Synopsys' DesignWare SuperSpeed USB 3.0 xHCI Host Controller IP Receives USB-IF Certification

The xHCI specification provides a standardized method for SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.0) host controllers to communicate with the USB 3.0 software stack. To achieve certification, the IP must support the new U1 and U2 power modes as well as all four USB transfer speeds, including SuperSpeed (5.0 Gbps), Hi-Speed (480 Mbps), Full-Speed (12 Mbps) and Low-Speed USB (1.5 Mbps). Synopsys is the only USB IP provider with both certified SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Host and Device IP. The complete DesignWare SuperSpeed USB 3.0 IP solution offers a unified architecture, enabling designers to significantly lower integration risk by eliminating the requirement to manage two distinct USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 datapaths in their system-on-chip (SoC) designs. Optimized for small area and low-power, the DesignWare SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Host Controller is already in products that are in mass production. It is ideal for battery-powered, portable devices.

Passing SuperSpeed USB certification is a crucial product milestone demonstrating that the Synopsys DesignWare IP meets the standards required for interoperability, which is a cornerstone for the mass adoption of USB, said Jeff Ravencraft, USB-IF president and COO. Synopsys' proper implementation of the U1 and U2 power saving modes will help extend the battery life in future USB products.

As a leading developer of USB 3.0 software, it was critical that MCCI partner with Synopsys, a trusted IP provider, for the development of the MCCI USB 3.0 xHCI Datapump Host Stack, said Terry Moore, CEO of MCCI. Our close collaboration with Synopsys throughout the years has enabled us to create an interoperable USB 3.0 software platform that delivers fast SuperSpeed USB transfer speeds and full legacy support, while taking advantage of power savings from U1 and U2 modes. Whether in an embedded system, on Linux, or as a Windows driver, the MCCI software stack, combined with emulated FPGA hardware, allows developers to focus on system issues early in the development cycle.

For the past 15 years, Synopsys has delivered high-quality USB IP solutions that have been integrated in more than 2000 designs, said John Koeter, vice president of marketing for IP and Systems at Synopsys. The DesignWare SuperSpeed 3.0 IP is a complete, market proven and certified solution consisting of DesignWare digital controllers, PHYs and verification IP. Combined with Synopsys' virtual prototyping and HAPS® FPGA-based prototyping solutions, Synopsys' certified USB IP products help designers lower integration risk and ensure interoperability with billions of USB-enabled devices.