Apple has today released a new Thunderbolt software 1.2.1 update following on from the previous Thunderbolt software 1.2 update which was released last week and caused a few problems for users.
You will be pleased to know that the latest Thunderbolt update 1.2.1 has rolled out much more smoothly than its predecessor, causing no problems for Mac users once installed.
Details of the Thunderbolt Update 1.2.1
The latest Apple Thunderbolt update 1.2.1 is only 520 KB in size and requires you to have OS X Lion 10.7.4 installed on your Apple Mac system. The new update brings with it support for Apple’s Thunderbolt to gigabit ethernet adapter. This adapter allows users to connect their Mac to a high-speed wired network, providing faster and more reliable internet connections compared to Wi-Fi. This is particularly useful for professionals who need stable and fast internet for tasks such as video conferencing, large file transfers, and online gaming.
The new update can automatically be downloaded on your Mac system via the Software Update section. Interestingly, the new Thunderbolt update 1.2.1 currently doesn’t support the new Retina MacBook Pro. This exclusion has raised some eyebrows, as the Retina MacBook Pro is one of Apple’s flagship products. However, Apple has assured users that support for the Retina MacBook Pro will be included in a future update.
Thunderbolt Technology and Its Importance
Thunderbolt technology, developed by Intel in collaboration with Apple, has revolutionized the way we connect peripherals to our computers. It combines PCI Express (PCIe) and DisplayPort (DP) into a single connection, allowing for high-speed data transfer and high-definition display output through a single port. This makes it incredibly versatile and efficient, reducing the number of cables and ports needed on a device.
One of the key advantages of Thunderbolt is its speed. Thunderbolt 1 and 2 offer data transfer rates of up to 10 Gbps, while Thunderbolt 3 increases this to 40 Gbps. This makes it ideal for tasks that require high bandwidth, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and large data backups. Additionally, Thunderbolt supports daisy-chaining, allowing users to connect multiple devices in a series without the need for additional ports.
The introduction of Thunderbolt to gigabit ethernet adapter support in the 1.2.1 update is a significant enhancement for users who rely on wired internet connections. Gigabit ethernet provides speeds of up to 1 Gbps, which is ten times faster than traditional Fast Ethernet. This can make a substantial difference in environments where network speed and reliability are critical, such as in offices, studios, and data centers.
Despite the initial hiccups with the 1.2 update, Apple has demonstrated its commitment to providing robust and reliable software updates. The swift release of the 1.2.1 update to address the issues faced by users shows that Apple is attentive to user feedback and quick to rectify problems. This is a reassuring sign for Mac users who depend on their devices for both personal and professional use.
The Thunderbolt software 1.2.1 update is a welcome improvement, offering enhanced functionality and stability. While the lack of support for the Retina MacBook Pro is a temporary setback, the overall benefits of the update make it a valuable addition for most Mac users. As Thunderbolt technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more exciting developments in the future.
Source: MacRumours
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
