AMD to offer USB 3.1 controller under its own brand

At present, only MicroStar International offers platforms for AMD processors with USB 3.1 type-A connectors. By contrast, virtually all leading makers of motherboards now sell mainboards for current-generation Intel processors with the new bus. Apparently, Advanced Micro Devices wants to change that.

In a bid to catch up with Intel Corp. when it comes to platform features, Advanced Micro Devices plans to offer its partners a USB 3.1 controller to install it on mainboards designed for its processors. While the chip will carry AMD brand, it will be a rebadged version of Asmedia’s USB 3.1 controller that has been available for some time.

AMD intends to sell its partners its AMDUA3102A USB 3.1 controller along with its chipsets, reports BenchLife. The chip is a rebadged version of Asmedia’s ASM1142 host controller used by numerous makers of mainboards. The solution will cost $4 per unit and all volume discounts for AMD’s partners will apply.

Selling Asmedia’s controller will likely help AMD to slightly increase its revenues.

Intel recently introduced its code-named “Alpine Ridge” controller that enables USB 3.1 and Thunderbolt 3 interfaces.

AMD did not comment on the news-story.

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KitGuru Says: Last year AMD reportedly signed an agreement with Asmedia over development of core-logic sets. Apparently, for now AMD will only offer rebranded chips by Asmedia, not exclusive chipsets developed for Advanced Micro Devices.

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