The Power Matters Alliance (PMA) has announced the selection of UL Verification Services as the Lead Lab for the PMA. The PMA is partnering with three industry leading certification test labs, including UL (Underwriters Laboratories), AT4 wireless (AT4), and TUV Rheinland (TUV). The three labs will serve as testing grounds for PMA member companies wishing to certify products using the PMA standard. Certification coverage will span the globe with locations in U.S., Europe, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and China.
The PMA is already pre-certifying compliant products that are debuting at retailers. The full certification program is targeted to launch early January 2014. UL has been selected by the PMA as the lead lab for the PMA certification program. UL Verification Services will work closely with PMA and test equipment manufacturer Averna in the validation of the test tool, training of the other participating labs, and hosting PlugFests.
"As the wireless charging category matures, the need for global interoperability across multiple industries and products is mandatory to ensure accelerated market growth," said Ron Resnick, PMA President. "Consumers want to know that they can power up their devices wherever they go, and that charging their devices works seamlessly wherever they go. It's our job to help ensure that they do. With over 1,500 wireless charging spots already installed in public and retail venues such as Starbucks and McDonalds, the PMA standard is the undisputed paradigm for wireless charging delivery worldwide."
The AT&T mandate for PMA-only supported handsets in their 2014 lineup completes a critical link in the wireless charging ecosystem. To help ensure that equipped devices are fully interoperable with wireless charging spots, UL and the other test labs are working together to deliver a global testing and certification network. This network will support companies wherever they are located who are developing PMA compliant products offering a program to get products testing quickly and efficiently.
"As wireless charging technology becomes ubiquitous it will be critical to have a comprehensive certification program in place to help ensure quick consumer adoption and satisfaction," according to Mike Kuo, General Manager UL Verification Services. Mr. Kuo also stated, "UL Verification Services is looking forward to working with the PMA, their world renowned members, and the outstanding development staff of Averna in providing a world class test and certification program. We are excited to be collaborating with our friends and colleagues at AT4 wireless and TUV Rhineland in helping manufacturers to bring the highest quality products from around the world to the marketplace."
