VIA Labs VL100

VIA Labs VL100 Chipset

The VIA Lab’s VL100 is a highly integrated single chip DisplayPort Alternate Mode controller designed for USB Type-C devices. It serves various applications such as Type-C video adapters, Type-C TV/monitor/projector setups, and Type-C multi-function docking stations.

This chip's key feature is its ability to perform DP Alt-Mode video out functionality while simultaneously enabling charging for connected PD hosts once an external power source is detected. This power source can come from different avenues: a 5V DC jack, a 5V USB power port, or a Type-C wall adapter attached to the VL100's integrated Type-C sink port.

The VL100 incorporates a Device Policy Manager capable of negotiating power profiles with the PD engines on both the Type-C wall adapter (source) and the connected PD host (sink). This negotiation allows for power charge-through. Additionally, it supports charging dead battery mode.

To facilitate Type-C cable flipping, the VL100 includes a built-in SBU1/SBU2 switch. It also supports the USB Billboard device on USB 2.0, meeting requirements defined by the VESA DP Alt-Mode on USB Type-C specification.

This chip integrates necessary linear voltage regulators and power source detectors, enabling seamless operation with power inputs from either 3.3V Vconn power or 5V Vbus. Up to 10 GPIO pins are available for various functions like port power detection, power discharge control, power switch control, data switch control, or other specialized applications.

For firmware upgrades, the SPI interface supports external flash through the USB Billboard device. The VL100 is available in QFN 40L (5x5x0.85 mm) and QFN 32L (5x5x0.85 mm) green packages, making it suitable for small form-factor designs.