USB Power Delivery (USB PD) is a USB extension standard that allows receiving up to 240W over the new USB Type-C cable. Previous standards included USB2.0, which specified up to 2.5W, USB3.0 with a maximum of 4.5W, and USB BC1.1, which supported up to 10W.

How does USB PD work?

USB PD works by having the source, receiver and cable communicate with each other to determine the maximum electrical output. This communication occurs through a series of signals transmitted over the data lines of the USB cable.

First, the source sends a request to the receiver to determine the maximum power the receiver can accept. The receiver responds with the maximum power it can receive. If the source can provide that power, a contract is formed between the source and the receiver.

The source can then deliver the power to the receiver. The actual power transmitted can vary depending on how much power the receiver requires.

Advantages of USB PD

USB PD offers a number of advantages over previous USB charging standards.

• Faster loading speeds: USB PD enables faster charging speeds for devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones. This is because USB PD can support higher power levels.
• Compatibility with various devices: USB PD can be used to charge devices with different power requirements, such as a smartphone at 10W and a laptop at 100W.
• Easier handling: USB PD is easier to use than previous USB charging standards. This is because the source and receiver automatically communicate with each other to determine the maximum power.

Support for USB PD

USB PD is supported by a number of companies, including Apple, Intel, Samsung, and Microsoft, and is used in a wide range of devices, including laptops, tablets, smartphones, monitors, and other devices.

Future of USB PD

USB PD is expected to become the standard charging method for USB devices. This is because it offers a number of advantages over previous USB charging standards.