What is Qi2 Certification and How to Process?

As a manufacturer of wireless chargers, we want to share buyers more about the product knowledge: As the demand for seamless and efficient charging solutions continues to grow, Qi2 certification has become a key standard for manufacturers. In this article, we will discuss the certification process of Qi2, aiming to make new buyers who have just entered this industry more aware of the new technology of wireless chargers, which will be more conducive to your judgment and decision.

Understanding Qi2 Certification:

Qi2 is an upgraded version of Qi and is a new enhanced wireless charging standard being developed by the WPC Wireless Charging Alliance. Compared with Qi, Qi2 is based on the Magnetic Power Profile pioneered by Apple and built on the MagSafe charging technology provided by Apple. It will provide a better wireless charging user experience and pave the way for the development of new features and enhanced functions in the future.

The current Qi certification types include the following:

1. Qi-BPP certification: Products that support power below 5W and use the Qi protocol must pass BPP certification.
2. Qi-EPP certification: Products that support power above 5W and use the Qi protocol must pass EPP certification
3. Qi-MPP certification: The WPC Wireless Charging Alliance officially released the latest Qi2 standard on March 21 this year. The new standard adds the MPP magnetic power profile (MAGNETIC POWER PROFILE).

What is the MPP protocol?

The Magnetic Power Protocol (MPP) was created based on Apple’s Magsafe technology, thanks to Apple’s contribution of Magsafe’s technical specifications to WPC. Then the existing BPP and EPP protocols were optimized at the same time to form a new MPP protocol that has better compatibility and higher charging efficiency. WPC normalizes and standardizes it in order to better optimize the practicality and convenience of wireless charging and achieve the purpose of better promoting the popularization of wireless charging.

What are the updates in Qi2?

Main updates of Qi2:

1. Qi2 certification no longer includes the BPP protocol separately, but it is still allowed to cover the BPP protocol in the product. At the same time, there are relevant requirements, requiring Qi2 PTx products to have at least one Qi2 EPP emission area or MPP emission area with a power of more than 5W. Chargers with only BPP emission areas will not be able to undergo Qiv2.0 certification.
2. Similarly, all-in-one products can have BPP emission areas, but the product must contain at least one EPP emission area or MPP emission area. And each Qi v2.0 certified charger must include authentication.
3. Chargers that only support BPP will not be able to undergo Qi2 certification. It is reported that WPC Qi2 has made more definitions. Specifically, the first change is that authentication must be included if you want to pass Qi2.0, which means that an authentication chip must be added to the relevant inspection products. The second change is that Qi2.0 must include MPP or EPP, or support both MPP and EPP, otherwise it will not be certified.

Why Qi2 Certification Matters ?

As wireless charging becomes more common, it is important to ensure that devices can work seamlessly across all phone brands and models. Qi2 certification allows consumers’ devices to charge efficiently and safely using any Qi2-certified wireless charger. For manufacturers, obtaining Qi2 certification means meeting recognized quality and performance benchmarks, thereby increasing market competitiveness.

What’s MPP protocol advantages:

1. Magnet alignment, never miss the charging “sweet spot’
2. Better charging protocol, ensures perfect match between device and charger, thus improving energy efficiency. Higher charging efficiency also means faster charging speed, because energy is not lost during charging.
3. Mobile devices can be used even while charging
4. Can be applied to more usage scenarios
5. Works at 360kHz to prevent interference with vehicle keys or other devices
6. Larger power expansion plan, will be expanded to 50W in the future
7. Apple leads, greater market opportunities

The Qi2 Certification Process: A Step-by-Step Guide:

Now that we understand the importance of Qi2 certification, let’s delve into the process itself.

Step 1: Understanding the Requirements

The first step in the Qi2 certification process is to familiarize yourself with the requirements and standards set by the WPC. These standards cover a range of criteria, including:

1. Safety: Ensuring the device operates safely and poses no risk to users.
2. Interoperability: Confirm that the device is compatible with other Qi2-certified products.
3. Efficiency: Demonstrating that the device meets efficiency benchmarks for power transfer and energy use.

Step 2: Product Development and Design

Once understand the requirements, the next step is product development and design. This stage involves:

1. Incorporate Qi2 Standard: Incorporate Qi2 specifications into the design of wireless charging products. This includes selecting appropriate components that are compatible with the Qi2 standard, such as coils and control chips.
2. Mold Design and Testing**: Develop the product and perform sample testing to ensure it meets the Qi2 specification. This stage is critical in resolving design issues that arise.
3. Design Documentation**: Prepare comprehensive documentation of the product design, including schematics, component specifications, and test results. This documentation is critical during the certification process.

Design requirements of products to meet Qi2(MPP Standard):

1. MPP coil design should follow the system coil model as much as possible to minimize the difference between product coil and certification test tool coil. In addition to the center point, different positions of the offset center point also need to meet the corresponding requirements of power FOD, etc.
2. The selection of magnets should pay attention to the magnet test items in chapter 1.6 of the test specification:
   • -MPPPTx magnetic boundary test
   • -MPP PTx magnetic coupling test
   • -MPPPTX magnet will not saturate the magnetic field of the TPR coil test
   • -MPPPTX magnet vertical tension and lateral shear force test

Step 3: Pre-Certification Testing

Before applying for Qi2 certification, we perform pre-certification testing. This step helps identify potential issues that may prevent the product from passing official certification testing.

1. In-house testing: We typically work with third-party labs to perform preliminary testing on the product. Focus on key areas such as power transfer efficiency, thermal management, and interoperability.
2. Compliance checking: Ensure the product complies with all relevant Qi2 standards and specifications. Address any issues found during testing and make any necessary adjustments to the design.

Step 4: Application Submission

Once product has passed pre-certification testing, it’s time to submit the application for Qi2 certification to the WPC. This step involves:

1. Fill out the application: Fill out the official Qi2 certification application form, providing detailed information about your product, including its design, specifications, and test results.
2. Submit design documents: Include all relevant design documents with your application. WPC will review these documents to ensure that the product complies with the Qi2 standard.
3. Pay the certification fee: The Qi2 certification process generally requires payment of a fee. The specific fee will depend on the product.

Step 5: Official Testing and Evaluation

Once the application is submitted, the product will undergo formal testing and evaluation by WPC or an authorized testing agency. This phase includes:

1. Compliance Testing: The product will undergo rigorous testing to verify that it complies with the Qi2 standard. These tests cover various aspects, including safety, efficiency, and interoperability.
2. Design Document Evaluation: WPC will review the submitted design document to ensure that it accurately reflects the product and meets all Qi2 requirements.
3. Feedback and Revision: If any issues are found during testing or evaluation, feedback will be received and revisions to the product or documentation may be required.

Step 6: Certification Approval

After successful completion of testing and evaluation, the product will receive Qi2 certification. This phase involves:

1. Issuance of certification: WPC will issue an official Qi2 certification for this product, confirming that it meets all required standards.
2. Use of Qi2 logo: Once certified, the Qi2 logo can be used on products and marketing materials to indicate compatibility and quality to consumers.
3. Product listing: Certified products will be listed on the official WPC website, increasing their visibility and credibility in the market.

Challenges in the Qi2 Certification Process:

While the Qi2 certification process is straightforward, manufacturers may encounter several challenges along the way. Here are some common issues and tips for overcoming them:

Technical Complexity:

Designing a wireless charging product that meets Qi2 standards can be technically complex, requiring a deep understanding of electronics and wireless communication.

Cost Considerations:

The Qi2 certification process can be costly, especially for small manufacturers. Costs include testing, certification fees, and potential redesign.

Time Constraints:

Obtaining Qi2 certification is time-consuming and takes approximately 30-40 days from start to finish.

The Benefits of Qi2 Certification

Despite the challenges of long time and high cost, obtaining Qi2 certification can bring many advantages to manufacturers:

1. Market Access: Qi2 certification is recognized globally, allowing products to enter a wide range of markets and reach more consumers.
2. Consumer Trust: The Qi2 logo represents quality and reliability, which can build trust with consumers.
3. Competitive Advantage: Qi2 certification differentiates products from non-certified competitors, highlighting their safety, efficiency and interoperability.

The Future of Qi2 Certification:

As technology continues to evolve, so too will the Qi2 certification standards. We can expect:

1. Tighter standards: Qi2 standards are likely to become more stringent as consumer expectations rise, requiring continued innovation and improvement in wireless charging technology.
2. Integration with IoT: Qi2-certified devices are likely to increasingly integrate with the Internet of Things (IoT), offering new features and enhancing the user experience.
3. Focus on sustainability: Future Qi2 standards are likely to emphasize environmental sustainability, encouraging manufacturers to develop energy-efficient and eco-friendly products.

FAQs:

What is Qi2 certification?

Qi2 certification is a standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium for wireless charging devices, ensuring they meet safety, efficiency, and interoperability criteria.

Why is Qi2 certification important ?

Qi2 certification provides with a competitive edge, enabling market access, building consumer trust, and highlighting the quality of their products.

How long does the Qi2 certification process take?

The duration of the Qi2 certification process can vary depending on factors such as product complexity and the need for revisions. On average, it may take several weeks to months.

Conclusion:

The Qi2 certification process is an important option to gain an advantage in the wireless charging market. As the demand for wireless charging technology continues to grow, Qi2 certification will continue to be a key factor in driving innovation, ensuring quality, and meeting consumer expectations.