USB-C PD 3.1 Is Redefining High Wattage Power Delivery Across Industries

The USB-C Power Delivery (PD) standard is no longer just for consumer devices—it has  gradually become the universal standard for power across computing, display, networking, and embedded systems. From commercial IT deployments to industrial edge environments, the demand for high-wattage, compact, and reliable USB-C adapters is accelerating. USB-C PD adapters are ideal for mini PCs, industrial displays, IoT gateways, POS systems, all-in-one computers, and other high-power systems that require flexibility, safety, and future-ready connectivity. Compared to the previous USB PD 3.0 standard, which is limited to 100W (20V, 5A), USB PD 3.1 introduces an Extended Power Range (EPR) supporting up to 240W (48V, 5A). This enables faster charging and the ability to power high-performance, power-hungry devices. Beyond increased power, USB PD 3.1 also improves charging efficiency and device compatibility. Protocol Safeguard Testing is essential for USB Type-C PD 3.1 adapters. It ensures that the communication between the Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) and Powered Device (PD) is reliable, preventing unsafe power delivery scenarios. 

Universal Compatibility and Simplification 

USB-C PD can power a wide range of devices—from smartphones and tablets to laptops, monitors, and even peripherals—eliminating the need for multiple proprietary chargers. Its ability to automatically adjust voltage from 5V, 9V, 15V, 20V, 28V, 36V to 48V, and current based on the connected device ensures safe and optimized charging across brands and categories. Besides, the reversible, compact USB-C connector has identical upside and downside terminals which allow it to be plugged in with either side, reducing wear and the risk of connection failure. 

 Advanced technology supporting quick charging and high-speed transfers 

USB PD supports fast charging by using high-power chargers that operate within safe load limits, enhancing charging efficiency and reducing the time needed to charge your devices. With upgrade from PD 3.0 to PD3.1, USB Type-C PD 3.1 has levelled up data transfer speed of up to 10 Gbps. 

Sustainable and Space-Saving Design  

USB-C PD supports fanless, compact power solutions that are ideal for industrial-grade tablet PCs, all-in-one POS systems, touchscreens, and other diverse industrial systems. This not only reduces energy consumption and device weight but also enables more efficient, environmentally friendly deployments—particularly important for space-constrained or thermally sensitive installations. 

Right now, Advantech is pleased to announce the release of two new high-power USB Power Delivery (PD) adapters: 

• 140W USB PD Adapter
• 180W USB PD Adapter

• Industrial automation systems 
• High-end embedded PCs 
• High-end Retail POS systems and Self-Service Kiosks 
• All-in-one Touch Computers

These new USB PD 3.1 adapters reflect Advantech’s ongoing commitment to providing cutting-edge, standards-compliant power solutions for a rapidly evolving technology ecosystem.