USB Certification

USB Certification is a process of verifying that a USB product meets the standards and specifications of the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), the organization that develops and promotes the USB technology. USB Certification ensures that a USB product is compatible, interoperable, and reliable with other USB products and devices.

Benefits of USB Certification

USB Certification provides several benefits for both manufacturers and consumers of USB products, such as:

• Quality assurance: USB Certification demonstrates that a USB product has passed rigorous testing and evaluation by the USB-IF or its authorized labs, and conforms to the USB-IF Compliance Program requirements.
• Brand recognition: USB Certification allows a USB product to use the USB-IF logos, such as the USB logo, the SuperSpeed USB logo, the USB Type-C logo, etc. These logos are widely recognized and trusted by consumers as indicators of quality and compatibility.
• Market access: USB Certification enables a USB product to be listed on the USB-IF Integrator's List, a public database of certified USB products that can be accessed by potential customers, partners, and distributors. USB Certification may also be required by some regions or countries as a condition for importing or selling USB products.
• Technical support: USB Certification grants a USB product access to the USB-IF technical resources, such as the USB-IF Platform Interoperability Lab, the USB-IF Compliance Updates, the USB-IF Document Library, and the USB-IF Technical Support.

How to Obtain USB Certification

There are five avenues for obtaining USB Certification for a USB product, depending on the type and category of the product. These are:

• Participate in a USB-IF Sponsored Compliance Workshop: This is a USB-IF member company benefit only, where a USB product can be tested and certified by the USB-IF at a scheduled event. This is the fastest and most cost-effective way to obtain USB Certification.
• Attend an Authorized Independent Test Lab: This is an option for both USB-IF members and non-members, where a USB product can be tested and certified by a third-party lab that is authorized by the USB-IF. This is a flexible and convenient way to obtain USB Certification.
• Participate in the USB-IF Qualification by Similarity Program: This is a USB-IF member company benefit only, where a USB product can be certified based on its similarity to a previously certified USB product from the same manufacturer. This is a time-saving and resource-efficient way to obtain USB Certification.
• Attend the USB-IF Platform Interoperability Lab: This is a USB-IF member company benefit only, where a USB product can be tested and certified by the USB-IF at its own facility. This is a comprehensive and thorough way to obtain USB Certification.
• OEM Arrangements: This is an option for USB device manufacturers who do not have their own USB host controller or hub, where they can rely on the USB Certification of their OEM partner who provides the USB host controller or hub. This is a collaborative and mutually beneficial way to obtain USB Certification.