Guides - Chargerlab

Eight PD 3.1 48V Fast Charging Protocol Chip: ChargerLAB Analysis

Rusell — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 01:00:00 +0000

Introduction

The USB PD 3.1 standard is the latest version of USB Power Delivery, which provides higher power transmission capabilities and more flexible power management functions. USB PD 3.1 supports a power of up to 240W, enabling it to meet the needs of more devices, including laptops, monitors, power banks, etc.

USB PD 3.1 supports a maximum voltage of 48V, so it can achieve higher power with lower current, thereby reducing resistance loss and improving power transmission efficiency. High-voltage protocol chips are designed based on supporting USB PD 3.1. They can stably provide and manage 48V voltage and are a key component in providing power transmission solutions for devices with higher power requirements. They ensure system reliability and safety while providing efficient energy transmission.

PD3.1 48V Fast Charging Protocol Chip Summary

The following manufacturers are listed alphabetically.

Hynetek

Hynetek HUSB238A

HUSB238A is a highly integrated USB-C chip. The controller integrates CC logic and USB PD protocol, supports Type-C V2.1 & USB PD3.1 standards, PPS 20mV and AVS 200mV voltage regulation, and the rated power can reach 240W.

HUSB238A supports two working modes: I²C mode and GPIO mode. In I²C mode, configuration settings, status reading, and advanced functions such as data role swap (DR Swap) and vendor-defined messages (VDM) can be implemented.

In I²C mode, HUSB238A supports up to 48V/5A, including FPDO, PPS, EPR PDO, EPR AVS. In GPIO mode, HUSB238A supports up to 28V/3.25A, including FPDO, EPR PDO. HUSB238A also supports QC2.0 and AFC.

HUSB238A is mainly configured in GPIO mode. It is compact and has a very simple peripheral configuration. It only needs 2 capacitors and 4 resistors to 28V/3.25A.

In this mode, the HUSB238A supports adjustable power supply output (APDO), extended power range (EPR) PDO up to 48V/5A, and EPR automatic voltage regulation in I²C mode. In GPIO mode, configuration is done by setting pins.

The HUSB238A can be configured via the VSET and ISET pins to support a PDO output of up to 28V/3.25A. The ultra-low operating current of the HUSB238A helps reduce the total system power consumption and is ideal for battery powering.

HUSB238A adopts QFN 3 mm x 3 mm-16L package. It is used in IoT devices, wireless chargers, drones, smart speakers, power tools, and other equipment.

Hynetek HUSB239

The HUSB239 is a highly integrated standalone USB-C and PD controller. HUSB239 integrates CC logic, USB PD protocol, and traditional protocol. Users can freely configure HUSB239 as a Sink or DRP. In addition, it supports the identification of debugging accessories and audio accessories.

The HUSB239 can operate in two modes: I²C mode and GPIO mode. In I²C mode, the I²C host can access the HUSB239 to configure settings, read status, and perform advanced functions such as PR Swap, DR Swap, and VDM. In I²C mode, the HUSB239 supports PPS, SPR AVS, max. 48V / 5A EPR PDO, and EPR AVS.

In GPIO mode, configuration is achieved by setting pins. The HUSB239 can be configured to support a maximum of 28V/3.25A PDO via the VSET and ISET pins, using only two resistors to set the voltage and current.

HUSB239通用系统框图

HUSB239 is a PD DRP that can operate independently, supporting PR_SWAP, DR_SWAP, VCONN Role Swap, Discover ID, and Discover SVID.

The ultra-low operating current of HUSB239 helps the system reduce the overall power consumption and is suitable for battery applications. HUSB239 adopts QFN 3mm x 3mm-16L package.

Injoinic

Injoinic IP2756

Injoinic IP2756 is a fast-charging protocol chip that integrates multiple protocols for USB ports. It supports fast charging protocols such as USB PD3.1 and has passed UFCS fast charging certification. It also supports the USB-C protocol, supports the identification of E-Marker cables, and is compatible with BC1.2, APPLE, SAMSUNG and other mobile phone fast charging.

Injoinic IP2756 integrates 10mV programmable voltage loop control and 12.5mA programmable current loop control and integrates low-end current detection and line loss compensation functions. It supports drive control optocoupler and I²C interface control. The power supply integrates NMOS drive and voltage difference detection, built-in automatic control discharge function, and supports standby low power consumption mode.

IP2756 has multiple protection mechanisms such as output overcurrent, overvoltage, short circuit protection, etc., and supports NTC overtemperature protection, built-in NTC open circuit detection, and DP/DM/CC1/CC2 overvoltage protection. It also provides a higher voltage rating, supports EPR 28V~36V streamlined peripheral design, and can support EPR48V and provide greater storage through expansion.

IP2756 adopts QFN24 package. It features high integration and rich functionalities, requiring very few peripheral devices during the application, effectively reducing BOM costs. It can be widely used in charging adapters, power supplies, car chargers, and system applications with PD output function.

Legendary

Legendary LDR6020

The LDR6020 is a 16-bit RISC MCU equipped with three sets of six-channel DRP USB-C and PD communication protocol modules, as well as a USB2.0 Device module. With USB PD3.1 communication capability, it can handle 262-byte non-collapsed PD3.1 long data packet communications. The chip supports online firmware upgrades through CC, UART, I2C, and USB2.0 modes.

Furthermore, it boasts 13 ADC channels, 28 dual-directional I/O ports, 1 input port, and 2 PWM channels, facilitating customized designs. In the future, an embedded cloud IDE development system will also be introduced. It adopts QFN-32 4x4 package.

This controller finds extensive applications, such as in USB-C multifunctional adapters, USB-C monitors, and USB-C power banks. It includes an embedded I2C Slave and a UART communication control unit for intercommunication with other master control chips.

On-Bright

On-Bright OB2627

On-Bright OB2627 is a secondary-side constant voltage and constant current controller chip with a built-in MCU to handle multiple fast charging protocols. It has two built-in operational amplifiers for voltage-loop and current-loop regulation and can make programmable voltage references according to the charging protocol. It supports PD3.1 EPR 48V and has passed USB-IF certification, supporting a maximum output power of 240W, and the built-in high-gain current detection amplifier can minimize the offset, thereby reducing the power loss of the detection resistor.

OB2627 communicates on the CC line via the USB PD protocol. It can monitor DP/DN data line voltage or data transmission, support QC2.0/QC3.0/QC3.5 protocols, and automatically adjust output voltage and output current.

OB2627 provides comprehensive protection, including constant current limiting, overvoltage protection, under-voltage protection, short circuit protection, DP/DN overvoltage protection, and external over-temperature protection. It adopts QFN16 package.

RICHTEK

RICHTEK RT7209

RICHTEK RT7209 is a highly integrated programmable USB PD controller that supports USB PD3.1 SPR and EPR 48V specifications and has passed USB-IF PD3.1 certification, certification TID: 11022, supports 3V to 55V operating voltage, and has a built-in MCU. It has 16kB of OTP-ROM and 2kB of SRAM, and a built-in feedback compensation mechanism that not only reduces external components but also enhances transient response.

RT7209 supports multiple fast charging protocols such as PD3.1, PPS, and UFCS. It has a built-in shunt regulator, which makes it more stable and reliable when providing constant voltage or constant current output. The built-in feedback compensation mechanism ensures the stability of the entire system.

The RT7209 also has a VIN pin detection function that can monitor the input voltage status and make corresponding control decisions accordingly to ensure the stable operation of the device. The BLD pin can be used to quickly discharge the output capacitor, helping to shorten the charge cycle and increase the charge rate. The USBP pin provides the ability to directly drive an external blocking N-MOSFET, further enhancing the controllability and safety of the system.

RT7209 supports programmable over-current protection, constant current protection, over-temperature protection, adaptive output over-voltage protection, and output under-voltage protection. The junction temperature range is −40°C to 125°C, and the operating ambient temperature range is −40°C to 105°C. It supports CC1/CC2/D+/D- overvoltage protection and internal over-temperature protection. It adopts WQFN-28L 4x5 package.

UNICMICRO

UNICMICRO UM3506

The Unicmicro UM3506-BPQH is a fast charging controller that supports PD3.1 and boasts full SRC/SNK/DRP support capability. It supports SPR, EPR (PD3.1) mode, and PD message chunk mode. The chip comes with a high-voltage LDO and supports 3.3-24V power supply.

Featuring 2 pairs of DP DM pins, it supports BC, QC, and other protocols, allowing for flexible expansion.

芯片内置高性能32位RISC-V内核，主频最高为33MHz，内置8KB SRAM和256KB FLASH，内置16通道12位ADC用以电压和电流采样，支持3.3-24V工作电压范围，使用QFN24封装。

The chip is equipped with a high-performance 32-bit RISC-V core, with a maximum clock frequency of 33MHz, 8KB SRAM, and 256KB FLASH. It also has a built-in 16-channel 12-bit ADC for voltage and current sampling, supporting a 3.3-24V operating voltage range. The chip adopts QFN24 package.

VIA Labs

VIA Labs VL108

VIA VL108 is a highly integrated single-chip DisplayPort Alt mode and PD 3.1 controller chip specifically designed for USB-C devices, ideal for use in USB-C multifunctional docking stations with charging capabilities. The VL108 incorporates USB-C Charging UFP, enabling video output functionality through DP Alt mode or USB4 DP tunneling, while also providing charging to the connected PD host upon detecting external power. It integrates two USB-C DRP DFP ports, capable of charging a PD host or connecting to USB-C devices for data transmission.

Both UFP and the two DFP ports support the latest PD3.1 EPR specification, capable of delivering power output of 48V 5A (240W). Additionally, the two DRP DFP ports integrate D+/D- Charging ePHY, supporting protocol handshaking using D+/D - and then transitioning to the PD protocol for power output via UFP.

The device policy manager within the VL108 negotiates power rules between DFP and UFP, enabling power charging. Furthermore, the VL108 features USB Billboard functionality to meet the "VESA DP Alt mode over USB Type-C" specification. It automatically enters a deep power-saving mode when the interface is idle, making it highly suitable for smartphone accessories.

The VL108 incorporates RC oscillators, linear voltage regulators, Vbus voltage, and current detectors to ensure stable operation via the Vbus power and monitor abnormal power behaviors. Additionally, it provides up to 17 GPIO pins for specific applications. It's available in two package options: QFN 60L (7x7x0.85 mm), supporting two DRP DFP ports, and QFN 48L (6x6x0.85 mm), supporting one DRP DFP port.

Summary of ChargerLAB

Although the maximum power of the PD protocol on smart devices is only around 140W, there is still a long way to go before reaching 240W. However, there are already power tools that can reach power of 240W. This type of chip is not only widely in demand in industrial equipment, power tools, and other fields but also with the development of industrial automation and the times, the demand for 48V high-voltage application chips will also increase accordingly. This time we counted eight 48V high-voltage chips that support PD 3.1 240W. The launch of these chips will promote the further development of the USB PD standard and provide a more reliable solution for charging higher-power devices.

What OCuLink Products Can Be Used with External Graphics Cards? | ChargerLAB Analysis

Rusell — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 01:00:00 +0000

Introduction

The birth of external graphics cards (graphics docks) can be traced back to the development of laptops. With the popularity of thin and light laptops and mini host PC, in pursuit of lighter, thinner and more compact designs, many manufacturers have begun to reduce internal space, resulting in limitations on graphics card performance. In order to solve this problem, external graphics cards came into being.

What is OCuLink?

OCuLink, short for "Optical-Copper Link," is a peripheral connection standard that allows you to connect PCIe devices using an external cable rather than an internal slot.

The interface was developed by the PCI-SIG, the Body for standardization and norming of the PCI interface (Peripheral Component Interconnect Special Interest Group). It is designed to provide a smaller, more flexible, and more efficient PCIe expansion solution.

OCuLink delivered PCIe 3.0 and PCIe 4.0 bandwidth. It also supports SATA and SAS. The common OCuLink interface on the market uses two different connectors, SFF-8611 and SFF-8612, which are used for the host side and the device side respectively. It provides 4 PCIe lanes, each with a bandwidth of 8GT/s (PCIe 3.0) or 16GT/s (PCIe 4.0), for a total bandwidth of up to 64Gbps.

OCuLink is a connection system for the PCI Express area. The interface has a Small-Form-factor which is optimized for internal and external enclosure usage. OCuLink cables are a cost-effective possibility for an external PCIe extension.

Compared to Thunderbolt which integrates DisplayPort and PCI-Express, OCuLink is a pure PCIe channel and does not include a DP channel. Its transmission loss is relatively low when connecting an external graphics card dock. OCuLink of PCIe 3.0×4 can reach a bandwidth of 32Gbps, while PCIe 4.0×4 can reach a bandwidth of 64Gbps, which is more advantageous than the maximum bandwidth of 22Gbps of Thunderbolt 3 and the maximum bandwidth of 32Gbps of Thunderbolt 4.

However, OCuLink may be slightly inferior to Thunderbolt in terms of compatibility, integrity, and completeness, but it has the characteristics of relatively lower price and better performance.

OCuLink Product Summary

The OCuLink products summarized this time include laptops, mini PCs, gaming consoles, graphics docks, and chips, including well-known PC manufacturers such as Lenovo, ROG, and THUNDEROBOT.

OCuLink Products

The following products are listed alphabetically.

Laptop

Lenovo

ThinkBook 14 i Gen 6+

The ThinkBook 14 i Gen 6+ is equipped with Intel's first-generation Core Ultra5/7 processor and the new NPU artificial intelligence acceleration engine. Its memory is 16/32GB LPDDR5x, the hard drive is a 512GB/1T M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 solid-state drive, the graphics card is Intel Arc, and it can be equipped with RTX4050 and 4060 independent graphics card versions.

The ThinkBook 14 i Gen 6+ is gray, weighs about 1.5 kg (3.31 pounds), and is as thin as 15.9 mm (0.63 inches). The screen is a 14.5-inch 2.5K/3K wide-viewing angle LED-backlit display that supports 90Hz/120Hz refresh rate and has a color gamut of 100% sRGB. Its interfaces include a headphone and microphone two-in-one interface, 1 x Thunderbolt 4 interface, a TGX graphics card expansion dock interface (based on OCuLink SFF-8611 interface), two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C interfaces, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A interfaces, an HDMI 2.1 interface, a hidden USB 2.0 Type-A interface, an RJ45 interface, and a 4-in-1 card reader interface.

ThinkBook 16 i Gen 6+

The ThinkBook 16 i Gen 6+ is a high-performance thin and light laptop suitable for professional users and gaming enthusiasts. It is equipped with Intel's first-generation Core Ultra series processor, with the highest optional Ultra7 155H. The graphics card can be selected as RTX4050 or RTX4060. The memory is DDR5, with dual memory slots, and the hard drive is a dual M2 2280 solid-state drive slot.

The ThinkBook 16 i Gen 6+ is gray, weighs about 1.9 kg (4.19 pounds), and is as thin as 16.9 mm (0.67 inches). The screen is 16 inches with a 90% screen-to-body ratio. The resolution is 2.5K, the refresh rate is 120Hz, and the color gamut is 100% sRGB. Its interfaces include a headphone and microphone two-in-one interface, a Thunderbolt 4 interface, a TGX graphics card expansion dock interface, three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A interfaces, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C interfaces, an HDMI 2.1 interface, a hidden USB 2.0 Type-A interface, a folding RJ45 interface, and a 4-in-1 card reader interface.

METAPHYUNI

2024 R7 8845HS AI Thin and Light Laptop

The 2024 R7 8845HS AI Thin and Light Laptop is equipped with an OCuLink interface, which can be used with an expansion dock to expand the graphics card and provide powerful computing power support. It is originally equipped with a 100W GaN charger and a 60Wh large-capacity battery for longer battery life.

It is originally equipped with a 100W GaN charger and a 60Wh large-capacity battery for longer battery life.

ROG

ROG Flow X13 2023

ROG Flow Z13 2023 is a high-performance, thin and light portable laptop, especially suitable for professional users who have high requirements for performance and portability. It weighs about 1.35 kg (2.98 pounds) and supports the flip touch function, allowing users to use it flexibly in different scenarios. It is equipped with an R9 7940HS processor and an RTX 4050 independent graphics card, with a performance release of more than 70W. It is equipped with 16GB LPDDR5 6400MHz memory and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, which combines powerful processing power with sufficient storage space.

ROG Flow Z13 2023 uses a 13.4-inch 2560x1600 resolution Nebula HDR display with a 165Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, a brightness of 500 nits, and supports color gamut switching. Its interfaces include a 3.5mm headphone jack, a USB4 port, a ROG XG docking station port, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a MicroSD 4.0 port. It has a built-in 75Wh battery and supports 130W PD fast charging.

ROG Flow X16 2023

ROG Flow X16 2023 is an all-in-one device designed for high-performance gaming and professional creation. It is equipped with the latest 13th generation Core i9-13900H processor, and the GPU offers RTX 4060 and RTX 4070 options, equipped with 8GB GDDR6 video memory to meet the needs of high-end games and professional creation. The cooling system includes 3 fans, 5 heat pipes, and liquid gold thermal conductive materials to ensure long-term and efficient heat dissipation.

ROG Flow X16 2023 has a unique hinge design that supports four usage modes: laptop, tablet, gaming, and sharing, greatly increasing the flexibility of usage scenarios. The screen uses a 16-inch touch-sensitive ROG Nebula HDR display with a Mini LED backlight panel, and the backlight partitions have been increased from 512 partitions in the previous generation to 1024 partitions. This screen also supports 2560×1600 resolution, 240Hz ultra-high refresh rate, 100000:1 contrast ratio, and Dolby Vision, HDR 1000, and color gamut switching. It has a 3.5mm headphone jack, a Thunderbolt 4 port, a ROG XG docking station port, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a MicroSD port.

ROG Flow Z13 2023

ROG Flow Z13 2023 is a device designed for high performance and extreme portability, suitable for users who pursue advanced technology and multi-functional usage experience. It is equipped with the latest 13th generation Core i9-13900H processor, and the graphics card can be optional RTX4050 or RTX4060. The body is as thin as 12.9 mm (0.51 inches) and weighs about 1.2 kg (2.65 pounds). Combined with the magnetic detachable keyboard, it provides users with ultimate portability and multi-scenario usage capabilities.

ROG Flow Z13 2023 is equipped with a 16:10 2.5K Nebula HDR display, with a high refresh rate of 165Hz and a fast response time of 3ms, a brightness of up to 500 nits, and supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. The front and rear cameras have been upgraded to 5 million and 13 million pixels respectively. The Type-C port on the side supports 130W PD fast charging. In addition, it also supports the new version of the XG Mobile graphics expansion dock, further enhancing graphics processing capabilities. It also has a Thunderbolt 4 port, a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port, a MicroSD port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, making it a high-performance laptop that is suitable for both professional work and entertainment gaming needs.

THUNDEROBOT

THUNDEROBOT aibook 15

THUNDEROBOT aibook 15 is equipped with an Intel Core Ultra7 155H, independent graphics-card-level GPU, AI-exclusive NPU, and up to 70W performance release.

THUNDEROBOT aibook 15 has an OCuLink graphics card dock interface, which can connect to graphics cards within 3080 level almost losslessly, taking into account the advantages of the lightness and thinness of a laptop while achieving the powerful performance of a desktop computer. It is equipped with Intel Core Ultra7 32G DDR5 1T, which has powerful performance and provides strong computing power support.

Mini PC

AOOSTAR

AOOSTAR GEM10 Mini PC

AOOSTAR GEM10 Mini PC is designed for high-performance computing and multi-tasking. It is equipped with a Ryzen R7-7840HS processor, with the highest optional R9-7940HS, and is equipped with LPDDR5 memory with a speed of 6400MT/s, ensuring excellent computing power and smooth multi-tasking performance. It is equipped with an independent OCuLink interface, which supports connecting external devices without occupying the internal NVMe interface. It weighs only 0.53 kg (1.17 pounds) and is made of aluminum alloy, making it both light and sturdy.

AOOSTAR GEM10 Mini PC adopts the innovative VSP motherboard architecture, which reduces the size of the motherboard while maintaining a rich number of interfaces and excellent CPU performance. It supports a three-screen 4K 120Hz display output. It has one USB4 port, one OCuLink port, and two 2.5G RJ45 network ports. It also supports a 100W DC power supply, taking into account both efficient energy supply and stable operation of the system.

AOOSTAR GEM12 Mini PC

AOOSTAR GEM12 Mini PC is equipped with an AMD R7-7840HS processor, with the highest optional R7-8845HS. The Pro version also adds a secondary screen and fingerprint recognition technology to enhance convenience and security.

AOOSTAR GEM12 Mini PC is made of aluminum alloy. It is equipped with an independent OCuLink interface, which supports connecting external devices without occupying the internal NVMe interface. In addition, it has two 2.5G RJ45 network ports, a 3.5mm audio port, four USB3.2 Gen2 ports, HDMI2.1, DP1.4, full-function Typc-C, and USB4 ports, supporting up to four screens.

METAPHYUNI

METAPHYUNI 80W Genesis Cube

The METAPHYUNI 80W Genesis Cube is powered by AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor. It is equipped with three USB-C and four USB-A interfaces, supports PD3.1 140W power supply, as well as DP2.0, HDMI2.1, dual USB4, four-screen display, and supports 4K240Hz/8K60Hz display.

The METAPHYUNI 80W Genesis Cube supports fingerprint startup. The OCuLink interface can expand high-performance desktop graphics cards, providing more powerful computing power support for professional creation and AI computing.

MINISFORUM

EliteMini UM780 XTX Mini PC

The EliteMini UM780 XTX Mini PC is equipped with an AMD R7 7840HS processor, which can achieve up to 70W of performance release. In addition, it is equipped with DDR5 5600 memory specifications and supports dual-channel memory configuration up to 96GB. It has two PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 slots and supports RAID0/1 configuration, enhancing the speed and reliability of data storage. It uses Cold Wave 2.1, and the noise level is only 43dB even under full load, ensuring continuous high-performance output.

The EliteMini UM780 XTX Mini PC is compact and easy to carry, and is printed with a tiger logo. It is equipped with dual 2.5G RJ45 network ports and supports dual-link aggregation. The expansion interfaces include one USB4 interface, four USB 3.2 Gen2 interfaces, one DP interface, one HDMI interface, and one OCuLink interface.

Minisforum MS-A1 Mini PC

Minisforum MS-A1 Mini PC uses AMD Ryzen7 8700G desktop processor, Zen4 architecture, 8 cores and 16 threads. It is equipped with dual-channel DDR5 5200MHz, four M.2 PCIe4.0 NVME SSD card slots, and has HDMI2.1, DP2.0, and USB4 full video output interfaces, and can connect to three 8K monitors at the same time.

The Minisforum MS-A1 Mini PC can connect to a high-performance graphics card via OCuLink to achieve a significant performance leap, meeting the needs of gamers and creative workers for high-performance graphics processing capabilities.

Gaming Console

AYANEO

AYANEO FLIP KB

AYANEO FLIP KB is a clamshell Windows handheld gaming console. It is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U/8840U processor, providing 28W of powerful performance release, and a high-refresh-rate 120Hz high-brightness screen to ensure smooth use. It uses innovative VC liquid cooling plus air cooling technology to keep the device running cool under high load.

The feature of AYANEO FLIP KB is its flip-up full keyboard design. The automatically lit RGB standard character full keyboard provides colorful lighting effects, allowing easy full keyboard input. The battery capacity is 16890mAh (65.02Wh) and is paired with a 100W GaN charger. It is equipped with OCuLink SFF-8612 interface, USB4 Type-C interface, USB 3.2 Gen2 interface, TF card slot, etc.

AYANEO FLIP DS

AYANEO FLIP DS adopts a 3:2 ratio and a resolution of 960*640, providing a more immersive experience for dual-screen gaming. It is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U/8840U processor, combined with VC liquid cooling technology, to achieve 28W of performance release.

AYANEO FLIP DS is equipped with OCuLink interface, USB4 Type-C interface, USB 3.2 Gen2 interface, and UHS-II high-speed TF card slot. The battery capacity is 16890mAh (65.02Wh) and is paired with a 100W GaN charger.

GPD

GPD WIN Mini Gaming Console

GPD WIN Mini Gaming Console is a portable high-performance gaming device. It is equipped with AMD Ryzen 5 7640U / Ryzen 7 7840U processor, equipped with AMD Radeon 760M / 780M graphics card, and memory configuration options range from 16GB to 32GB LPDDR5-6400. Its hard drive space is a PCIe Gen4 M.2 NVMe 2230 SSD, with options ranging from 512GB to 2TB.

The size of GPD WIN Mini is 168 × 109 × 26 mm (6.61 × 4.29 × 1.02 inches) and weighs 520g (18.34 oz). It is equipped with a 7-inch 120Hz high refresh rate screen, uses LTPS technology and sixth-generation Corning Gorilla Glass, has a brightness of up to 500 nits, and supports DC dimming and flicker-free technology. It has a battery capacity of 44.24Wh. It has a USB4 port with 40 Gbps bandwidth, an OCuLink SFF-8612 port, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, and a MicroSD card reader.

GPD WIN MAX2 Gaming Console

GPD WIN MAX2 Gaming Console is a portable high-performance gaming device. It is equipped with a powerful R7 7840U processor and Radeon 780M core graphics. It supports the latest LPDDR5X-7500 specification, can be optionally expanded from 32GB to 64GB, and offers 1TB and 2TB SSD storage options. The OCuLink SFF-8612 interface of the GPD WIN MAX2 can be directly connected to PCIe and supports the expansion of the GPD G1 graphics dock.

GPD WIN MAX2 has a 10.1-inch screen that supports a default resolution of 1920x1200p, up to 2560x1600, and a brightness of 400 nits. It has a battery capacity of 67Wh. Support for an external GPD G1 eGPU via the OCuLink interface enhances its multimedia and expansion capabilities, making it a versatile, high-performance portable gaming console.

GPD WIN 4 Gaming Console

GPD WIN 4 Gaming Console is a portable high-performance gaming device. It provides two processor versions: AMD R7 7840U and AMD R5 7640U, equipped with high-speed LPDDR5x 7500 MT/s memory, and memory capacity has three options: 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB. It offers 512GB, 2TB, and 4TB storage options.

GPD WIN 4 uses a 6-inch screen with a resolution of 1080P, covered with the 5th generation Corning Gorilla Glass, and supports 60Hz and 40Hz refresh rates. It is equipped with two USB-C ports.

ONE-NETBOOK

ONEXPLAYER X1

ONEXPLAYER X1 is an innovative portable device. It offers Intel Core Ultra 5 125H or Ultra 7 155H processor options, with 8Xe or 7Xe graphics. The memory uses dual-channel LPDDR5X-7500, with an optional range from 16GB to 64GB, while the storage provides PCIe4.0*4 M.2 2280 specification SSD, with an optional range of 1TB to 4TB to meet the needs of different users.

ONEXPLAYER X1 uses a 10.95-inch 2.5K 120Hz display with a brightness of up to 540nit and supports DC dimming. Its interfaces include USB 4.0 interface, TF card slot, USB-A 3.2 interface, 3.5mm headphone jack, and OCuLink graphics card dock interface, which supports external graphics card dock and has strong expandability. It has a battery capacity of 65.02Wh and is equipped with a 100W gallium nitride charger. It weighs 789g (27.83 oz).

ROG

ROG Ally

ROG Ally runs Windows 11, supporting a wide range of games and applications with better compatibility. The screen is 7 inches with a 16:9 ratio, providing a high resolution of 1920x1080 and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, giving users a more immersive visual experience. It is equipped with an AMD custom processor.

Its unique XG Mobile composite slot combines the USB-C interface and the dedicated slot to provide up to 63Gbps of data transmission bandwidth and supports the connection of an external XG Mobile graphics expansion dock to achieve powerful computing power comparable to that of a desktop PC.

Graphics Dock

AOOSTAR

AOOSTAR AG01 EGPU Dock

AOOSTAR AG01 EGPU Dock is made of aluminum alloy. It has a built-in custom Huntkey 400W power supply.

AOOSTAR AG01 EGPU Dock is equipped with an OCuLink interface, supports PCIe connection, and provides 64Gbps bandwidth. Compared with USB 4 or Thunderbolt 4 interfaces, OCuLink provides users with lower-cost expansion solutions and faster connections. It supports the Lenovo TGX interface hot plug and is suitable for ThinkBook14+/16+ 2024 Core version laptops.

GPD

GPD G1 Graphics Dock

GPD G1 Graphics Dock has a built-in AMD Radeon RX7600M XT graphics card, which supports 6nm process and RDNA3.0 architecture. Its performance is similar to that of the RTX 4060 mobile version.

The GPD G1 Graphics Dock is equipped with multiple interfaces, including USB-A, RJ45, DP, HDMI, OCuLink PCIe 4.0x4, and USB-C USB4, as well as a built-in M.2 solid-state drive slot. It supports up to 330W power input and 65W PD fast charging.

GZOSMETA

GZOSMETA EG01C Graphics Dock

GZOSMETA EG01C Graphics Dock uses Great Wall CRPS550/800w platinum power supply.

GZOSMETA EG01C Graphics Dock has a new OCuLink interface that does not easily fall off and is durable. It is suitable for many products.

Lenovo

Lenovo ThinkBook TGX Graphics Dock

The Lenovo ThinkBook TGX Graphics Dock is made of aluminum. It won the German Reddot Design Award.

The Lenovo ThinkBook TGX Graphics Dock's TGX interface has a maximum data transfer rate of approximately 64Gbps, which is approximately twice the data transfer bandwidth of Thunderbolt 4 and three times the data transfer bandwidth of Thunderbolt 3.

One XPlayer

ONEXGPU Graphics Dock

ONEXGPU Graphics Dock is a multi-functional expansion dock with a built-in graphics card. It has two USB-A 3.2 data interfaces, an RJ45 Gigabit wired network interface, two DP video interfaces, two HDMI interfaces, an OCuLink PCIe 4.0x4 graphics card direct connection interface, a USB-C USB4 40Gbps full-function interface, and a DC 330W power input interface. It has a built-in M.2 hard drive slot to expand the storage capacity of the device.

ONEXGPU Graphics Dock has a built-in AMD Radeon RX7600M XT graphics card and can be connected to the device via the USB4 interface or OCuLink interface. This GPU uses a 6nm process RDNA3.0 architecture, and its TimeSpy score can reach 10542, which is very close to the score of the RTX 4060 mobile version.

Chip

Parade Technologies

Parade PS8570

A unidirectional 4-channel linear redriver that supports PCI Express Gen4 with data rates up to 16.0GTps. The 2×2 crossbar switch supports multiplexing, demultiplexing, or cross-operation. Ideal for applications incorporating high lane count PCIe bus widths, such as workstations and enterprise data center systems including storage and servers. It also has very low power consumption, resulting in lower overall system power consumption and reduced heat dissipation for mobile applications.

Additionally, it increases reliability of data transmission by eliminating signal distortion that occurs in physical transmission interfaces such as PCIe interconnect cables, PCB traces, and connectors, allowing longer PCIe interconnect cables and PCB traces, and Enables system scalability. In a typical application, PS8570s are used in pairs, with one PS8570 used for the downstream PCIe channel and the other PS8570 used for the upstream PCIe channel.

Summary of ChargerLAB

Laptops that support OCuLink mainly come from brands such as Lenovo, ROG, and THUNDEROBOT. Mini PCs that support OCuLink are products from AOOSTAR, MINISFORUM, and METAPHYUNI. The five graphics dock products are from AOOSTAR, GPD, GZOSMETA, Lenovo, and One XPlayer. Through the OCuLink interface, thin and light laptops, mini PCs, gaming consoles, and graphics docks can be connected to powerful graphics cards to obtain better creation, gaming, AI, and other capabilities and improve productivity.

Related Articles：
1. Empowering Gaming On-the-Go: Introducing the ONEXGPU

Twenty LLC Controllers for High-Power E-Bike Chargers: ChargerLAB Analysis

Rusell — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 01:00:00 +0000

Introduction

LLC topology, known for its high efficiency, has replaced traditional flyback circuits in many applications, achieving higher efficiency and lower energy consumption in household appliances. LLC topology is not only suitable for traditional household appliances with voltage requirements but is also gradually being used in e-bike chargers.

Due to the fixed input and output voltages required by LLC topology, and considering that applications using this topology are high-power sources, an additional PFC (Power Factor Correction) is needed for LLC. PFC not only corrects the power factor but also stabilizes the DC voltage supplied to the LLC. However, as demonstrated in some teardown videos, early chargers used separate PFC controllers and LLC controllers, leading to a higher component count.

As semiconductor technology has advanced, numerous manufacturers have introduced combined PFC and LLC controllers, integrating the functionalities of two chips into one, and simplifying power supply designs. This integration reduces component count, allows PFC to dynamically adjust its working state based on the LLC load, achieving higher efficiency. Consequently, this integration has become the mainstream solution for high-performance power supplies in recent years.

Why LLC Needs to be Used with PFC

To understand why an LLC controller needs to be paired with PFC, it's essential to comprehend the LLC architecture. Simply put, the LLC architecture refers to a power circuit topology containing inductors (L), capacitors (C), and inductors (L) that achieve efficient DC-DC conversion through a resonant circuit formed by these components. The LLC architecture employs Zero-Voltage Switching (ZVS) soft switching technology, known for its high operating frequency, low losses, high efficiency, and compact size, thereby enhancing the power density of the charger. Its resonant operation allows soft-switching across the entire load range, minimizing switch losses, making it an ideal choice for high-frequency and high-power density designs, especially within a certain range of output voltages with improved EMI characteristics.

Since current after rectification in switch-mode power supplies often passes through large filtering capacitors, resulting in capacitive loads, it generates significant high-order harmonics, leading to pollution and interference. Hence, engineers began incorporating PFC circuits into switch-mode power supplies. Specifically, power supplies exceeding 75-85W are mandated to include PFC to improve power factor and correct load characteristics. PFC is divided into passive and active types. Passive PFC uses a large inductor for series compensation, but its main drawbacks include its large size and low efficiency.

With rapid advancements in semiconductor devices, active PFC has become mainstream. Active PFC utilizes a controller, MOSFET, inductor, and diode to form a boost circuit, known for its small size, wide input voltage, and excellent power factor correction effects. Active PFC achieves power factor correction based on the phase difference between voltage and current by driving the MOSFET to boost and rectify the main capacitor's charge.

Moreover, for LLC architecture to perform ideally, both input and output voltages must be fixed. The PFC circuit can stabilize rectified pulsating DC, supply power to the LLC, and perform power factor correction, meeting the working environment requirements of LLC architecture. In high-power-density adapters, the use of active PFC circuits in combination with LLC can reduce high-voltage filter capacitor sizes, reducing size and improving adapter power density.

ChargerLAB has compiled several popular PFC + LLC combo controllers available in the market, as listed below. Let's now delve into the parameters and features of each controller.

The following manufacturers are listed alphabetically.

Chip Hope

LP9961AA

Chip Hope LP9961AA is an LLC controller with high voltage half-bridge driver. It supports 600V high-voltage gate drive, allowing the use of minimal peripheral components to achieve an efficient and reliable LLC resonant system. Adaptive dead time control can greatly improve system efficiency. It can simultaneously achieve high efficiency under light load and low standby power consumption under no load.

LP9961AA outputs a stable voltage through the internal LDO controller, which can directly power the external PFC controller. It integrates multiple protection mechanisms including input over/under voltage protection, output overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, and over-temperature protection.

LP9962AA

Chip Hope LP9962AA is a PFC and LLC controller with high voltage half-bridge driver. It supports 600V high-voltage gate drive, allowing the use of minimal peripheral components to achieve an efficient and reliable LLC resonant system. Adaptive dead time control can greatly improve system efficiency. It can simultaneously achieve high efficiency under light load and low standby power consumption under no load.

LP9962AA adopts its patented detection method and algorithm, and the LLC system can achieve both constant voltage and constant current working states. It adopts CCM control mode, fixed frequency working mode when overloaded, and reduced frequency working mode when lightly loaded.

LP9962AA has multiple protection mechanisms integrated inside. The LLC part includes input over/under voltage protection, system output over/under voltage protection, output over current protection, and over temperature protection. The PFC part has inductor over-current protection, over-power limiting, input under-voltage protection, output over/under-voltage protection, over-temperature protection, etc. LP9962AA adopts SOP20 package.

FANTASTICHIP

FAN6899

FANTASTICHIP FAN6899 is a resonant controller chip dedicated to half-bridge LLC topology. It integrates 700V half-bridge driver, has -1.2A/2A current-sinking capability, a built-in high-precision oscillator, and operates at up to 500KHz frequency. It works in Burst mode at light load, which effectively reduces switching loss and improves light load efficiency. It has multiple protection functions, including current hysteresis type BIBO, two-level OCP protection, etc., which can provide more comprehensive overload and protection functions. It adopts SOP-16 package.

FAN6886&FAN6888

FANTASTICHIP FAN6886 & FAN6888 is a high-performance half-bridge LLC resonant controller chip, which adopts hybrid dual-cycle control technology to achieve the simplification of loop compensation and the rapidity of dynamic response. It has an automatic dead-time adjustment function and can achieve zero voltage switching (ZVS) under full load, effectively improving energy efficiency and system stability. FAN6886 & FAN6888 also have capacitive zone protection working function, and intermittent working mode control not only improves light load efficiency but also significantly reduces noise.

The control parameters of FAN6886 & FAN6888 can be programmed through the graphical user interface (GUI), and differentiated parameter control can be performed according to different application scenarios. Its peripheral circuit design is simple, and no Vcr adjustment sampling circuit is required, which simplifies the design process and can effectively reduce development costs. It can easily achieve the current soft start, further ensuring the stable operation of the system. It can easily achieve the current soft start, further ensuring the stable operation of the system.

It integrates 12-bit ADC and 64-byte MTP and has powerful data processing and storage capabilities. It has Brown in/out, output overvoltage protection, output under-voltage protection, and 3-level overcurrent protection. It meets strict energy efficiency requirements such as 80+, Energy Star, and COC V5 Tier2, and is suitable for high-power adapters, TVs, LED street lights, PC power supplies, etc. When used with the FAN663x, the FAN6886 & FAN6888 can even achieve a standby power consumption of less than 100mW without the need for an auxiliary power supply.

Infineon

ICE2HS01G

Infineon ICE2HS01G is a high-performance resonant controller chip designed for half-bridge LLC resonant converters. It is equipped with the synchronous rectification driver.

It adopts 20pin DSO package. It supports a switching frequency range of 30kHz to 1MHz with an adjustable minimum switching frequency and high-accuracy frequency setting.

It has an adjustable high-accuracy dead time, providing excellent stability and reliability to the system. The support of synchronous rectification makes the chip suitable for various half-bridge LLC resonant converter operation modes, while the internal and external disable functions increase the flexible control of the system.

ICE2HS01G has protection functions including main power input under-voltage protection, three levels of overcurrent protection to improve dynamic performance, open-loop/overload protection, etc. Adjustable blank time and restart time, as well as adjustable over-temperature protection with lock-off function, ensure the safety of the system to the greatest extent.

IDP2308

The Infineon lDP2308 is a multi-mode PFC and LLC controller combined with a floating high-side driver and a startup cell. Only a minimum of external components are required with the low pin count DSO-14 package. The integrated HV startup cell and advanced burst mode enable to achieve low standby power.

It supports synchronous PFC and LLC burst mode control, with configurable PFC drivers supporting multiple modes. It boasts higher efficiency and power density, outperforming LLC+traditional MOSFET combinations. Additionally, it supports configurable protection functions, keeping peripheral components minimal.

Infineon IDP2308's built-in processor allows programming via dpVision software through a half-duplex UART interface, configuring PFC and LLC parameters, and storing them in the built-in one-time programming memory.

Kiwi Instruments

KP2591(A)

Kiwi Instruments KP2591(A) is a resonant switching power supply controller based on a half-bridge LLC resonant converter. It integrates a half-bridge driver and can output a complementary drive with a 50% duty cycle to directly drive the power switch tube.

It integrates high voltage startup, AC power failure detection, and X capacitor discharge functions, a built-in high-precision VCO oscillator, and the maximum operating frequency reaches 350kHz. It integrates the function of adaptive dead-time control to ensure zero voltage turn-on (ZVS) of the power switch tube, thus improving the system efficiency. It integrates capacitive zone protection to avoid bridge arm shoot-through and hard switching, improving system reliability. It can also enter low standby mode through external signal control, reducing the standby loss of the system.

KP2591(A) has protection functions, including VDD overvoltage/under voltage protection, VBT undervoltage protection, AC overvoltage and input under voltage protection, overload protection, resonant cavity overcurrent protection, output overcurrent protection, capacitive area protection, SEL pin open short circuit protection, overheat protection, etc. It adopts SOP-16 package.

This is the application circuit diagram of Kiwi Instruments KP2591(A).

MERAKI

MK2199

MERAKI MK2199 is an LLC controller with high voltage half-bridge driver. It can be used with MK1620/1 to achieve efficient and reliable LLC design, and the adjustable dead time increases the flexibility of the system application.

It provides a CSS pin that provides a soft-start programmable function, allowing the user to set the soft-start time by changing an external capacitor.

Under light load conditions, MK2199 will automatically enter burst mode operation to reduce the loss of system switching devices. If the first level of protection is not sufficient to control the primary current, a higher level of over-current protection (OCP) will lock out the chip. The combination of the two provides comprehensive protection against overload and short circuits.

MK2189 Series

MERAKI MK2189/L/D is a half-bridge LLC resonant controller that can be used with LLC SR controller MK1620/1 to achieve high efficiency and high-reliability LLC design.

The MK2189 series achieves output voltage regulation by adjusting the operating frequency. The adjustable dead time increases system flexibility, and the CSS pin provides a programmable soft-start function, allowing the user to set the soft-start time by changing the external capacitor. At startup, the switching frequency starts from a programmable maximum value and gradually decreases until it reaches a steady-state value determined by the control loop. This frequency variation is nonlinear to minimize output voltage overshoot, and its duration is programmable.

Under light load, MK2189/L/D will automatically reduce the switching loss of system equipment and can suppress noise. If the first level of protection is not sufficient to control the primary current, a higher level of over-current protection (OCP) will lock out the chip.

The MK2189 series has a wide VCC voltage range of up to 26V, of which the MK2189D can adjust the dead time from 250ns to 1us. The operating frequency is up to 500KHz, with 0.3A drive current and 0.8A pull-down current, which can meet various power supply requirements. It adopts SOP-16 package. It can be applied to AC/DC adapters, high-power density DC/DC converters, server centers, LCDs, and other fields.

MERCHIP

M3010

MERCHIP M3010 is a bridgeless PFC+LLC controller digital controller chip.

Features:

• Single-channel low inductance, single-channel ripple is large, and the ripple coefficient is less than 0.3 after interleaving

• Single-channel current CBC and OST protection, CBC handles grid anomalies and will not trigger shutdown by mistake. In extreme cases, OST can protect the hardware

• Comprehensive protection for software RMS over-current, RMS over-voltage, RMS over-power, temperature, etc.

• The software introduces feedforward duty cycle and current sampling DCM calibration and independently determines CCM and DCM modes to improve light load THD

• Turn off one phase when the light load is low to improve light load efficiency

• Dynamic current sharing between two phases ensures that the current in both paths is consistent

• The voltage loop fast loop function ensures the stability of the bus voltage after the sudden load

• Switching frequency jitter can reduce EMI spectrum spikes

• Current CBC protection and input feedforward can ensure reliability in the event of power grid anomalies

•Software power frequency notch filter filters out 100hz ripple, which can increase the voltage loop bandwidth

• The control loop is the output voltage loop and output current loop, adopting dual-loop competition mode

• The circuit control adopts PFM+PWM mode, and the hiccup mode is used for extremely light load to improve efficiency

• Use variable dead time to balance reliability and efficiency

• Closed loop slow start to avoid overshoot, good adaptability to different characteristic loads

• Provide multiple protection mechanisms, including over-voltage and under-voltage protection, multi-level over-current protection to improve dynamic performance, overload protection, over-temperature protection, and other protections, and configurable restart time to provide flexible application

• External communication ports use SCI, CAN, SPI, etc.

MPS

HR1200

MPS HR1200 integrates a digital PFC controller and a half-bridge resonant controller. It requires very low power under no-load or ultra-light-load conditions, complying with the energy-using products (EuP) Lot 6 and 5th Edition's Tier 2 specifications.

Its patented average current control scheme for PFC operates in continuous conduction mode (CCM) and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) based on transient conditions of input voltage and output load. The IC exhibits excellent efficiency and high-power PF under light-load conditions. When operating in CCM, the controller can be used for applications up to 500W. The half-bridge LLC converter achieves high efficiency through zero-voltage switching (ZVS).

It also integrates a high-voltage current source within the IC for startup, eliminating the need for traditional startup resistors or external circuits.

HR1203

HR1203 is another high-performance controller integrating an advanced digital PFC controller and a half-bridge LLC resonant controller. Under no-load or ultra-light-load also meets the energy-using products (EuP) Lot 6 and 5th Edition's Tier 2 specifications.

Its PFC uses an average current control scheme based on transient conditions of input voltage and output load, operating in continuous conduction mode (CCM) and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM). Additionally, the IC demonstrates excellent efficiency and high power factor (PF) under light-load conditions.

To enhance immunity to disturbances, HR1203 incorporates multiple programmable digital filters for critical signal filtering. Moreover, it features comprehensive protection functions, including over-temperature shutdown protection, open-circuit protection (OLP), over-current protection (OCP), over-voltage protection (OVP), and under-voltage protection/startup.

HR1211

MPS HR1211 is a multi-mode PFC and current-mode LLC integrated controller. Traditional chips would require 2-3 chips to achieve this function, resulting in significant differences in cost and sophistication. Notably, it can be programmed via the UART interface. Its built-in energy-saving technology optimizes HR1211 efficiency across the entire operating range. Furthermore, it can operate in a hybrid CCM and DCM working mode.

The MPS HR1211 integrates the PFC controller and LLC controller into one package.

HR1211 employs a digital control scheme with multiple independent ADCs for detecting input voltage, PFC output voltage, LLC feedback voltage, and PFC peak switch current. It supports various comprehensive protection measures such as thermal shutdown, PFC open-loop protection, overvoltage protection, overcurrent limitation and protection, and over-power protection, among others. Notably, its standby power consumption is <100mW. Additionally, it supports high-voltage startup and intelligent X-cap discharge, with a PFC operating frequency of up to 250kHz.

NXP

TEA2016AAT

NXP TEA2016AAT comes in a thin and narrow SO16 package, integrating high-voltage startup, LLC, and PFC controllers along with their respective drivers.

The chip employs valley/zero voltage switching to minimize switch losses, maintaining high conversion efficiency across the entire load range while meeting the latest energy-saving standards with standby input power <75mW. TEA2016AAT also features comprehensive protection functions including undervoltage protection, over-power protection, surge protection, and more.

NXP TEA2016AAT is a digitally configurable LLC and PFC combination controller for efficient resonant power supplies. It integrates an LLC controller and PFC controllers operating in DCM and QR modes, enabling the construction of complete resonant power supplies. Furthermore, this chip adopts a digital architecture, allowing adjustments to LLC and PFC controller operation and protection settings during development.

The combination of TEA2016AAT with TEA1995T easily achieves 90-500W power with minimal external components. This comprehensive system maintains very low standby input power (<75mW) across the entire load range and complies with energy efficiency regulations such as Energy Star, the US Department of Energy, the EU Eco-design Directive, and the EU Code of Conduct.

TEA2017AAT

NXP's latest TEA2017AAT is a digitally configurable multi-mode PFC+LLC integrated controller. Compared to TEA2016AAT, its PFC supports CCM operation mode.

The configured PFC can operate in DCM/QR, and CCM fixed frequency mode to optimize PFC efficiency, constructing a complete resonant power supply with simplified power design and minimal component count, housed in a narrow body-width SO16 package.

Its digital architecture is based on a high-speed configurable hardware state machine ensuring very reliable real-time performance. The configurations can be fully secured to prevent unauthorized copying of the proprietary TEA2017AAT configuration content.

In contrast to traditional resonant topologies, the TEA2017AAT shows a very high

efficiency at low loads due to the LLC low-power mode. This mode operates in the power region between continuous switching (also called high-power mode) and burst mode.

TEA1716T

NXP TEA1716T is an integrated half-bridge LLC+boost PFC combination controller featuring intermittent frequency operation mode, compliant with EuP lot 6, suitable for LCD TVs, laptop adapters, desktops, and all-in-one power supplies.

Here is all the information about the NXP TEA1716T.

Powerforest

PF6771

Next is Powerforest's PF6771, a PFC and dual-feedback LLC integrated digital controller capable of outstanding performance and powerful features, meeting the needs of applications with two fixed outputs below 250W.

In the dual-feedback LLC architecture, NMOS and PMOS correspond to different outputs; for instance, in a TV system, PMOS corresponds to the system's 12V/5A switch, while NMOS is the backlight 130V/1A switch. Through their duty cycle ratio variation, PF6771 meets the wattage requirements of two different outputs, reducing efficiency losses in the primary backlight boost and additional power components, enhancing efficiency, and saving costs.

Its PFC operates in BCM mode and employs digital compensation design without external PFC compensation networks, effectivelycompensating for power factor and harmonic distortion. The LLC adopts current mode control. Additionally, it has dedicated pins for standby mode control, providing flexibility and control options.

Silergy

SY5055

Silergy SY5055 is a highly integrated PFC and LLC combined controller, consolidating the functions of separate PFC and LLC devices, reducing component count, and simplifying design.

With a single chip, SY5055 provides PFC and LLC control signals simultaneously.

SY5055 supports high-voltage startup, integrates valley detection, offers PFC undervoltage, overvoltage, and overload protection, supports X-cap discharge, and features compact SOP16 package with various output protections.

ST

STNRG011

STMicroelectronics' STNRG011 is a digital multi-mode PFC+time shift LLC controller, featuring an integrated 800V high-voltage startup circuit, input voltage detection, and X-cap discharge function to reduce standby power consumption. Its built-in PFC controller supports input voltage feedforward, THD optimization, and frequency limitation, operating in enhanced fixed-off-time mode.

It offers a complete set of PFC protection, convenient timing control for resonant half-bridge, enhanced burst mode for quick bursts, and a comprehensive half-bridge protection function. It can be used in open-frame power supplies, flat-panel TV power supplies, PC power supplies, and adapter applications.

STNRG011 uses an SO20 package with a block-oriented pin design that separates high-voltage and drive pins from sampling pins, facilitating circuit optimization. It features an 8-bit digital core control, digital algorithms, and hardware simulation circuits. The chip has built-in ROM memory for algorithm storage and supports UART pin communication for monitoring functions.

This is the application circuit diagram for STNRG011, where a single chip achieves complete PFC+LLC control. The chip is controlled by a digital core, and multiple key parameters are programmable. It features comprehensive built-in protection functions and supports configuration protection through the chip's internal memory. The inclusion of the digital core significantly reduces the difficulty of power supply development and debugging.

TI

UCC29950

TI UCC29950 is a PFC and LLC combined controller that provides comprehensive control functions for AC-to-DC converters with CCM boost power factor correction (PFC) and LLC transformers. The controller is optimized for ease of use. Its proprietary CCM PFC algorithm enables the system to achieve high efficiency, smaller converter size, and high power factor.

It includes a startup control circuit using an internally powered MOSFET in depletion mode to minimize external component requirements and help reduce system implementation costs. To further reduce standby power consumption, it integrates an X-cap discharge circuit. It features a complete set of system protection functions, including AC line dropout, PFC bus under voltage, PFC and LLC overcurrent, and thermal shutdown.

Summary of ChargerLAB

With the increase in fast charging power and the maturity of the secondary synchronous rectification buck converter, the high-efficiency and small-volume LLC architecture has been given the conditions to show its prowess in fast charging. The LLC architecture replaces the PFC+flyback topology in high-power PD fast charging. Combined with GaN and SiC components, the operating frequency is greatly improved, which can achieve higher conversion efficiency and power density.

In addition, the application of LLC architecture is not limited to e-bike chargers, it also has broad application prospects in other fields that require high power density and high efficiency. For example, high-power server power supplies, industrial power supplies, etc. can all benefit from the high-efficiency performance of LLC architecture.

Eleven AHB Controllers for High-Power E-Bike Chargers: ChargerLAB Analysis

Rusell — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 01:00:00 +0000

Introduction

Nowadays, e-bike chargers are generally high-power. Many manufacturers have launched e-bike chargers equipped with AHB controllers. The AHB controller uses two MOSFETs to form a half-bridge and uses a capacitor in series with the primary coil of the transformer to store energy together. Through the newly added MOSFET, the capacitor energy is transferred to the secondary components through the transformer. Compared with the traditional flyback controller which consumes the transformer leakage inductance as heat, the AHB controller not only recycles the leakage inductance but also realizes zero-voltage switching of the main MOSFET and zero-current switching of the synchronous rectifier, reducing switching losses and heat generation.

What is an AHB Controller?

The AHB topology involves both the transformer excitation inductance and the resonant capacitor inside the asymmetric half-bridge in storing energy. Compared to the flyback converter, it reduces the volume to some extent. AHB combines the advantages of the flyback converter and the asymmetric half-bridge, utilizing the excitation current to achieve MOSFET ZVS (Zero Voltage Switching) and the resonant current to achieve secondary rectifier diode ZCS (Zero Current Switching). AHB is well-suited for wide voltage output applications, and in comparison to the LLC topology, it offers significant advantages in applications with wide output voltage variations like PD fast charging, providing substantial cost benefits. AHB's switching frequency is limited to a relatively narrow range, making it highly beneficial for EMI filter design. AHB is suitable for high power density and cost-effective topologies.

Compared to the LLC architecture, the AHB architecture has the following advantages. Firstly, the AHB architecture's secondary side is a single-power-device topology, effectively reducing system costs. Secondly, the AHB architecture places significantly lower voltage stress on secondary rectifier diodes compared to traditional flyback architectures, enabling the use of lower voltage-rated MOSFETs, which greatly reduces system costs and debugging complexity, especially in applications requiring high output voltage like PD fast charging. Thirdly, in the AHB architecture, the transformer and resonant capacitor jointly store energy, effectively reducing the size of the transformer.

According to ChargerLAB's incomplete statistics, renowned industry manufacturers such as Dongke Semi, Infineon, JoulWatt, On-Bright, and Richtek have already introduced or are about to release new AHB controllers. Let's take a closer look at them.

The following manufacturers are listed alphabetically.

Dongke Semi

DK8710AD

DK8710AD is an AC-DC power switch IC based on an asymmetric half-bridge architecture and integrating two GaN FETs. It can effectively recycle leakage energy, achieve ZVS of the main FET and ZCS of the synchronous rectifiers, improve conversion efficiency, reduce power device stress, reduce switching losses, and enhance electromagnetic interference (EMI) performance.

The DK8710AD has a reduced number of peripheral components, greatly simplifying the design and manufacturing of AC-DC adapters, especially products that require high conversion efficiency and high power density. It has complete protection functions: including overload protection, output overvoltage protection, output short circuit protection, VCC over/under voltage protection, VS pin abnormality protection, primary overcurrent protection, overtemperature protection, etc. It adopts DFN8*8 package. 365-480mΩ 100W.

DK8712AD

Compared with DK8710AD, the internal resistance of DK8712AD is further reduced to 270-350mΩ, and the recommended application power is 120W.

DK8715AD

DK8715AD is an AC-DC power switch IC based on an asymmetric half-bridge architecture and integrating two GaN FETs. It can effectively recycle leakage energy, achieve ZVS of the main FET and ZCS of the synchronous rectifiers, improve conversion efficiency, reduce power device stress, reduce switching losses, and enhance electromagnetic interference (EMI) performance.

DK8715AD supports a maximum switching frequency of 800KHz, a standby power consumption of less than 50mW, and has an adaptive dead time. It is halogen-free, meets ROHs requirements, and has built-in high-voltage startup and X-capacitor discharge circuits, providing higher performance and reliability for the system.

DK8715AD has a reduced number of peripheral components, greatly simplifying the design and manufacturing of AC-DC adapters, especially products that require high conversion efficiency and high power density. It has complete protection functions: including overload protection, output overvoltage protection, output short circuit protection, VCC over/under voltage protection, VS pin abnormality protection, primary overcurrent protection, overtemperature protection, etc.

DK8715AD adopts DFN8*8 package. It is suitable for high power density fast chargers, adapters, laptop adapters, tablet chargers, TV power supplies, e-bikes, communication power supplies, LED power supplies, and other fields.

DK8718AD

Compared with DK8715AD, the internal resistance of DK8718AD is further reduced to 115-150mΩ, and the recommended application power is 180W.

DK8718AD is an AC-DC power switch IC based on an asymmetric half-bridge architecture and integrating two GaN FETs. It can effectively recycle leakage energy, achieve ZVS of the main FET and ZCS of the synchronous rectifiers, improve conversion efficiency, reduce power device stress, reduce switching losses, and enhance electromagnetic interference (EMI) performance.

DK8718AD has a reduced number of peripheral components, greatly simplifying the design and manufacturing of AC-DC adapters, especially products that require high conversion efficiency and high power density. It has complete protection functions: including overload protection, output overvoltage protection, output short circuit protection, VCC over/under voltage protection, VS pin abnormality protection, primary overcurrent protection, overtemperature protection, etc.

Infineon

XDPS2201

XDPSS2201 is a digital hybrid flyback controller. It integrates a 600V high-voltage start-up cell for fast charging. It can be used with IGI60F1414A1L GaN IC to provide customers with highly integrated, efficient, high-performance, and low-temperature rise GaN fast charging solutions.

XDPSS2201 adopts peak current mode control for fast load response. It supports primary side overvoltage protection, and the standby power consumption is less than 75mW. It can be configured through a single-pin UART interface. It adopts PG-DSO-14 package.

XDPS2221

XDPS2221 is a new generation of PFC+HFB controller. It combines the PFC controller with the XDPS2201 HFB controller to help power supply manufacturers create a simpler, more efficient, and compact power supply design.

XDPS2221 supports a wide input range of 90~264Vac (47Hz/64Hz) PD3.1, and an input voltage of 5V-28V. The output current of it is 5A and the output power is 140W. The conversion efficiency reaches over 95% at 230V, and the 115V conversion rate reaches 93.5%, which meets the energy efficiency requirements and helps the development of PD power adapters with green energy efficiency requirements.

XDPS2221 packages the PFC controller and HFB controller together. It adopts three IGLD60R190D1 (190M ohm/8*8GaN) CoolGaN power components, one in the PFC GaN FET and the other two in the HFB GaN FET. The SR GaN FET model it uses is ICQ800NLS (100V/3.3mR). The USB-PD protocol power IC model is CYPD3175. The size of the PCB is only 109.5 x 28.5 x 24 mm (4.31 x 1.12 x 0.94 inches). The power density reaches 22.67W/In³ or 38W/CC. This design saves PCB area while bringing significant performance improvements, and can better adapt to various low-power PD adapter applications.

XDPS2222

XDPS2222 has many upgrades and improvements compared to XDPS2221. It supports a wide output voltage range of 5~48V for USB-PD3.1 applications, especially suitable for applications such as high power density fast chargers, laptop adapters, and e-bike chargers. The PFC function that is adaptively adjusted according to input and output can significantly improve the average efficiency and meet the latest energy efficiency standards. The HFB controller provides an innovative resonant capacitor switching function to greatly meet the design of a wider output voltage range and further improve efficiency.

JoulWatt

JW1556

JoulWatt JW1556 is an asymmetric half-bridge flyback controller, packaged in QFN4x4-20, suitable for offline flyback converter applications. It has an input voltage range of 2.5-38V, a maximum operating frequency of up to 1.5MHz, and supports fast charging applications ranging from 65W to 300W.

JW1556 can set the operating frequency through a single external resistor, keeping the design simple with minimal peripherals. The chip includes soft start, VIN OVP, VS OVP, SCP, Brown-In/Out, OTP, CS open circuit, and short circuit protection, enhancing the reliability of the power supply system. It can also provide charger manufacturers with a one-stop solution for PD 3.1 applications.

It operates in ZVS mode under heavy loads, supports Adaptive ZVS, and optimizes efficiency. Under light loads, it operates in DCM mode, providing primary and auxiliary switch control, high-voltage start-up, X capacitor discharge control, burst mode control, adjustable line compensation, and other features. It is used to support various usage scenarios of chargers and maximize efficiency.

Here is all the information about the JoulWatt JW1556.

JW1556B

JW1556B is an optimized model by JoulWatt for peak load scenarios, supporting a wide input voltage range of 0-38V. It is suitable for the laptop market, which demands 1-2 times peak power.

Many key features of JW1556B are the same as JW1556, such as QFN4x4-20 packaging and a maximum operating frequency of 1.5MHz, as well as support for high-voltage start-up, X capacitor discharge control, burst mode control, adjustable line compensation, and more.

On-Bright

OB2792

On-Bright OB2792 is an AHB controller designed for zero-voltage switching resonant converters. Under normal operation, the high-side charging cycle employs conventional peak current control, while the low-side turn-on cycle is regulated by an internal adaptive control loop. Under heavy loads, the chip operates in continuous resonant mode, while under light loads, it enters a frequency foldback mode, achieving zero-voltage switching and reducing switching losses.

It supports over-voltage protection, under-voltage protection, over-current protection, open-loop protection, X capacitor discharge protection, and internal and external over-temperature protection. It is designed to provide an efficient and reliable switching power supply solution for applications requiring 90W and above.

Richtek

RT7795

RT7795 is a controller launched by Richtek specially designed for asymmetric half-bridge (AHB) conversion power supply. It has a built-in 625V high-voltage starting device, an output power of up to 300W, supports 5-48V output voltage, and has a built-in X-capacitor discharge. It adopts a continuous resonant operation mode, which can effectively reduce the power loss of AHB and the secondary-side synchronous rectifier. It has multiple built-in protection mechanisms and adopts WQFN-24L package, which is suitable for high-power GaN fast-charging power supply design.

In addition to this AHB controller, Richtek has also launched a number of chips for SR, PFC, and other topologies.

Summary of ChargerLAB

With its advantages in power density, efficiency, cost, etc., the AHB controller has gradually become one of the mainstream choices in fast-charging product design. Compared with the traditional flyback topology, the AHB architecture has significant advantages in energy conversion and loss control and is particularly suitable for high power density and cost-effective application scenarios. Its innovations in topology and control strategy enable fast-charging products to achieve higher power output while also being more efficient and reliable.

Major manufacturers are actively launching their own AHB controller products. These products continue to innovate in technology and demonstrate strong competitiveness in practical applications. These products improve the efficiency and reliability of power supply systems and make it possible to simplify and miniaturize power supply design, meeting the demand for efficient and compact power supply solutions. Combined with its characteristics, the AHB controller is suitable for high-power e-bike chargers. In the future, as the technology matures further and the market continues to expand, AHB controllers are expected to demonstrate their unique value in more fields and promote the fast-charging industry to a higher level.

Here Is How to Wirelessly Charge the Samsung S23 Ultra Using Magnetic Force

Rusell — Sat, 13 Apr 2024 01:00:00 +0000

If you wanna buy the tester of POWER-Z, you can visit our Amazon store: Click here.

Introduction
---------------------------------------------------------------
As we all know, the Samsung S23 Ultra can support 15W wireless charging. With the popularity of Qi2, Android phones will also support magnetic wireless charging in the future.
For now, third-party accessories are required to achieve magnetic charging, such as this magnetic case.

Think Forward | Eighteen Qi2 Wireless Charging Chips by Twelve Leading Manufacturers

Joey — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 01:23:00 +0000

Introduction

As we all know, Apple made significant innovations in wireless charging starting from the iPhone 12 series, introducing the new MagSafe wireless charging, which improved both charging speed and user experience. However, to achieve the touted 15W MagSafe charging, third-party products need to use Apple's MFi certified wireless charging modules; otherwise, even if they can be used, the power will be greatly reduced, which impacts consumer choices.

With the implementation of EU regulations, Apple has gradually become more open in the charging domain. They are also actively promoting the latest Qi2 wireless charging standard by the WPC. Rumors have circulated that the upcoming Apple iPhone 15 will open up the previously encrypted 15W magnetic wireless charging. In other words, with Qi2 certification, third-party products can provide users with a relatively fast wireless charging experience even without Apple's MFi certification.

(All data above from the official WPC forecasts)

Entering the previously closed Apple ecosystem with unchanged performance and better prices signifies a lot for every industry professional. The release of the Qi2 standard will undoubtedly further drive the development of the entire magnetic wireless charging ecosystem, positively impacting the industry.

What is Qi2 Wireless Charging？

The latest Qi2 wireless charging standard from the WPC is optimized based on Apple's MagSafe, utilizing the MPP (Magnetic Power Profile) protocol. It makes wireless charging more user-friendly in terms of alignment and usage, offering better compatibility and charging efficiency. The WPC has standardized and integrated authentication verification to enhance practicality and convenience, further promoting the widespread adoption of wireless charging.

Qi2 certification requires products to include both EPP (Extended Power Profile) and MPP transmission areas, and they must incorporate authentication. Single BPP (Baseline Power Profile) wireless chargers cannot obtain Qi2 certification, and in multi-coil wireless chargers, while BPP can be included, there must be at least one EPP or MPP.

Qi2 certification must pass ATL verification, and currently, there are 11 authorized WPC labs.

While the brand-new Qi2 wireless charging standard brings significant opportunities, it also imposes higher technical requirements on wireless charging systems. According to incomplete statistics from ChargerLAB, several manufacturers have already launched Qi2 standard wireless charging chips, including ConvenientPower, Injoinic, Maxic, NuVolta, Suncore, and WPINNO, to meet the upcoming demands of the new wireless charging market.

Blande

D9516

The Blande D9516 is a high-performance wireless charging transmitter chip that supports various Qi-compliant Type-A power transmitter designs such as A11/A28, meeting the comprehensive control requirements of Qi standard or customized 5V/9V/12V wireless transmitters. This chip features an integrated USB-C port, compatible with PD3.0/2.0 standards, and supports receiving power of 5W/7.5W/10W/15W.

To provide maximum flexibility and efficiency in wireless power control applications, the D9516 introduces Dynamic Power Locking (DPL) technology. Additionally, the D9516 supports Foreign Object Detection (FOD) function, continuously monitoring the efficiency of power transmission to effectively prevent energy loss caused by metal objects mistakenly placed in the transmission field.

The D9516 achieves precise coil alignment through sound signals emitted by an external AC buzzer. Furthermore, it is equipped with I²C and Ustart interfaces, offering flexible communication options. The built-in LED lights clearly display charging and fault statuses, enhancing the user experience.

It adopts a heat-performance-optimized 4mm x 4mm, 32-pin QFN package, providing superior performance and reliability in a compact form, suitable for wireless chargers for smartphones and wearable devices compliant with WPC standards, as well as wireless chargers specifically designed for medical and industrial applications.

Chipown

PN7727

The Chipown PN7727 is a fully integrated intelligent chip supporting 20W wireless charging under Qi2 standard. The chip integrates drivers and H-bridge MOSFET, along with a regulator providing 5V output voltage for MCU power supply. The chip supports power supplies ranging from 3-12V, with a working frequency of up to 500KHz.

Designed for single-wafer, it offers QFN2 x 2-16L package with bottom heat dissipation pad, effectively reducing device temperature rise, suitable for wireless charging transmitters and DC motor drive applications. Moreover, its QFN2 x 2-16L package boasts excellent compact design among similar packages, allowing more efficient heat dissipation and enhancing chip performance stability.

This is its size compared to a coin.

It integrates with a driver and four efficient power stage MOSFETs, featuring built-in bootstrap high-voltage PMOS and 5V/50mA LDO, with adaptive dead time function that adjusts power transmission flexibly according to different wireless charging scenarios, making the wireless charging system more intelligent and efficient, saving energy while achieving higher charging efficiency.

ConvenientPower

CPS8200

ConvenientPower CPS8200 is a highly integrated and efficient wireless charging transmitter chip, featuring a 32-bit processor, 64+2KB MTP (Multi-Time Programming), 32KB ROM, and 2KB SRAM. MTP supports read and write protection.

It supports QC2.0, QC3.0, PD3.1, SCP and AFC, and has integrated three pairs of half-bridge drivers. When paired with corresponding MOSFETs, it can complete a Qi2 wireless charging product.

CPS8200 also supports 24V power voltage, 45V for the power stage, and integrates over-voltage, over-current, and over-temperature protection. It includes a buck-boost converter, DC-DC controller, communication module, etc., with extremely low standby power consumption. It uses the QFN6x6-48 package.

CPS4041

ConvenientPower CPS4041 is also a highly integrated and efficient wireless charging transmitter chip, compatible with the Qi2 standard. It supports 60W wireless charging reception and 20W wireless charging transmission, making it particularly suitable for smartphones and portable devices. The chip integrates efficient synchronous full-bridge/half-bridge rectifiers for converting the AC from the coil induction to DC output. The chip also has an integrated low-dropout regulator (LDO), suitable for battery-powered devices.

It integrates a 30mΩ synchronous rectifier, with 1% current sampling accuracy and dedicated temperature sensing. It includes a 32-bit processor and a 12-bit ADC for input and output power detection.

CPS4041 also integrates rectifier over-voltage protection, LDO over-current protection, and over-temperature protection. It uses a 2.82x4.22mm WLCSP-53 package.

CVSMicro

CV90367

The CVSMicro CV90367 is a powerful Qi2 wireless charging chip, supporting power adapters for various applications, backward compatible with Qi, supporting single-coil/multi-coil wireless charging applications with power up to 80W; it can be configured with various protection functions, integrating full-bridge drive circuit and voltage & current dual communication decoding function modules, in a QFN48 package.

It is a SoC compliant with Qi v1.2, v1.3, and Qi2.9 standards, supporting Qi-compliant BPP 5W, Apple 7.5W, Samsung 10W, EPP 15W, and MPP 15W wireless charging, while also supporting proprietary protocols and customizable communication protocols, offering strong compatibility and multi-power support.

The CV90367 integrates a 32-bit high-speed CPU core with 16KB Mask ROM. It widely supports mainstream fast charging protocols on the market, with built-in full-bridge MOS gate driver, 4 pairs of complementary 16-bit high-speed PWM@128MHz.

Additionally, it integrates voltage and current dual decoding, hardware overvoltage protection, supports Q-factor detection and foreign object detection functions, and has 11 GPIOs, supporting I2C, UART communication, providing more connection and expansion options.

CV90368

As an upgraded version of CV90367, the CV90368 has made many improvements in functional features, providing more advanced performance to meet the diverse needs of different users.

The CV90368 increases the maximum power from 80W to 100W based on CV90367, and can support up to 3 RX device wireless charging simultaneously. It also increases RAM from the original 4KB to 6KB, upgrades 12-bit high-precision ADC from the original 8 channels to 13 channels, adds 7 GPIOs to reach 18 GPIOs, and adopts a more advanced packaging method for more compact structure.

Specifically, the CV90368 uses a QFN56 package, with a smaller overall size, and its support for "one core, dual charging" allows it to be applied in multi-in-one wireless charging bases and various wireless charging devices.

Generalplus

GPM32FD0338B

The GPM32FD0338B is an industrial-grade MCU with an ARM M0 core, featuring 8KB SRAM, 4KB system memory, and 60KB program storage, supporting configurable data storage. The chip integrates two ADCs, two fast analog voltage comparators, and four operational amplifiers.

The chip has a built-in core temperature sensor, with 34 fast multi-function bidirectional IOs, two I2C interfaces, two SPI interfaces, and three UART interfaces, as well as an integrated full-bridge MOSFET driver. The chip has four security levels, supports -40~105°C operating temperature, and comes in a QFN48 package.

This is all the major information about the Generalplus GPM32FD0338B.

Infineon

WLC1115

Infineon WLC1115 is a highly integrated wireless power transmitter that complies with the Qi2 standard. It integrates a 4.5V to 24V DC input buck-boost converter, an inverter gate driver, factory-calibrated current sensing, supporting MPP, EPP, and BPP protocols, analog protection peripherals, USB PD, LIN, and serial interfaces, enabling efficient and intelligent wireless power transmission.

The WLC1115 complies with USB Type-C and PD 3.1 specifications, meeting the latest Qi specifications for 15W applications and serving as an ideal choice for 15W wireless charging applications. It integrates gate drivers for buck and boost power supplies, supporting an input voltage range of 4.5V to 24V, and provides various programmable features for unique wireless transmitter solutions.

It also features multi-path ASK demodulation, effectively resisting signal distortion caused by multipath propagation, thus improving signal reception sensitivity and performance. Additionally, it includes adaptive foreign object detection to identify and handle potential foreign object interference, ensuring efficient energy transfer to receiving devices, reducing energy loss.

WLC1115 is a highly programmable wireless power transmitter integrated with a USB-PD receiver, featuring an on-chip 32-bit Arm® Cortex®-M0 processor, 128 KB flash, 16 KB RAM, and 32 KB ROM, maximizing available flash space for user applications. Moreover, it incorporates various analog and digital peripherals, such as ADC, PWM, and timers. The WLC1115 also integrates a fully programmable flash microcontroller (MCU) with analog and digital peripherals, offering an expandable multi-coil wireless charging solution for free-positioning transmitters.

Infineon's wireless charging controller (WLC) provides a highly integrated and scalable platform, aiding compliance and proprietary charging requirements. The controller is equipped with I2C and UART communication ports, facilitating connections with other devices. Additionally, it features configurable software functions for personalized settings according to specific application needs.

The WLC1115 operates stably in environments ranging from -40°C to 105°C, employing a QFN68 8 x 8 x 0.65mm package, offering flexible tray or tape and reel options, applicable in wireless charging boards, smart speakers, portable accessories, furniture and home goods, docking stations, high-speed charging support, and other fields for extended power configuration profiles and basic power configurations.

Injoinic

IP6802

IP6802 is a complete single-chip wireless charging SOC. This chip supports the PD3.0 protocol and supports PD and DP&DM fast charging power supply, supporting input voltage from 4V to 20V. It integrates full-bridge drivers and digital demodulation, eliminating the need for external drivers and op-amps, making it possible to create a complete Qi2 wireless charging product with only four MOSFETs and a few peripheral components.

It integrates a 32-bit MCU, ADC, timers, and H-bridge drivers, and also includes I2C communication, supporting customization and certification testing. It has a built-in 32KB MTP storage, supporting firmware upgrades, allowing users to customize through PC.

IP6802 has built-in dynamic power regulation, which, for USB power adapters with insufficient power delivery, can maintain uninterrupted wireless charging by reducing the transmission power. It also supports static and dynamic FOD (Foreign Object Detection) and various protection functions. The chip uses a QFN5x5-32 package, allowing for very compact end products to meet personalized design needs.

Maxic

MT5805

The Maxic MT5805 is a single-chip solution, integrating a 32-bit M0 processor, 32KB MTP memory, and 4KB SRAM internally, compliant with WPC Qi 1.3 specifications, supporting proprietary wireless charging protocols and customizable functions. The chip supports input voltages from 4-20V, with built-in fast charging function, supporting UFCS, PD3.0, QC, FCP, SCP protocols, and single-chip wireless charger applications.

It supports overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, undervoltage protection, and overheat protection, with built-in dynamic power limitation, supporting dynamic power reduction output. The chip adopts FCQFN3 x 4-24L package, suitable for wireless charging transmitters for smartphones and wearable devices, medical devices, household appliances, and industrial equipment.

This is partial information about the MT5805.

MT5811

Maxic MT5811 is a highly integrated Qi wireless charging transmitter chip with fast charging protocols like USB PD, QC, and a 15W output power support.

It integrates an ARM M0 processor, with an efficient and compact design, providing a strong and self-contained secondary development capabilities. The chip integrates 3 pairs of NMOS drivers, eliminating the need for external drivers.

MT5811 has strong scalability, adopting a highly integrated embedded SoC architecture and flexible interface design, suitable for various low-cost, low-power applications, widely used for 5G terminals, wearable devices, IoT, smart appliances, etc.

NuVolta

NU1708A

NuVolta NU1708A is a highly integrated wireless charging transmitter chip supporting input voltages from 4.5V to 20.5V. It integrates efficient full-bridge MOSFETs and corresponding drivers while also incorporating a wireless charging master control chip, greatly reducing space usage.

Additionally, it integrates a 92MHz 32-bit MCU, 32KB MTP, and 2KB SRAM, along with PD and QC fast charging protocols and various protection features.

NU1718

NuVolta NU1718 is also a highly integrated wireless charging transmitter controller, supporting input voltages from 4.5V to 30V. It integrates buck-boost controllers and three pairs of half-bridge drivers, supporting dead time and slew rate.

It includes 5V, 3.3V, and 1.8V regulators, high-precision current sensing for FOD (Foreign Object Detection) and In-Band communication, as well as multiple protection features, a 92MHz 32-bit MCU, 64KB MTP, and 4KB SRAM.

It also integrates QC and PD fast charging protocols, with a static current in sleep mode of less than 20μA, making it suitable for desktop wireless charger applications.

Southchip

Southchip SC9610

The Southchip SC9610 is a highly integrated, efficient wireless charging transmitter controller, with a maximum output power of 50W, compliant with WPC-Qi2.0 protocol; the chip integrates a 32-bit digital core and rich components, allowing easy development of wireless charging transmitters with power up to 50W and other applications.

It supports input voltage range from 4V to 22V, up to 42V conversion, integrates 64KB MTP programmable multiple memory, 8KB SRAM static random access memory; additionally, it supports enhanced PWM output of up to 3 channels or 4 general PWM outputs, with a clock frequency of up to 192MHz.

The SC9610 integrates full-bridge drivers, amplitude shift keying (ASK) demodulation module, frequency shift keying (FSK) modulation module, analog-digital converter module, 6 timer modules, and capture modules, supporting I2C interface, integrating multiple low-dropout voltage regulator modules providing stable output voltages of 5V, 3.3V, and 1.5V, and integrating a fast charging interface, supporting USB PD3.0, VOOC, UFCS, and other fast charging protocols, meeting various demands for charging efficiency and speed.

The SC9610 supports Q-factor detection, integrates precise current sensing for foreign object detection, and integrates protection mechanisms such as overvoltage protection (OVP), overcurrent protection (OCP), overtemperature protection (OTP), to maximize device safety. The SC9610 uses a QFN 44 package, providing good thermal performance and size advantages, meeting the modern electronic devices' requirements for high performance and miniaturization.

Suncore

CX8915S

CX8915S is a highly integrated and efficient wireless charging SOC, compatible with the WPC Qi2 wireless charging standard, integrating all the necessary functions for a wireless charger, including PD and QC fast charging protocols, and LDO, and complete full-bridge MOSFET drivers, requiring only a minimal number of external peripheral components.

It supports USB PD and QC, integrating a 32-bit ARM core with a frequency of up to 96MHz, built-in 32KB+4KB storage, supporting 4 independent PWM outputs, versatile and flexible PWM functionality, up to 6 16-bit timer channels, supporting 12-bit resolution ADC, and includes a built-in temperature detection channel, as well as two ACMP and OPA modules.

CX8915S is a comprehensive chip, integrating the MCU core required for wireless charging, PWM generator, PD and QC voltage request, buck-boost and regulator circuits, etc., with very streamlined external circuit components. It uses a QFN6x6-48 package.

WPINNO

WP8036

WPINNO WP8036 is a wireless charging main control chip compliant with the WPC Qi2.0 standard, supporting BPP, EPP, and MPP applications. It integrates an ARM M0+ CPU, 64K Flash, and 4K RAM. It supports PD, QC, and AFC fast charging.

The chip has built-in over-voltage protection, under-voltage protection, over-current and over-temperature protection, as well as FOD functionality, compatible with mainstream wireless charging for smartphones, and supports custom LED display. It has high-precision voltage and current detection, supports single-coil and multi-coil applications, and uses a QFN48 package.

WP8037

WP8037, a wireless charging chip certified with Qi2.0 MPP, integrates a robust 32-bit core alongside peripherals tailored to wireless charging requirements. It is purpose-built for wireless charging, supporting not only the MPP protocol but also displaying compatibility with BPP, EPP, and other proprietary protocols, showcasing its adaptability.

Furthermore, WP8037 integrates a high-resolution full-bridge controller and multi-channel ASK demodulation technology, allowing flexibility in handling various power sources like DC power, USB-PD, HVDCP, among others. This integration provides users with rich IO interfaces, enabling easy control over various peripheral chips.

WP8037 doesn't just house robust core resources, I2C master/slave functions, and SPI functionality. It also empowers extensive control capabilities, managing an array of devices such as peripherals and other ICs, encompassing boost, buck, and more. This ensures the effective operation of sub-modules within the product.

It adopts a QFN-48 5mm × 5mm package, supporting single-coil and multi-coil wireless charging transmitter applications. At the same time, ChargerLAB learned that the MPP module equipped with this wireless charging chip has passed Qi2 certification and realized charging adaptation for iPhone.

WP9025

WP9025 is a single-chip wireless charging receiver and transmitter chip compliant with the WPC Qi 2.0 standard, supporting 55W wireless charging reception and 15W wireless transmission, suitable for smartphones. It includes rectifier output over-voltage protection, over-temperature protection, supports output voltages from 5V to 20V, and supports online upgrades and user-programmable foreign object detection functionality.

It includes a 32-bit ARM M0 processor, supports constant voltage and constant current control for directly charging the battery through wireless charging, supports online programming via the I2C interface and external MCU control. The chip uses a 3.33x4.15mm 63-WLCSP package.

Summary of ChargerLAB

With the recent introduction of the latest Qi2 wireless charging standard by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) and Apple's latest release of the first iPhone 15 series featuring the Qi2 standard, it is foreseeable that the future market will witness a surge in demand for new accessories based on this brand new standard.

Major wireless charging manufacturers have keenly observed this trend and have promptly launched a batch of new wireless charging chips that are compatible with the latest Qi2 wireless charging standard. These chips only need to undergo Qi2-related certification to enable convenient 15W wireless fast charging for the iPhone 15 series, making it incredibly convenient for users.

The Future is Here? A Compilation of Potential Accessories for Apple Vision Pro

Joey — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 02:09:21 +0000

Introduction

In June 6, 2023, Apple unveiled a product at WWDC 2023 that surpassed imagination and promised to revolutionize the future: Apple Vision Pro. Recently, this product has finally hit the shelves in the United States and is expected to be available for sale in France, Germany, Australia, China, Japan, and South Korea markets soon.

Apple Vision Pro is equipped with multiple cameras and can be operated by gestures, eye movements, or voice commands, making it suitable for work, entertainment, and communication. It is powered by the M2 chip and Apple's specially designed R1 chip for Apple Vision Pro. As a new type of virtual reality device, Apple Vision Pro will provide users with a more immersive experience and smarter interaction, allowing them to delve deeper into the digital world.

Apple Vision Pro

Apple Vision Pro, one of the highly anticipated Apple products, has garnered considerable attention from consumers since its inception and unveiling. Officially dubbed as a "spatial computer" by Apple, it features 12 cameras, 6 microphones, 5 sensors, two 4K Micro OLED displays, two chips - the M2 and the new R1, and the world's first spatial operating system for vr displays, VisionOS, along with a dedicated app store.

Such an outstanding device like Apple Vision Pro and its potential successor is bound to spawn a plethora of related accessories and ecosystem products aimed at enhancing user experience. These accessories and peripherals may include wireless charging docks, external power banks, docking stations, motion trackers, protective covers, controllers, tactile sensors, and more. These accessories not only improve device charging efficiency, expand device functionality, and protect devices from damage but also enhance user experience and usability.

Wireless Charging Docks

As wireless charging technology continues to evolve, it has become a convenient way to recharge devices. Given that Apple Vision Pro is at the forefront of technology, its successor is high likely supports wireless charging, making a suitable and futuristic wireless charging dock one of the essential accessories. A wireless charging dock not only provides fast charging for Apple Vision Pro but also powers other devices for users, freeing them from the constraints of cables and allowing more freedom in using Apple Vision Pro.

Power Banks

While use it at home is convenient, portable power banks are still essential for users who frequently travel or use devices for extended periods. For instance, when users encounter low battery situations while using Apple Vision Pro outdoors or in other scenarios, they can quickly replenish power with a portable power bank, enhancing the product's battery life and providing users with a better overall experience.

Docking Stations

The future Apple Vision Pro 2 may have ample storage space and even more excellent display capabilities, making docking stations indispensable. With a docking station for Apple Vision Pro 2, users can connect controllers, charging docks, and other peripherals together, making it convenient for users to manage and use these devices, unlocking more potential for Apple Vision Pro 2. Docking stations typically expand device interfaces, allowing users to connect more devices such as motion trackers, charging docks, controllers, monitors, and wearable devices.

Motion Trackes

Apple Vision Pro's motion trackers can track users' body movements, enabling more natural movements and interactions in virtual environments. Considering that Apple Vision Pro may break new ground in human-computer interaction, motion trackers are likely to become one of its popular accessories, offering an excellent choice for users who need interaction capabilities.

Protective Covers

Apple Vision Pro feature a sleek, streamlined design, making protective covers essential accessories. Protective covers can shield Apple Vision Pro from scratches, drops, and other damage, ensuring that the product's appearance aligns with user preferences. These accessories include protective cases, covers, stickers, and more.

Replaceable Straps

Given variations in users' head sizes and sensitivities to materials, there will likely be a variety of accessories available in the market. As the head strap is crucial due to the device's unique wearing method, a design with replaceable straps is necessary. Therefore, different materials and styles of straps may appear on the market, providing users with a better experience with Apple Vision Pro.

Controllers

For users who require precise control or enjoy playing large-scale games, controllers will be an excellent choice. Controllers offer a more intuitive and precise control method, enhancing the user's gaming experience. Considering that Apple Vision Pro may support a broader range of games and applications, controllers are likely to become one of its accessories.

Mounting Brackets

Mounting brackets are products that can hold Apple Vision Pro for users to store or place conveniently. These brackets are typically made of lightweight, sturdy materials, easily installed in various locations, ensuring device stability and safety.

Users can mount Apple Vision Pro on tables, walls, or ceilings in different environments, making it more convenient to use the device for entertainment, learning, or work. Additionally, mounting brackets can be customized according to users' preferences to meet various usage needs, incorporating various interesting features such as wireless charging, lighting effects, heat dissipation, and foldability.

Wearable Devices

Wearable devices seamlessly connect with Apple Vision Pro, allowing users to access various functions wirelessly or through wired connections. These devices enable users to better utilize Apple Vision Pro's features, enhancing the product's playability and user experience.

For example, users can control playback, pause, and volume adjustments on Apple Vision Pro through smart wristbands. This allows users to conveniently use various functions of Apple Vision Pro without relying on other devices.

Tactile Clothing

ChargerLAB has learn that Apple obtained a patent earlier this year for "smart fabric with electrical components," which integrates multiple sensors into the seams of clothing to achieve deeper interaction.

In the patent description, Apple states that integrating electrical components into fabric is challenging because fabric products are flexible. Installing sensors or components on fabric is difficult, and electrical components must be coupled with signal paths (such as data signal transmission, power, etc.). Therefore, improving existing technology to create better tactile clothing and integrating these technologies into the Apple Vision Pro ecosystem is desirable.

Tactile Sensors

There are various types of tactile sensors, and Apple Vision Pro users can choose based on different application scenarios and needs. For example, resistive touch sensors can detect the user's touch position and pressure, while capacitive touch sensors can detect the user's touch actions and gestures. Additionally, there are touch sensors based on piezoelectric effects, infrared touch sensors, and more. However, the accuracy and stability of some motion peripherals and tactile sensors on the market still need improvement and are currently mainly used in gaming, fitness, medical fields, etc. With the emergence of new technologies and materials, it is hoped that manufacturers will introduce more accurate and stable sensors and expand their applications to more fields, such as education, industry, etc.

Eye Massagers

Long-term use of Apple Vision Pro will undoubtedly require users to maintain high levels of concentration and eye strain. In such cases, launching an eye massager specifically tailored for Apple Vision Pro can quickly relieve eye fatigue and promote relaxation. This not only provides assurance for people's eye health but also embodies the perfect combination of technology and health.

Summary of ChargerLAB

After the release of Apple Vision Pro, it will undoubtedly lead a new wave of technological trends and attract the attention of many users. In this trend, third-party manufacturers will also introduce stylish accessories such as headbands, cases, neck straps, eyeglass pads, etc., compatible with this device, to meet users' demand for personalized decoration.

Additionally, third-party digital accessories and peripherals related to visual experience will emerge, providing users with an even better user experience. Furthermore, Apple Vision Pro seamlessly connects with other Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, etc., allowing users to interact with these devices more conveniently alongside the virtual reality device.

Fast Charging Meet All-in-One Design | Injoinic Launched 1C to 2C Evaluation Board/Cable

Joey — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 01:19:48 +0000

Introduction

In earlier years, three-in-one and two-in-one charging cables were highly popular. Typically featuring a USB-A input and three output ports - Micro USB, Lightning, and USB-C - these designs gained widespread popularity because of the lack of standardization in phone ports at the time. Android devices predominantly used Micro USB ports, while some manufacturers began adopting USB-C ports, such as Letv phones. Meanwhile, Apple devices utilized Lightning ports. Such multi-port cables addressed the inconsistency in ports users faced at the time, providing a better charging experience.

Some may have concerns about these cables affecting fast charging experiences. However, back then, fast charging technology was not yet widespread, with charging powers generally around 10W. Users were not overly concerned about charging speeds but rather focused on port compatibility. However, with the widespread adoption of USB-C ports in the iPhone 15 series, the era of port integration has arrived. Nowadays, modern electronic devices, especially smartphones, primarily utilize USB-C ports that support high power. Therefore, the traditional three-in-one cables are no longer suitable.

In today's fast-paced era, high charging power has become a selling point for products. However, have you ever heard of a cable that can connect multiple USB-C ports supporting fast charging? According to our findings at ChargerLAB, Injoinic has introduced a 1C to 2C Evaluation Board/Cable that effectively meets this demand. The cable features a two-in-one design, allowing one USB-C port to expand into two USB-C ports, supporting up to 100W PD 3.0 fast charging, meeting the expectations and demands of modern users for charging cables.

Injoinic 1C to 2C Evaluation Board/Cable Solution

The Injoinic 1C to 2C Evaluation Board/Cable is a cable product that supports single USB-C input and dual USB-C fast charging output, with a maximum input power of 140W and a maximum output of 100W PD 2.0/PD 3.1.

Its evaluation board integrates an E-Marker, supporting intelligent power distribution for dual ports. The USB-C port on the input side communicates with the adapter to obtain power information. Based on the devices connected to the output USB-C ports, the output power is intelligently distributed to adapt to different charging devices. For example, when the input power is more than or equal to 100W and only one USB-C port is connected at the output end, it can achieve an output power of 100W. If two devices are connected, the high-power device has a power of 65W, while the other device has a power of 30W.

The Injoinic 1C to 2C Evaluation Board/Cable is highly suitable for various devices such as smartphones, laptops, wireless headphone charging cases, and wearable watch chargers. The evaluation board has a high level of integration and rich functionality, enabling it to perform the functions of two cables with just one cable. This not only reduces costs but also makes it convenient to carry, making it suitable for use in various scenarios.

The evaluation board primarily utilizes the DC-DC buck chip IP6551, protocol chip IP2738U, and PD trigger chip IP2752. These three core chips collectively build the foundation of the evaluation board, ensuring its reliability and performance in terms of functionality.

Chargeing Test

Next, we conducted charging tests on the MacBook Pro, iPhone 15 Pro, Honor 70, and Anker 737 Power Bank using this cable, evaluating its power distribution performance when facing different devices.

Firstly, we simultaneously connected the MacBook Pro and Honor 70 using the Injoinic 1C to 2C Evaluation Board/Cable. ChargerLAB POWER-Z KM003C measured the MacBook Pro's charging power at around 61W, while the Honor 70's charging power was around 11W.

Since the Honor 70 does not support high-power PD fast charging, we replaced it with the Anker 737 Power Bank. This time, it still provided approximately 61W of power to the MacBook Pro, while the Anker 737 Power Bank reached around 27W.

When charging both the Honor 70 and Anker 737 Power Bank simultaneously, the power distribution was 11W and 59W, respectively.

Finally, let's consider the scenario of charging two smartphones. It can provide 11W and 19W of power to the Honor 70 and iPhone 15 Pro, respectively.

Summary of ChargerLAB

Injoinic's newly launched 1C to 2C Evaluation Board/Cable effectively addresses the problem of insufficient ports while ensuring charging power. It is compatible with PD3.1 and supports PD3.0 protocols, integrates an E-Marker, and supports intelligent power distribution for dual ports, making it highly suitable for various devices such as smartphones, laptops, and wearable watch chargers.

Currently, there are relatively few all-in-one charging cables on the market that support high power. The product introduced by Injoinic features high integration, low cost, and portability, aligning with users' potential needs and is expected to gain a good market share in the charging cable field.

A Deep Dive into Nine DrMOS Wireless Charging Full-Bridge Power ICs

Joey — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 01:30:41 +0000

Introduction

DrMOS, short for Driver-MOSFET, is an energy-efficient technology introduced by Intel in 2004. By integrating MOSFET and MOS drivers into the same package, it achieves dual optimization in terms of size and efficiency. Compared to traditional separate MOSFETs, the integrated DrMOS reduces the occupied area to one-fourth while increasing power density threefold. When used in conjunction with multiphase controllers, DrMOS can provide larger currents at the same voltage, enabling more efficient switching operations and contributing to higher power conversion efficiency. This makes it suitable for low-voltage, high-power applications.

Initially applied mainly in the server motherboard domain, DrMOS technology has garnered attention from wireless charging engineers due to continuous advancements in wireless charging technology. While DrMOS serving servers typically utilizes a combination of 2 MOSFETs and 1 MOS driver in one, in the realm of wireless charging, DrMOS commonly adopts 4 MOSFETs—two high-side and two low-side MOSFETs. The high-side MOSFETs are connected to the power source, while the low-side MOSFETs are grounded, forming a complete "bridge" structure in a full-bridge topology. This arrangement controls the transmission of wireless energy, optimizing efficiency and response speed.

DrMOS Wireless Charging Full-Bridge Power IC

ChargerLAB has compiled information on nine DrMOS wireless charging full-bridge power ICs from five major wireless charging chip manufacturers. The table below provides a detailed overview of each company's flagship products and their respective packages.

Next, we will delve into the specific parameters and distinctive features of each chip.

Southchip

Southchip is a high-performance semiconductor design company specializing in power, battery management, and embedded systems. They have multiple product lines including charge pumps, DC/DC converters, AC/DC converters, wired charging, wireless charging, and fast charging protocols.

Leveraging their independently developed technologies in voltage boosting and bucking charging, charge pumps, and GaN direct drive, they've introduced several high-performance products that have gained widespread recognition within the industry.

Southchip SC5001

The SC5001 is a highly integrated wireless power transmitter analog front end that contains all of the analog components required to implement a WPC compliant transmitter. It integrates a full-bridge power driver with MOSFETs, current sense amplifier, bootstrap circuit, etc. And the transmitter can provide with up to 15W of output power.

It also supports foreign object detection (FOD) by continuously monitoring the amount of power transferred and comparing that to the amount of received power,as reported by the receiver.In order to do this, the SC5001 measures the input DC current very accurately using a current sense amplifier. Besides, the SC5001 also supports input under voltage lockout (UVLO), over-current protection (OCP) short-circuit protection (SCP) and over-temperature protection (OTP). These protections further enhance the reliability of the total wireless power transmitter system. It adopts 3 x 3 mm QFN19 package.

Southchip SC5003

The SC5003 is a highly integrated wireless power transmitter analog front end that contains all of the analog components required to implement a WPC compliant transmitter. It integrates a full-bridge power driver with MOSFETs, current sense bootstrap circuit, amplifier, communication demodulator and protection circuit. It can work with transmitter controller together to create a high-performance wireless power transmitter that complies with both the WPC V1.2.4 Extended Power Profile (EPP) and Baseline Power Profile (BPP).

The system supports foreign object detection (FOD) by continuously monitoring the amount of power transferred and comparing that to the amount of received power,as reported by the receiver. In ordel to do this, the SC5003 measures the input DC current very accurately using a current sense amplifier. Besides, it also supports input under voltage lockout (UVLO), input over-voltage protection (OVLO), over-current protection (OCP) and over-temperature protection (OTP). The SC5003 is available in a compact 4 x 4 mm FCQFN package.

Southchip SC5004

The SC5004A is a highly integrated wireless powe transmitter analog front end that contains all of the analog components required to implement a WPO compliant transmitter. It integrates a full-bridge power driver with MOSFETs, current sense amplifier, bootstrap circuit, communication demodulator, linear regulator and protection circuit.

The SC5004A can work with transmitter controller to create a high-performance wireless power transmittel that complies with both the WPC V1.2.4 Extended Power Profile(EPP) and Baseline Power Profile (BPP). Once an EPP receiver is detected, the transmitter will provide with up to 15W of output power.If a BPF receiver is present, the transmitter will deliver only up to 5W of output power.

The system supports foreign object detection (FOD) by continuously monitoring the amount of powe transferred and comparing that to the amount ot received power, as reported by the receiver. In orde to do this, the SC5004A measures the input DO current very accurately using a current sense amplifier. Besides, it also supports input under voltage lockout (UVLO), over-current protection (OCP) and over-temperature protection (OTP). These protections further enhance the reliability of the total wireless power transmitter system. The SC5004A is available in a compact 4 x 4mm FCQFN package.

Southchip SC5008

The SC5008 is a highly integrated analog-front-end that contains all of the analog components required to implement a wireless power transmitter compliant with WPC specifications.The device integrates a full-bridge power stage with low-RDs(on) MOSFETs, gate drivers, 5V & 3.3V LDOs, communication demodulators and input current sensing circuit. lt can work with transmitter controller to create a high-performance and cost-effective wireless power transmitter system that complies with both the WPC V1.3.2 Baseline Power Profile (BPP, not more than 5W) and Extended Power Profile (EPP, up to 15W).

It supports foreign object detection (FOD) by continuously monitoring the amount of power transferred and comparing it to the amount of received power, as reported by the power receiver. In order to do this, the SC5008 measures the input DC current very accurately using a current sense amplifier. The built-in 5V and 3.3V LDOs can power both the internal and external circuits. Besides, the SC5008 supports under-voltage lockout (UVLO)，over-current & short-circui protection (OCP & SCP) and over-temperature protection (OTP).The protections significantly enhance the reliability of the whole wireless power transmitter system. The SC5008 is available in a compact 3mm x 4mm QFN package.

iSmartWare

iSmartWare is a digital-analog hybrid chip design company specializing in power management chips. Their primary focus revolves around research, design, and sales of power management chips. iSmartWare's products find extensive application in power banks, in-car chargers, GaN chargers, outdoor energy storage units, and smart outlets, among other devices.

iSmartWare SW5006

SW5006 is a power stage chip designed for the highest 15W power in the wireless charging transmitter. It supports both direct drive PWM mode and PWM mode controlled by register parameters.

It integrates a full-bridge converter consisting of two independent half-bridges, with 4 NMOSFETs and corresponding drive circuits integrated. The full-bridge converter supports both external and internal drive modes. In the external drive mode, each half-bridge is independently controlled by PWM1 and PWM2 input signals. In the internal drive mode, each half-bridge is controlled by the PWM generator inside the chip. The dead time and drive strength of each half-bridge's drive signal can be adjusted through registers.

SW5006 supports fast charging protocols such as PPS/PD3.0/PD2.0FCP/SCP/AFC, and features ASK decoding, Q value detection, as well as mechanisms for input overvoltage protection, full-bridge overcurrent protection, and chip overheating protection. It is packaged in QFN-23 (4x4mm).

Chipown

Chipown is a high-tech enterprise focusing on power semiconductor research and development. Their product lines include analog/digital architecture AC-DC, DC-DC, Driver IC, and Power Discretes, widely used in various fields such as home appliances, charging & adapters, smart grids, communications, servers, and automobiles.

Chipown PN7727

Chipown PN7727 is a fully integrated smart power stage chip supporting Qi2 20W wireless charging. It integrates a driver and an H-bridge MOSFET, along with a built-in 5V regulator for MCU power supply. The chip supports 3-12V power supply with a working frequency of up to 500KHz.

PN7727 has internal undervoltage and overheating protection, with two PWM input pins compatible with 5V and 3.3V signal levels, providing excellent anti-interference capabilities. PN7727, designed on a single wafer, comes in a QFN2*2-16L package with a heat dissipation pad on the bottom, effectively reducing device temperature. It is suitable for wireless charging transmitters and DC motor drive applications, offering outstanding compact design and improved chip performance stability in its class.

The PN7727 integrates a driver and four highly efficient power-stage MOSFETs, along with a built-in bootstrap high-voltage PMOS and a 5V/50mA LDO. Additionally, it features an adaptive dead-time function, allowing flexible adjustment of power transmission based on different wireless charging scenarios, thereby providing an enhanced charging experience.

NuVolta

NuVolta Technologies, established in 2014, focuses on the research and innovation of power management chips and one-stop solutions. Leveraging their technical expertise, NuVolta has become a leader in providing mature solutions for both wireless and wired charging.

NuVolta's products cover wireless charging receiver and transmitter chips, wired fast charging chips, power management chips and automotive power management chips, etc., helping customers expand into consumer electronics, automotive electronics, industrial and medical markets.

NuVolta NU1020

NuVolta NU1020 is a highly integrated full-bridge power IC optimized for wireless charging transmitter solutions. The device incorporates all essential functions, including efficient power FETs, low-EMI FET drivers, bootstrap circuits, a 5V integrated DC/DC power supply, 3.3V (configurable to 2.5V) LDO, and non-destructive current measurement.

It features a proprietary current measurement circuit for FOD (Foreign Object Detection) power measurement, providing accurate current readings.

NU1020 includes various protection features such as input undervoltage lockout, overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, and thermal shutdown. It also includes an I2C interface for communication with controllers, easily expandable to multi-coil solutions. The device uses a 4mm×4mm QFN package with optimized heat performance, ensuring stable and reliable operation.

NuVolta NU8060Q

NU8060Q is an integrated, efficient, and high-precision wireless charging transmitter chip. It supports wide voltage input, recommended up to 27V (maximum 29V), with a transient voltage of up to 36V. A single chip can handle up to 80W of wireless charging receiver (Rx) load, enabling high-power wireless fast charging.

It integrates a low-impedance full bridge with excellent thermal performance compared to existing products on the market. NU8060Q includes crucial features for wireless charging applications, such as full bridge drive, 5V LDO, high-precision current detection, Q value detection, and more. It stands out as one of the most advanced and performance-optimal high-power fast charging chips in the current automotive wireless charging market.

NU8060Q introduces a full bridge design with low impedance of 12 mΩ, optimizing thermal performance. It supports 50W fast charging and can be extended to 80W after heat improvements. The current detection accuracy is up to ±1%, improving to ±0.5% at loads exceeding 15W, ensuring efficient and accurate charging. NU8060Q integrates high-precision frequency and Q value detection functions, offering three demodulation modes—voltage, peak current, and average current. It also includes interrupt reporting capabilities.

WPINNO

The team at WPINNO comprises members with extensive work experience from renowned semiconductor design companies worldwide. They focus on providing customers with a variety of highly competitive ICs and comprehensive solutions for power supply and control. WPINNO's product range includes DC-DC power conversion, lithium battery charging BMS, wireless charging, fast charging protocols, and other power and signal processing product lines. Currently, these products have been widely adopted in consumer terminals, mobile phones, communications, and other product fields.

WPINNO WP8012

WP8012 is a full-bridge wireless charging transmitter chip that integrates full-bridge MOSFETs, MOSFET drivers, current sensing amplifiers, bootstrap circuits, communication demodulators, linear regulators, and various protection circuits.

It complies with the latest WPC V1.2.4 Extended Power Profile (EPP) and Baseline Power Profile (BPP) standards. When used in conjunction with WP8017 or WP7038, they can form a wireless power transmission system, providing up to 20W of output power.

It also supports FOD (Foreign Object Detection) functionality required by EPP. This is achieved by continuously monitoring the transmission power and comparing it with the received power reported by the receiver. WP8012 also incorporates various protection mechanisms, including input undervoltage lockout (UVLO), overcurrent protection (OCP), short circuit protection (SCP), and over-temperature protection (OTP). It is packaged in FCQFN19.

Summary of ChargerLAB

The DrMOS wireless charging full-bridge power ICs integrate a full-bridge power driver, efficient MOSFETs, precise current sensing amplifiers, advanced bootstrap circuits, highly sensitive communication demodulators, stable linear regulators, and comprehensive protection circuits. These ICs seamlessly collaborate with transmitter controllers to create an efficient and high-performance wireless power transmitter.

As technology continues to advance, wireless charging has gradually become integrated into various aspects of our lives, including wireless charging for smartphones, in-car wireless charging, and more. Due to its advantages in high integration, DrMOS wireless charging full-bridge power ICs have a significant edge in providing smaller, more efficient wireless charging solutions, making them highly competitive in the market.

Best-Selling Chargers on Amazon US in February 2024

Joey — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 01:38:00 +0000

Introduction

Amazon has become one of the most favored online shopping platforms for its customers, with digital components and power chargers being the particularly sought-after categories. In the past, ChargerLAB organized several charging-related ranking lists for Amazon, focusing primarily on the top-selling products in the market. These lists served as handy reference guides for consumers seeking the most popular and widely adopted charging solutions.

Actually, about a year ago, we made a sales ranking list for chargers on Amazon US. At that time, only one product from Anker appeared on the list. But this time, there has been a significant change! So today, we'll take a glimpse and analyze the newest Amazon US sales list for chargers, which is based on the data dated February 20, 2023. All details, including selling prices, reviews, and number of reviews were based on this specific data.

1, Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter

Taking the top spot on this Amazon US charger ranking is Apple's own 20W USB-C power adapter. We took apart the Apple 20W charger before. And this is actually a new Apple 20W charger with the model been updated to A2940.

● Price: $13.99

● Ports: one USB-C

● Charging Power: 20W

● Rating: 4.8

● Number of Reviews: 203936

https://amzn.to/3kUjcjv

2, Phone Charger [MFi Certified] 2 Pack 20W PD USB C Wall Fast Charger Adapter

The second one is familiar face - the QUZUDN 2 Pack 20W PD Charger, which contains two same 20W fast charger and two USB-C to Lightning cable. Last time, it was ranked first on the list.

● Price: $9.99

● Ports: one USB-C

● Charging Power: 20W

● Rating: 4.5

● Number of Reviews: 13066

https://amzn.to/49OYVlS

3, USB Wall Charger, LUOATIP 3-Pack 2.1A/5V Dual Port USB Cube Power Adapter Charger

In the third position is a product from LUOATIP, it is also sold in a package, which contains three chargers with the same spec.

● Price: $8.99

● Ports: two USB-A

● Charging Power: 10.5W

● Rating: 4.7

● Number of Reviews: 67269

https://amzn.to/3Tcxjlp

4, USB C Charger Block 20W, Anker 511 Charger (Nano Pro)

The fourth spot is taken by the Anker 511 charger (Nano Pro). We've made a teardown video for it, you can click the link below to check that out.

● Price: $13.99

● Ports: one USB-C

● Charging Power: 30W

● Rating: 4.8

● Number of Reviews: 26866

https://amzn.to/3IVIEBw

5, LCGENS USB C Wall Charger Block 20W

The fifth spot is occupied by LCGENS with the LCGENS USB-C Wall Charger. It's another product that looks like the Apple original 20W charger.

● Price: $8.49

● Ports: one USB-C, one USB-A

● Charging Power: 20W

● Rating: 4.6

● Number of Reviews: 17382

https://amzn.to/49LaNoV

6, iPhone 15 Charger, Anker USB C Charger Block

In the sixth position is another Anker product, the 20W Dual-Port Compact Fast Charger (2 Pack). It is the only one on the list with a built-in cable featuring USB-C to USB-C specifications, making it particularly suitable for users of the iPhone 15 series.

● Price: $14.39

● Ports: one USB-C, one USB-A

● Charging Power: 20W

● Rating: 4.7

● Number of Reviews: 2673

https://amzn.to/49IepIg

7, Fast Charger iPhone,20W PD USB C Wall Charger 4 Pack with 6FT Fast Charging Cable

Claiming the seventh spot is the GREPHONE 20W PD USB-C Wall Charger 4 Pack. It includes four chargers and four USB-C to Lightning cables.

● Price: $20.99

● Ports: one USB-C

● Charging Power: 20W

● Rating: 4.4

● Number of Reviews: 1653

https://amzn.to/49NNiM1

8, Anker USB C Charger, 735 Charger (Nano II 65W)

The eighth spot on this list goes to another Anker's product - the Anker 735 Charger (Nano II 65W). Its internal components are filled with silicone adhesives, making the charger more durable.

● Price: $39.99

● Ports: two USB-C, one USB-A

● Charging Power: 65W

● Rating: 4.7

● Number of Reviews: 11481

https://amzn.to/42QX2D8

9, USB C Charger Block, 2-Pack 40W 4-Port USB C Wall Charger

In ninth place, we have the BECHAGE 40W 4-Port USB C Wall Charger (2-Pack). It has the highest number of ports on this list, with four in total.

● Price: $13.99

● Ports: two USB-C, two USB-A

● Charging Power: 40W

● Rating: 4.6

● Number of Reviews: 298

https://amzn.to/49p3Wlm

10, iPhone 14 13 12 Fast Charger 20W PD USB C Wall Charger

Last but not the least, we have the Coreykin 20W PD USB-C Wall Charger.

● Price: $7.72

● Ports: one USB-C

● Charging Power: 20W

● Rating: 4.5

● Number of Reviews: 7784

https://amzn.to/3IbMswP

Summary of ChargerLAB

Above is the introduction to the top ten products on the list. Now, let's analyze them from various aspects.

In terms of performance, nine out of the ten products support fast charging, indicating a higher prevalence of fast charging. Among them, eight products have a power of 20W, which is the mainstream power range for chargers on Amazon US; one is 40W, and one is 65W. Considering the included fast charging cables, it can be inferred that most American consumers use iPhones.

Regarding the number of ports, the ratio between single-port and multi-port chargers is evenly split.

In terms of brands, the most popular are the Apple original 20W charger, and Anker, a well-known accessory manufacturer, has three chargers on the list. The rest are mainly from lesser-known brands with lower prices, emphasizing quantity over brand recognition. Further exploration reveals that some of these brands are from Chinese manufacturers.

In terms of price, there is a significant price range, from the cheapest at $7.72 to the most expensive at $39.99. Regarding sales methods, only four products are sold individually, while the remaining six are sold as part of a bundle.

That concludes all the content of this Amazon US charger list. See you in the next article.

For iPhone 15 Series | A Dive into the Latest Magnetic External SSD Innovations

Joey — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 00:35:23 +0000

Introduction

In a rapidly evolving landscape of portable storage solutions, the emergence of magnetic external SSDs marks a significant leap forward in both design and functionality. These sleek and innovative devices promise lightning-fast data transfer speeds, unparalleled convenience, and compatibility across a range of devices.

This type of product is mainly aimed at the iPhone 15 series, connecting to the iPhone via a USB-C short cable and magnetically attaching the portable hard drive to the back of the iPhone, enabling video recording and data transfer. Of course, such products also support other devices such as Huawei Mate60 series, Samsung S23, S24 series, and other popular models, provided they are equipped with a magnetic phone case.

As leading brands like MOVESPEED, TEAMGROUP, and OISLE unveil their latest offerings, it's time to delve into the these cutting-edge products!

MOVESPEED

MOVESPEED CK20 Magnetic Portable SSD

The MOVESPEED portable SSD utilizes aluminum alloy CNC integral molding and sandblasting technology, adopting the shape of a keyboard "Enter" key, ensuring rapid heat dissipation and strong protective performance. Internally, it features high-quality controllers and TLC flash memory chips to ensure reliability during usage. Available in two colors, titanium white and titanium gray, with capacities of 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB.

Weighing only 50 grams, it comes with USB-C 3.2 Gen2 x 2 ports, offering sequential read speeds of 2060MB/s and sequential write speeds of 1800MB/s. Additionally, it includes a 20Gbps USB-C to USB-C cable. Apart from supporting magnetic attachment to the back of an iPhone for shooting or data transfer, it's also compatible with other devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and gaming consoles with USB-C ports available in the market.

Buy Now

TEAMGROUP

TEAMGROUP PD20M Magnetic External SSD

Memory giant TEAMGROUP recently announced the launch of the MagSafe-compatible TEAMGROUP PD20M Magnetic External SSD. Weighing only 40 grams, the PD20M is easy to grip and carry around, requiring no additional accessories to connect to mobile devices. The product is expected to be officially released in March.

The PD20M comes with a built-in magnetic coil that can instantly attach to devices like iPhones. With a USB-C port, it's compatible with most devices, including iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, Huawei Mate 60, Samsung S24, offering a maximum transfer speed of 10Gbps. The PD20M's ability to store data in flash memory provides high performance and convenience, making it an ideal solution for expanding storage capacity.

Buy Now

OISLE

OISLE Magnetic External Storage

OISLE's magnetic external storage features a simple yet elegant design, weighing only 35g and measuring 7.7mm in size, making it extremely lightweight and compact. It offers capacities of 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB.

With its built-in magnetic coil, it can directly attach to iPhone 12-15 series devices and is also compatible with other smartphones using magnetic strips or magnetic phone cases. In terms of performance, the magnetic SSD conforms to USB 2.0 specifications, supporting 420MB/s read speeds and is compatible with USB 3.0 devices.

Summary of ChargerLAB

ChargerLAB has learned that there are relatively few magnetic portable SSDs on the market currently, but the number is steadily increasing, with existing products showing significant differences in appearance, weight, and other aspects.

Starting with the design, MOVESPEED's CK20 stands out with its creative design, mimicking the shape of the common "Enter" key on keyboards, aiming to provide users with a familiar yet novel experience. The designs of the TEAMGROUP and OISLE brands are more minimalist and traditional. TEAMGROUP adopts a sleek appearance, while OISLE opts for a more rounded and compact design philosophy. Both products are aimed at catering to users who value simplicity and portability.

Weight is also an important consideration for these portable SSDs. OISLE's product stands out with its lightweight design, weighing only 35 grams, making it ideal for users who frequently need to carry mobile storage devices. In comparison, the products from TEAMGROUP and MOVESPEED are relatively heavier due to their aluminum alloy construction, weighing 40 grams and 50 grams respectively. The aluminum alloy material not only gives these two products higher durability and an elegant appearance but also slightly increases their weight.

When it comes to performance and transfer speeds, MOVESPEED's portable SSDs excels with support for USB transfer speeds of up to 20Gbps, providing a fast and efficient data transfer experience. TEAMGROUP's product offers a transfer speed of 10Gbps, which, although halved compared to MOVESPEED, is more than sufficient for the USB-C port specifications of iPhone 15. Meanwhile, OISLE's product, positioned in the entry-level market, offers a transfer speed of 5Gbps, suitable for ordinary users with less demanding transfer speed requirements.

Twenty Five PD3.1 Protocol Chips and Their Manufacturers: A ChargerLAB Analysis

Joey — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 01:46:01 +0000

Introduction

In recent years, new technologies like Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Silicon Carbide (SiC) have garnered significant attention, driving rapid development in the fast-charging industry. Fast-charging products are evolving with a trend towards multifunctionality, multiple ports, high power, and compact size. With the introduction of the latest USB PD3.1 fast-charging standard by the USB-IF Association and the official commercialization of Apple's 140W PD3.1 charger, numerous manufacturers throughout the industry chain have been drawn into the market. The chip industry surrounding the USB PD3.1 fast-charging standard continues to expand, laying a solid foundation for the future explosion in higher power markets.

Significant Upgrade in Fast Charging Standards

In May 2021, the USB-IF association officially released the USB PD3.1 fast charging standard, significantly increasing the maximum charging power to 240W. Additionally, the standard introduced three sets of fixed output voltage values (28V, 36V, and 48V) and three sets of adjustable AVS (Adjustable Voltage Supply) ranging from 15V to 28V, 15V to 36V, and 15V to 48V.

The latest USB PD3.1 fast charging standard represents an advanced version of the PD3.0 standard, encompassing all aspects of PD3.0 while ensuring full backward compatibility. In terms of nomenclature, USB PD3.0 is gradually being replaced by USB PD3.1 SPR (Standard Power Range). Products featuring PD fast charging with power up to 100W can be referred to as USB PD3.1 SPR devices, while those with power exceeding 100W fall under the USB PD3.1 EPR (Extended Power Range) category.

Meeting the demands of the USB PD3.1 EPR application presents new challenges for power supply products, particularly for components within fast chargers such as the master control chip, protocol chip, MOSFET, capacitor, transformer, and connector.

PD3.1 Fast Charging Protocol Chips

Actually, we've already compiled two summaries of PD3.1 protocol chips before. You can click on the related articles at the end of the post to view them. This time, we've added even more excellent products. Take a look!

Southchip

Southchip SC9712A

SC9712A is a high integrated dual-port fast charging SoC, supporting multi fast charging protocols. It integrates 36V high-efficiency synchronous buck controller, and with a set of Type C interface and 2xDpDM fast charging protocols control interfaces. lt minimizes external components to realize dual-USB port (1C1A, Type C+ USB A) fast charging. It provides up to 140W charging power for portable devices such as computers, tablets,and mobie phones.

It's Type C port is DFP port, which supports Type C protocol and USB PD 2.0/3.0/3.1 protocols. Its DPDM interface can also support apple 2.4A mode/BC1.2/ DCP HVDCP/ FCP/ SCP/UFCS and other fast charging protocols. Furthermore, Southchip SC9712A has successfully obtained UFCS certification with certificate number 0302347160790R0M-UFCS00042.

iSmartWare

SW2335

iSmartWare SW2335 is a highly integrated fast charging protocol controller. It embeds an ARM Cortex-M0 core, with a maximum operating frequency of 40MHz, and supports general peripheral interfaces like I2C, UART, and GPIO.

It supports PD3.1, BC1.2, UFCS, and various mainstream DPDM fast charging protocols.

The chip integrates CV and CC loops, and inside the chip, multiple protection functions are integrated, with a QFN-20 (4x4mm) package.

SW2337

SW2337 is equipped with an ARM Cortex-M0 CPU and accepts input voltages ranging from 3.3V to 32V. It features multiple control methods, including optocouplers, feedback voltage (FB), I2C feedback, making it suitable for managing power supply and communication. Additionally, it adopts a 12-bit ADC and flash memory, providing both high-performance and data storage capabilities.

It supports various charging protocols, including but not limited to PD3.1, backward compatibility with PD3.0, QC5, SVOOC, FCP, AFC, SCP, TFCP, and more. It comes in a QFN4x4-20 package.

SW2505

iSmartWare SW2505 is a low-power controller chip that supports PD3.1, QC, UFCS, and other protocols, with an integrated MCU and 16 GPIOs. The USB-C port supports online upgrades and online simulation debugging, and it also supports optocoupler/FB control and I2C master/slave mode.

It supports PD3.1, QC, UFCS, SCP, AFC, VOOC, SFCP, PE, and other mainstream fast charging protocols, with an embedded ARM Cortex-M0 core, 128K Flash, and 4K SRAM.

It integrates output CV/CC loop control, NMOS driver control, 12-bit ADC converter, as well as multiple protection measures such as overvoltage protection, undervoltage protection, and overcurrent protection.

SW2507

SW2507 is embedded with an ARM Cortex-M0 CPU and accommodates input voltages ranging from 3.3V to 32V. It features multiple feedback control methods, such as optocouplers, feedback voltage (FB), and I2C feedback, making it suitable for managing power supply and communication. Additionally, it adopts a 12-bit ADC and built-in flash memory, providing high-performance and data storage capabilities.

It also supports the PD3.1 protocol and is backward compatible with PD3.0/2.0, QC5, SVOOC, FCP, AFC, SCP, and more. It is packaged in a QFN4x4-28 form.

SW3560

SW3560 is a protocol chip that integrates a 7A Buck controller. It features a Cortex-M0 CPU with a maximum frequency of 40MHz, 1M/2Mbit Flash, 4KB SRAM, and supports I2C and UART communication. Notably, it supports a power output of up to 140W and various protocols, including the latest PD3.1 SPR and EPR, SCP/FCP, QC5, AFC, PE2.0, and more.

It offers excellent performance and protection mechanisms, with an input voltage range of 5V to 36V. Additionally, it integrates rapid discharge functions for VBUS and VOUT, enhancing performance and flexibility. The chip provides comprehensive protection measures, including soft start, overvoltage/undervoltage, and VCONN overcurrent protection. It is suitable for applications in car chargers, power adapters, power strips, power tools, and energy storage devices, and it comes in a QFN-32(4mmx4mm) package.

SW3562

SW3562 is an enhanced version of SW3560 with added support for the VOOC protocol, enabling fast charging for OPPO and OnePlus smartphones.

Like SW3560, it integrates a 7A Buck controller, Cortex-M0 CPU with a maximum frequency of 40MHz, 1M/2Mbit Flash, 4KB SRAM, and supports I2C and UART communication. It also supports multiple GPIO and GPADC inputs and offers a power output of up to 140W. The chip supports various protocols, including PD3.1 SPR and EPR, SuperVOOC, SCP/FCP, QC5, PE2.0, and more.

It provides exceptional performance and protection mechanisms, with a 5V to 36V input voltage range, CV/CC loop control, and integration of impedance compensation and dual-path control. The chip also includes various protection features such as overvoltage/undervoltage, chip/NTC over-temperature, DP/DM weak short-circuit, ensuring system safety. It is suitable for use in car chargers, power adapters, power strips, power tools, and energy storage devices, and it also adopts QFN-32(4mmx4mm) package.

SW3566

SW3566 is another improved version of SW3560, with the A+C configuration updated to C+C, while the rest remains the same.

Similar to SW3560, it integrates a 7A Buck controller, Cortex-M0 CPU, 1M/2Mbit Flash, 4KB SRAM, and supports I2C and UART communication. It supports a power output of up to 140W and a variety of protocols, including PD3.1 SPR and EPR, SCP/FCP, QC5, AFC, PE2.0, and more.

The chip offers excellent performance and protection mechanisms, with an input voltage range of 5V to 36V. It also integrates rapid discharge functions for VBUS and VOUT, enhancing performance and flexibility. Additionally, it includes various protection measures, such as soft start, overvoltage/undervoltage, and VCONN overcurrent protection, making it suitable for applications in car chargers, power adapters, power strips, power tools, and energy storage devices, and it comes in a QFN-32(4mmx4mm) package.

Powlicon

Powlicon brings years of experience in research, operations, and management within the electronics industry. They specialize in providing power management chips and hold substantial expertise in the DC-DC, AC-DC, battery management, and mixed-signal SoC-related markets.

Powlicon LYF62001

Powlicon LYF62001 is a high efficiency, synchronous bi-directiona buck-boost charger with integrated fast charge protocols. It supports charging and discharging of 1 to 6 series 4.2V and 3.5V batteries, as well as 1A1C port applications, designed for most of fast charging applications with type-C port and PD protocol.

The LYF62001 features programmable functionalities for step-down charging, step-up charging, or buck-boost charging. Through the I2C interface, it communicates with MCUs, enabling high-voltage sensing for batteries and bus terminals. To ensure stable communication signals in USB ports, the LYF62001 also provides high-voltage isolation for CC1, CC2, DP, and DM communication signals.

In charging mode, the LYF62001 has the capability to efficiently charge batteries by stepping up or stepping down the input voltage. It supports trickle charging, constant current (CC) charging, and constant voltage (CV) charging management. Additionally, it allows programming of charging current and voltage through two 12-bit DAC converters. Moreover, the LYF62001 can monitor the status of the USB port, supporting detection for insertion and removal in both A and C ports. Users can also use I2C to monitor the status of DC-DC converters or the entire system.

The LYF62001 supports mainstream fast charging protocols in the market, including PD3.1, FCP/SCP, BC1.2, QC3.0, among others. It operates over a wide VBUS and VBAT voltage range, up to 32V. Furthermore, its programmable switch frequency is set at 150KHz and 300KHz.

Packaged in QFN5x5-40, the LYF62001 caters to various fast charging applications by providing a comprehensive, robust, and flexible buck-boost charging system.

Injoinic

Injoinic is a high-performance, high-quality mixed-signal chip design company specializing in power management chips and fast charging protocol chips. Their primary business revolves around the research, development, and sales of power management chips and fast charging protocol chips. The power management chips and fast charging protocol chips offered by Injoinic find wide applications in products such as power banks, fast charging power adapters, wireless chargers, in-car chargers, and charging cases for wireless earbuds, among others.

IP2736

Injoinic's IP2736 protocol chip integrates voltage references, programmable voltage/current loop control, and low-end current detection, with output supporting line loss compensation. It can be used in areas such as car chargers, energy storage power supplies, chargers, power banks, electric tools, etc.

Thanks to support for multiple feedback forms, IP2736 can be paired with QR, ACF, LLC, and other circuit architectures for PD fast charging, as well as with buck boost circuits for high-power car chargers and power banks, etc.

IP2738

Injoinic's IP2738 is a two-way protocol chip supporting fast charging applications with dual-port power range from 18W to 140W. It has independent feedback control and USB PD control, equivalent to integrating two IP2736 chips into one, naturally having the same fast charging specifications. It supports USB PD3.1 28V EPR and a wide range of fast charging protocols, with excellent compatibility.

It also has four independent NMOS drivers, which can be used for multiple port output control, and supports two-way independent overcurrent, overvoltage, and short circuit protections, ensuring safe usage.

IP2738U

IP2738U is an upgraded version of the IP2738, enhanced with the addition of the UFCS universal fast charging protocol. Injoinic IP2738U is a fast charging protocol control chip suitable for multiple USB ports, supporting dual-port 18-140W fast charging applications. It features independent feedback control and independent USB PD control.

Integrated with dual-port USB PD3.1 and mainstream fast charging protocols, it incorporates dual-port Type-C recognition and supports E-marker cable identification. It has obtained UFCS Fusion Fast Charging certification and is backward compatible with fast charging protocols for phones such as BC1.2, Apple, Samsung, and others.

The IP2738U integrates dual independent programmable voltage and current loop controls, supporting line loss compensation. It accommodates various voltage adjustment modes and enables independent control of PWM controller feedback for dual ports. It incorporates automatic discharge control and supports standby low-power mode. Moreover, it includes dual independent output overcurrent and overvoltage protection mechanisms, built-in NTC open circuit detection to maximize device safety.

Supporting online upgrades and stable operation within the voltage range of 3V to 25V, the IP2738U comes in a QFN32 package, suitable for diverse unidirectional output applications.

IP2756

Injoinic's IP2756 is a multi-protocol integrated fast charging protocol control IC for USB ports, supporting PD2.0/PD3.1 SPR&EPR 36V, HVDCP, QC5/4+/3+/3.0/2.0, VFCP, UFCS, Apple 2.4A, BC1.2, and Samsung 2.0A, among many other fast charging protocols.

IP2756 features high integration and rich functionalities, requiring very few peripheral devices during application, effectively reducing BOM costs.

Unicmicro

Unicmicro specializes in photovoltaic renewable energy, the Internet of Things (IoT), industrial control, and automotive electronics industries. They offer differentiated microprocessor chips, high-performance analog and RF front-end chips, low-power IoT solution platforms, digital power solution platforms, and motor control solution platforms to their clients.

UM3506

Featuring 2 pairs of DP DM pins, it supports BC, QC, and other protocols, allowing for flexible expansion. The chip is equipped with a high-performance 32-bit RISC-V core, with a maximum clock frequency of 33MHz, 8KB SRAM, and 256KB FLASH. It also has 2 UART and 2 I2C interfaces, along with one SPI interface, and supports low-side current detection. The chip adopts QFN32 package.

VIA

VIA specializes in the design, research, and sale of USB-related control chips, covering products from host-side to peripheral devices. They possess core technologies and chip solutions for USB4, high-speed transmission, USB Type-C, USB PD, among others. Their products find application in peripherals related to high-speed transmission and charging.

VIA VL108

Both UFP and the two DFP ports support the latest PD3.1 EPR specification, capable of delivering power output of 48V 5A (240W). Additionally, the two DRP DFP ports integrate D+/D- Charging ePHY, supporting protocol handshaking using D+/D- and then transitioning to the PD protocol for power output via UFP.

And the VL108 incorporates RC oscillators, linear voltage regulators, Vbus voltage, and current detectors to ensure stable operation via the Vbus power and monitor abnormal power behaviors. Additionally, it provides up to 17 GPIO pins for specific applications. It's available in two package options: QFN 60L (7x7x0.85 mm), supporting two DRP DFP ports, and QFN 48L (6x6x0.85 mm), supporting one DRP DFP port.

Leadtrend

Leadtrend possesses extensive experience in the field of power management. They specialize in the development of ACDC primary/secondary-side products, combining mixed-mode and integrated design technologies. Leadtrend is an IC design company focused on power management solutions for high-power ACDC applications.

Leadtrend LD6617

LD6617 is Leadtrend's latest highly integrated USB PD 3.1 controller, featuring an embedded 8-bit MCU with 32kbyte OTP and 256+384bytes SRAM, 11-bit ADC, parallel voltage regulator, voltage/current monitor, and controller, all in a simplified peripheral design.

It supports a wide operating voltage range of 3.3V~45V, making it compatible with USB PD 3.1 SPR and EPR 28V/36V protocol specifications, as well as proprietary protocols like QC3.0, FCP, and AFC. This makes it ideal for use in various PD charging products, such as power adapters, wall chargers, and car chargers.

Moreover, it supports VCONN power for E-marker cables, CC/CV control, capacitor fast discharge, programmable cable compensation, PFC switch control, and other versatile features.

Convenient Power

Convenient Power is a rapidly growing company specializing in high-performance analog and mixed-signal integrated circuit chip design. Their product range includes wireless charging chips, fast charging protocol chips, cable chips, charge pumps, and related power management chips. These products find wide application in industries such as smartphones/wearables, personal computers, automotive electronics, and smart homes.

CPS8849A

Convenient Power's CPS8849A represents a new generation fast charging protocol IC. It offers multiple package options, allowing flexible selection based on diverse application scenarios. Supporting all mainstream fast charging protocols including PD3.1, it integrates MTP and enables software upgrades via Type-C. The output voltage ranges from 3V to 22V, integrating high-precision constant voltage (CV) and constant current (CC) loops to meet PPS, UFCS protocol voltage, and current accuracy specifications.

It can be utilized in wall plug AC/DC and DC-DC automotive power supplies, as well as single and multiple port expansion products.

CPS8849B

CPS8849B is a highly integrated fast charging protocol controller supporting PD3.1, QC2.0/QC3.0, SCP A/B, AFC, Apple, and other mainstream fast charging protocols. It integrates a constant voltage loop (CV) and low-side constant current loop (CC) with programmable reference voltage to meet PD3.1 specifications.

Here are the detailed specifications for CPS8849B.

CPS8860H

CPS8860H, the latest release from Convenient Power, is a highly integrated fast charging protocol controller supporting PD3.1, QC2.0/QC3.0, UFCS, SCP A/B, AFC, Apple, and BC1.2 CDP, among other mainstream fast charging protocols.

It features dual-port fast charging outputs, dual-port management logic, power sharing, requiring minimal peripheral devices to create an efficient and superior multi-protocol dual-port charging solution.

Hynetek

Hynetek is a company specialized in smart energy control technology, primarily focusing on intelligent fast charging and digital energy sectors, providing high-performance mixed-signal chip products.

HUSB251

Hynetek's HUSB251 is a PD protocol chip that supports USB-C DRP. The chip supports PPS PDO and EPR PDO, and all PDOs fully comply with USB PD 3.1 Rev.1.8 specifications, including support for 28V EPR FPDO and EPR AVS. It also supports QC2.0, QC3.0, AFC, FCP, and UFCS fast charging protocols, making it highly compatible. The chip has an integrated NMOS driver for power control using NMOS.

The chip also integrates Vconn power for E-marker chip detection, supports programmable constant voltage and constant current control, and integrates multiple protection measures and overheat protection. It includes a 32-bit RISC-V MCU and 32KB MTP storage, as well as I2C and UART interfaces.

HUSB362

Hynetek's HUSB362 is a high-performance PD protocol chip that supports PD3.1 EPR and integrates an MCU. It supports multiple PDOs with programmable voltage and current, such as PPS PDO and EPR PDO, all fully compliant with USB PD 3.1 V1.7 specifications. It supports EPR mode with 140W (28V5A), PPS supports from 18W to 100W, and AVS supports from 100W to 140W. It has passed USB-IF Association's PD3.1 compliance test, with a TID of 9329.

This chip also implements programmable DPDM PHY, where D+ and D- pins can be configured to support QC2.0, QC3.0, AFC, FCP, and Divider 3 modes, ensuring excellent compatibility with traditional devices.

It integrates N-MOS driver and is fully protected for LPS (limited power supply).

Furthermore, it features a dual-loop design, allowing users to implement application design with minimal peripheral components, thereby enhancing space utilization and reducing design complexity and BOM costs.

HUSB363

HUSB363 is designed specifically for USB Type-C PD products. It supports multiple programmable PDOs for various applications, including PPS (Programmable Power Supply). All PDOs fully comply with USB PD 3.1 Specification Rev.1.8. Additionally, its D+ and D- pins can be configured to support QC2.0, QC3.0, AFC, FCP, and Divider-3 modes, ensuring outstanding compatibility for traditional devices.

Moreover, it integrates a GATE driver to enable voltage from VIN to VBUS, providing protection for devices connected to the Type-C connector. The high voltage tolerance and protection features on CC1, CC2, D+, and D- pins offer enhanced system reliability.

Jadard

Jadard's product range includes display driver chips for mobile smart terminals, camera driver chips, fast charging protocol chips, and more. These products are extensively utilized in areas such as mobile phones, tablets/smart speakers, wearable devices, fast charging/power banks, and others.

JD6628

Jadard JD6628 is a highly integrated protocol chip that supports PD3.1 and PPS output, with support for 3.3-28V output voltage. It covers various protocols, including UFCS, Huawei SCP, FCP, Qualcomm QC2.0/3.0/3+. It also integrates dual amplifiers, separately used for constant voltage and constant current control.

It also features VBUS discharge and VCONN discharge, and incorporates protections like overvoltage protection, undervoltage protection, overcurrent protection, short circuit protection, and overheat protection, making it suitable for fast charging chargers, car chargers, and other applications. It comes in TQFN 4x4-32L and TQFN 5x5-40L packages.

Legendary

Legendary is a company specialized in USB-C port control chips. Their core team boasts over 20 years of chip development experience, and their products are utilized by well-known brands such as Xiaomi, Lenovo, Philips, ViewSonic, MSI, and others.

LDR6020

LDR6020P

The LDR6020P is a power management Unit (PMU) based on SIP technology, integrating three sets of six-channel DRP USB-C and PD communication protocol modules. It features two 20V VBUS MOSFETs and a 16-bit RISC MCU, with a resistance range of 15 milliohms (VGS>10V) to 22 milliohms (VGS>5V).

LDR6020P features a built-in 5V LDO with a withstand voltage of up to 24V and can output a current of over 150mA, suitable for powering other external devices. It includes two sets of Type-C port VBUS voltage paths. It's essential to note that due to the maximum withstand voltage of the internal LDO being 24V, users requiring support for USB PD3.1's 28V and above voltages can utilize LDR6020 in conjunction with an external power supply.

Summary of ChargerLAB

As electronic devices demand more power, having a unified charging solution that can provide higher power is becoming more important. USB PD3.1 not only helps simplify users' charging needs but also drives the development of portable devices, especially for high-performance devices that require a substantial amount of power. For instance, in the case of high-end laptops, USB PD3.1 support reduces reliance on traditional AC adapters, enabling a single charger to power them all, significantly enhancing portability.

Following the release of USB PD3.1 fast charging technology, more and more manufacturers are venturing into related products. Each offering distinctive features covering various applications such as LLC synchronous rectification, synchronous buck, protocol, E-marker, providing users with a wider range of choices. Consumers can easily find suitable USB PD3.1 fast charging solutions based on their needs and preferences. Furthermore, this healthy market competition is driving continuous technological advancements and innovations, delivering users a more efficient and convenient charging experience.

Exploring the Latest Qi2 Certified Products: A Quick Guide

Joey — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 01:36:17 +0000

Introduction

As early as last year's Apple Event, Apple announced the support for the Qi2 protocol led by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) in the iPhone 15 series. The entire Apple accessories market is expected to see a surge in new products. The Qi2 certification from WPC has now been fully released, with many new products from various manufacturers already certified, and a large number of Qi2 products are expected to be launched soon.

ChargerLAB has compiled the latest Qi2 certified products from WPC and presented them in a chart, including phones, modules, charging stands, car chargers, all-in-one chargers, and power banks.

Product Summary Table

The latest Qi2 certified product summary table covers a total of 35 products.

We can see that the latest Qi2 certified products include phones, modules, charging stands, car chargers, all-in-one chargers, and power banks.

From the pie chart showing the product type distribution, it can be observed that modules and charging stands have the highest proportions, both at 26%.

Product Introduction

Phones

Apple - iPhone 15

- Manufacturer Part Number: A2846

- Qi ID: 20298

- Maximum Load Power for Wireless Charging: 15W

Apple - iPhone 15 Plus

- Manufacturer Part Number: A2847

- Qi ID: 20299

- Maximum Load Power for Wireless Charging: 15W

Apple - iPhone 15 Pro

- Manufacturer Part Number: A3101

- Qi ID: 20300

- Maximum Load Power for Wireless Charging: 15W

Apple - iPhone 15 Pro Max

- Manufacturer Part Number: A3105

- Qi ID: 20301

- Maximum Load Power for Wireless Charging: 15W

Modules

Anker - 31144000006

- Manufacturer Part Number: 3.0mm N54H

- Qi ID: 14790

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Dongguan Aohai Technology Co.,Ltd. - Wireless Charging Module

- Manufacturer Part Number: WX017

- Qi ID: 14789

- Potential Load Power: 15W

ATANS - AWC-TS1526N-AT

- Manufacturer Part Number: AWC-TS1526N-AT

- Qi ID: 20231

- Potential Load Power: 15W

CHAOPIN - Magnetic Wireless Charging MPP Module

- Manufacturer Part Number: YHM-MPP001

- Qi ID: 14851

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Gmobi - Charger Module

- Manufacturer Part Number: GQ22

- Qi ID: 20250

- Potential Load Power: 15W

CVSMicro - Wireless Charging Module

- Manufacturer Part Number: CV22X

- Qi ID: 14732

- Potential Load Power: 15W

NuVolta Technologies - Nu222

- Manufacturer Part Number: Nu222

- Qi ID: 14391

- Potential Load Power: 15W

NuVolta Technologies - Nu223 Magnetic Charging Module with Qi2

- Manufacturer Part Number: Nu223

- Qi ID: 14865

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Power7 - Magnetic Wireless Charging

- Manufacturer Part Number: 822XC

- Qi ID: 20516

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Charging Stands

akani - Wireless Charging Stand

- Manufacturer Part Number: TKWC-028-CV

- Qi ID: 20791

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Anker - Anker MagGo Wireless Charger (Pad)

- Manufacturer Part Number: A25M0

- Qi ID: 14791

- Potential Load Power: 15W

AUKEY - MagLink Halo Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Charger

- Manufacturer Part Number: LC-MC10

- Qi ID: 20210

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Belkin - BoostCharge Pro Convertible Magnetic Charging Stand with Qi2

- Manufacturer Part Number: WIA008

- Qi ID: 14821

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Belkin - BoostCharge Pro Convertible Magnetic Charging Stand with Qi2

- Manufacturer Part Number: WIA008-WHT

- Qi ID: 20643

- Potential Load Power: 15W

LinkCom - Halo - Wireless Charger

- Manufacturer Part Number: QI2QT-7457

- Qi ID: 20754

- Potential Load Power: 15W

LinkCom - Ring Stand - Wireless Charger

- Manufacturer Part Number: QI2QT-7463

- Qi ID: 20756

- Potential Load Power: 15W

LinkCom - Kitty Ring Stand - Wireless Charger

- Manufacturer Part Number: QI2QT-7472

- Qi ID: 20757

- Potential Load Power: 15W

PUREGEAR - Qi 2.0 Wireless Charging Pad

- Manufacturer Part Number: 10653PG

- Qi ID: 14765

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Car Chargers

Baseus - MagPro Series Magnetic Wireless Charging Car Mount

- Manufacturer Part Number: BS-CW04

- Qi ID: 20236

- Potential Load Power: 15W

BH EVS - Automotive Wireless Charging Transmitter

- Manufacturer Part Number: WCM_MPP001

- Qi ID: 14801

- Potential Load Power: 15W

ESR - ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (HaloLock)

- Manufacturer Part Number: 2C522E

- Qi ID: 14823

- Potential Load Power: 15W

LinkCom - Car Vent Mount Elite - Wireless Charger

- Manufacturer Part Number: QI2QT-7462

- Qi ID: 20758

- Potential Load Power: 15W

All-in-One Chargers

Anker - Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station (Foldable 3-in-1）

- Manufacturer Part Number: A2557

- Qi ID: 14792

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Anker - Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station (3-in-1 Pad)

- Manufacturer Part Number: A25M1

- Qi ID: 20302

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Anker - Anker MagGo Magnetic Charging Station (8-in-1)

- Manufacturer Part Number: A91C5

- Qi ID: 20813

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Anker - Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station (3-in-1|Stand)

- Manufacturer Part Number: A25M3

- Qi ID: 20292

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Belkin - BoostCharge Pro 2-in-1 Wireless Charging Pad with Qi2

- Manufacturer Part Number: WIZ021

- Qi ID: 14785

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Belkin - BoostCharge Pro 2-in-1 Wireless Charger with Qi2 Charging

- Manufacturer Part Number: WIZ021-WHT

- Qi ID: 20640

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Power Banks

Anker - Anker MagGo Power Bank (6.6K)

- Manufacturer Part Number: A1643

- Qi ID: 14766

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Anker - Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K)

- Manufacturer Part Number: A1654

- Qi ID: 14770

- Potential Load Power: 15W

XIAOMI - Magnetic Wireless Power Bank2 6000mAh

- Manufacturer Part Number: WPB0620MI

- Qi ID: 14864

- Potential Load Power: 15W

Summary of ChargerLAB

In this compilation of the latest WPC Qi2 certified products, there are 4 phones, 9 modules, 9 charging stands, 4 car chargers, 6 all-in-one chargers, and 3 power banks. Notable brands such as Anker, Baseus, Belkin, Xiaomi, and others show a positive outlook for the Qi2 product market. The Qi2 certification trend is gaining momentum, and ChargerLAB will closely monitor information on new Qi2 products. Stay tuned for updates!

VIA Labs Launched VL832 USB4 Controller

Joey — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 01:25:26 +0000

Introduction

About two years ago, VIA Labs introduced the industry's first USB4 controller solution, the VL830. Since then, this USB4 controller has gained favor from nearly 50 manufacturers globally. Its versatile design applications range from portable travel docks to displays, significantly contributing to the diversity of product development. In fact, we've previously covered this product, and you can read the article through the link at the end.

According to the latest information, VIA Labs has recently launched an upgraded version of the USB4 controller based on the VL830, called the VL832. While maintaining the core advantages of VL830, this new chip further enhances signal integrity and offers more flexibility in supporting detachable cable designs. Let's dive into understanding the major specs.

About USB4

The USB data transfer protocol was introduced much earlier than USB PD. In fact, USB 1.0 was introduced in 1996, which was the third year of the USB-IF's establishment. The first generation of the USB standard had a transfer rate of only 1.5 Mbps.

In September 2019, USB4 was officially released with a maximum transfer rate of 40 Gbps, the same as Thunderbolt 3. USB4 has two specifications: USB4 40 with 40 Gbps and USB4 20 with 20 Gbps.

In September 2022, the USB4 2.0 standard was exposed, raising the maximum speed to 80 Gbps. It also adopted a new data architecture, updating the USB PD fast charging standard and the USB-C port and cable standard simultaneously.

USB has come a long way from its initial 1.5 Mbps to the high-speed USB4 2.0, reaching up to 80 Gbps. This transformation is primarily due to an increase in the number of data transmission channels. Specifically, the 2013 upgrade increased the number of differential channels to four pairs and introduced the more capable USB-C port.

While the latest iPhone 15 Pro series is only equipped with a port equivalent to USB 3.2 Gen 1 from 2017, this is still one of the most significant advancements in the iPhone's charging port. It is expected that Apple will build on this foundation to deliver higher-performance USB-C ports in the future.

VL832

The VL832 is VIA Labs' latest USB4 controller, and the chip has received USB4 product certification from the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). It supports a maximum transfer speed of 40 Gbps and is now listed in the USB-IF Integrators List with the code TID: 10033.

The VL832 features one USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 upstream port, five downstream ports, and one DP (DisplayPort) port. It integrates USB 3.2 Hub, USB 2.0 Hub, and DisplayPort output functions, providing essential connectivity for multifunctional adapters and docking stations. The hardware supports secure features with digital signature firmware, PWM-driven LED indicators, and firmware upgrades via USB or I2C bus. The USB port supports charging protocols such as BC1.2, Apple 2.4A, Samsung.

In USB4 40Gbps mode, it supports full DisplayPort HBR3 bandwidth (32.4 Gbps). The integrated USB 20Gbps Hub allows multiple USB 10Gbps devices to operate at maximum performance on supported host platforms. These values represent twice the achievable performance compared to previous DisplayPort alternate mode configurations, as DisplayPort alternate mode provided only two DisplayPort channels when supporting USB 3.2 functionality.

The increased display bandwidth caters to demands for QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution, higher pixel density, and richer visual effects. It meets the needs of gamers for smooth visuals and immersive experiences, such as uncompressed 4K at 120Hz or 240Hz+ using Display Stream Compression (DSC). Additionally, it can connect and effectively run up to four 4K (60Hz) displays.

The reference design for VL832, as shown, features a USB-C port supporting Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 inputs, and outputs four USB3.2 interfaces, one USB2.0 interface, and one DP1.4 interface. It adopts a compact FCCSP 10x10mm package and, when used in conjunction with USB PD chip solutions (e.g., VL108 supporting Extended Power Range), it can provide up to 140W or more charging capability in compatible host systems.

The schematic of VIA Labs VL832 illustrates its integration of a USB3.2 hub and a built-in device router dedicated to handling USB4 connections. Its DP port can achieve HDMI conversion through other adapter chips. When paired with VIA Labs chips like VL103, VL105, it can supply power and expansion capability to the USB-C port of laptops.

Summary of ChargerLAB

As the most widely used interface, USB ports have seen increasing power capacity and data transfer capabilities, especially with the latest USB-C port. However, different interfaces will coexist on different computers in the future. Industrial computers and desktops will continue to use USB-A ports, connecting to traditional devices. Consumer-level devices like laptops will evolve with the times, adopting USB-C ports to meet higher transfer rates and more flexible power distribution.

The VIA Labs VL832 not only provides a gap-filling solution for slim laptops but also significantly expands the connectivity capabilities of portable devices like smartphones. Leveraging its high integration and advanced technology, the VL832 effectively addresses the balance between performance and portability in space-constrained devices, meeting the market's demand for efficient, multifunctional connectivity solutions.

Summary of Four Mainstream Qi 2.0 Authentication Chips

Joey — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 01:26:49 +0000

Introduction

TPM (Trusted Platform Module) is an independent device capable of key generation, encryption, and decryption. It contains a dedicated processor and storage unit, enabling the storage of keys and feature data, providing encryption and security authentication services for products to ensure security during usage. The Trusted Platform Module is primarily used for anti-counterfeiting authentication, communication protection, and data protection. By encrypting and generating a key that can be stored in hardware, it ensures that the product can only be used when verified, thus protecting product security.

In everyday life, TPM has been widely applied in consumer, payment, transportation, and other fields, including bank cards, ID cards, social security cards, subway cards, bus cards, and even some smartphones. This helps safeguard personal information, financial data, and overall system integrity, contributing significantly to cybersecurity and privacy in our digital interactions.

Qi Standard Authentication Chip, initially introduced for authentication requirements in Qi 1.3 for certified wireless chargers, can be considered a form of Trusted Platform Module. It possesses diverse functionalities emphasizing security more than conventional MCUs, executing security algorithms in hardware, providing anti-counterfeiting authentication, communication protection, and key data protection features. With the gradual prevalence of the Qi2 standard, the application of authentication chips is further propelled.

What is Qi2 Wireless Charging Standard?

Qi2 certification requires products to include EPP and MPP transmitting areas and must incorporate authentication. Single BPP wireless chargers cannot receive Qi2 certification. In multi-in-one wireless chargers, they can include BPP, but they must include at least one EPP or MPP.

Qi2 certification must pass ATL verification, and there are currently 11 authorized labs in the WPC network. However, while Qi2 brings immense opportunities, it also presents higher technical requirements for wireless charging systems.

Why Use Authentication Chips for Qi2 Certification?

The release of the Qi2 standard rejuvenates the wireless charging market. Notably, Qi2 standard compels chargers to support highly secure authentication methods, meaning Qi2 chargers must embed an authentication chip. This not only safeguards the security and stability of the Qi2 standard but also to some extent assures the safety and quality of user Qi2 products.

Authentication chips, of course, require certification, and the certification process is complex. However, enterprises can opt for MCSP (Manufacturer CA Service Provider) to complete most stages of the certification process, reducing unnecessary hassle.

ChargerLAB has partially compiled four widely used Qi2 authentication chips currently prevalent in the market to assist products in obtaining Qi2 certification. The following list is in alphabetical order:

Fudan Micro

Fudan Micro FM1230

Fudan Micro FM1230 supports DES/TDES, AES, SM4 symmetric algorithms, RSA, ECC, SM2 asymmetric algorithms, SHA1, SHA224, SHA256, SM3 hash algorithms, among other protective capabilities. Additionally, it supports symmetric and asymmetric encryption/decryption operations, secure storage, identity authentication, among other functionalities.

ChargerLAB encountered the Fudan Micro FM1230 during disassembly.

It provides SOP8 and DFN12 package to meet diverse system application requirements. Moreover, many Qi2 MPP wireless charging modules in the current market utilize this Trusted Platform Module.

Infineon

Authentication Chip OPTIGA Trust X

OPTIGA Trust X is based on an advanced security controller, employing ECDSA for mutual authentication and utilizing DTLS for secure communication. It incorporates tamper-resistant non-volatile memory for secure storage. Furthermore, it includes symmetric/asymmetric cipher engines supporting ECC 256, AES-128, and SHA-256, significantly enhancing system security.

OPTIGA Trust X comes with pre-programmed OS/application code locks and includes a host-side module for easy integration with host microcontroller software. It operates within a temperature range of -40°C to +105°C, featuring standardized I²C interfaces and compact PG-USON-10-2 packaging, facilitating convenient integration into existing ecosystems.

STMicroelectronics

STSAFE-A110

STSAFE-A110 runs on the CC EAL5+ platform, a highly secure authentication solution certified by an independent third party. Its command set ensures robust device authentication capabilities, monitors device usage, assists nearby hosts in establishing transport layer security (TLS), and protects host platform integrity.

It features signature verification services, uses secure counters for monitoring, pairs with host application processors to establish TLS, encrypts and decrypts data with up to 16 keys, generates key pairs on the chip, comes preloaded with Sigfox or LoRaWAN® credentials, supports frame signing, verification, encryption, and decryption.

In terms of security, STSAFE-A110 integrates the latest generation highly secure MCU, each chip possessing a unique serial number, featuring functionalities like active shielding, monitoring environmental parameters, guarding against side-channel attacks, supporting advanced symmetric and asymmetric encryption. It utilizes NIST or Brainpool 256-bit and 384-bit elliptic curve encryption (ECC), SHA-256, and SHA-384 elliptic curve digital signature algorithms (ECDSA) for generating and verifying digital signatures, for authentication and data management, significantly enhancing security.

In terms of hardware, it also possesses highly reliable CMOS EEPROM technology, capable of preserving data for 30 years at 25℃, enduring 500,000 erase/program cycles, tolerating continuous supply voltages from 1.62V to 5.5V, and operating stably within the -40℃ to 105℃ temperature range.

Tsinghuaic

Tsinghuaic T9 Series Authentication Products

The Tsinghuaic T9 Series Authentication Products cover various specifications and different levels, including consumer, industrial, and automotive-grade products. Tsinghuaic aims to provide smaller, more integrated solutions to accommodate limited board-level space and resource requirements, especially suitable for consumer products.

Tsinghuaic also offers high-reliability solutions for automotive wireless charging products, meeting AEC-Q100 certification requirements in the automotive industry. Additionally, their products possess more user customization space to meet different requirements. Whether it's for consumer, industrial, or automotive-grade products, they provide rapid integration kits, aiding manufacturers in shortening product introduction cycles.

Tsinghuaic T9 Series product development kits offer several advantages. These kits meet WPC's qualification requirements and have passed WPC audits, becoming one of their MCSP suppliers.

Moreover, Tsinghuaic will provide detailed manuals to assist wireless charging manufacturers in understanding product characteristics and parameters. Once deciding to import Tsinghuaic's products, they will provide MCU-end middleware and debugging examples to aid customers in better product integration. Tsinghuaic also offers early DEMO and test versions for quick connection and testing. Once the DEMO board is manufactured, Tsinghuaic will provide samples with testing certificates, expediting the laboratory certification process.

Summary of ChargerLAB

Since the WPC initiated Soft-Launch certification test in November 2023, several wireless chip manufacturers have developed Qi2 MPP wireless charging modules. These modules require Qi2 authentication chips to ensure communication security between charging and receiving devices.

ChargerLAB aims to bridge the gap for electronic product enthusiasts and electronic engineers to understand the latest electronic technology trends. It has compiled four prevalent Qi2 authentication chips, believing this information can help individuals grasp detailed information and further drive the development of the wireless charging industry.

Here's How to Enable 10Gbps Wired Transfer Speed for Older PCs with the iPhone 15 Pro

Joey — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 03:15:21 +0000

Introduction

The new USB-C port found on the iPhone 15 Pro series has a maximum transfer rate of up to 10Gb/s with the USB 3.2 Gen 2 standard, this spce undoubtedly represents the best available option for mobile phones. And for any user with a Mac Pro manufactured after 2013, they can enjoy this transfer speed perfectly. This is because all Mac Pros produced after 2013 come with at least one USB-C port with a maximum transfer speed of 10 Gbps.

However, in the real world, due to the high cost and weak compatibility with gaming, very few iPhone users have a Mac Pro desktop computer. This raises a question: how can you experience the maximum data transfer potential of the iPhone 15 Pro series on an older Windows or Linux desktop computer with no USB-C port? That's when the PCI-e expansion card comes in.

With that, you can expect sustained and efficient data transfer for you iPhone 15 Pro Max. Next, let's take a closer look!

Product Introduction

This is an ORICO PCI-e to USB-C expansion card, boasting a maximum transfer rate of 20Gbps. It is compatible with PCI-e X4, X8, X16 card slots on the motherboard, supporting Windows and Linux systems. Of course, similar PCI-e expansion cards from other brands can also do the job.

The expansion card features a thickened gold finger design, along with chips, capacitors, and other components. Additionally, the PCB has a 15-pin power interface, providing power assurance for high-speed transfers, although users need to purchase the corresponding cables separately.

As commonly known, motherboards have multiple slots like PCI-e x4/x8/x16, with most slots remaining unused apart from the high-bandwidth PCI-e slots used for graphics cards. A few users with specific requirements might install modules like wireless network cards/Bluetooth for additional functionality.

Installation Steps

Upon unpacking the expansion card, two sizes of chassis brackets are included, catering to 80mm and 121mm specifications, suitable for ITX, M-ATX, and other chassis types.

After selecting the appropriate bracket, the next step is to determine which PCI-e slot on the motherboard to use. It's important to note that not all older motherboard PCI-e protocol versions and bandwidth specifications support a 20Gbps rate. Users should check the official specifications of their respective motherboards to ensure compatibility, inserting the card into the appropriate slot to avoid compromising the transfer experience.

The installation process is similar to installing a graphics card. After powering down the computer, insert the expansion card into the slot and then secure it by tightening the screws on the bracket's openings.

If users purchase the corresponding cables, they can connect the power cable to maximize its transfer performance. (It can be used without connecting the power cable, but the transfer speend decreases to around 10Gbps.)

Upon completion of installation as shown in the figure above, you can see the USB-C port. It's worth mentioning that the model we purchased has only one USB-C port, but users can buy multi-port expansion cards according to their needs.

Speed Test

Next, we conducted tests using a USB4 SSD enclosure and the original high-spec cable.

CrystalDiskMark measured a read speed of up to 812.75MB/s and a write speed of up to 821.19MB/s, meeting the 10Gbps transfer specification (without the power cable connected).

Furthermore, it can also charge and transfer data to older iPhones, Android phones, tablets, laptops, and other devices.

Summary of ChargerLAB

In summary, after connecting the USB-C port of the iPhone 15 Pro series or high-specification transfer-supporting Android phones to the expansion card, a maximum transfer rate of 10Gbps can be achieved. Tablets or laptop devices might potentially reach a 20Gbps rate, but this would require the purchase of a separate power cable to unleash its full transmission capabilities.

The PCI-e to USB-C expansion card emerges as a game-changer for older Windows or Linux desktops lacking USB-C ports. With its robust design, compatibility across various motherboard slots, and impressive 20Gbps transfer rate, this expansion card opens up a world of possibilities for users seeking enhanced connectivity and data transfer capabilities on their existing systems.

Wired & Wireless | How to Use Your iPhone 15 Series as a MacBook Webcam

Rusell — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 01:07:14 +0000

If you wanna buy the tester of POWER-Z, you can visit our Amazon store: Click here.

Introduction
---------------------------------------------------------------
As we all know, the continuity between Apple devices is powerful, such as the familiar functions of AirDrop, Universal Clipboard, etc. Are there any other functions besides these? The answer is yes.

Charge Smarter, Not Harder: ISDT's 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger and ISD Link App

Joey — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 01:23:05 +0000

Buy Now

Introduction

About a month ago, we presented articles and a ChargerLAB Compatibility 100 video for the ISDT Zip 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger. It turns out that this product not only looks impressive in promotional materials but also boasts excellent real-world compatibility. You can watch them through the link at the end of this article.

However, outstanding hardware needs equally exceptional software support. That's why ISDT has developed various intelligent apps tailored for different charging products, including ISD Link, ISD Go, and BattAir. These apps run on most smart devices, allowing users to easily monitor real-time charging status and customize settings. Today, we will provide a simple guide for the ISD Link app that accompanies the 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger.

Additionally, it's worth noting that besides smart chargers, ISDT's product range covers three major sectors: aeromodeling chargers, drone industry applications, and energy storage products. Stay tuned for more introductions to their interesting products in the future!

Product Introduction

The ISDT Zip 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger features a magnetic charging area on the top, surrounded by a circular magnetic silicone pad to prevent scratching the phone's casing. The panel's four corners have a heat dissipation design with built-in silent vortex fans to cool down without sacrificing charging speed.

Furthermore, its bottom hides an Apple Watch wireless charging area, similar to the original watch charger module, with a concave design for a snug fit during charging.

When viewed from the side, it resembles a makeup case. After attaching an iPhone 15, the stand can hover at any angle, demonstrating excellent stability without any wobbling. Simultaneously, the iPhone 15 displays the wireless charging UI perfectly, providing added convenience.

Similarly, in a horizontal position (closed), it can align with the wireless charging area for iPhones (non-MagSafe) or Android phones with wireless charging capabilities. Alternatively, when using a phone case that supports magnetic charging, it offers the same experience as iPhone 12 and later models.

Protocol Test

Users can match the output device based on the protocols we tested to achieve a better fast charging experience. In reality, its two USB-C ports display consistent information, so we'll only show one.

ChargerLAB POWER-Z KM003C shows that the USB-C1 can support FCP, SCP, AFC, QC3.0, SFCP, MTK, PD3.0, PPS, QC4+, DCP, SAM 2A and Apple 2.4A protocols, pretty good.

And it has five fixed PDOs of 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/2.75A, 15V2.2A, 20V1.65A and a set of PPS, which is 3.3-11V/3A.

App Connection

As shown in the picture, we conducted wireless charging tests with the powerful iPhone 15 Pro Max and Apple Watch Ultra to minimize variables.

After downloading the ISD Link app on the phone, you can connect via Bluetooth by entering it and clicking on "+" in the top right corner.

On the operation interface, shown on the phone in the above picture, you can click on the "Active Cooling" tab to enable cooling even in idle mode. This means that even when charging only through the USB-C port, you can reduce the charger's heating to some extent.

The UI of the specific operation interface is very straightforward, with each charging area corresponding to different colored tabs for easy differentiation. It has a somewhat reminiscent design of Microsoft's Windows Phone UI.

And also, you can enter the "Settings" option for simple categorization and notification settings.

When users charge their phones, watches, and other devices with ISDT's charging products, the app displays detailed charging parameters. As shown in the image, the wireless charging area provides 8.1W power for iPhone 15, the watch charging area indicates charging, and USB-C1 shows real-time power of "15V/1.8A 27W"—clear and straightforward.

Summary of ChargerLAB

For ISDT Zip series charging products, users can easily download the corresponding apps from the official website or app stores. The connection and usage steps are straightforward, requiring no learning curve. Additionally, users can directly observe real-time information for each charging area, including voltage, current, power, etc., ensuring timely notifications when devices are fully charged.

Buy Now

ChargerLAB Reveals Ten USB4 E-Marker Chips from Six Manufacturers

Joey — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 01:40:19 +0000

Introduction

The new iPhone 15 series, equipped with the latest USB-C port, brings a multitude of benefits to Apple users. These include but are not limited to the availability of more fast-charging adapters, a wider range of USB cables, and improved compatibility with USB-related accessories like docking stations and flash drives. Although the USB 3.2 Gen 2 port in the iPhone 15 Pro series has a maximum transfer rate of only 10Gb/s, falling short of the theoretical maximum speed of USB 3.2 at 20Gb/s, this configuration still represents the best available option for mobile phones.

Typically, if a cable's maximum current exceeds 3A and it supports USB 3.0 data transfer, it must have an E-marker chip integrated into the connector to identify the cable's capabilities. This ensures that the cable does not become a bottleneck, affecting high-speed data and power transmission. In other words, when purchasing a USB3-supported cable for your iPhone 15 Pro, it undoubtedly integrates at least one E-marker chip.

All these principles similarly apply to the latest USB4 cables. Previously, we compiled an article featuring 11 PD3.1 E-marker chips from 7 manufacturers. Now, with the increasing awareness among ordinary consumers about iPhone support for USB3 high-speed transmission, let's explore some of the latest USB4 E-marker chips available.

USB4 E-Marker Chip

These are several of the latest USB4 E-marker chips introduced by various fast-charging chip companies. You can take a rough look at the flagship products and their relevant characteristics from each company.

Southchip

Southchip SC2211

SC2211 is a Type-C/PD E-marker chip compliant with the latest Type-C and PD 3.1 standards, supporting USB4, Thunderbolt-3, and Thunderbolt-4. Specifically designed for passive electronic cable applications, it minimizes external components by integrating USB PD baseband PHY, VCONN diodes, internal Ra, temperature sensing units, and multiple programmable OTPs, providing an economically efficient solution for passive cable applications.

It supports various PD commands, including control messages, data messages, and extended messages, to meet the cable's power transmission or data transfer capacity labeling requirements. SC2211 offers two package options: DFN-6L 2mm×2mm and DFN-4L 1.6mm×1.6mm.

Injoinic

Injoinic IP2133H

The IP2133H/TH is the flagship E-marker chip in the IP2133 series and the first product to be certified under the PD3.1 V1.7 standard. It comes in two packaging options:

IP2133H in DFN2 x 2-6L package.

IP2133TH in DFN2 x 2-8L package, featuring additional SCL and SDA pins.

This chip supports USB-C 2.2 standard and PD3.1 specifications, integrating hardware-level BMC protocol and PHY. It also supports commands for obtaining manufacturer information and includes a temperature sensor specifically designed for cables.

IP2133H supports EPR 240W power delivery, SOP' and SOP'' commands, USB4 80G, and is suitable for Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 3 cables. It allows for four reprogramming cycles and features personalized write protection, providing manufacturers with a comprehensive solution.

Moreover, Injoinic IP2133H offers a WLCSP-6B package to cater to various cable requirements.

VIA

VL153

VL153 is a brand-new E-marker chip launched by VIA. It shares the same Pin-to-Pin design as the previous generation VL152, allowing customers to upgrade their products with minimal cost implications. However, it offers DFN-8 and WLCSP packaging options, catering to various application scenarios. VL153 supports multiple programming methods and protective measures, eliminating the need for external components and simplifying the design process while reducing costs.

This chip is suitable for USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 passive cables, compliant with both USB PD 3.0 and USB4 specifications.

It also supports two write-in information cycles, has write protection capabilities, and boasts the advantage of a long lifespan.

Convenient Power

Convenient Power CPS8821F/G

CPS8821F/G is a new E-marker chip launched by Convenient Power, supporting full USB4 features while perfectly compatible with USB3.2 Gen1/Gen2, USB3.1, and USB2.0. It supports Discover Identity, Discover SVID, Discover Modes, Enter Modes, and Exit Modes commands, facilitating manufacturers to store relevant information in cable-related data packets.

It also supports host authentication, enhancing ESD and high-voltage pin withstand capabilities for PD3.1 high-output voltage applications. The CPS8821F/G series integrates VBUS and CC/Vconn short-circuit detection protection.

Hynetek

Hynetek HUSB332B

Next up is Hynetek HUSB332B, which is quite remarkable as it is the industry's first chip to pass the USB PD3.1 E-marker Silicon Certification, with a TID number of 6773.

It can support power transmission of up to 240W and data transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps.

Furthermore, it comes with built-in encryption functionality, which allows devices to identify the cable, making it convenient for manufacturers to customize their products. The E-marker chip is available in two packages: DFN-6L and WLCSP-6B. The CC, VCONN1, and VCONN2 pins support 28V over-voltage protection. It can be programmed through the CC line to identify the cable's capabilities.

Hynetek HUSB332C

HUSB332C is a USB Type-C E-marker chip used for cable identification. It supports USB Type-C 2.1 and USB Power Delivery 3.1 specifications. Certified by the USB-IF association with TID number 8655.

The HUSB332C can be powered by VCONN1 or VCONN2 and supports OP communication. The built-in OTP can be programmed through the CC line or I2C bus for flexible in-system programming. Enhanced system ESD protection on the pins can significantly improve system reliability. The HUSB332C can operate in a power supply range of 2.7V to 5.75V with a power consumption of up to 0.6mA. It adopts DFN2×2-6L package and can operate normally in temperatures from -40°C to +85°C.

Hynetek HUSB332D

HUSB332D is the latest USB Type-C E-marker chip from Hynetek, supporting USB Type-C 2.2, USB Power Delivery 3.1, USB4 2.0, Thunderbolt 3, and Thunderbolt 4 specifications. It supports USB PD3.1 EPR (Extended Power Range) and has been certified by the USB-IF association with TID number 9125.

It supports SOP' communication and integrates a transmitter (BMC PHY) and structured VDM versions 1.0 and 2.x, providing enhanced flexibility for various applications. The highly integrated design embeds Ra resistors and VCONN diodes, simplifying design and wiring, thus enhancing efficiency. Due to its highly integrated design, HUSB332D offers various package options, including DFN1.6×1.6-4L and DFN2×2-6L, making it compact overall.

HUSB332D's groundbreaking reduction in pin count to 4 brings multiple advantages, such as reducing the design complexity of high-performance cables, shortening PCB lengths by an estimated 0.5mm, and improving placement yield rates while ensuring backward compatibility with some of Hynetek's previous E-marker product models. All of these attributes allow it to quickly upgrade and iterate cable products to launch new products with higher specifications.

Additionally, it supports three programming cycles, is compatible with third-party programming tools, and has a wide power supply range of 2.7V to 5.75V. HUSB332D also offers excellent electrostatic discharge protection (HBM ±8 kV ESD), suitable for USB Type-C cable identification and USB4® passive cable applications.

Hynetek HUSB332E

HUSB332E is a USB Type-C E-marker used for cable identification applications. It complies with the USB Type-C specification revision 2.2, USB Power Delivery 3.1, and USB4 specifications, with TID: 10226.

HUSB332E can be powered from VCONN1 or VCONN2 and can be selected as SOP (Source of Power) as needed. The built-in OTP can be programmed through the CC line, and enhanced ±5 KV system ESD protection on exposed pins significantly improves system reliability. HUSB332E can operate within a power supply range of 2.7V to 5.75V. It provides two package options: DFN2×2-6L and DFN1.6×1.6-4L, suitable for operation within the temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

WCH

WCH CH254

CH254 is a temperature-protected USB Type-C E-marker chip supporting USB Type-C 2.1 and USB PD 3.1 standards, suitable for various Type-C cable-related applications. Internally integrated with VCONN diodes, Ra resistors, VBUS power units, and a high-voltage LDO, it can operate as a single chip without peripheral devices.

It comes with pre-burnt default configurations and supports data updates through the Type-C port for chips, terminals, or finished cables. Besides the default configuration, each CH254 supports up to 5 updates for configuration data burning and includes a data locking feature with multiple default configuration options.

CH254X supports up to 52V input voltage for VBUS, suitable for 240W (48V5A) Type-C cables. It also supports multiple-stage temperature protection using an external NTC and power control functions.

WCH CH252

The CH252, introduced by WCH, supports USB-C 2.1 and PD 3.1 standards, making it suitable for various USB-C cable-related applications. It has obtained certification from the USB-IF association, and its TID is 9134.

Integrated with a VCONN diode, Ra resistor, and high-voltage LDO, this chip can operate as a standalone unit, eliminating the need for external components.

Additionally, the CH252 comes with optional default configurations pre-burnt at the factory. It also supports up to 5 updates for configuration data burning and includes a data locking function for added security.

Summary of ChargerLAB

The high-spec USB4 brings faster data transfer speeds and higher power outputs for users. This potent combo is becoming more common on many devices, indicating the need for more advanced E-marker chips in corresponding cables. This compilation of 6 chip manufacturers' USB4-supported E-marker chips perfectly meets the requirements for high-speed cables.

These E-marker chips each have their own unique strengths, supporting PD3.1 and USB4, providing high-speed data transfer and higher power output, coupled with high withstand voltage protection, ensuring cable reliability. The chips also feature built-in temperature detection to avoid high-temperature risks during usage, thereby enhancing cable appeal and ensuring safer use.

For iPhone 15 | Ten Qi2 MPP Wireless Charging Modules and Their Eight Manufacturers

Joey — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 01:22:00 +0000

Introduction

Tech enthusiasts are well aware that Apple made upgrades to both wired and wireless charging with the iPhone 12 series. Wired charging power was increased from the original 18W to 20W. Don't underestimate this 2W change; it had a profound impact on the fast-charging market. After the release of the iPhone 12 series, various manufacturers introduced nearly a hundred 20W fast chargers in about half a year. Furthermore, many high-power multi-port fast charging products have incorporated 20W into their simultaneous output strategies.

In the realm of wireless charging, the 12 series retained compatibility with Qi 7.5W wireless charging while introducing the new MagSafe wireless charging. Whether in terms of charging speed or usage, MagSafe provided users with a satisfying experience. Subsequently, third-party wireless charging products launched in the market were greatly influenced by MagSafe. Even if they didn't use Apple-certified wireless charging modules, they often included magnetic functionality. Currently, there is a wide variety of multi-in-one and stand-type magnetic wireless chargers and magnetic wireless power bank products available.

(All data above from the WPC)

This year, the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) introduced the new Qi2 enhanced wireless charging standard. Based on Apple's innovative Magnetic Power Profile (MPP), Qi2 aims to deliver a better wireless charging user experience and pave the way for future feature enhancements. Following this, ChargerLAB and others leaked information suggesting that Apple's upcoming iPhone 15 series will support 15W wireless fast charging.

From WPC statistics, it's evident that the wireless charging market is immensely vast. The implementation of new wireless charging features in the iPhone 15 series signifies a new wave of disruption for the entire market, and the impact of the iPhone 12's influence on the market, as mentioned earlier, is a perfect example.

What is the Qi2 Wireless Charging Standard?

The latest Qi2 wireless charging standard from the WPC, optimized based on Apple's MagSafe, known as the Magnetic Power Profile (MPP) protocol, makes wireless charging more convenient and efficient for users, offering improved compatibility. WPC has standardized and integrated authentication verification, enhancing practicality and convenience while promoting the widespread adoption of wireless charging.

Qi2 certification must pass ATL verification, and there are currently 11 authorized labs in the WPC network.

Qi2 MPP Wireless Charging Module

MagSafe is Apple's proprietary protocol, requiring Apple's authorized MFi certification to achieve 15W fast charging for iPhones. Without certification, even though it can magnetically attach for charging, it remains at 7.5W. This limitation restricts the expansion of the ecosystem. Qi2 MPP upgrades the proprietary protocol to the WPC standard. Through Qi2 certification, it can adapt to Apple's 15W fast charging, significantly reducing end-user costs and allowing more chip manufacturers to foster the ecosystem together.

The MPP module not only replaces traditional MagSafe modules but also reduces wireless charging costs and enhances user experience. It's widely used in wireless charging docks, magnetic power banks, and car mounts.

iPhone 15 Series Adapts to Qi2 Wireless Chargers

On September 12, 2023, the highly anticipated Apple Fall Event unveiled the iPhone 15 series, the new Apple Watch series, and AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C ports.

The brand-new iPhone 15 series not only adopts USB-C ports across the board but also emphasizes support for the new Qi2 wireless charging standard at the event. This means that Qi2-certified chargers can provide up to 15W wireless charging for iPhone 15 models, just like Apple's MagSafe charger. Qi2 chargers do not require Apple's expensive MagSafe module or MFi certification.

Apple's move to support Qi2 is bound to garner significant attention throughout the industry, both upstream and downstream in the supply chain. Some forward-thinking manufacturers have already seized this opportunity and made early strategic investments. According to ChargerLAB's incomplete statistics, companies like ConvenientPower, ESSON Tech, and WPINNO have introduced complete Qi2 MPP wireless charging modules. With these existing solutions and modules, manufacturers can quickly bring their products to mass production and market, gaining a competitive advantage.

Listed alphabetically:

Aohai

Firstly, Aohai, which is actually the parent company of Aohi. We've previously conducted multiple reviews and teardowns of Aohi's products, including high-power chargers, power banks, and more. You can click here to view them. Aohai, dedicated to efficient energy application globally, has emerged as a leading industry player, consistently at the forefront of technological development. They are among the first globally certified companies for the Qi2.0 standard. The Qi2.0 MPP ultra-thin magnetic wireless charging module we're introducing here has obtained 10 technical patents.

Compared to other peers, Aohai's magnetic wireless charging module is the only one that offers choices between welding or plugging, with or without screws. It has resolved the issue of easy short-circuiting during soldering. Paired with Aohai's unique heat dissipation technology, it efficiently dissipates heat. The shell cover is 1.0mm thinner compared to counterparts, ensuring higher charging efficiency. Users can also choose whether to add leather, providing an exclusive fast-charging experience.

ConvenientPower

ConvenientPower currently offers three MPP transmitter modules: CPS812X, CPS822X, and CPS823X. Notably, the dimensions of CPS822X and CPS823X modules are similar to those of Apple's C222X and C223X, enabling manufacturers to quickly launch products without the need for new molds.

All three ConvenientPower MPP modules are designed with magnetic technology and incorporate the CPS8200 wireless charging controller, boost circuit, and full-bridge power MOSFET. The wireless charging controller integrates three drivers, supporting PD, QC, and DC power. The back of the module has reserved solder points for wire connections. Assembling the casing turns it into a complete magnetic wireless charger. The product has been fully developed, performance test reports are available, and bulk orders can be initiated.

In terms of output, these modules support 15W-MPP, 5W-BPP (Baseline Power Profile), and 7.5W-non-MPP wireless charging for iPhones. As for input, they support PD3.1, QC3.0, and 9V DC power supply, allowing customers to connect corresponding wires based on the protocol they use.

CVSMicro

CVSMicro offers CV222X/3X, CV222, and CV223 (Strong Magnetic) modules based on the CV90368 chip, supporting special MPP+BPP solutions and Qi2.0 solutions for power banks based on the CV90367 chip, providing comprehensive upgrades for manufacturers' wireless charging products.

The CV222 module supports USB PD/QC 12V2A, 9V2.22A, 5V3A, and DC protocol with multiple power specifications for input and supports a maximum of 15W fast charging output. Its standby power is less than 300mW, with an efficiency exceeding 82%. It supports BPP/PPDE/EPP/MPP protocols. The coil is isolated from the PCB to minimize the impact of PCB heat. It offers advantages like fast charging.

The CV222 module features various protections, including OVP/UVP/OCP/OTP, and multiple foreign object detection technologies, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable charging throughout the process.

ESSON Tech

ESSON Tech's Qi2 MPP wireless charging module uses a circular PCB design and can be shipped as a module product with a metal shell and magnetic ring. Its master control chip is from Generalplus, model GPM32FD0338B, and it integrates MOSFET, eliminating the need for an external driver.

The encryption chip is from Fudan Micro, model FM123D, meeting Qi2's encryption standards, and it uses two Vergiga Semi VS3622DE MOSFETs for wireless charging, with Silicon Content SCT12A2 for power boost. The PCB is single-sided, supporting PD fast charging and simplifying the design process for modular products.

This wireless charging module can not only be used in wireless chargers but also for designing car wireless chargers and MagSafe power banks. The Qi2 certification progress of the module is currently leading in the industry, allowing manufacturers to be the first to achieve mass production and market entry, seizing the first-mover advantage.

Generalplus

Generalplus has introduced two versions of the MPP transmitter module: AH225-A and AH222-A, both recently Qi2 certified to meet rapid market demands.

Generalplus AH222-A supports USB PD 9V/2.22A 5V/3A, DC 9V/2.22A with various power inputs and supports up to 15W fast charging output. It supports BPP, EPP, and MPP 15W, with dimensions of 56.2 x 6.78mm and a magnetic force of 900gf/1500gf.

Generalplus AH225-A supports USB PD 9V/2.22A 5V/3A, DC 9V/2.22A with various power inputs and supports up to 15W fast charging output. It supports BPP, EPP, and MPP 15W, with dimensions of 58.2x7.58mm and a magnetic force of 900gf/1500gf.

NuVolta

NuVolta's NU222 is Qi2 certified and fully compatible with Apple's C222. Additionally, they have products like NU223 undergoing certification.

The NU222 module supports USB PD 9V2.22A, 5V3A, and DC protocols with various power inputs and supports up to 15W fast charging output. Standby power is less than 300mW, with an efficiency peak exceeding 78%. It supports BPP+MPP, featuring various protections including OVP/UVP/OCP/OTP/OSP, along with multiple foreign object detection technologies, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable charging.

Southchip

This Southchip MPP wireless charging module supports 5V to 9V DC input and various Qi wireless power configurations.

It employs the wireless charging protocol controller SC9610, integrating a 32-bit core and wireless charging-related peripherals. Besides MPP support, it covers Basic Power Profile (BPP), Extended Power Profile (EPP), and private high-power modes. Furthermore, the SC9610 integrates a high-res full-bridge controller, multi-channel ASK demodulation, and supports multiple power sources like DC, USB-PD, HVDCP. It also houses the SC8329 boost converter for voltage regulation during charging.

The module supports an I2C interface and functions as an I2C slave, facilitating control and status management when connected as a subordinate module to an I2C host system.

WPINNO

WPINNO's Qi2 MPP wireless charging module uses a circular PCB design and can be shipped as a module product with a metal shell and magnetic ring, simplifying user R&D development processes. The master control chip is from WPINNO, model WP8036, integrating a full-bridge NMOS driver and PD fast charging input, with high integration and simplified peripheral components.

The module also uses the Fudan Micro FM123D encryption chip to meet Qi2 wireless charging encryption requirements, and it uses JoulWatt JW5513 boost chips for power level supply. The wireless charging MOSFET comes from APM. The modular design of the wireless charging module greatly simplifies manufacturers' development and design processes for Qi2 wireless charging, accelerating the launch of new products.

Summary of ChargerLAB

In summary, the Apple Fall Event has confirmed the iPhone 15 series' compatibility with Qi2 wireless chargers. This move is set to bring significant opportunities to the wireless charging market and drive the development of the magnetic wireless charging ecosystem.

Facing these new opportunities, manufacturers such as ConvenientPower, ESSON Tech, and WPINNO offer ready-made Qi2 MPP wireless charging modules. These modules excel in performance, size, and dimensions, eliminating the need for additional design work. Based on these modules, product development and certification processes are simplified, enabling mass production to meet market demands and helping manufacturers establish a competitive edge in the new market competition.