With the widespread adoption of USB Type-C and USB Power Delivery (PD) technologies, the power output of fast charging devices is constantly increasing (30W, 65W, and even 140W+). At such high power densities, chargers not only need to be small and fast, but also safe and stable.
To ensure the reliability of the entire power path, we have designed a complete protection scheme for PD fast charging.๐
ESD protection" class="wp-image-16148"/>The following is a detailed analysis of the protective functions of our electronic components for PD fast charging.
๐ธ AC Input Terminal: GDT Gas Discharge Tube
The AC input terminal is most vulnerable to lightning surges and strong interference spikes from the power grid. Adding a GDT gas discharge tube before the rectifier stage allows for rapid conduction during high-energy transients, bypassing dangerous voltages to ground, thus protecting:
- APFC Front-End Circuit
- Main Power MOSFET
- Subsequent Transformer and Controller
Advantages of the gas discharge tube include:
- Extremely high surge withstand capability
- Low leakage current, does not affect normal operation
๐ธ Main Power Stage: High-Efficiency MOSFETs Ensure Conversion Efficiency
In fast-charging power supplies, MOSFETs are key components affecting energy efficiency and temperature rise. We use MOSFETs in the following locations:
โ Primary Switch
MOSFETs used for the primary switch must possess:
- Low Rds(on) โ Reduces switching losses
- High withstand voltage โ Typically 650V/700V or similar ratings
- Fast switching characteristics โ Improves APFC + PWM system efficiency
โ Synchronous Rectifier (SR) Switch
Using low on-resistance MOSFETs can achieve:
- Significantly reduced conduction losses
- Improved energy efficiency of 65W/100W PD output
- Reduced temperature rise, reducing heat dissipation pressure
๐ธ Type-C Interface
The Type-C interface, being the point of direct contact for end users, is easily affected by electrostatic discharge (ESD), transient plugging/unplugging, and incorrect connections.
โ ESD Protection Devices (TVS)
- We deploy ESD protection on sensitive lines such as CC/SBU/DP/DM/VBUS:
- <1pF ultra-low capacitance (does not affect the integrity of high-speed interface signals)
- IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 protection
- Fast response speed
โ Load Switch MOS (VBUS Switch)
- Responsible for turning the PD output on/off. Features:
- Low Rds(on) โ Reduces VBUS voltage drop
- Supports high current (3A/5A)
- Used for overcurrent protection, soft start, thermal shutdown, and other mechanisms.
๐ก๏ธ By combining the above components, the following effects can be achieved in PD fast charging:
- High Reliability: Input surges no longer threaten the upstream APFC and MOS.
- High Efficiency: SR MOS reduces heat loss and improves overall conversion efficiency.
- High Safety: The Type-C port has comprehensive ESD + OCP protection.
- Extended Product Lifespan: Reduces component stress and minimizes after-sales risks.
๐ More Protection Solutions
Looking for complete protection components for PD fast charging, USB-C ports, adapters, and system-level designs?
Explore our full range of surge, ESD, MOSFET, and circuit-level protection solutions here:
๐ https://en.semiware.com/application/


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