of all docks in the WD19S family are

toggled. HDMI2.0 and MFDP Type-C cannot support dual monitors simultaneously. Only one of these ports can be used as a

display device at a time.

NOTE: If higher resolution monitors are used, the Graphics driver makes a judgment based on monitor specifications and

display configurations. Some resolutions may not be supported and so will be removed from the Windows Display Control

Panel.

NOTE: Linux operating system is unable to physically turn-off built-in display, the external display numbers will be one less

than the display numbers listed in above tables.

If the Display Port Data Rate is HBR2, then, the maximum resolution that Linux supports is 8192 x 8192 (counted with

built-in display plus external display).

WD19TBS for Thunderbolt systems with HBR2:

1. If the built-in display resolution is FHD (1920 x 1080 @60 Hz), two external displays with QHD (2560 x 1440) @60 Hz

could be supported.

2. If the built-in display resolution is 4K (3840 x 2160 @60 Hz), only one external display with QHD (2560 x 1440) @60 Hz

could be supported.

NOTE: Resolution support is also dependent on the monitor’s Extended Display Identification Data (EDID) resolution.

NOTE: Configuration that is supported with AMD and Nvidia in discrete-only mode or special-graphics mode. These modes

are listed in the BIOS for the Dell Precision mobile workstations 7000 series and will require disabling switchable graphics

for discrete-only mode or enabling special-graphics mode when Switchable is enabled. If the system does not have these

options in the BIOS, then four monitors are NOT supported.

NOTE: The 5K resolution support is only available in either of these conditions:

1. With discrete graphics mode only, or special graphics mode, or

2. Using the Thunderbolt 3 Type–C to a dual DisplayPort adapter.

Setup of External Monitors 21

Removing the USB Type-C cable module

Prerequisites

The Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS is shipped with the USB Type-C cable attached. To remove/change the cable
module, follow these steps:

Steps

1. Turn over the docking station.

8

22 Removing the USB Type-C cable module

2. Remove the two M2.5 x 5 screws [1], and turn over the docking station [2].

Removing the USB Type-C cable module 23

3. Gently pull the cable module away from the docking station.

24 Removing the USB Type-C cable module

4. Lift and remove the USB Type-C cable module from its connector inside the docking station.

Removing the USB Type-C cable module 25

Technical specifications

Topics:

• LED Status Indicators

Docking specifications

•

• Input/Output (I/O) Connectors

• Dell ExpressCharge and ExpressCharge boost overview

LED Status Indicators

Power Adapter LED

Table 5. Power Adapter LED indicator

State LED Behavior

Power Adapter is plugged into wall socket Flash three times

9

Docking Status Indicator

Table 6. Docking Station LED Indicators

State LED Behavior

Docking station is receiving power from power adapter Flash three times

Table 7. Cable LED Indicators

State LED Behavior

USB Type-C host supports video + data + power On

USB Type-C host does not support video + data + power Off (will not illuminate)

Table 8. RJ-45 LED Indicators

Link Speed Indicators Ethernet Activity Indicator

10 Mb = Green Amber Flashing

100 Mb = Amber

1 Gb = Green + Orange

Docking specifications

Table 9. Docking Specifications

Features Specifications

Standard Thunderbolt 3 (Type-C)

Video Ports

26 Technical specifications

● USB 3.1 Gen1/Gen2 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 or HDMI2.0 x1

Table 9. Docking Specifications (continued)

Features Specifications

● DisplayPort++ 1.4 x2

● Rear Thunderbolt 3 (Type-C), when connected to a Thunderbolt 3 host.

Network Port

USB Ports

DC-in Port 7.4 mm DC-in port x1

USB Type-C cable length 0.8 m

Power delivery Dell systems

Button

● Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45) x1

● Support Wake On LAN from S3, S4, or S5 sleep state with select Dell systems.

See platform setup guide for more details.

● Support MAC Address Pass-Through with select Dell systems. See platform
setup guide for more details.

● Front USB 3.1 Gen1 x1: Dell PowerShare BC1.2; 2 A @ 5 V (max 10 W)

● Front USB 3.1 Gen1/Gen2 Type-C: 1.5 A @ 5 V (max 7.5 W)

● Rear USB 3.1 Gen1 x2: 0.9 A @ 5 V (max 4.5 W)

● Rear USB 3.1 Gen1/Gen2 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 x1: 1.5 A @ 5 V (max 7.5

W)

● Rear Thunderbolt Type-C Port: 3 A @ 5 V (max 15 W)

● 130 W power capability to Dell systems with 180 W AC-adapter

Non-Dell systems

● Maximum 90 W to Non-Dell system with 180 W AC-adapter

● Sleep/Wakeup/Power button

Table 10. Environment specifications

Feature Specifications

Temperature range Operating: 0°C–35°C (32°F–95°F)

Non-operating:

● Storage: -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)

● Shipping: -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)

Relative humidity Operating: 10% to 80% (non-condensing)

Non-operating:

● Storage: 5% to 90% (non-condensing)

● Shipping: 5% to 90% (non-condensing)

Dimension 205 mm x 90 mm x 29 mm

Weight 450 g (0.99 lb)

VESA Mounting options Yes—using Dell Docking station mounting kit

Table 11. Dell Thunderbolt 3 Dock - WD19TBS Power Adapter

Adapter Specifications 180 W

Input voltage 100 VAC–240 VAC

Input current (max) 2.34 A

Input frequency 50 Hz–60 Hz

Output current 9.23 A (continuous)

Rated output voltage 19.5 VDC

Technical specifications 27

Input/Output (I/O) Connectors

The Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS has the following I/O connectors:

Table 12. I/O connectors

Ports Connectors

Video Ports

Input/Output Ports

● DisplayPort++ 1.4 x2

● USB 3.1 Gen1/Gen2 with DisplayPort 1.4 or HDMI2.0 x1

● Rear Thunderbolt 3 (Type-C), when connected to a Thunderbolt 3 host.

● USB 3.1 Gen1 x 2

● USB 3.1 Gen1 with PowerShare x 1

● USB 3.1 Gen1/Gen2 Type-C

● Type-C Thunderbolt 3 port or Type-C USB2.0 port

● 7.4 mm DC-in x 1

● Gigabit Ethernet (RJ–45) x 1

Dell ExpressCharge and ExpressCharge boost overview

● Dell ExpressCharge enables an empty battery to charge to 80% in about one hour when the system is turned off and to
100% in approximately two hours.

● Dell ExpressCharge Boost enables an empty battery to charge to 35% in 15 minutes.

● Metrics are created for system off given charge time with the system on has varied results.

● Customers must enable ExpressCharge mode in the BIOS or through Dell Power Manager to take advantage of these

features.

● Check your Dell Latitude or Dell Precision system for the battery size using the table to determine compatibility.

Table 13. Dell ExpressCharge compatibility

Power Delivery to System Max Battery Size for

ExpressCharge

90 W with 130 W adapter 92 Whr 53 Whr

130 W with 180 W adapter 100 Whr 76 Whr

Max Battery Size for
ExpressCharge Boost

28 Technical specifications

10

Dell docking station firmware update

Standalone Dock Firmware Update utility

NOTE: Information that is provided is for Windows users running the executable tool. For other operating systems or

further detailed instructions see the WD19 admin guide available on www.dell.com/support.

Download the TB driver and firmware update from www.dell.com/support. Connect the dock to the system and start the tool in
administrative mode.

1. Wait for all the information to be entered in the various Graphical User Interface (GUI) panes.

2. Update and Exit buttons are displayed in the bottom-right corner. Click the Update button.

Dell docking station firmware update 29

3. Wait for all the component firmware update to complete. A progress bar is displayed in the bottom.

4. The update status is displayed above the payload information.

NOTE:

While the model number appearing in the Dell Firmware Update Utility images above shows WD19S, the same steps

are applicable for WD19TBS as well.

Table 14. Command-Line Options

Command lines Function

/? or /h Usage.

/s Silent.

/l=<filename> Log file.

/verflashexe Display utility version.

/componentsvers Display current version of all dock firmware components.

30 Dell docking station firmware update

For IT professionals and engineers, to get more information about the following technical topics, see the Dell Docking Station
TBS Administrator's Guide:

● Step-by-step stand-alone DFU (Dock Firmware Update) and driver update utilities.

● Using DCU (Dell Command | Update) for driver download.

● Dock asset management locally and remotely through DCM (Dell Command | Monitor) and SCCM (System Center

Configuration Manager).

Dell docking station firmware update 31

Frequently asked questions

1. The fan is not working after connecting with the system.

● The fan is triggered by temperature. The dock fan will not rotate until the dock is hot enough to trigger a thermal

threshold.
Vice versa, if your dock is not cool enough, the fan will not stop even when you disconnect the dock from the system.

●

2. The dock does not work after high-speed fan noise.

● When you hear a loud fan noise, it is warning you that the dock is in some kind of a hot condition. For example, the

vent in the dock may be blocked or the dock is working in a high working-temperature environment (> 35C), etc,.
Please eliminate these abnormal conditions from the dock. If you do not eliminate the abnormal condition, in a worst-case
situation, the dock will shut down through the over-temperature protection mechanism. Once this happens, please
un-plug the Type-C cable from the system and remove the dock’s power. Then wait 15 seconds and plug in the dock
power to recover the dock back online.

3. I hear a fan noise when I plug in the dock’s AC adapter.

● This is a normal condition. First time plugging in of the dock’s AC adapter will trigger the fan to rotate, but it will

subsequently turn off very soon.

4. I hear a loud fan noise. What’s wrong?

● The dock fan is designed with five different rotate speeds. Normally, the dock will work on low fan speed. If you put the

dock in a heavy loading, or in a high working-temperature environment, the dock fan may have a chance to work at a
high speed. But, this is normal and the fan will work at a low/high speed depending on the work loading.

11

Table 15. Fan states

State State name Fan speed (rpm)

0 Fan off Off

1 Fan minimum 1900

2 Fan low 2200

3 Fan medium 2900

4 Fan medium-high 3200

5 Fan high 3600

5. What is the charging station feature?

● The Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS can charge your mobile or power bank even without being connected to

the system. Just make sure your dock is connected to external power. The dock fan will rotate automatically if the dock
gets too warm. This is normal working condition.

6. Why am I asked to approve Thunderbolt Devices after the Windows logon and what should I do?

● This is for Thunderbolt security. You are asked to approve a Thunderbolt device because the Thunderbolt Security level

on your unit is set to “User Authorization” or “Secure Connect” in the BIOS Setup. You will not see this page if the
Thunderbolt Security level on your system is set to “No Security” or “DisplayPort Only”. Also, if you checked “Enable
Thunderbolt Boot Support” in the BIOS Setup and power-on the system with the WD19TBS dock attached, you will not
see this page because the Security level is overridden to “No Security” in this case. When you are asked to approve
a Thunderbolt device, you may select “Always Connect” if you do not have any security concerns to always allow the
Thunderbolt device connection to your system. Or you may select “Connect Only Once” or “Do Not Connect” if you do
have concerns.

7. Why does it take a long time for the system to recognize all the peripheral devices which are attached to the

docking station?

● Security is always Dell’s highest priority. We ship our systems with “Security level - User Authorization” setting by

default. This allows our customers to review the Thunderbolt security conditions of their systems so they can make
selections accordingly. However, this also means the Thunderbolt dock and the devices attached to it will need to pass
Thunderbolt driver security permission checking to get it connected and initialized. This normally means some extra time
is needed before these devices can be accessed by users.

8. Why does the hardware installation window show up when I plug in a USB device to the docking stations ports?

32 Frequently asked questions

● When a new device is plugged in, the USB hub driver notifies the Plug and Play (PnP) manager that a new device was

detected. The PnP manager queries the hub driver for all of the device's hardware IDs and then notifies the Windows OS
that a new device needs to be installed. In this scenario, the user will see a hardware installation window.

https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/hardware/drivers/install/step-1--the-new-device-is-identified

https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/hardware/drivers/install/identifiers-for-usb-devices

9. Why do the peripheral devices, which are connected to the dock station, become unresponsive after recovering

from a power loss?

● Our Dell Thunderbolt dock is designed to operate on AC power only and it does not support system power source back

(powered by system Type-C port). A power loss event will make all devices on the dock fail to work. Even when you
restore the AC power, the dock may still not function properly because the dock still needs to negotiate proper power
contract with the system's Type-C port and establish a system EC-to-dock-EC connection.

10. When BIOS is set to default, it does not respond to the F2 or F12 at POST from an external keyboard attached

to the dock. It boots to the operating system and the keyboard and mouse only work after the operating system
boots.

● To enable F2 and F12 options from the dock, you must enable boot support for thunderbolt devices and must set fast

boot to through or auto in the BIOS (scroll down in the BIOS section to see the note about this function).

Frequently asked questions 33

Troubleshooting the Dell Thunderbolt

Docking Station WD19TBS

Topics:

• Symptoms and solutions

Symptoms and solutions

Table 16. Symptoms and solutions

Symptoms Suggested solutions

12

No video on the monitors that are attached to the High
Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), or DisplayPort (DP)
port on the docking station.

● Ensure that the latest BIOS and drivers for your system
and the docking station are installed on your system.

● Ensure that your system is connected to the docking
station securely. Try to disconnect and reconnect the
docking station to the notebook system.

● Disconnect both ends of the video cable and check for
damaged/bent pins. Securely re-connect the cable to the
monitor and docking station.

● Ensure the video cable (HDMI, or DisplayPort) is
connected properly to the monitor and the docking station.
Ensure to select the correct video source on your monitor
(see your monitor’s documentation for more information
about changing the video source).

● Check the resolution settings on your system. Your
monitor may support higher resolutions than what the
docking station can support. See the Display Resolution

Table for more information about maximum resolution

capacity.

● If your monitor is connected to the docking station, the
video output on your system may be disabled. You can
enable the video output using the Windows Control Panel
or see the User Guide of your system.

● If only one monitor is shown, while the other is not, go to
Windows Display Properties, and under Multiple Displays,
select the output for the second monitor.

● Using Intel graphics and using the system LCD, only two
additional displays can be supported.

● For NVIDIA or AMD discrete graphics, the dock supports
three external displays plus the system LCD.

● Try with a different monitor and cable that is known to be
good, if possible.

The video on the attached monitor is distorted or flickering.

34 Troubleshooting the Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS

● Reset the monitor to Factory Defaults. See the User Guide
of your monitor for more information about how to reset
the monitor to factory defaults.

● Ensure that the video cable (HDMI, or DisplayPort) is
connected securely to the monitor and the docking
station.

● Disconnect and reconnect the monitor/s from the docking
station.

Table 16. Symptoms and solutions (continued)

Symptoms Suggested solutions

● First power off the docking station by disconnecting
the Type-C cable and then removing the power adapter
from the dock. Then, power on the docking station by
connecting power adapter to the dock before connecting
the Type-C cable to your system.

● Undock and reboot the system if, the above steps do not
work.

The video on the attached monitor is not displaying as an
Extended Monitor.

The USB ports are not functioning on the docking station.

The High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP)
content is not displayed on the attached monitor.

● Ensure that the Intel HD Graphics driver is installed in the
Windows Device Manager.

● Ensure that the nVidia or AMD Graphics driver is installed
in the Windows Device Manager.

● Open the Windows Display Properties and go to Multiple
Displays control to set the display to the extended mode.

● Ensure that the latest BIOS and drivers for your system
and the docking station are installed on your system.

● If your BIOS Setup has a USB Enabled/Disabled option,
ensure it is set to Enabled.

● Verify if the device is detected in Windows Device
Manager and that the correct device drivers are installed.

● Ensure that the docking station is connected securely to
the notebook system. Try to disconnect and reconnect the
docking station to the system.

● Check the USB ports. Try plugging the USB device into
another port.

● First power off the docking station by disconnecting
the Type-C cable and then removing the power adapter
from the dock. Then, power on the docking station
by connecting the power adapter to the dock before
connecting the Type-C cable to your system.

● Dell Thunderbolt Dock supports HDCP up to HDCP 2.2.

NOTE: User's monitor/display must support HDCP 2.2

The LAN port is not functioning.

Cable LED is not ON after it is connected to your host.

USB port has no function in a pre-OS environment.

● Ensure that the latest BIOS and drivers for your system
and the docking station are installed on your system.

● Ensure that the RealTek Gigabit Ethernet Controller is
installed in the Windows Device Manager.

● If your BIOS Setup has a LAN/GBE Enabled/Disabled
option, ensure it is set to Enabled

● Ensure that the Ethernet cable is connected securely on
the docking station and the hub/router/firewall.

● Check the status LED of the Ethernet cable to confirm
connectivity. Re-connect both ends of the Ethernet cable
if the LED is not lit.

● First power off the docking station by disconnecting
the Type-C cable and then removing the power adapter
from the dock. Then, power on the docking station
by connecting the power adapter to the dock before
connecting the Type-C cable to your system.

● Ensure the WD19TBS is connected to AC power.

● Ensure that the system is connected with the docking

station. Try to disconnect and re-connect again with the
docking station.

● If your BIOS has an Thunderbolt Configuration page,
ensure that the following options are checked:

● 1. Enable USB Boot Support

Troubleshooting the Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS 35

Table 16. Symptoms and solutions (continued)

Symptoms Suggested solutions

● 2. Enable External USB Port

● 3. Enable Thunderbolt Boot Support

PXE boot on dock does not function.

USB Boot does not function.

AC Adapter is displayed as “Not Installed” in the Battery
Information page of the Dell BIOS Setup when the Type-C
cable is connected.

Peripherals connected to the docking station do not work in a
pre-OS environment.

● If your BIOS has an integrated NIC page, select Enabled
w/PXE.

● If your BIOS Setup on your system has an Thunderbolt
Configuration page, ensure that the following options are
checked:

● 1. Enable USB Boot Support

● 2. Enable Thunderbolt Boot Support

● If your BIOS has an Thunderbolt Configuration page,

ensure that the following options are checked:

● 1. Enable USB Boot Support

● 2. Enable External USB Port

● 3. Enable Thunderbolt Boot Support

● 1. Ensure the Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS

is connected properly to its own adapter.

● 2. Ensure the cable LED of your docking station is ON.

● 3. Disconnect and re-connect the Thunderbolt 3 (Type-C)

cable to your system.

● Thunderbolt Boot Support is by default that is disabled
in BIOS Setup on your Dell system. With such default
setting the docking station and the peripherals that are
connected to the docking station do not work in a pre-OS
environment.

● If the BIOS Setup on your system has an Thunderbolt
Configuration page, check the following options to enable
docking station function in a pre-OS environment:

● Enable External USB Port

● Enable Thunderbolt Boot Support

Alert message “You have attached an undersized power
adapter to your system” is displayed when the docking station
is connected to your system.

Undersized power adapter warning message that is displayed
and cable LED are off.

No external display. USB or data and cable LED is off.

When system or dock is moved the cable LED turns off.

With Ubuntu 18.04, WIFI will be turned off when the docking
station is connected to the system and the WIFI turns On
again after rebooting the system.

● Ensure that the docking station is connected properly to
its own power adapter. Computer requiring more than 130
W power input must also be connected to their own power
adapter for charging and operating at full performance.

● First power off the docking station by disconnecting the
Type-C cable and then removing power adapter from the
dock. Then, power on the docking station by connecting
the power adapter to the dock before connecting the
Type-C cable to your system.

● The docking connector has disconnected from the
system's Thunderbolt ports. Reconnect the docking cable
from the system, wait for 15 seconds or more, and then
dock again.

● The docking connector has disconnected from the
system's Thunderbolt ports. Reconnect the docking
connector.

● Undock and reboot the system if the above steps do not
work.

● Avoid moving the system/dock when the docking cable is
connected to the system.

● Please uncheck the option Control WLAN radio in BIOS.

● Option is available in - Settings -> Power Management ->

Wireless Radio Control.

36 Troubleshooting the Dell Thunderbolt Docking Station WD19TBS

13

Getting help

Topics:

• Contacting Dell

Contacting Dell

Prerequisites

NOTE: If you do not have an active Internet connection, you can find contact information on your purchase invoice, packing

slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.

About this task

Dell provides several online and telephone-based support and service options. Availability varies by country and product, and
some services may not be available in your area. To contact Dell for sales, technical support, or customer service issues:

Steps

1. Go to Dell.com/support.

2. Select your support category.

3. Verify your country or region in the Choose a Country/Region drop-down list at the bottom of the page.

4. Select the appropriate service or support link based on your need.

Getting help 37