A later chapter will go into more
detail on PD3.1 and the extended power range. Here are the major features as
summarized by the USB-IF:
- New 28V, 36V and 48V fixed voltages enable up to 140W, 180W and 240W power
levels, respectively. An adjustable voltage supply mode allows the device being
powered the ability to request intermediate voltages between 15V and higher to
the maximum available fixed voltage of the charger.
- The power direction is no longer fixed. In other words, the product host or
peripheral is enabled to provide power.
- Each device can negotiate the minimum power required to ensure that power is
available if additional requests occur.
- Intelligent system-level power management through the use of optional hub
communication with the PC.
- Allows low-power cases such as headsets to negotiate for only the power that
they require.
While the future remains unclear, there is a movement in the European Union to
universalize USB-C connectors across all small electronic devices, including phones
and portable chargers, in order to reduce e-waste and simplify consumer ease of
use.