14 DAY TRIAL // USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), the support organization for the adoption of USB technology, has announced a Certified USB Charger Compliance and Logo Program for USB chargers for compliant USB Type-C devices, including smartphones and tablets.
Basically, the program is intended to highlight USB Type-C chargers that adhere to the specifications of the standard so that users would know how to make the difference between a quality product and one that could potentially harm their devices.
The program allows manufacturers of USB Type-C chargers to apply for a certification, which would guarantee that their product is safe for use with all USB Type-C devices.
The charger must follow specifications of the USB Type-C standard and adhere to the USB Power Delivery Specification before it can be marketed as a certified product. To distinguish between certified and non-certified chargers, manufactures of the former can display the “Certified USB Charger 45W” logo on their product or the package.
Non-compliant chargers pose a risk to the functionality of devices
The program will ensure that customers are confident that they bought a certified product that would work on all of their devices compatible with USB Type C chargers. The report also mentions that non-compliant chargers pose a risk to the functionality and interoperability of electronics, including smartphones and tablets.
The USB Implementers Forum also adds that consumers would be freed from having to purchase and carry multiple chargers, as the program should lead to a reduced number of chargers needed. This, in turn, would lead to less electronic waste.
In addition, USB Type-C connectors require more electrical current compared to USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 connectors, which means that they could cause more damage to devices if they are not regulated. The report reminds companies to allocate resources in order to build compliant products and submit them for testing in the program.