In support of the USB-IF Conformity to IEC 62680 (USB) Standards Program, GRL reaffirms its commitment to helping OEMs overcome new challenges amid upcoming changes from the EU Common Charger Directive.
Granite River Labs (“GRL”), a global leader in engineering services, automated test solutions for digital connectivity and charging technologies, and professional market access services, has officially announced the launch of its EN IEC 62680-1-2, 62680-1-3 conformity testing service in support of the USB-IF Conformity to the IEC 62680 (USB) Standards program designed to provide OEMs/ODMs with an avenue to generate conformance documentation for their product(s) according to the IEC 62680 (USB) Standards referenced in the EU legislations. In doing so, manufacturers of computer peripherals, tablets, mobile phones and other related applications can ensure that their products are in line with the latest EU regulatory requirements. As an authorized USB-IF Independent Test Lab (ITL), GRL has the hardware and expertise required to support the new USB-IF conformity program for EN IEC 62680 (USB) Standards testing.
The EN IEC 62680 (USB) standards series outlines the architecture, protocols, power supply behavior, connectors, and cabling necessary for managing power delivery over USB. The reference to these standards will allow the harmonized charging solution (interface and communication protocol) to be implemented in the categories or classes of radio equipment listed in the Directive for any device up to 240W.
New legislated requirements founded by the European Union are based on IEC 62680 (USB) standards, defining the mandatory interoperability requirements for using USB-C® and USB Power Delivery as specified in the IEC 62680 (USB) Standards, (EN IEC 62680-1-3, EN IEC 62680-1-2). The legislations include the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) for specific Portable Battery Powered devices, which takes effect December 28, 2024, except for Laptop PC’s which will take effect on April 28, 2026, and upcoming amendments to RED, ErP Lot 7 for External Power Supplies (EPS). The key USB categories requirements include:
- Portable Battery-Powered Devices: Includes devices such as smartphones, tablets, and other mobile electronics as defined in the Radio Equipment Directive (RED).
- USB Type-C® Receptacles, Cables, and Connectors: The EU mandates the use of USB Type-C to ensure uniformity and reduce electronic waste.
- External Power Supplies (EPS) and USB Power Delivery (USB PD) Protocol: Devices that advertise more than 15 Watts must adhere to USB PD standards to ensure power delivery efficiency while guaranteeing safety.
"GRL has consistently demonstrated its commitment to advancing USB technology and will continue to uphold the stringent USB-IF standards in support of the USB-IF Conformity to IEC 62680 (USB) Specifications Program," said Jeffrey L. Ravencraft, President & COO of USB-IF. "With their expertise and global reach, we look forward to their contributions in the evolving USB landscape, especially in light of upcoming EU regulatory changes."
"We are well-equipped to help manufacturers navigate new challenges in the evolving USB landscape," said Kristof Mommen, General Manager and Vice-President of Business Development at GRL Belgium. "We remain committed to helping OEMs meet the highest levels of safety, performance, and interoperability with comprehensive testing and debugging services from our experts."
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