EN IEC 62680 Regulation: Milestones of the EU's Unified Charging Interface and Its Global Impac

In recent years, the diversification of charging interfaces for electronic devices has led to resource waste and inconvenience for users. The European Union has promoted the standardization of charging interfaces through the EN IEC 62680 series of regulations, aiming to reduce electronic waste and enhance the user experience. These regulations, with the USB Type-C interface and the USB Power Delivery (PD) protocol at their core, put forward mandatory requirements for the design, production, and market access of electronic products,
becoming an important model for the unification of global charging technologies.

I. Regulatory Background and Core Objectives

In December 2022, the European Union issued the revised Directive (EU) 2022/2380, clearly stating that 13 categories of electronic products (such as mobile phones, tablets, headphones, laptops, etc.) must be equipped with a USB Type-C interface that complies with the EN IEC 62680-1-3 standard and support the PD fast - charging protocol based on EN IEC 62680-1-2. The core objectives include:

• Reducing Electronic Waste: Unifying the interface reduces the demand for redundant chargers, with an expected reduction of thousands of tons of electronic waste annually.

• Enhancing User Experience: Eliminating compatibility issues of multiple interfaces and supporting intelligent fast - charging up to 240W.

• Strengthening Market Norms: Defining the compliance responsibilities of manufacturers, importers, and distributors to ensure that the entire supply chain meets safety and interoperability standards.

II. Core Technical Requirements

• Mandatory Type - C Interface

• Thirteen categories of products (such as mobile phones, tablets, headphones, etc.) need to adopt a Type - C interface that complies with EN IEC 62680-1-3, covering mechanical structure, electrical performance, and signal integrity testing.

• The mandatory implementation time for laptops is extended to April 28, 2026.

• Standardized Fast - Charging Protocol

• Devices that support fast - charging (power > 5V/3A/15W) must be compatible with the USB PD protocol (EN IEC 62680-1-2), allowing for voltage negotiation and dynamic adjustment to ensure safety and efficiency.

• Packaging and Labeling Specifications

• Products must indicate whether a charger is included and clearly display the minimum power (XX) and maximum fast - charging power (YY) on the outer packaging. When the PD protocol is supported, "USB PD" should be marked, and the text height should be ≥7mm.

III. Certification Process and Testing Highlights

Enterprises need to complete the certification process through a laboratory recognized by the European Union:

• Sample Testing: Covers electrical performance (such as overload protection), mechanical strength (plug - in and unplugging lifespan), environmental adaptability (temperature and humidity tolerance), and signal integrity 269.

• Document Review: Submit technical documents (including design drawings, risk reports) and a declaration of conformity to ensure compliance throughout the entire process.

• Certification Issuance: After passing the tests, a CE certificate is issued, allowing the product to be affixed with the CE mark and enter the EU market.

IV. Impact on the Industry and the World

• Industrial Chain Upgrade: Manufacturers need to redesign products and optimize production lines, promoting the expansion of the Type - C ecosystem (such as supporting USB4 and active cables).

• Global Imitation Trend: Saudi Arabia, India, California in the United States, and other places have introduced similar regulations, accelerating Type - C's becoming a global standard.

• Consumer Rights Protection: Users can freely choose devices without bundled chargers, reducing the purchase cost and enjoying cross - brand compatibility.

V. Challenges and Countermeasures

• Technical Adaptation: Old - fashioned devices need to be made compatible through adapters, and manufacturers need to balance costs and innovation.

• Compliance Risks: Uncertified products will face market access bans, recalls, or legal proceedings. It is recommended that enterprises plan in advance for testing resources.