Friwo : USB 3.1 / USB Type C / Power Delivery

29. June 2017

Double speed, torsion-proof plug, more current / power

USB history

In 1996 the standard USB 1.0 was introduced with a maximum data rate of 12 Mbit/s. In 2000 USB 2.0 was specified and with 480 Mbps is still the most common version. In November 2008, the USB Implementers Forum introduced the specification for USB 3.0. In SuperSpeed mode, a maximum data rate of 5 Gbit/s is achieved.
Regarding the standard USB 3.1 Gen 2, introduced in 2014, the maximum data transfer rate for SuperSpeed reads + 10 Gbit /s.
Currently, USB takes three steps i, putting a whole range of other interfaces at risk.
So far, the USB 'ailed' the following:

• the SuperSpeed introduced with USB 3.0 is not sufficient for SSDs (Solid State Disk) and external RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks)
• the current USB connectors fit only in one direction, and can not be plugged in either direction
• the USB does not provide enough power to charge tablets or even notebooks quickly

The USB Implementers Forum offers solutions for these problems, not only as complete package, but also independently (independent specifications USB 3.1 / UBS Type C/PD).
The new USB standards do not only provide higher data rates (USB 3.1 Gen 2) and faster charging times (power delivery), but also a new connector type (USB Type C).
Specifically, the USB Implementers Forum has spread the innovations to 3 different specifications, which can overlap as well as complement each other, but still remain independently.

USB 3.1 Gen 2 defines SuperSpeedPlus with double speed to 10 Gbit/s compared to USB 3.0

USB Type-C 'Cable and Connector Specification' describes the mateable, twist-proof plug - which also supports power delivery as well as USB 3.1 - offering many additional contacts and alternative functions.

An advantage of the type C plug connection is, among other things, the low overall height, and small width of the socket of 8.4 mm.

The new twist-proof plug type C

Dimensions: USB A => 12.1 mm x 4.7 mm / USB C => 8.4 mm x 2.5 mm (width x height)

The plug type is no guarantor for high performance. USB-C and USB 3.1 have been introduced together, but do not necessarily belong together.
There are devices with Type C connectors that only support USB 2.0. There are also devices that are compatible with USB 3.1 but use conventional USB A connectors. While the new connectors will continue to enjoy growing popularity, the performance and transmission rate will depend on the technology the end devices support.

USB Power Delivery (PD) regulates the supply of up to 5 A at up to 20 V - i.e. 100 W max.
Up to now the upper limit was 4.5 watts (5 V = / 900 mA / USB 3.0) or 7.5 watts (5 V = / 1500 mA / USB battery charging_USB-BC).

USB Power Delivery Profiles

PD: The application communicates/interacts with the power supply. The voltage/current required by the application is provided by the power supply.

FRIWO sets standards:

With entrepreneurial vision prepared for the future. Against this backdrop, FRIWO is already waiting in the wings to adopt the new USB standards USB 3.1/USB Type C/USB power delivery at an early stage in order to meet the requirements of the future.
In the second quarter of 2017, FRIWO will be able to provide a demonstrator which observes and meets the new USB standards.
FRIWO stands for a pioneering spirit, innovative power, German engineering expertise, fast and competent decision-making, and a global competence network. With modern development centers, manufacturing sites and sales offices in Europe, Asia and North America, FRIWO is present in all major markets of the world.