USBPower

USBPower refers to the electrical power delivery system integrated into Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors, enabling devices to charge or receive power from a host or power source. Introduced as part of the USB 2.0 specification in 2000, USBPower allows peripherals like smartphones, tablets, and keyboards to draw power from a computer or dedicated charger. The standard defines two primary power delivery modes: Bus Power and Dedicated Charging Ports.

Bus Power, originally limited to 500 milliamps (mA) at 5 volts (V), was designed for low-power devices such as keyboards and mice. Over time, advancements in USB specifications, particularly USB 3.0 and later versions, expanded power delivery capabilities. USB 3.0 introduced higher current limits, allowing for up to 900 mA, while USB Power Delivery (USB-PD), standardized in USB 3.1, supports up to 100 watts (W) of power, accommodating high-power devices like laptops and power tools.

USB-PD is a bidirectional protocol that dynamically negotiates voltage and current between devices, ensuring efficient power transfer. It supports multiple power profiles, including standard, fast, and high-power modes, and is backward compatible with earlier USB versions. This flexibility makes USB-PD widely adopted in modern charging solutions, including wall adapters, vehicle chargers, and even solar-powered devices.

USBPower has significantly simplified device charging by eliminating the need for proprietary chargers, promoting interoperability and convenience. However, improper use, such as connecting high-power devices to low-capacity ports, can damage equipment or pose safety risks. Manufacturers must adhere to safety standards, such as those outlined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), to ensure reliable and secure USBPower implementations.