I'm considering adding more Dell laptops to our fleet, but we've hit a pretty frustrating issue with our current test batch. When we power on a laptop and only connect the USB-C cable afterward, Windows recognizes the connection, but the laptop still runs on battery. This happens on models like the Dell Pro 13 Premium and the Dell XPS 13 9350, where the USB-C goes to a Dell P2724DEB monitor that provides power. I've checked the BIOS and Dell Optimiser for any settings that could affect power supply, but found nothing. The only workaround we've found is unplugging and replugging the USB-C cable, which works even if done immediately. If the cable is connected before starting the laptop, everything functions normally. Has anyone experienced this problem?
2 Answers
Looks like a classic driver or firmware glitch to me. Definitely something to investigate further!
Make sure your monitor is providing the correct power delivery. I noticed that your model has options for 15W and 90W, and some have a switch between 65W and 90W. It might help to update the firmware on both the laptops and the monitor. If things don’t improve, consider reaching out to Dell support since everything’s from them.
Exactly! The power delivery seems to be working fine since you can boot up with the cable connected. This might just be a quirky driver issue.
I think the power options you mentioned are for upstream and downstream rates. The Dell Pro 13 Premium typically requires 65W, so, by rights, it should work fine. I mean, it functions without issues if you connect before booting or if you unplug and reconnect the cable.