PPS (Programmable Power Supply) and SPR AVS (Standard Power Range Adjustable Voltage Supply) represent two distinct approaches to dynamic voltage regulation in USB Power Delivery. This comprehensive comparison examines their technical specifications, design philosophies, and optimal applications.
Protocol Overview
PPS (USB PD 3.0)
High-precision voltage control for direct battery charging
SPR AVS (USB PD 3.2)
Broad compatibility voltage regulation for mainstream devices
PPS (Programmable Power Supply) Analysis
PPS, introduced with USB PD 3.0, provides high-precision voltage control specifically designed for direct battery charging applications. Its fine-grained adjustment capabilities make it ideal for devices requiring precise power delivery throughout the charging cycle.
Voltage Range
3.3V - 21V
Precision
20mV steps
Primary Use
Direct battery charging
SPR AVS (Standard Power Range Adjustable Voltage Supply) Analysis
SPR AVS, part of USB PD 3.2, extends adjustable voltage capabilities to the standard power range (up to 100W). It prioritizes broad device compatibility and operational stability while maintaining sufficient precision for most applications.
Voltage Range
3.3V - 21V (SPR)
Precision
100mV steps
Primary Use
General voltage regulation
Detailed Technical Comparison
| Specification | PPS (USB PD 3.0) | SPR AVS (USB PD 3.2) |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Range | 3.3V - 21V | 3.3V - 21V (SPR range) |
| Voltage Precision | 20mV steps | 100mV steps |
| Current Precision | 50mA steps | Varies by implementation |
| Power Range | Up to 100W (theoretical) | Up to 100W (SPR range) |
| Primary Application | Direct battery charging | General voltage regulation |
| Complexity | Higher (fine control) | Lower (broad compatibility) |
Device Compatibility and Applications
PPS Adoption
- • Samsung Galaxy series (S20+, Note series)
- • Google Pixel devices
- • OnePlus smartphones
- • Various Android tablets
- • Gaming handhelds (Steam Deck)
SPR AVS Adoption
- • iPhone 17 series
- • MacBook Air (future models)
- • iPad Pro (next generation)
- • Ultrabooks and thin laptops
- • High-power tablets
Advantages and Limitations
PPS Advantages
- • High Precision: 20mV voltage steps enable precise battery charging curves
- • Efficiency: Minimizes conversion losses through direct voltage matching
- • Battery Health: Precise control reduces stress on battery cells
- • Mature Technology: Widely adopted and well-understood
Limitations
- • Complex implementation requirements
- • Limited to specific charging scenarios
- • Higher cost for precise control circuits
SPR AVS Advantages
- • Broad Compatibility: Works across diverse device categories
- • Simplified Implementation: Easier for manufacturers to adopt
- • Cost Effective: Lower precision requirements reduce costs
- • Future-Ready: Part of latest USB PD 3.2 standard
Limitations
- • Lower precision than PPS
- • May not optimize for specific battery chemistries
- • Newer standard with limited current adoption
Both protocols serve important roles in the USB Power Delivery ecosystem, with PPS excelling in precision applications and SPR AVS providing broad compatibility for mainstream devices.