Should you encounter any problems using your Red interface with a Windows PC we would recommend checking the following points:
- Are you connecting the Red to a proper Thunderbolt 3 port, or to a USB type-C port?
USB type-C ports look identical to Thunderbolt 3 ports. Thunderbolt ports should have the Thunderbolt logo next to them (if in doubt, please contact the computer/motherboard manufacturer or consult the user guide).
Note that we do not officially support Windows computers with Thunderbolt 1 or 2 ports, though they may still work.
- Are you running a supported operating system?
Windows 10 64-bit is the only operating system that we support.
- Do you have the appropriate "Thunderbolt Software" app installed and running on your computer?
This software is sometimes necessary when connecting any Thunderbolt device to a Windows computer. Some systems have their own version of this software, some use Intel's version. It should be pre-installed on any Windows computer that comes with a built-in Thunderbolt port, though it may not be installed if you've added a Thunderbolt port to your computer over a PCIe + header expansion card.
Please consult your PC/motherboard manufacturer for further details.
- Have you set the Red to 'Always Connect' in the Intel Thunderbolt Software'?
If your machine requires a Thunderbolt Software app (see the above point) then ensure that your Red is detected by that software and it's set to Approve the connection.
- Set processor scheduling to "Background services" for best performance
To do this:
- In Control Panel select "System"
- Go to "Advanced system settings" and then the "Advanced" tab
- Click on "Settings.." under Performance to bring up the "Performance Options" window.
- Go to the "Advanced" tab and set processor scheduling as "Background Services"
- Click "Apply" then "OK"
- Have you ensured that you have the latest BIOS revision for your computer/motherboard installed?
This is particularly important if you've added the Thunderbolt port via a PCIe + header expansion since your computer may not have shipped with a BIOS version that supports Thunderbolt. Please check with the computer/motherboard manufacturer and ensure that you have the latest BIOS revision installed.
- Do other Thunderbolt devices work with this machine?
If not, there may be a more general issue with the Thunderbolt implementation or configuration on your machine. We would advise checking with another Thunderbolt cable where possible, then contacting the computer/motherboard manufacturer for further assistance in troubleshooting if required.
- Have you configured the "PCI Express Link State Power Management" on your machine?
If this setting is currently configured to save power then this can cause audible glitches. We would recommend changing this to "Off" by navigating to Control Panel > Power Options > Advanced: