It incorporates host and client circuitry, whereas other available option require devices dedicated to either host or client mode. The integrated device means USB Type-C interface circuitry can be added to laptops, tablets, smartphones, drones, and small home appliances without cost or size penalties.

Unlike current market solutions that require devices dedicated to either host or client mode, the detector enables developers to support the reversible and bi-directional flexibility of the USB Type-C interface with a single chip. When configured as a host, it broadcasts the device status as standard downstream port (SDP), charging downstream port (CDP), or dedicated charging port (DCP) via the USB D /D- pins, in accordance with BC 1.2. As a client, the PI3USB9201 monitors the D /D- pins to detect the attached host type.

It reports to the system via a 1MHz I²C interface. Four-pin selectable slave addresses help avoid bus conflict.

Featuring differential pass-through USB switches, the PI3USB9201 supports USB switch pass-through in host mode to permit system wakeup via mouse or keyboard. The supply voltage range is 2.7 to 5.5V and sub-1µA current in shutdown mode.

The detector is in production now in the 2.0 x 2.0mm 12-pin QFN package.