GRL Platform Solutions, formerly the test solutions division of Granite River Labs, today announced that its USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) Shared Capacity Interoperability Software (GRLPS-SCIS) is now a mandatory tool for testing shared capacity implementation. All USB-IF approved labs are required to use this tool for official compliance testing going forward.
With the rapid adoption of multi-port USB Type-C chargers, effective validation of shared power behavior has become increasingly important. Recent market analysis indicates that over 70% of newly announced USB-C chargers feature multiple ports, where available power is dynamically shared across devices. In such systems, the power contract on one port may change when another device is connected, creating complex policy interactions between chargers and connected devices.
To ensure safe, predictable, and standards-compliant operation, the USB Type-C Shared Capacity Charger Interoperability Compliance Test Specification procedure automated by GRLPS-SCIS evaluates multiple ports operating simultaneously within a shared power group. It verifies that chargers correctly implement the USB Type-C Shared Capacity power management requirements defined in Section 4.8.6 of the USB-C Specification.
The GRL-SCIS works in conjunction with A1-EPR analyzers and provides a step-by-step instruction to the user. There is also a provision for automated time synchronization between the captures on the two ports making it easy for the user to debug. The SCIS software automates the validation giving consistent and reproduceable test results. There is also an option for offline data processing for already captured data. The SCIS automation removes the possibility of user error ensuring greater accuracy and consistency in compliance validation for USB Type-C® Shared Capacity Products.
USB Type-C® and USB Power Delivery interoperability testing also utilizes the A1-EPR analyzers. This requirement is particularly critical for validating EPR devices when tested against the EPR capable MacBook M4 Pro/MAX.
“As USB power continues to scale into higher power and Extended Power Range applications, the industry must adopt more precise and repeatable test methodologies,” said Nikhil Acharya, Senior Technical Lead and Product Manager, GRL Platform Solutions, California USA. “GRLPS-SCIS and the A1-EPR platform provide the measurement depth and automation required to ensure reliable interoperability and compliance as next-generation USB Type-C® products enter the market.”
GRL Platform Solutions continues to work closely with the USB-IF and the broader USB ecosystem to support the ongoing evolution of USB Type-C® compliance testing. Through standardized automation platforms and advanced EPR measurement solutions, GRL Platform Solutions aims to help test laboratories and manufacturers worldwide transition smoothly into the next phase of USB power and interoperability validation.
Read more about the USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) Shared Capacity Interoperability Software (GRL-SCIS).
GRL Platform Solutions (www.GRLPS.com) specializes in providing high-precision measurement equipment and verification platforms that support technology development in the fields of high-speed data communications (PCIE, USB, DP, SATA, etc.) and charging interfaces (USB Power Delivery: USB PD, Wireless power transfer: Qi). As an independent company from Granite River Labs' Test Solutions division, GRL Platform Solutions provides test solutions for compliance testing, interoperability evaluation, as well as research and development on a global scale.