Introduction

The new iPhone 15 series, equipped with the latest USB-C port, brings a multitude of benefits to Apple users. These include but are not limited to the availability of more fast-charging adapters, a wider range of USB cables, and improved compatibility with USB-related accessories like docking stations and flash drives. Although the USB 3.2 Gen 2 port in the iPhone 15 Pro series has a maximum transfer rate of only 10Gb/s, falling short of the theoretical maximum speed of USB 3.2 at 20Gb/s, this configuration still represents the best available option for mobile phones.

Typically, if a cable's maximum current exceeds 3A and it supports USB 3.0 data transfer, it must have an E-marker chip integrated into the connector to identify the cable's capabilities. This ensures that the cable does not become a bottleneck, affecting high-speed data and power transmission. In other words, when purchasing a USB3-supported cable for your iPhone 15 Pro, it undoubtedly integrates at least one E-marker chip.

All these principles similarly apply to the latest USB4 cables. Previously, we compiled an article featuring 11 PD3.1 E-marker chips from 7 manufacturers. Now, with the increasing awareness among ordinary consumers about iPhone support for USB3 high-speed transmission, let's explore some of the latest USB4 E-marker chips available.

USB4 E-Marker Chip

These are several of the latest USB4 E-marker chips introduced by various fast-charging chip companies. You can take a rough look at the flagship products and their relevant characteristics from each company.

Southchip

Southchip SC2211

SC2211 is a Type-C/PD E-marker chip compliant with the latest Type-C and PD 3.1 standards, supporting USB4, Thunderbolt-3, and Thunderbolt-4. Specifically designed for passive electronic cable applications, it minimizes external components by integrating USB PD baseband PHY, VCONN diodes, internal Ra, temperature sensing units, and multiple programmable OTPs, providing an economically efficient solution for passive cable applications.

It supports various PD commands, including control messages, data messages, and extended messages, to meet the cable's power transmission or data transfer capacity labeling requirements. SC2211 offers two package options: DFN-6L 2mm×2mm and DFN-4L 1.6mm×1.6mm.

Injoinic

Injoinic IP2133H

The IP2133H/TH is the flagship E-marker chip in the IP2133 series and the first product to be certified under the PD3.1 V1.7 standard. It comes in two packaging options:

IP2133H in DFN2 x 2-6L package.

IP2133TH in DFN2 x 2-8L package, featuring additional SCL and SDA pins.

This chip supports USB-C 2.2 standard and PD3.1 specifications, integrating hardware-level BMC protocol and PHY. It also supports commands for obtaining manufacturer information and includes a temperature sensor specifically designed for cables.

IP2133H supports EPR 240W power delivery, SOP' and SOP'' commands, USB4 80G, and is suitable for Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 3 cables. It allows for four reprogramming cycles and features personalized write protection, providing manufacturers with a comprehensive solution.

Moreover, Injoinic IP2133H offers a WLCSP-6B package to cater to various cable requirements.

VIA

VL153

VL153 is a brand-new E-marker chip launched by VIA. It shares the same Pin-to-Pin design as the previous generation VL152, allowing customers to upgrade their products with minimal cost implications. However, it offers DFN-8 and WLCSP packaging options, catering to various application scenarios. VL153 supports multiple programming methods and protective measures, eliminating the need for external components and simplifying the design process while reducing costs.

This chip is suitable for USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 passive cables, compliant with both USB PD 3.0 and USB4 specifications.

It also supports two write-in information cycles, has write protection capabilities, and boasts the advantage of a long lifespan.

Convenient Power

Convenient Power CPS8821F/G

CPS8821F/G is a new E-marker chip launched by Convenient Power, supporting full USB4 features while perfectly compatible with USB3.2 Gen1/Gen2, USB3.1, and USB2.0. It supports Discover Identity, Discover SVID, Discover Modes, Enter Modes, and Exit Modes commands, facilitating manufacturers to store relevant information in cable-related data packets.

It also supports host authentication, enhancing ESD and high-voltage pin withstand capabilities for PD3.1 high-output voltage applications. The CPS8821F/G series integrates VBUS and CC/Vconn short-circuit detection protection.

Hynetek

Hynetek HUSB332B

Next up is Hynetek HUSB332B, which is quite remarkable as it is the industry's first chip to pass the USB PD3.1 E-marker Silicon Certification, with a TID number of 6773.

It can support power transmission of up to 240W and data transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps.

Furthermore, it comes with built-in encryption functionality, which allows devices to identify the cable, making it convenient for manufacturers to customize their products. The E-marker chip is available in two packages: DFN-6L and WLCSP-6B. The CC, VCONN1, and VCONN2 pins support 28V over-voltage protection. It can be programmed through the CC line to identify the cable's capabilities.

Hynetek HUSB332C

HUSB332C is a USB Type-C E-marker chip used for cable identification. It supports USB Type-C 2.1 and USB Power Delivery 3.1 specifications. Certified by the USB-IF association with TID number 8655.

The HUSB332C can be powered by VCONN1 or VCONN2 and supports OP communication. The built-in OTP can be programmed through the CC line or I2C bus for flexible in-system programming. Enhanced system ESD protection on the pins can significantly improve system reliability. The HUSB332C can operate in a power supply range of 2.7V to 5.75V with a power consumption of up to 0.6mA. It adopts DFN2×2-6L package and can operate normally in temperatures from -40°C to +85°C.

Hynetek HUSB332D

HUSB332D is the latest USB Type-C E-marker chip from Hynetek, supporting USB Type-C 2.2, USB Power Delivery 3.1, USB4 2.0, Thunderbolt 3, and Thunderbolt 4 specifications. It supports USB PD3.1 EPR (Extended Power Range) and has been certified by the USB-IF association with TID number 9125.

It supports SOP' communication and integrates a transmitter (BMC PHY) and structured VDM versions 1.0 and 2.x, providing enhanced flexibility for various applications. The highly integrated design embeds Ra resistors and VCONN diodes, simplifying design and wiring, thus enhancing efficiency. Due to its highly integrated design, HUSB332D offers various package options, including DFN1.6×1.6-4L and DFN2×2-6L, making it compact overall.

HUSB332D's groundbreaking reduction in pin count to 4 brings multiple advantages, such as reducing the design complexity of high-performance cables, shortening PCB lengths by an estimated 0.5mm, and improving placement yield rates while ensuring backward compatibility with some of Hynetek's previous E-marker product models. All of these attributes allow it to quickly upgrade and iterate cable products to launch new products with higher specifications.

Additionally, it supports three programming cycles, is compatible with third-party programming tools, and has a wide power supply range of 2.7V to 5.75V. HUSB332D also offers excellent electrostatic discharge protection (HBM ±8 kV ESD), suitable for USB Type-C cable identification and USB4® passive cable applications.

Hynetek HUSB332E

HUSB332E is a USB Type-C E-marker used for cable identification applications. It complies with the USB Type-C specification revision 2.2, USB Power Delivery 3.1, and USB4 specifications, with TID: 10226.

HUSB332E can be powered from VCONN1 or VCONN2 and can be selected as SOP (Source of Power) as needed. The built-in OTP can be programmed through the CC line, and enhanced ±5 KV system ESD protection on exposed pins significantly improves system reliability. HUSB332E can operate within a power supply range of 2.7V to 5.75V. It provides two package options: DFN2×2-6L and DFN1.6×1.6-4L, suitable for operation within the temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

WCH

WCH CH254

CH254 is a temperature-protected USB Type-C E-marker chip supporting USB Type-C 2.1 and USB PD 3.1 standards, suitable for various Type-C cable-related applications. Internally integrated with VCONN diodes, Ra resistors, VBUS power units, and a high-voltage LDO, it can operate as a single chip without peripheral devices.

It comes with pre-burnt default configurations and supports data updates through the Type-C port for chips, terminals, or finished cables. Besides the default configuration, each CH254 supports up to 5 updates for configuration data burning and includes a data locking feature with multiple default configuration options.

CH254X supports up to 52V input voltage for VBUS, suitable for 240W (48V5A) Type-C cables. It also supports multiple-stage temperature protection using an external NTC and power control functions.

WCH CH252

The CH252, introduced by WCH, supports USB-C 2.1 and PD 3.1 standards, making it suitable for various USB-C cable-related applications. It has obtained certification from the USB-IF association, and its TID is 9134.

Integrated with a VCONN diode, Ra resistor, and high-voltage LDO, this chip can operate as a standalone unit, eliminating the need for external components.

Additionally, the CH252 comes with optional default configurations pre-burnt at the factory. It also supports up to 5 updates for configuration data burning and includes a data locking function for added security.

Summary of ChargerLAB

The high-spec USB4 brings faster data transfer speeds and higher power outputs for users. This potent combo is becoming more common on many devices, indicating the need for more advanced E-marker chips in corresponding cables. This compilation of 6 chip manufacturers' USB4-supported E-marker chips perfectly meets the requirements for high-speed cables.

These E-marker chips each have their own unique strengths, supporting PD3.1 and USB4, providing high-speed data transfer and higher power output, coupled with high withstand voltage protection, ensuring cable reliability. The chips also feature built-in temperature detection to avoid high-temperature risks during usage, thereby enhancing cable appeal and ensuring safer use.

ChargerLAB Reveals Ten USB4 E-Marker Chips from Six Manufacturers