Introduction

About two years ago, VIA Labs introduced the industry's first USB4 controller solution, the VL830. Since then, this USB4 controller has gained favor from nearly 50 manufacturers globally. Its versatile design applications range from portable travel docks to displays, significantly contributing to the diversity of product development. In fact, we've previously covered this product, and you can read the article through the link at the end.

According to the latest information, VIA Labs has recently launched an upgraded version of the USB4 controller based on the VL830, called the VL832. While maintaining the core advantages of VL830, this new chip further enhances signal integrity and offers more flexibility in supporting detachable cable designs. Let's dive into understanding the major specs.

About USB4

The USB data transfer protocol was introduced much earlier than USB PD. In fact, USB 1.0 was introduced in 1996, which was the third year of the USB-IF's establishment. The first generation of the USB standard had a transfer rate of only 1.5 Mbps.

In September 2019, USB4 was officially released with a maximum transfer rate of 40 Gbps, the same as Thunderbolt 3. USB4 has two specifications: USB4 40 with 40 Gbps and USB4 20 with 20 Gbps.

In September 2022, the USB4 2.0 standard was exposed, raising the maximum speed to 80 Gbps. It also adopted a new data architecture, updating the USB PD fast charging standard and the USB-C port and cable standard simultaneously.

USB has come a long way from its initial 1.5 Mbps to the high-speed USB4 2.0, reaching up to 80 Gbps. This transformation is primarily due to an increase in the number of data transmission channels. Specifically, the 2013 upgrade increased the number of differential channels to four pairs and introduced the more capable USB-C port.

While the latest iPhone 15 Pro series is only equipped with a port equivalent to USB 3.2 Gen 1 from 2017, this is still one of the most significant advancements in the iPhone's charging port. It is expected that Apple will build on this foundation to deliver higher-performance USB-C ports in the future.

VL832

The VL832 is VIA Labs' latest USB4 controller, and the chip has received USB4 product certification from the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). It supports a maximum transfer speed of 40 Gbps and is now listed in the USB-IF Integrators List with the code TID: 10033.

The VL832 features one USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 upstream port, five downstream ports, and one DP (DisplayPort) port. It integrates USB 3.2 Hub, USB 2.0 Hub, and DisplayPort output functions, providing essential connectivity for multifunctional adapters and docking stations. The hardware supports secure features with digital signature firmware, PWM-driven LED indicators, and firmware upgrades via USB or I2C bus. The USB port supports charging protocols such as BC1.2, Apple 2.4A, Samsung.

In USB4 40Gbps mode, it supports full DisplayPort HBR3 bandwidth (32.4 Gbps). The integrated USB 20Gbps Hub allows multiple USB 10Gbps devices to operate at maximum performance on supported host platforms. These values represent twice the achievable performance compared to previous DisplayPort alternate mode configurations, as DisplayPort alternate mode provided only two DisplayPort channels when supporting USB 3.2 functionality.

The increased display bandwidth caters to demands for QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution, higher pixel density, and richer visual effects. It meets the needs of gamers for smooth visuals and immersive experiences, such as uncompressed 4K at 120Hz or 240Hz+ using Display Stream Compression (DSC). Additionally, it can connect and effectively run up to four 4K (60Hz) displays.

The reference design for VL832, as shown, features a USB-C port supporting Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 inputs, and outputs four USB3.2 interfaces, one USB2.0 interface, and one DP1.4 interface. It adopts a compact FCCSP 10x10mm package and, when used in conjunction with USB PD chip solutions (e.g., VL108 supporting Extended Power Range), it can provide up to 140W or more charging capability in compatible host systems.

The schematic of VIA Labs VL832 illustrates its integration of a USB3.2 hub and a built-in device router dedicated to handling USB4 connections. Its DP port can achieve HDMI conversion through other adapter chips. When paired with VIA Labs chips like VL103, VL105, it can supply power and expansion capability to the USB-C port of laptops.

Summary of ChargerLAB

As the most widely used interface, USB ports have seen increasing power capacity and data transfer capabilities, especially with the latest USB-C port. However, different interfaces will coexist on different computers in the future. Industrial computers and desktops will continue to use USB-A ports, connecting to traditional devices. Consumer-level devices like laptops will evolve with the times, adopting USB-C ports to meet higher transfer rates and more flexible power distribution.

The VIA Labs VL832 not only provides a gap-filling solution for slim laptops but also significantly expands the connectivity capabilities of portable devices like smartphones. Leveraging its high integration and advanced technology, the VL832 effectively addresses the balance between performance and portability in space-constrained devices, meeting the market's demand for efficient, multifunctional connectivity solutions.

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