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Decipher USB PD and Type-C: Don't confuse the two
Release Time:2025-07-04 13:50Views:

Now more and more car products are equipped with Type-C. How much do you know about the concept of USB PD and Type-C? Are USB PD and Type-C the same? What is USB-C?

In fact, USB PD and Type-C are not the same. USB PD is a fast charging protocol that supports higher charging power; Type-C is a USB interface type that replaces the traditional USB plug.

1、Is USB PD the same as Type-C?

To understand this issue, it is essential to first grasp what USB PD is. USB PD (Power Delivery) is a fast charging protocol. The latest version, introduced in 2021, significantly boosts the maximum power that USB chips can supply and charge, expanding the power range to 240W. This capability meets the rapid charging needs of most smartphones and laptops, enhancing both quality of life and work efficiency. The USB Development Forum (USB-IF), a non-profit organization responsible for maintaining, promoting, and setting USB-related standards and certifications, is the driving force behind this fast charging technology. Notable tech companies like Microsoft and Apple are members of this forum.

The products that can obtain USB-IF certification have been strictly checked by the authoritative association. They not only meet the PD fast charging specification, but also use materials that meet the standards of the association. They can adjust the best power according to different charging devices, guarantee the operating performance and output power stability, and reduce safety risks.


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What exactly is Type-C? The Type-C, commonly used by the public, is officially known as USB Type-C or USB-C, an emerging USB connector standard. One of its key advantages is that it does not have a front or back, solving the problem of traditional USB being difficult to insert once. It is expected to gradually replace Type-A and Type-B as the mainstream. Type-C can achieve a transmission rate of up to 20Gbps (the second version of USB 4.0, launched in October 2022, supports a transmission rate of 80Gbps, but its adoption rate remains low, with the 2017 version of USB 3.2 being more widely used). It can quickly transmit large files and is highly compatible with various devices, making it convenient for use with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more. However, while Type-C supports fast charging, this does not mean that any device with a Type-C port is a fast-charging device; it is important to verify whether the product supports fast charging protocols.

2、Is USB PD definitely Type-C?

According to the USB-IF association, in order to unify the use specifications of USB PD, charging devices that support fast charging must adopt Type-C interface specification, so that the power upper limit can reach 240W, providing consumers with a faster and safer charging experience.

3、Is USB-C the same as Type-C?

USB-C and Type-C are the same, only the name is different. The official usage confirmed by USB-IF association is USB-C and USB Type-C.

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4、Is there a certification organization for Type-C chargers?

Yes, but the charger and USB PD fast are two different certification organizations, and the certification obtained should not be confused.

The certification standards for chargers typically involve testing the electrical power indicated on the product to ensure safety. Chargers sold in Taiwan must have the BSMI product safety mark certification issued by the Standards Inspection Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Additionally, chargers from other countries are certified by various standards, including the American UL certification, Japanese PSE certification, European CE certification, American FCC certification, and Australian RCM certification.

As for the certification specification of USB PD fast charging, as mentioned above, the certification of the US USB-IF Association is the only indicator with absolute authority and guarantee, so that consumers can charge stably and feel at ease.


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If you want to know more about USB IF certification, please feel free to contact Zhongle Certification, we have a professional team to provide you with detailed consulting and certification services!

 












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