Why are Nintendo Switch docks so complicated?
from switchchargers.com/faq
Increased Power Requirement
The dock requires 39W (specifically 15V/2.6A) to output video.
The dock does use a bit more power than the Switch alone, for the USB ports and video conversion. But it rarely draws more power than it does when undocked. The extra 21W required for the dock to operated is not needed or used beyond a verification check.
See How Switch Charging Works for more details on how the Switch draws power.
Product Verification Before Video Output
When connecting a dock-like device to the Switchâs USB-C port it calls on Nintendo Alternate Mode. That is looking for the vendor identity and product identity (VID/PID) of the connected device.
If the VID/PID doesnât match what the Switch is looking forward then it never moves on to DP Alt Mode, which is what allows for a video signal to pass through.
The Nintendo Alt Mode prevents most third-party USB-C to HDMI adapters from working with the Switch, even if they support DP Alt Mode.
The product verification process was cracked. Third-party docks marketed for the Switch are using this crack.
The Switch uses DP Alt Mode for video output. It is essentially USB-C DisplayPort.
The dock uses HDMI output as it is more common on TVs than DisplayPort. The dock handles the DP Alt Mode to HDMI conversion.
Not all USB-C to HDMI adapters support DP Alt Mode. And if they do they must still get around the Nintendo Alt Mode check to enable video output.
USB-C Power Delivery Protocol Issues
USB-C devices negotiate power regulation with their charger. The dock handles negotiations with the charger, then passed on to the Switch console.
The dock uses a specific negotiating chip. Third-party dock producers use a variety of negotiating chips. Or in some cases none at all.
Some third-party docks appear to not follow proper USB-C PD protocol.
The Switch does not follow strict USB-C standards. It has USB-C protocol errors and flaws. These are hardware-level issues.
USB 2.0/3.0 is used to carry data from accessories attached to the dock to the Switch console.
The two side ports accept USB 2.0. Which is more than enough for wired controllers.
The rear port is built for USB 3.0. Best used for high-speed accessories, such as a USB to Ethernet adapter. But Nintendo has yet to enable USB 3.0 on the consoleâs end. Given the Nintendo Switch OLEDâs dock comes with built-in Ethernet (the primary use for USB 3.0 on the dock) it likely never will.
read more at switchchargers.com/faq
