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Are there any drivers or software that need to be installed in order to use this USB-C dual HDMI adapter?

Last Update: November 4th, 2026
Article ID: 1964015

Summary

No. The Plugable USBC-MSTH2 Dual HDMI MST Adapter is driverless and does not require additional software or DisplayLink drivers.

However, the adapter relies on your computer's native video capabilities. Your USB-C port must support DisplayPort Alternate Mode (DP Alt Mode), and your computer must support Multi-Stream Transport (MST) to use two independent extended displays.

Applicable To

  • Plugable USB-C Dual 4K HDMI MST Adapter (USBC-MSTH2)
  • Compatible Windows and ChromeOS computers
  • USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt ports that support DisplayPort Alt Mode

How Does the Adapter Work Without Drivers?

The USBC-MSTH2 uses the computer's built-in graphics hardware to transmit video through a compatible USB-C connection.

Because it uses DisplayPort Alt Mode and MST rather than USB graphics technology, no separate Plugable driver installation is required.

However, the computer must meet the following requirements:

  • DisplayPort Alt Mode: The USB-C port must support video output.
  • MST support: The computer and operating system must support MST to extend the desktop across two independent monitors.
  • Graphics drivers: The computer's existing graphics drivers must be functioning correctly. Keeping them updated is recommended.

If your computer's USB-C port does not support DisplayPort Alt Mode, the USBC-MSTH2 will not provide video output.

What if My Computer Does Not Support DisplayPort Alt Mode?

If your computer does not support DisplayPort Alt Mode, you can consider a Plugable USB graphics adapter that uses DisplayLink or Silicon Motion technology.

Unlike the USBC-MSTH2, these adapters transmit display information over USB data connections rather than relying on native USB-C video output.

Compatible options include:

These adapters may be suitable for computers without DisplayPort Alt Mode, provided the operating system and USB connection meet the product's requirements.

Important Notes

  • The USBC-MSTH2 does not require additional drivers. It uses the computer's native graphics capabilities.
  • DisplayPort Alt Mode is required. A USB-C port that supports only data or charging cannot provide video through this adapter.
  • macOS does not support multiple independent extended displays through standard MST adapters. Connected external monitors may mirror each other rather than operate as separate extended desktops.
  • Graphics drivers still matter. Although no additional adapter driver is required, outdated or incompatible system graphics drivers can affect display functionality.
  • USB graphics alternatives require different software. DisplayLink and Silicon Motion products have their own software requirements and should not be treated as interchangeable.

For additional compatibility information, see the Plugable USBC-MSTH2 Product Page.

Need Assistance?

If you're unsure whether your computer supports the USBC-MSTH2 or need help selecting an alternative USB graphics adapter, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.