Thunderbolt Display Firmware Update Catalina

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Black Screen on External Display with macOS Catalina. My Mac book pro was updated with the new Catalina update not happy for this update, It Has caused many issues. I use the HDMI cord for my screen, worked great tell this update, then all I got was a black screen with my mouse cursor, followed your instructions, thanks so much it fixed my issue.

After spending quite a bit of time fixing an issue with my Thunderbolt, that was shutting down randomly, I finally figured out a fix without going to Apple repair. Hope this will be of help to you too!

  1. Software maintenance update for existing end users of Your products, excluding any other standalone products, subject to these conditions: 1. This Software is licensed for use only in conjunction with Intel. Component products. Use of the Software in conjunction with non-Intel. Component products is not licensed hereunder.
  2. Check for new software updates to your Mac. Finally, visit the manufacturer’s website for your external monitor or display cable to check if there are other firmware updates to install. You should also check for updates to any hubs, extenders, or adapters you’re using. Check the compatibility of your external monitor.

Update your Mac to the latest version of OS X

  1. Click on the Apple logo in the top-left menu;
  2. Click on About This Mac in the drop down menu;
  3. Click on the Software Update;
  4. Click on the Update button next to the latest OS X version in the Mac App Store.

Reset SMC

Intel-based Macs have a System Management Controller (SMC) that can be reset as a possible fix for Thunderbolt Display issues.

  1. Shut down the Mac;
  2. Plug in a MagSafe or USB-C power adapter to a power source and to your computer;
  3. On the Mac’s built-in keyboard, press the left side Shift-Control-Option keys and the power button simultaneously;
  4. Release all the keys and the power button at the same time;
  5. Press the power button to turn on the Mac.

On Macs with MagSafe power adapters, the cable’s LED might change states or temporarily turn off when you reset the SMC.

Thunderbolt Display Firmware Update Catalina

Reset Your Mac’s NVRAM or PRAM

  1. Shut down the Mac;
  2. Turn on the Mac while pressing and holding the Command-Option-P-R keys;
  3. Keep holding these keys until the Mac restarts and you hear the startup sound for a second time;

Power Cycling

Shut down and disconnect both your Mac and Thunderbolt Display from AC power 30-50 seconds.

  1. Disconnect the Thunderbolt Display’s cable from your Mac;
  2. Disconnect the Thunderbolt Display from AC power;
  3. Disconnect all USB peripherals and any cables plugged into the Thunderbolt Display;
  4. Wait at least 30 seconds before powering on your Mac and Thunderbolt Display.

Thunderbolt firmware update (for older OSX)

Follow this link to download the Thunderbolt Firmware update

Thunderbolt Display Firmware Update Catalina Version

Separate Thunderbolt cable

Thunderbolt Display Firmware Catalina

It is not unusual for the thunderbolt cable to get damaged over time (due to bending). Try connecting using standalone thunderbolt cable (can be purchased from Apple).