Knowledge Base
Designed for professionals, tech enthusiasts, and anyone who demands complete visibility into their Mac's hardware and network, this suite provides instant, detailed insights at your fingertips. Stop guessing and start knowing!
Quick Links
Suite Overview
What apps are included in the suite?
The Connection Information Suite consists of four specialized utilities:
- USB Connection Information: Monitor device speeds, protocols (2.0/3.0/4.0), and power delivery.
- Network Connection Information: View IP addresses, real-time bandwidth, and interface details.
- Audio Connection Information: Check sample rates, bit depths, and channel configurations.
- Display Connection Information: Verify resolutions, refresh rates, and display depths.
What is the difference between Connection Information Suite and Connection Information Suite 2?
Connection Information Suite has been discontinued and replaced with Connection Information Suite 2. Suite 2 is the new version that includes all four essential apps: USB Connection Information, Network Connection Information, Audio Connection Information (previously not included), and Display Connection Information. If you own the original suite, you can upgrade to Suite 2 or purchase the Audio Connection Information app separately.
What is Connection Information Center?
Connection Information Center is a standalone windowed application that complements the menu bar apps. Instead of separating connection data into individual menu bar items, Connection Information Center aggregates all that connection information into a single, traditional user interface. It provides a comprehensive view of your USB, Network, Audio, and Display connections in one place. Additionally, it includes a built-in glossary feature that defines technical properties and explains complex terms (such as what "bitrate" means), making it ideal for users who want to understand the technical details of their connections.
Do I need to run all apps at once?
No. Each app operates independently. You can run only the specific tool you need at the moment, or run all four simultaneously for a complete system dashboard in your menu bar.
USB Connection Information
Why is my drive speed slower than advertised?
This is the #1 question we solve. The app shows the negotiated link speed.
- Cable Issue: You may be using a charging cable (USB 2.0 speed) with a fast SSD.
- Port Issue: You might be plugged into a USB 2.0 hub or port.
- Device Limit: The device itself may not support faster standards.
The app will explicitly tell you if you are connected at 480 Mbps (USB 2.0) vs 5 Gbps or higher.
What do the different USB speeds mean?
Network Connection Information
What is the difference between Mac address and IP address?
- MAC Address: A permanent hardware ID assigned to your network card by the manufacturer. It acts like a serial number.
- IP Address: A numerical label assigned to your device by the network. It acts like a temporary mailing address.
The app displays both identifiers to verify you are connected to the correct network interface.
Does it measure internet speed?
It displays the **maximum supported link speed** based on what the hardware chip reports (e.g., 1 Gbps or 1200 Mbps). It is not an active "speed test" that measures your current internet bandwidth.
Audio Information
Audio: Why can't I change the sample rate?
Audio Connection Information is a monitoring tool. To change sample rates (e.g., from 44.1kHz to 96kHz), you must use the "Audio MIDI Setup" utility included with macOS. Our app verifies that your changes have taken effect correctly.
Display Information
Display: How do I check refresh rate?
Click the Display Connection Information icon in the menu bar. It will list all connected monitors, their active resolution (including HiDPI scaling), and the current refresh rate (e.g., 60Hz, 120Hz, ProMotion).
Common Problems & Solutions
App not appearing in menu bar?
If you have a MacBook with a "Notch" or many menu bar items, the icon might be hidden behind the camera housing or other apps.
Solution: Try closing other menu bar apps to make space, or use a menu bar manager utility to reorganize your icons.
"No Device Detected" message?
- USB: Ensure the device is fully plugged in. Try a different port.
- Network: Check if Wi-Fi is on or Ethernet is plugged in.
- Permissions: macOS may require you to approve "Access to Accessories" for USB devices on Apple Silicon Macs.
Installation & Licensing
How do I install the apps?
Mac App Store: Download directly from the store. Updates are automatic.
Do I need a separate license for each computer?
For personal use, you can install the suite on all Macs you own and control. For commercial volume licensing, please contact support.
Technical Specs
Supported Operating Systems
The Connection Information Suite requires macOS 14.0 (Sonoma) or later. We fully support macOS Tahoe.
Apple Silicon Support
All apps in the suite are Universal Binaries, running natively Apple Silicon Macs for maximum performance and battery efficiency.
Contact & Support
Where can I get help?
If you haven't found your answer here, direct support is available.
Troubleshooting Quick Tips
Restarting the Background Service
- If an app seems stuck, quit it completely (Click icon -> Quit).
- Wait 5 seconds.
- Relaunch from your Applications folder.
Permissions Check
- Go to System Settings -> Privacy & Security.
- Ensure the apps have necessary permissions (e.g., Local Network access for the Network app).
📧 Contact Me
Need help with any app in the suite? I'm here to assist you.
Email SupportI typically respond within 24 hours
Get in Touch
I value your feedback and am committed to providing excellent support for the entire Connection Information Suite.