Explore the New UL Standard for ICT Power Cables

The first edition of ANSI/UL 9990, the Standard for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Power Cables, was published on July 31, 2023, after reaching a consensus from the UL 9990 Standard Technical Committee (TC). This first edition was approved as the American national standard for ICT power cable assemblies.

UL 9990 established the technical requirements for evaluating potential hazards of ICT cable assemblies when used for powering or charging audio/video, information and communication technology equipment applications. These cables offer a more convenient and simpler device connection, as they allow data sync charging cables to transmit data and power simultaneously over the same cable. However, as the electrical power level carried by ICT power cable assemblies continues to increase, potential safety hazards also increase. These hazards need to be considered in cable design and material selection.

The USB Power Delivery (PD) Extended Power Range (EPR) specification was released in 2021 that permits power delivery up to 240 watts through a USB Type-C^® cable assembly. This higher power presents an increased public safety concern and fire risk not previously present in lower power cable assemblies.

ICT cable assemblies certified to ANSI/UL 9990 can bear the UL Mark on product packaging, which increases consumer confidence and allows them to identify UL Certified ICT power cable assemblies.

Refer to the ANSI/UL 9990 Standard for more details on the scope, construction, test and marking requirements. Contact UL Solutions with any questions related to ANSI/UL 9990 or requests for safety testing or certification.