Fast charging technology enables electronic devices to charge significantly faster than traditional methods. It works through protocols that allow devices and chargers to communicate and negotiate power levels, ensuring optimal and safe charging speeds. Essentially, it's like a language that both the device and charger must understand to enable fast charging. While there are many fast charging protocols, the two most widely adopted ones are Quick Charge (QC) and USB Power Delivery (PD). These protocols have transformed how we power our devices, making it more convenient and efficient to keep our gadgets ready.

Principle of Fast Charging

The theory behind fast charging involves delivering higher electrical power (voltage and/or amperage) to the device than standard charging. By increasing the electrical transfer rate, fast charging significantly reduces charging time, allowing devices to charge faster. Fast charging technology can be achieved through the following three methods:

1. High voltage, low current mode: Increase voltage to boost charging power.
2. Low voltage, high current mode: Increase current to enhance charging power.
3. High voltage, high current mode: Increase both voltage and current.

Fast charging technologies currently being discussed in the market include Quick Charge™ (QC), launched by Qualcomm, and USB Power Delivery (PD), defined by the USB Developer Forum.

What is the Quick Charge-QC?

Qualcomm Quick Charge (QC) is a fast-charging technology developed by Qualcomm Technologies Inc., designed primarily for devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors. QC delivers significantly more power than standard USB chargers, avoiding overheating USB cables. Quick Charge 5 can provide over 100 watts of power and includes essential safety features to prevent overheating, over-voltage, and overcurrent.

QC can charge devices from 0% to 50% in five minutes. It is also widely compatible, supporting over 250 mobile devices and 1,000 accessories.

What is the USB Power Delivery?

USB Power Delivery (PD) is a fast-charging technology built on the USB-C standard and designed to enhance power capabilities. It operates in three modes:

• Legacy: Delivers up to 15 W (5 V - 3 A)
• SPR: Provides up to 100 W (20 V - 5 A)
• EPR: Capable of delivering up to 240 W (48 V - 5 A)

A standout feature of USB PD is its ability to transmit power, data, and even video through a single cable. At the plug-in, both systems  communicate and select the right direction and the suitable power. This reduces the need for multiple wires, offering both convenience and environmental benefits. USB-C PD enhances charging speed, device compatibility, and overall user experience by supporting a wide range of devices, from smartphones, laptops, tablets, and selected models from  KIWI boards.

Is USB Power Delivery safe for KIWI boards?

The KIWI310 supports Power Input USB PD (via USB Type-C), offering flexible power delivery options such as 9V/3A, 12V/3A, 15V/3A, and 20V/3A, ensuring safe and reliable charging. However, fast charging can present potential risks if used with non-certified accessories. It's essential to ensure that fast-charging accessories like chargers and cables are certified to meet safety and performance standards. This reduces the risk of overheating or short circuits damaging your KIWI boards and power adapter.

Suppose you're unsure which power supply to choose for your KIWI boards. In that case, you can purchase the original Type-C PD Adapter (FSP065-A1BR3, part number 509000000100) or visit the previous post to check a comparison of different chargers.

About KIWI board

KIWI board is a complete solution provider, supporting all aspects of your project, from hardware to software to system integration, to keep your application running securely, reliably, and at peak performance. KIWI board builds its products for high reliability, performance, security, scalability, and versatility. So, customers can expect a long lifespan, quickly adapt to evolving system requirements, and adopt future technologies as they emerge.

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