Renesas launches two USB 3.0 controllers

MICROCONTROLLER VENDOR Renesas has launched two USB 3.0 xHCI host controllers boasting high speeds, compact size and low power costs.

The μPD720201 and μPD720202 controllers feature USB 3.0 speeds up to 4.8Gb/sec, ten times faster than USB 2.0. They also deliver a 40 per cent increase in effective data write speed compared to Renesas' previous models.

The controllers have a low power mode, which reduces power output to 4.5mW. This is a 90 per cent drop in comparison to other Renesas controllers.

Size is also a big factor, with the controllers ranging in size from 7mm to 8mm square, a 50 per cent drop in package size compared to older Renesas products.

The μPD720201 comes with four downstream ports, while the μPD720202 comes with two.

Renesas is also providing device drivers for its controllers on Windows and Linux systems.

The μPD720201 sells for $20, while the μPD720202 goes for $10. Currently only samples are available, but these devices are expected to go into full production by September. µ