Introduction

If you're a fan of ChargerLAB, then you're probably aware that our most advanced tester, the ChargerLAB POWER-Z KM003C, is capable of many impressive functions. These functions include measuring voltage, current, power, capacity, and resistance of USB charging ports and cables. However, what you may not know is that it also supports a bi-directional current detection circuit. The tester detects bi-directional currents by selecting different current detection paths based on whether the device being tested is in a charging or discharging state, thus enabling accurate detection of the current. So, how can you achieve this? Let's delve into the details!

Bi-directional Current

To perform bi-directional current testing, you need a tester that has both USB Type-C male connector and female socket with input and output capabilities. The ChargerLab Power-Z KM003C is one such tester that can do the job with ease.

Unlike the USB-A port, a standard USB Type-C port does not output voltage when it is not in use. Therefore, a status signal is required to activate the 5V output voltage. By pressing and holding the button on the right-hand side of the POWER-Z KM003C, the pull-down resistor can be activated, which prompts the charger to output a 5V voltage, thus activating the tester.

However, for the USB-C female socket side of the POWER-Z KM003C tester, it only supports single-side activation. This is because the USB-C female socket has two CC wires for power supply, while the cable side also has two CC wires, but one of them needs to supply power to the E-marker chip, leaving only one wire available to power the tester. In this case, pressing and holding the button on the right side can activate the pull-down resistor and initiate the tester if you have correctly connected the USB-C female socket. If not, simply flip the connector and repeat the process before using it.

Practical Operation

In practice, we tested the Power-Z KM003C by connecting it between the output end of Xiaomi's 67W charger and the input end of the Redmi Note 11 Pro+. 

When the USB Type-C male connector of the POWER-Z KM003C tester was connected to the output end of the charger, the display showed a current of 3.133939A, with the direction of the current being "→". 

When the USB Type-C male connector of the tester was connected to the charging port of the phone, the display showed a current of 3.604725A, with the direction of the current being "←".

Summary of ChargerLAB

In conclusion, the ChargerLAB POWER-Z KM003C tester proves to be an advanced and versatile tool for measuring and detecting bi-directional currents in USB cables. With its USB Type-C male connector and female socket, it enables accurate current detection in both charging and discharging states. By activating the pull-down resistor through the button on the tester, users can activate the 5V output voltage and initiate the testing process. Although the USB-C female socket supports single-side activation, proper connection and orientation ensure successful operation. Through practical testing with Xiaomi's 67W charger and the Redmi Note 11 Pro+, the tester accurately displayed the currents with their respective directions, providing valuable insights for analyzing charging performance. Overall, the ChargerLAB POWER-Z KM003C offers reliable bi-directional current detection capabilities, making it a valuable tool for USB charging analysis and troubleshooting.

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