Electronics

USB Power Delivery Guide

USB-PD voltages, profiles, PPS mode, and cable ratings.

Standard Fixed Profiles (SPR)

VoltageMax currentMax power
5 V3 A15 W
9 V3 A27 W
15 V3 A45 W
20 V3 A60 W
20 V5 A100 W (needs eMarker cable)

Extended Power Range (EPR, PD 3.1)

VoltageMax currentMax power
28 V5 A140 W
36 V5 A180 W
48 V5 A240 W

Programmable Power Supply (PPS)

  • PPS allows the source to offer voltage in 20 mV increments within a declared range.
  • Enables efficient fast-charging (matches battery voltage directly, no buck converter in phone).
  • Typical PPS ranges: 3.3–5.9 V, 3.3–11 V, 3.3–16 V, 3.3–21 V.

Cables

Cable typeMax currentNotes
USB 2.0 USB-C3 AUp to 60 W
USB 2.0 + eMarker5 AUp to 100 W
USB 3.2 / Thunderbolt 35 AData + power; up to 100 W
EPR-rated (PD 3.1)5 AUp to 240 W (48 V × 5 A)

Notes

  • eMarker: IC inside the cable that advertises current and data capabilities via CC lines.
  • Not every USB-C port supports PD — many are 5 V only. Check device spec.
  • Never use a USB-A to USB-C cable with a 5.1 kΩ pull-up — it advertises 3 A on a USB-A source that cannot deliver it. Caused early reliability issues.
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