Article ID: 000032285 Content Type: Product Information & Documentation Last Reviewed: 07/29/2021

Intel® NUC Kits Can't be Powered via Thunderbolt™ from a Docking Station

Environment

USB Type-C docking station Intel® NUC Kits NUC8i3BE, NUC8i5BE, NUC8i7BE

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Summary

This article explains why it is not possible to power an Intel® NUC Kit through Thunderbolt™ from a docking station.

Description

Can you power an Intel® NUC Kit using Thunderbolt™ port via a docking station, instead of using its own external power supply?

Resolution

Intel NUC Kits aren't designed to be powered via USB-C.

The Technical Product Specification specifies the Thunderbolt charging capabilities is only up to 5 volts, which isn't enough for the Intel NUC Kit to function. By design, the board should be powered through the 12-19 V DC connector on the back panel.