Standard Computer Peripherals

Use this page for guidance on standard and recommended models of certain peripherals. This is not an exhaustive list but are the commonly used peripherals that OIT has standardized on. These standards apply to institutionally owned and managed devices (used by faculty and staff), but some information may generally apply to personally owned devices (used by students, faculty, and staff). Categories include:

• Purchasing Guidance
• Monitors/Displays
• Docks/Docking Stations
• Multi-Adapters
• Webcams
• Headsets

Note that for purposes of comparing and recommending peripherals below, we only speak to compatibility with Dell and Apple brands, as those are the two computer suppliers supported by university purchasing contracts and thus enterprise standards. The information below may apply to other brands and models, but OIT is not able to consistently test other models.

Purchasing Guidance

There are several recommended and/or accepted methods of purchasing peripherals for institutional use with campus funds:

• CU Marketplace: The preferred method to purchase peripherals because it is supported by the university's Procurement Services Center (PSC) and it contains university-negotiated pricing. For CU pricing, use the supplier's Punch-Out Catalog from within the CU Marketplace (do not use the supplier's public web site). In addition to the catalog items, many suppliers will provide custom quotes and discounts for large volume purchases - contact the supplier by viewing the supplier's contact info inside their Punch-Out Catalog. Common computer peripheral suppliers are Dell, Apple, B&H Photo Video, CDW-G, Connection, Newegg, and Staples.
  • Amazon: When an item is purchased from Amazon, it should be done through the Marketplace punchout and a P-Card should never be used on an Amazon purchase as the Marketplace method is available.
• CU Book Store: The CU Book Store stocks many computer accessories, adapters, and cables. If you need something immediately and you are on campus, this is a great option. The Book Store can also ship items, or order for pickup later.
• CU Boulder Surplus Store: The offers previously used computers and peripherals for sale, both to departments and to the public. The pricing is typically well below retail, and you may be able to source items here.

Monitors / Displays

Dell monitors are part of the university Dell contract, and the campus receives contracted pricing on the models below. To purchase, use the Dell punch-out catalog on the CU Marketplace.

Please note: The links for each model go to the manufacturer’s product page so that you can find out more information. Do not purchase from those links as they do not apply university pricing discounts.

Summary: The comparison table includes standard monitors for general workstation use, USB-C hub monitors for simplified laptop connectivity, and video conferencing monitors for spaces that need built-in meeting features. For most standard office setups, the 24-inch and 27-inch models provide a practical balance of size and resolution, while the 32-inch and 34-inch options are better suited for users who need additional screen space or higher-resolution workflows.

This is not a comprehensive list. Other Dell models are available within the CU Marketplace.

Docks / Docking Stations

Computer docking stations (or more simply, docks) are used to connect a laptop computer to one or more monitors and other peripherals. These docks are "powered", meaning that they have their own power source that also charges the laptop. In general, OIT recommends using the laptop manufacturer's branded dock, although there are other options, and Apple does not have an Apple-branded dock for MacBooks.

These docks are compatible with all Dell Precision/Pro/Pro Max models that feature USB-C and Thunderbolt connectivity. For a full model compatibility list, see the manufacturer's source information within the product listing. Dell docks are compatible with Apple MacBooks.

Dell docks are part of the university Dell contract, and the campus receives contracted pricing on the models below. To purchase, use the Dell punch-out catalog on the CU Marketplace. The links for each model go to the manufacturer’s product page so that you can find out more information. Do not purchase from those links as they do not apply university pricing discounts.

We recommend not purchasing the S or Smart Series docks as smart features may not be available in campus environments.

Connecting Dual Monitors to a MacBook Using a Dell Thunderbolt Dock

Dell Pro Dock - WD25

This is the non-Thunderbolt version of the WD25 dock and is fully compatible with Dell or Mac notebooks that support USB-C.

Number of Displays Supported

• 4

Host Interface (to computer)

• USB Type-C

Video Interfaces

• 2 x DisplayPort 1.4
• 1 x HDMI 2.1
• 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 Multi-function DisplayPort 1.4

USB Ports

• 4 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2
• 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2

Power Delivery

• 100W (Dell systems)

• 96W (non-Dell systems)

  Note: If more power delivery is required, use the Dell Pro Dock - WD25Z.

Dell Pro Thunderbolt 4 Dock - WD25TB4

This is the Thunderbolt 4 version of the WD25 dock. This dock is compatible with laptops that support Thunderbolt 3 or higher. OIT has tested this model with various Dell and MacBook models and confidently recommends this product for use at CU Boulder.

Number of Displays Supported

• 4

Host Interface (to computer)

• Thunderbolt 4

Video Interfaces

• 2 x DisplayPort 2.1
• 1 x HDMI 2.1
• 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 Multi-function DisplayPort 1.4
• 2 x Thunderbolt 4

USB Data Ports

• 4 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2
• 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2

Ethernet Technology

• 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet

Power Delivery

• 130W (Dell systems)
• 96W (non-Dell systems)

Dell Pro Thunderbolt 5 Dock - WD25TB5

This is the Thunderbolt 5 version of the WD25 dock. This dock is compatible with laptops that support Thunderbolt 3 or higher. OIT has tested this model with various Dell and MacBook models and confidently recommends this product for use at CU Boulder for higher-performance devices such as the Dell Pro Max 16 Premium, M4 Pro/Max, and M5 Pro/Max systems.

Host Interface (to computer)

• Thunderbolt 5

Video Interfaces

• 2 x DisplayPort 2.1
• 1 x HDMI 2.1
• 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 Multi-function DisplayPort 2.1
• 2 x Thunderbolt 5

USB Data Ports

• 4 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2
• 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2

Ethernet Technology

• 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet

Power Delivery

• Up to 300W (Dell systems)
• Up to 240W (non-Dell systems)

Summary: The WD25 is the standard USB-C dock for general laptop connectivity, charging, peripheral connections, and one or more external displays. The WD25TB4 is recommended for Thunderbolt-capable systems that need stronger display support, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, or broader device connectivity. The WD25TB5 is intended for higher-performance workstations that require greater power delivery and Thunderbolt 5 connectivity. In most cases, choose the dock that matches the laptop’s port type, power requirements, and monitor configuration.

Multi-Adapters

Multi-adapters are best for users who need a lightweight, portable way to add common ports such as HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet, and pass-through Power Delivery from a single USB-C connection. They are appropriate for basic workstation or travel setups, but they should not be treated as full docking stations because they do not have a dedicated power source and may offer fewer display, charging, and peripheral capabilities than powered docks.

The links for each model go to the manufacturer’s product page so that you can find out more information. Do not purchase from those links as they do not apply university pricing discounts.

Anker 543 USB-C Hub (Available in the Marketplace Amazon Punch-Out)

Port Specifications:

• 1 x Power Delivery input 65W / output 53W
• 1 x HDMI, 4K @ 30Hz
• 2 x USB-A 3.0
• 1 x USB-C 3.0
• 1 x Ethernet port, 1 Gbps
• Video display port: HDMI 1.4 / HDR: No / HDCP: 2.2
• Maximum data transfer: 5 Gbps

UGREEN Revodok 6-in-1 USB-C Hub (Available in the Marketplace Amazon Punch-Out)

Port Specifications:

• 1 x Power Delivery, 100W
• 3 x USB-A 3.0
• 1 x HDMI, 4K @ 30Hz
• 1 x Ethernet port, 1 Gbps

C2G USB-C 4.0 6-in-1 (Available in the Marketplace Gov Connection Punch-Out)

Port Specifications:

• 1 x Power Delivery, 100W
• 1 x USB-A 3.0
• 3 x USB-C 4.0
• 1 x HDMI, 8K @ 60Hz
• 1 x Ethernet port, 40 Gbps

Summary: Multi-adapters are best for lightweight, portable connectivity needs such as adding HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet, or pass-through charging from a laptop. For permanent workstation setups, powered docking stations are usually the better choice because they provide stronger display, charging, and peripheral support.

Webcams

The links for each model go to the manufacturer’s product page so that you can find out more information. Do not purchase from those links as they do not apply university pricing discounts. Instead, go to CU Marketplace and search for the webcam name.

Logitech Brio 100

• Multiple resolutions
  • 1080p/30fps (1920x1080 pixels)
  • 720p/30fps (1280x720 pixels)
  • Camera megapixel: 2MP
  • Focus type: Fixed focus
  • Lens type: Custom 4 element plastic lens with anti-reflective coating
  • (2GB RAM or more needed for 1080p video streaming and 1GB RAM is typically needed for streaming 720p)
• Built-in Microphone type
  • Omni-directional microphone
  • Mic range: Up to 3ft (1m)
  • Diagonal field of view (dFoV): 58°
  • Integrated privacy shutter
  • USB connectivity: USB-A plug-and-play
  • RightLight 2 auto-light balance for challenging lights

Logitech Brio 500

• 1080p @ 30fps / 720p @ 60fps, autofocus, built-in stereo mic
• Camera megapixel: 4MP
• Diagonal field of view (dFoV): 90°/78°/65°
• Hardware zoom: 4x digital zoom
• Focus type: Autofocus
• Lens type: Glass
• Built-in Microphone type: Stereo microphone
• Mic range: Up to 4 ft (1.22 m)
• USB connectivity: USB-C plug-and-play
• Privacy shutter: Integrated
• Compatible with Windows 8 or later, macOS 10.10 or later, Chrome OS

Lenovo 510 Webcam

• FHD 1080P video with 1/2.9-inch RGB sensor size
• Two built-in stereo microphones
• Wide 95° field of view plus 360° pan/tilt controls
• Privacy shutter to physically cover webcam lens
• Verified compatible with Windows only
• Windows Hello 4.X compatible

Headset Mics

The links for each model go to the manufacturer’s product page so that you can find out more information. Do not purchase from those links as they do not apply university pricing discounts. Instead, go to CU Marketplace and search for the headset name.

Mono

Jabra Evolve 20 Mono

• Wired mono USB headset designed for everyday calls, online meetings, softphone use, and basic computer audio.
• Noise-canceling boom microphone helps reduce background noise so speech is easier to hear on calls.
• Mono on-ear design keeps one ear open for users who need to stay aware of their surroundings.
• In-line call controller provides easy access to answer/end call, volume, and mute controls.
• Plug-and-play USB connectivity; available in USB-A and USB-C/USB-A variants depending on model.
• Lightweight design at approximately 104 g / 3.67 oz for the mono version.
• Cable length: approximately 2.15 m / 84.6 in total.
• Speaker frequency range: 150 Hz–7 kHz; microphone frequency range: 100 Hz–10 kHz.
• Compatible with common UC platforms; certified/optimized variants are available for Microsoft Teams and other business communication platforms.

Stereo

Logitech H340

• USB-A plug-and-play wired stereo headset for everyday calls, webinars, online meetings, and general computer audio.
• Noise-canceling, right-sided boom microphone helps reduce background noise and can be positioned for clearer voice pickup.
• Digital stereo sound for voice calls, music, videos, and basic multimedia use.
• Lightweight adjustable headband with swivel-mounted foam ear cushions for basic comfort during extended use.
• Cable length: approximately 180 cm / 5.9 ft.
• Headset frequency response: 20 Hz–20 kHz; microphone frequency response: 100 Hz–10 kHz.
• Compatible with computers that have a USB-A port or USB-A adapter; no additional software required for standard use.

Logitech Zone 300

• Wireless Bluetooth headset designed for everyday calls, meetings, and listening, with multipoint Bluetooth support for switching between computer and phone.
• Dual beamforming noise-canceling microphones on an extended boom help reduce background noise for clearer conversations.
• Enhanced 30 mm dynamic speaker drivers provide clear audio for voice calls, meetings, and general listening.
• Battery life: up to 20 hours listening time and up to 16 hours talk time; full charge takes approximately 2 hours.
• Quick charge: approximately 5 minutes of charging provides up to 1 hour of talk time.
• Wireless range: up to 30 m / 98 ft depending on environment and device setup.
• Lightweight design at approximately 122 g / 4.3 oz with padded headband and replaceable earpads.
• Compatible with common calling applications across Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, Linux, iOS, iPadOS, and Android Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Logitech Zone Vibe 100

• Wireless over-ear Bluetooth headset designed for both office calls and general listening.
• Noise-canceling flip-to-mute boom microphone helps improve voice clarity during meetings and tucks away when not in use.
• 40 mm speaker drivers provide fuller audio for meetings, music, and videos.
• Battery life: up to 20 hours listening time and up to 18 hours talk time on a full charge.
• Quick charge: approximately 5 minutes of charging provides up to 1 hour of listening time.
• Wireless range: up to 30 m / 98 ft depending on environment and device setup.
• Multipoint Bluetooth allows connection to two devices at the same time for easier switching between work and mobile devices.
• Compatible with common video meeting platforms and Bluetooth-enabled Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, iOS, and Android devices.

Connecting Dual Monitors to a MacBook Using a Dell Thunderbolt Dock

Dell Thunderbolt docks such as the WD25TB4 can support a dual-monitor setup with compatible MacBook models, but macOS handles external displays differently than many Windows laptops. The most important caveat is that one of the two monitors must be connected through a USB-C or Thunderbolt-compatible video port, not only through HDMI or DisplayPort. This allows the MacBook and dock to present two independent display streams instead of relying on Multi-Stream Transport, which macOS does not use for extended desktop mode in the same way Windows does.

What You Need

• A MacBook with Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, or newer USB-C/Thunderbolt video-capable ports.
• A Dell Thunderbolt dock, such as the WD25TB4, connected to power.
• Two external monitors.
• At least one monitor with a USB-C or Thunderbolt video input/output capability.
• A certified USB-C or Thunderbolt cable that supports video, not a charging-only cable.
• A second display cable, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, or Thunderbolt, depending on the available ports on the dock and monitor.

Recommended Connection Method

1. Connect the Dell Thunderbolt dock to AC power.
2. Connect the dock to the MacBook using the dock’s built-in Thunderbolt cable.
3. Connect Monitor 1 to one of the dock’s standard video outputs, such as HDMI or DisplayPort.
4. Connect Monitor 2 using a USB-C or Thunderbolt video-capable port on the dock and the monitor.
5. Power on both monitors and confirm each monitor is set to the correct input source.
6. On the MacBook, open System Settings, select Displays, and arrange the screens as needed.

Important Caveats

• One monitor should use a USB-C or Thunderbolt video connection. If both monitors are connected only through HDMI and/or DisplayPort on the dock, macOS may detect only one display, mirror the displays, or fail to extend properly.
• Base-model M1 and M2 MacBooks generally support only one external display natively. MacBook Pro models with Pro, Max, or newer chips may support multiple external displays, depending on the chip and model.
• macOS does not support MST for independent extended displays in the same way Windows does. A dock setup that works with two monitors on a Dell or Windows laptop may not work the same way on a MacBook.
• The dock may provide less power delivery to non-Dell systems than to Dell laptops, so confirm the MacBook is charging as expected.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If only one monitor appears, verify that one monitor is connected through USB-C or Thunderbolt video rather than both monitors using HDMI/DisplayPort only.
• If a monitor shows no signal, confirm the monitor input source matches the cable being used.
• If displays flicker, disconnect and reconnect the dock, then restart the MacBook.
• Use certified Thunderbolt or full-featured USB-C cables. Some USB-C cables support charging only and will not carry video.
• Update the Dell dock firmware when possible. Dell dock firmware updates may require a compatible Windows system or enterprise device management method.
• Confirm the MacBook model supports the number of external displays being requested.

Quick Summary

For the most reliable dual-monitor setup on a MacBook with a Dell Thunderbolt dock such as the WD25TB4, connect one monitor through HDMI or DisplayPort and the second monitor through USB-C or Thunderbolt video. This avoids common macOS limitations with MST-based display routing and gives the MacBook the best chance of recognizing both monitors as separate extended displays.