when i connect my external monitors using my usb-c ports, i get an 'unknown device needs more power error', even though they have been independently powered

Hi Girish Chander,

Thanks for reaching out. I understand you're encountering a “Unknown USB device needs more power” error when connecting your Teamgee S2 portable monitor to your Surface laptop via USB-C, even though the monitor is independently powered. Let’s walk through the likely causes and how to resolve them.

What’s Causing the Issue

Power Delivery Requirements

The Teamgee S2 requires external power even when connected via USB-C. It needs at least 5V/2A through a Power Delivery (PD) port, especially when using HDMI or when your laptop’s USB-C port doesn’t provide enough power.

Cable and Port Compatibility

Not all USB-C ports support DisplayPort Alt Mode or Power Delivery. The S2 has multiple ports:

Type-C1: Supports both video and power.

Type-C2: Typically used for power only.

HDMI: Used for video input.

1. Common Fixes That Worked for Others
2. Use the HDMI-to-Type-C cable (included with the monitor) for video.
3. Power the monitor separately using the USB-A to USB-C cable, connected to a wall adapter or powered USB port.
4. Avoid USB-C hubs unless they are powered and support video output.
5. If using USB-C only, ensure the cable supports both video and power (USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt 3/4).

Recommended Setup for Surface Devices

Since your older Surface laptop works but the newer one doesn’t, the issue is likely due to:

Differences in USB-C port specifications (some Surface models have limited PD or no video output on certain ports).

Power management behavior in Windows 11.

Try this setup:

• Connect the monitor using the HDMI-to-Type-C cable for video.
• Power the monitor separately using the USB-A to USB-C cable into a wall adapter or powered USB port.
• Avoid using both USB-C ports on the laptop for dual monitors unless both ports support full PD and video.
• Update your graphics drivers and USB drivers via Windows Update or your laptop manufacturer’s support site.

Additional Troubleshooting

If the error persists:

• Open Device Manager.
• Locate the “Unknown USB Device.”
• Right-click and uninstall the device, then restart your laptop.
• Also, check your laptop manufacturer’s support site for any available firmware updates related to USB-C or Thunderbolt functionality.

I hope this helps clarify the issue and guide you toward a working setup. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Best regards,

Jeric

Microsoft Community Support