Universal power standard slowly edges forward

Part 1 looking at interfaces
The Qi Wireless Power Consortium has delivered the first part of its interoperability specification to its members having taken over a year since the group was formed in December 2008.
The“System Description Wireless Power Transfer, Volume 1, Low Power, Part 1: Interface Definition, Version 1.00 Release Candidate 1”,  finally allows consortium members to begin developing Qi-enabled wireless chargers that work with a wide range of terminals.
This part of the Qi interoperability specification defines the interface between wireless charging stations and power receivers. The Consortium is now finalizing Part 2 (Performance Requirements) and Part 3 (Compliance Test Specification) to provide product developers with information essential for product certification. Compliance with all three parts is required for use of the Qi logo and will further delay the development of wireless charging systems.
OEMs, ODMs, electronics brands and members of the portable electronics supply chain can join the Consortium and contribute to the worldwide introduction of interoperable wireless charging.  In the past three months the Consortium has doubled membership to more than 40 members across the consumer electronics value chain as the specification has finally started moving forwards.
“This first part of Qi’s v 1.0 specifications sets the clock running on the introduction of consumer products that cut the last cord for a true simplicity in wireless lifestyle,” said Camille Tang, President, ConvenientPower Limited and Chair, Wireless Power Consortium, Promotion Work Group. “Unlike proprietary non-standard wireless power charging products, the universal standard Qi provides certainty and confidence to consumers that their Qi-enabled electronic devices will be compatible with any Qi-branded charging device, regardless of manufacturer.  For manufacturers, Qi offers a versatile range of receivers and transmitters, providing flexibility in design options as they plan their product roadmaps.”
The members of the Consortium include key chip and equipment suppliers: Atmel, Callpod, case-mate, Compal, Continental Automotive, ConvenientPower, Coretronic, Duracell, E & E Magnetic Products Limited, Energizer, Ever Win, Fulton Innovation, Hanrim Postech, Hi-P, Hosiden, iGo, Jeckson, Leggett & Platt, LG Electronics, Logah Technology, LS Cable, National Semiconductor, Nokia, Olympus, Philips, Powerkiss, Primax, Rohm, RRC power solutions GmbH, Samsung Electronics, Sanyo, Sang Fei, SixEye Interactive Ltd., Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications, ST-Ericsson, Texas Instruments, Toko Inc, Verizon Wireless, Wisepower, Xentris Wireless.

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