Overview: A High-Voltage Solution for USB-C Power Delivery
Diodes Incorporated has expanded its power management portfolio with two new 28V USB Type-C dual-role power (DRP) controllers: the AP53781 and AP53782. Engineered to manage DC power requests and outputs in battery-powered portable devices, these controllers are designed to meet modern PD requirements while simplifying the design of power paths in handheld devices, from wearables to compact industrial tools.
What DRP PD Controllers Do
Dual-role power controllers act as both a power source and a sink under USB Type-C Power Delivery. They negotiate voltage and current with USB PD capable devices, decide whether to deliver power or draw it, and protect systems from misconfiguration or overcurrent. The AP53781 and AP53782 specifically support up to 28V operation, enabling higher-power scenarios common in today’s portable electronics without resorting to a separate power management IC stack for charging and output regulation.
Key Features and Benefits
28V Native Operation: The controllers are built to handle up to 28V DC, accommodating larger batteries and higher output demands without extra voltage-boosting hardware.
Stable Power Negotiation: Automatic negotiation for voltage/current with devices that require PD control ensures efficient and safe power transfer, reducing the need for external circuitry to manage power profiles.
Compact, Cost-Effective Design: As DRP controllers, the AP53781 and AP53782 simplify the power path by integrating PD negotiation logic and power-path control, which can reduce bill-of-materials and board area in tight space applications.
Protection and Reliability: Built-in safeguards help prevent overcurrent, thermal stress, and short-circuit scenarios, increasing device longevity in demanding environments.
Versatile Applications: These devices are well-suited for battery-powered portable devices such as wireless accessories, handheld tools, health monitoring equipment, and rugged consumer electronics that rely on USB-C PD for both charging and operation.
Design Considerations for Engineers
When integrating the AP53781 or AP53782, designers should consider the following:
- Voltage and current targets compatibility with the device’s battery chemistry and expected usage profile.
- Thermal management strategies to maintain reliability at elevated 28V operation.
- PD contract timing and cable/interface quality to ensure predictable power negotiation in all consumer scenarios.
- System-level protection, including role reversal scenarios where devices attach/detach mid-charge cycles.
Impact on the Battery-Powered Device Ecosystem
By offering robust 28V PD capable DRP control, Diodes is addressing a gap in compact devices that need higher power without bulky adapters or external PD chips. The AP53781 and AP53782 enable manufacturers to design lighter, more efficient products with faster charge rates and safer power delivery paths. This is particularly valuable for devices that swing between charging and operation modes, such as professional-grade portable scanners, field sensors, and smart tools where downtime translates to lost productivity.
Competitive Position and Market Relevance
The USB Type-C PD market continues to expand as consumers demand universal charging and smarter power management. Diodes’ 28V DRP controllers align with this trend by offering higher voltage support with simplified integration. For design teams, these chips can shorten development cycles and reduce the risk of implementing PD in applications that require reliable, compact power controllers.
Conclusion: A Practical Choice for Modern Portable Devices
The AP53781 and AP53782 from Diodes Incorporated bring high-voltage, dual-role USB-C power delivery control to a broader set of portable electronics. They are positioned to help engineers deliver safer, more efficient power experiences in battery-powered devices where space, weight, and performance matter. As USB-C PD expectations continue to rise, these controllers provide a practical, scalable path for contemporary product designs.
