Asustek Computer will take the initiative to launch motherboard with support for USB 3.1 at the end of February, according to Taiwan-based supply chain makers.
Asustek will adopt USB 3.1 chips developed by its subsidiary ASMedia Technology, the sources said. However, ASMedia has not yet obtained USB-IF (USB Implementers Forum) certification for its USB 3.1 chip solutions because the organization has been slow in specifying testing standards, the sources indicated. Therefore, Asustek's launch will run with considerable marketing risks, the sources noted.
Among Taiwan-based IC design houses, ASMedia and VIA Labs have led in developing USB 3.1 chip solutions, the sources indicated. USB 3.1 can reach a data transfer speed of 10Gbps, double the level for USB 3.0.
Gigabyte Technology, Asustek's major competitor, estimates demand for USB 3.1 devices to take off in the second half of 2015 and will possibly launch USB 3.1-ready motherboards as early as June after ASMedia and VIA Labs obtain USB-IF certification, the sources indicated.
Article translated by Adam Hwang
