USB Power Delivery Guide
USB-PD voltages, profiles, PPS mode, and cable ratings.
Reference
Standard Fixed Profiles (SPR)
| Voltage | Max current | Max power |
|---|---|---|
| 5 V | 3 A | 15 W |
| 9 V | 3 A | 27 W |
| 15 V | 3 A | 45 W |
| 20 V | 3 A | 60 W |
| 20 V | 5 A | 100 W (needs eMarker cable) |
Extended Power Range (EPR, PD 3.1)
| Voltage | Max current | Max power |
|---|---|---|
| 28 V | 5 A | 140 W |
| 36 V | 5 A | 180 W |
| 48 V | 5 A | 240 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 type | Max current | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USB 2.0 USB-C | 3 A | Up to 60 W |
| USB 2.0 + eMarker | 5 A | Up to 100 W |
| USB 3.2 / Thunderbolt 3 | 5 A | Data + power; up to 100 W |
| EPR-rated (PD 3.1) | 5 A | Up 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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