Microchip Technology Inc. announced two new solutions that simplify USB Type-C power delivery (PD) for a range of applications. The UPD301A is a standalone USB Type-C PD controller that simplifies the implementation of basic USB Type-C PD charging functionality. This makes it suitable for applications from rear seat charging in vehicles to portable equipment to public charging stations, says the company.
Microchip claims, as one of the industry’s first USB-IF-certified USB 3.1 SmartHub devices with integrated support for PD (TID1212), the USB705x family enables fast device charging and introduces PD implementations called HostFlexing and PDBalancing.
According to the company, HostFlexing simplifies the user’s docking station experience by allowing all USB Type-C ports to function as the “notebook” port, eliminating the need for cryptic labels that try and explain overall functionality of each USB Type-C port. PDBalancing provides a methodology for manufacturers to manage overall system power through centralized control, ultimately saving money for consumers by being able to charge a number of PD enabled devices with less overall power.
The USB705x family combines native support for USB Type-C PD with the 5-Gb/s SuperSpeed data rates of USB 3.1 to meet consumer demand for faster mobile device charging and data streaming. Suitable for docks, PC monitors, and automotive infotainment, the family — consisting of the USB7050, USB7051, USB7052, and USB7056 — provides a range of USB configurations to meet varying PD and USB Type-C design needs, says the company. For example, the USB7050 supports three PD-enabled upstream and downstream USB Type-C ports, while the USB7056 provides only one upstream port alongside five traditional Type-A downstream ports. The new hubs also support driver-assistance applications that are available on all mobile handsets, allowing the graphical user interface of a phone to be displayed on a vehicle’s screen while simultaneously charging the mobile device.
The UPD301A supports both single- and dual-port operation, and uses a pin-configurable implementation that focuses on ease of use. The device complements Microchip’s family of USB hubs and enables solutions from charge-only to full data, video, and power management.
"With the acceleration of USB Type-C PD in phones, PCs and portable devices, it’s critical that designers of new computing systems and automotive infotainment systems are easily able to add USB Type-C PD functionality to designs," said Charles Forni, vice president of Microchip’s USB and Networking business unit. "From hub-based data management to standalone power delivery, Microchip continues to invest in evolving and growing our USB Type-C portfolio to support the varying needs of our broad customer base."
Development Tools
The USB705x and UPD301 come with a complete solution including the MPLAB Connect Configurator hub configuration tool, evaluation boards with schematics, and Gerber files to reduce development time.
Pricing and Availability
The UPD301A is available now starting at US$1.50 in 10,000-unit quantities. The USB705x family is available with options and pricing for 10,000-unit quantities as follows:
*Standard Type-C means 15W power only (does not include PD).
**Automotive-qualified (AEC-Q100)
To purchase products mentioned here, visit Microchip's purchasing portal or contact a Microchip authorized distributor.
