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Getting Started

This manual provides a reference for end-users installing for the first time and using their hub afterwards, as well as a guide for product safety-related information.

The ThunderSync5-C16 PD is intended to be used in an indoor static environment within the tested specifications to provide charge, sync and management functionality. Please see the Hub Specifications and Key Specifications for environment and product specifications.

Unpacking your product​

When you have received your product, check the packing slip inside the box to ensure all contents and quantities are correct before opening. When opening the packaging, use a suitable method (do not use a knife) to avoid damaging the product.

CAUTION
Personal injury and damage to the product — A label on the hub may advise you to read the User manual before use. Remove it before use if it is covering host ports, vents, etc.

What's included​

  • Thunderbolt™ 5 cable — to provide communication between the host system and hub
  • ThunderSync5-C16 PD hub
  • 2 m Mains power cable — country specified on order (including fuse for UK plugs)
  • Power Supply Unit

Consumables and placing orders​

If you require spare parts such as cables, quote the product part number (200688 for the hub; 200656 for the PSU) when ordering. These can be ordered from the reseller or solution partner you purchased from, or from Cambrionix directly.

Connecting to the mains​

Adhere to local safety regulations. Connect the power cable to the socket and switch the power supply on. The hub is then ready to charge attached devices.

Periodically inspect the power supply cables and any USB cables for damage. If any damage is found, replace the damaged cord before further use.

Connecting to a host​

A "host system" is the system you use to connect and control your devices and hubs (e.g. Windows PC, macOS or Linux).

Once power is connected, connect the ThunderSync5-C16 PD to your host using a Thunderbolt™ 5 cable (one is supplied). We recommend using the supplied cable. If your host does not have a matching port, use the supplied cable with an adapter to complete the connection at the host. Using an incorrect host cable may result in the hub and ports not being recognised.

The host must have a Thunderbolt™ connection (look for the Thunderbolt™ logo on the port). If your host does not have Thunderbolt™ natively, you may be able to add it via an expansion card; check the card’s requirements (e.g. Thunderbolt header, PCIe slot, space for the card).

Cambrionix recommend using the Thunderbolt™ cable supplied with the ThunderSync5-C16 PD. For 80 Gbps (Thunderbolt 5), use a suitable certified cable. A Thunderbolt™ 5 cable is backwards compatible with older Thunderbolt™ ports; data transfer speeds will adjust to the host’s maximum. Only one host can be connected at a time.

Please note: USB specifications require a minimum 100 mA charge current during data transfer. If the attached device has a BC1.2 compliant CDP port, the device can draw up to 3 A whilst transferring data.

Connecting devices to your ThunderSync5-C16 PD​

"Devices" means any USB device you connect to the hub (phone, tablet, USB drive, etc.). We recommend using the OEM cable supplied with the device. If the cable or plug is not the same USB type as the hub’s Type-C sockets, you will need an adapter or different cable.

Cables: Some USB cables are data-only or power-only; others support both. Verify a cable’s capabilities before use and choose one that supports the speeds and power you need.

Charging​

Your ThunderSync5-C16 PD allows devices to charge at the maximum rate possible, up to 3 A (standard) or up to 60 W per port with USB Power Delivery where supported. The hub presents charging capability to the device; the device’s USB charging controller determines how much current it draws.

Although up to 3 A (and higher with PD) is possible, the device itself sets the exact rate, so you may not see maximum charging on every device type.