Summary

The Windows "Display Color Calibration" tool does not affect monitors connected through a Plugable Silicon Motion-based docking station or USB graphics adapter because the Silicon Motion driver does not support software-based color calibration.

For basic color adjustments, Plugable recommends using the monitor's built-in controls. For workflows that require highly accurate color reproduction and software-based calibration, a display connected directly to the computer's native graphics output is recommended.

Applicable To

This article applies to:

• Plugable Silicon Motion-based docking stations
• Plugable Silicon Motion-based USB graphics adapters
• Windows computers using the Windows "Display Color Calibration" tool

Answer

Silicon Motion-based USB graphics devices use their own display driver to provide video output to connected monitors.

The Silicon Motion driver does not support software-based display color calibration. As a result, changes made through the Windows "Display Color Calibration" tool will not affect monitors connected through these devices.

This is an expected limitation of the Silicon Motion display technology rather than an indication that the docking station, video adapter, or monitor is malfunctioning.

Alternative Color Adjustment Options

Most monitors include built-in on-screen display (OSD) controls that allow users to adjust display characteristics such as:

• Brightness
• Contrast
• Color temperature
• Individual red, green, and blue (RGB) levels, when supported

These adjustments are made directly through the monitor's settings rather than through Windows color calibration software.

The available options vary depending on the monitor model.

Color-Critical Workflows

For workflows that require highly accurate color reproduction, such as professional photography, video editing, or print color matching, Plugable recommends connecting the color-critical display directly to a native graphics output from the computer whenever possible.

This may include HDMI, DisplayPort, or a compatible USB-C or Thunderbolt video connection, depending on the computer.

A direct graphics connection is generally the preferred approach when software-based display calibration is required.

Need Assistance?

If you need help determining whether your Plugable docking station or graphics adapter supports your display calibration requirements, please contact Plugable Support at support@plugable.com.

When contacting support, please include:

• Your Plugable product model
• Your computer model
• Your monitor model
• Your Windows version
• How the monitor is connected to the Plugable product

This information will help our support team better understand your setup and recommend an appropriate connection method.