This video serves as a comprehensive tutorial for an innovation challenge centered on building a Super-Speed USB 3.0 hub with 100W Power Delivery (PD) functionality. The design is based on the WCH CH634W6G and CH211C chips. The CH634W6G is highlighted for its simplified pin layout and power requirements, attributed to its self-developed PHY controller and integrated RISC-V processor.
The guide is structured in three parts. It begins with a practical demonstration of the completed hub, showcasing its ability to connect multiple USB peripherals to a laptop while simultaneously providing up to 100W of fast charging. The second part details the component sourcing process, providing links for core chips, specifications for critical components like the NMOS, and options for implementing the upstream Type-C connector. The final section provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to import the project's custom schematic and footprint libraries into KiCad to begin the PCB design process.
Building a 100W USB 3.0 Power Delivery Hub
0:01 Project Overview: The video introduces a challenge to build a powerful USB hub that addresses the limited port selection on modern laptops. It allows for peripheral expansion while simultaneously providing 100W Power Delivery for charging.
0:37 Core Component (CH634W6G): The project is centered around the WCH CH634W6G chip, which supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps) and 100W PD fast charging through its upstream Type-C port.
1:20 Simplified Design: The CH634 chip features a streamlined pin layout and simple power supply design because its internal PHY controller and RISC-V processor are self-developed and share a single power source.
2:19 Functional Demonstration: The finished hub is shown connecting to a laptop's Type-C port, interfacing with USB peripherals like flash drives, and simultaneously receiving power from a Type-C adapter to charge the host laptop.
3:39 Component Sourcing: A Bill of Materials (BOM) and schematic are provided via GitHub and Discord. It is recommended to purchase the core chips (CH634W6G and CH211C) from the official WCH AliExpress store to ensure authenticity.
4:50 Critical NMOS Specifications: When selecting a substitute NMOS for power switching, it must have a withstand voltage of at least 30V, a nominal current of 15-35A, and an internal resistance below 15 mOhms to minimize heat generation.
5:24 Upstream Connection Options: Designers can either purchase a 100W PD-rated Type-C cable, cut it, and solder it directly to the PCB, or use a female Type-C connector on the board, paying close attention to the pin sequence.
6:35 KiCad Library Setup: The video provides a step-by-step guide on how to import the required custom symbol (schematic) and footprint (PCB) libraries into KiCad before starting the design process.
8:29 Design Resources: Participants are encouraged to use the official schematics, PCB layouts, and a specific design consideration document as a reference for creating their own projects.