USB PD EPR and SPR: Unraveling the Differences

By Qikun Wu, Charging and Isolation Marketing Manager

This perspective blog gives an in-depth analysis of the differences between USB PD EPR (Extended Power Range) and SPR (Standard Power Range) in the rapidly evolving world of power delivery technology. Understanding these differences is critical to making an informed decision between the two technologies.

 
Functional Differences

• Power Limits:
  • SPR: The standard power range is based on the USB PD3.0 standard with a maximum power output of 100W. Fixed voltage levels of 5V, 9V, 15V, and 20V are typically supported, with current ratings of 3A or 5A. For example, at 20V 5A, an upper power limit of 100W can be reached.
  • EPR: The extended power range was introduced in USB PD3.1, extending the maximum power output from 100W to 240W. Not only does EPR support all voltage-current combinations of SPR, but it also adds three new fixed-voltage levels: 28V, 36V, and 48V, all with a maximum current of 5A. This means that EPR is capable of handling higher power applications.
     

• Voltage Adjustability
  • SPR: In SPR mode, a programmable power supply (PPS) allows voltage regulation in small steps (typically 20mV steps) and is primarily used to optimize battery charging below 100W. 

• • EPR: In addition to the PPS function below 100W, EPR also has an adjustable voltage supply (AVS). AVS enables the receiver device to perform fine voltage regulation in 100mV steps between 15V and 48V. This helps improve the performance and thermal efficiency of high-power equipment.
     

Application Differences

• SPR Applications: SPR is ideal for a wide range of everyday consumer electronics, including smartphones, tablets, laptops with moderate power requirements (up to 100W), and many small to medium-sized portable devices. For example, most standard laptops can be charged efficiently within the 100W power limit of the SPR.

• EPR Applications: EPR is designed for high-power applications. It can power large laptops with higher-performance components, industrial equipment, some server-related equipment, and high-power power tools. For example, EPR can charge high-end gaming laptops faster due to its higher power capabilities, or power high-powered industrial drills.
   

Products Supporting EPR

Diodes Incorporated's (Diodes) products listed in the below table are packed with advanced features and support EPR functionality (up to 28V). These products are able to take full advantage of the power delivery capabilities of USB PD EPR, making them ideal for powering devices that require higher power such as industrial equipment powered through USB PD Type-C connectors, power backups, and battery-powered audio systems.

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