IEC Formally Adopts USB Type-C™, USB Power Delivery and USB 3.1 Specifications

The IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) and USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) today announced that IEC has formally adopted the latest USB-IF specifications for high-speed data delivery and enhanced usages for device charging. In particular, the USB Type-C™ Cable and Connector, USB Power Delivery and USB 3.1 (SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps) specifications. These specifications define a truly single-cable solution for audio/video, data and power delivery.

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These standards are expected to advance global action on reducing e-waste and improving re-usability of power supplies with a range of electronic devices. The IEC approach for ongoing standardization work in this space is driven by the ultimate goals of increasing external power supply re-usability, supporting consumer convenience, maintaining product reliability and safety, and providing for future technology innovations. In addition, widespread adoption of the resulting International Standards will help to reduce the encroachment of poorly designed or manufactured aftermarket substitutes which may affect the operation of electronic devices in compliance with regulatory requirements.

The USB-IF specifications were submitted to the IEC TC (Technical Committee) 100: Audio, video and multimedia systems and equipment, and were approved for inclusion in the IEC International Standard IEC 62680 series, Universal Serial Bus interfaces for data and power in support of the stated goal. The IEC specification numbers are noted below:

• IEC 62680-1-3 (USB Type-C)
• IEC 62680-1-2 (USB PD)
• IEC 62680-3-1 (USB 3.1)

The USB Type-C™ specification defines the physical USB Type-C cable and connector form factor to facilitate thinner and sleeker product designs, enhance usability and provide a growth path for performance enhancements for future versions of USB.

USB Power Delivery was developed to provide flexible, bi-directional power capabilities by enabling faster charging and increased power levels up to 100W. The USB Power Delivery specification defines standardized features that support the global adoption of interoperable power supplies, helping to reduce electronic waste and increase re-usability of adapters and chargers for consumer electronics.

USB 3.1 enables speeds up to 10 Gbps, supporting audio/video for USB hosts, hubs and devices. Combined with USB Type-C, USB 3.1 and USB Power Delivery define a truly single-cable solution for audio/video, data and power delivery, building on the existing global ecosystem of USB/IEC 62680 series of International Standards compliant devices.

“IEC is dedicated to promoting specifications that reduce e-waste and increase device interoperability,” said Frans Vreeswijk, General Secretary and CEO of the IEC. “The longstanding relationship between IEC and USB-IF is a testament to our goal of aligning with influential global organizations that benefit consumers and drive a thriving ecosystem.”

“USB is arguably the most prolific technology worldwide considering the widespread adoption of devices and global consumer recognition,” said Jeff Ravencraft, USB-IF President and COO. “USB Type-C, combined with USB Power Delivery for faster charging and USB performance, is the last cable anyone will ever need. USB-IF is pleased the partnership with IEC has resulted in the approval of these key specifications.”

Resources

• To learn more about IEC, visit http://www.iec.ch/.
• To learn more about USB-IF and USB specifications, visit www.usb.org.

About the USB-IF

The non-profit USB Implementers Forum, Inc. was formed to provide a support organization and forum for the advancement and adoption of USB technology as defined in the USB specifications. USB-IF facilitates the development of high-quality, compatible USB devices through its logo and compliance program recognized around the globe and promotes the benefits of USB and the quality of products that have passed compliance testing. Further information, including postings of the most recent product and technology announcements, is available by visiting the USB-IF website at www.usb.org

About the IEC

The IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) brings together 166 countries, representing 98% of the world population and 96% of world energy generation, and close to 15 000 experts who cooperate on the global, neutral and independent IEC platform to ensure that products work everywhere safely with each other. The IEC is the world's leading organization that prepares and publishes globally relevant International Standards for the whole energy chain, including all electrical, electronic and related technologies, devices and systems. The IEC also supports all forms of conformity assessment and administers four Conformity Assessment Systems that certify that components, equipment and systems used in homes, offices, healthcare facilities, public spaces, transportation, manufacturing, explosive environments and energy generation conform to them.

IEC work covers a vast range of technologies: power generation (including all renewable energy sources), transmission, distribution, Smart Grid & Smart Cities, batteries, home appliances, office and medical equipment, all public and private transportation, semiconductors, fibre optics, nanotechnology, multimedia, information technology, and more. It also addresses safety, EMC, performance and the environment. www.iec.ch

USB Type-C™ and USB-C™ are trademarks of USB Implementers Forum.

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Contact information

IEC Media contact
Gabriela Ehrlich, +41-79-600-5672
geh@iec.ch
or
USB-IF PR
Liz Nardozza, +1-503-619-5224
press@usb.org