Microchip Technology, Inc. has expanded its programmable USB-port power controller portfolio with the dual-channel UCS2112. This port power controller supports two ports, with eight programmable continuous current limits for each port, ranging from 0.53 to 3.0 amps for faster charging times at higher currents. Features for protecting and increasing overall system uptime also include integrated current monitoring, precision current limiting, charge rationing and dynamic thermal management. The UCS2112 helps designers address a wide breadth of host devices, such as the laptops, tablets, monitors, docking stations and printers found in automotive, computing, education and aviation applications, as well as multi-port charging accessories and storage. This device has the flexibility of working individually or in concert with USB hubs, to create a complete charging and/or USB-communication system.

“There is a trend toward higher-current capabilities for USB charging, mainly driven by the larger phones and tablets which have higher-capacity batteries,” said Rich Simoncic, vice president of Microchip’s Analog Power and Interface Division. “Our UCS2112 addresses the requisite safety features of these solutions while also incorporating current monitoring and a thermal-management scheme to maximize system uptime and reliability.”

For a better end-user experience, the UCS2112’s dynamic thermal-management feature throttles back the current limit as it approaches the thermal limit, preventing shutdown and allowing for charging where other devices have stopped completely. The UCS2112’s integrated current monitor eliminates the need for an external sense resistor and enables an “attach detect” signal that does not rely on the main power to be active for hosts that are off or sleeping. Current monitoring and rationing also helps manage multiple charging devices and can balance a dynamic load current for systems with smaller power supplies.

The UCS2112 also aligns with the USB Power Delivery initiatives from the USB Industry Forum, and is in compliance with various charging specifications, including the USB-IF BC1.2.

The UCS2112 is available now for sampling and volume production in a 20-pin QFN package. Pricing starts at $1.80 each, in 5,000-unit quantities.