WCH CH224K Fast-Charging Protocol Chip: Function Changed but Model Number Remains Unchanged?
WCH’s CH224K datasheet revision (V1F to V2.1) removed single-resistor voltage configuration, disallowing floating CFG pins for 20V requests. This silently breaks existing designs relying on that method. WCH now recommends CH224A, which supports single-resistor mode but requires a 120kΩ resistor for 20V, complicating direct replacement without extra pads. The article questions whether such functional changes warrant a new model number.
Test and Teardown of a 120W Charger Bought for 2.6 Yuan on Douyin Mall
A 2.6-yuan charger claiming 120W output was tested and torn down. It supported multiple protocols but delivered only 15.6W max with high ripple and ~80% efficiency. Teardown revealed substandard components, including a small 6.8μF filter capacitor and unidentified chips. The author advises against purchasing such power supplies due to poor quality and misleading performance.
Open-Source 140W+65W Buck-Boost PD3.1 Fast-Charging Module (2C+1A Ports), IP6557+IP6538,
An open-source 205W buck-boost fast-charging module based on IP6557 and IP6538 is presented, offering 140W on one Type-C port with PD3.1 support and 65W on the second Type-C and Type-A ports. Maximum conversion efficiency reaches 96.7%. Full documentation and design files are provided, enabling users to replicate a cost-effective charger.