OREANDA-NEWS. Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE:6723), a premier supplier of advanced semiconductor solutions, today announced the Universal Serial Bus (USB) Power Delivery (PD) controller (part number R9A02G011, successor of µPD720250) that supports USB PD 3.0 specification. The new USB PD controller supports not only PC and smart phone applications, but also a wide range of devices using direct current (DC) power, including PC peripherals, AC adapters, projectors, robots and other consumer electronics.

The USB PD 3.0 specification from USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) increases the maximum rating of USB charging from 7.5 W (based on the earlier USB specifications) to 100W with different voltage levels up to 20V at 5A. With the arrival of USB PD and the new USB Type-C™ connector, the usage models of USB charging and data communication are expected to increase significantly. The USB PD 3.0 specification adds features such as enabling authentication message exchange for USB Type-C to USB Type-C cables. For device designers and system developers, adopting the Renesas R9A02G011 controller in their devices will make it possible to develop systems with faster charging times. In addition, the new controller reduces system development costs by simultaneously supporting data communication and power supply over a single USB cable, and simplifying many connections existing between devices.

With the rapid demand growth for devices using USB charging, the potential for sub-standard and non-compliant USB accessories (e.g., cables) entering the market increases substantially. The need for identifying non-compliant USB products becomes critically important, particularly for the high-power charging designs based on the USB PD. As a long-time, key supporter of USB-IF, Renesas supports the requirements of the new USB PD 3.0 specification.

Renesas will also deliver R9A02G011-based solutions combining Renesas’ authentication microcontroller (MCU) and advanced power supply control technologies. These solutions will be the building blocks to support the safety, security, efficiency and robustness needs for the upcoming USB PD eco-systems.

Key features of the new USB PD controller and reference boards:

  • (1) R9A02G011 USB PD controller supporting USB PD 3.0

    The R9A02G011 supports both USB PD 3.0 and the USB Type-CTM specifications. This new device includes integrated on-chip flash ROM, oscillator and power-on reset circuits, and other features, allowing the number of external components to be reduced significantly. As a result, the new USB PD controller can be used in a wide range of applications with limited board space. The R9A02G011 contributes to safe and secure structures in USB PD power supply, supporting systems as well as reduced development costs. It is provided in a small 32-pin QFN package (other package products are under consideration.)

  • (2) USB PD reference boards that shorten development time and simplify design

    In combination with Renesas' power supply technology, Renesas intends to provide an extensive lineup of reference boards that makes manufacturers' design processes even safer and easier. As with the reference boards for the earlier Renesas µPD720250, Renesas will provide an extensive lineup of power-receiving and power-supplying boards that include the new USB PD 3.0 controller. All reference boards make it possible to quickly evaluate the user's existing devices as USB PD supporting devices. By collaborating with other companies, Renesas will provide reference boards as safe and secure solutions, including cables and connectors as well as electronic components.

About Renesas Electronics Corporation

Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE: 6723), the world's number one supplier of microcontrollers, is a premier supplier of advanced semiconductor solutions including microcontrollers, SoC solutions and a broad range of analog and power devices. Business operations began as Renesas Electronics in April 2010 through the integration of NEC Electronics Corporation (TSE:6723) and Renesas Technology Corp., with operations spanning research, development, design and manufacturing for a wide range of applications. Headquartered in Japan, Renesas Electronics has subsidiaries in approximately 20 countries worldwide.