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VIA Labs Launches Industrial-Grade USB Hub Controllers

In a significant development for industrial connectivity, VIA Labs, Inc. (VLI), a well-respected leader in USB technology, has announced its new line of industrial-grade USB hub controllers, designated as VL122 and VL123. This strategic move marks the company's foray into industrial-grade applications, enhancing its offerings in the connectivity space.

Scheduled for display at CES 2026 from January 6-9 at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, these controllers are highlighted for their robustness and reliability in demanding environments. The VL122 has been meticulously engineered to function optimally in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C, making it an ideal choice for various embedded systems, servers, industrial PCs, and smart retail terminals.

Product Details and Specifications

The VL122 controller is a 4-port USB 2.0 hub that meets the most recent USB 2.0 specifications revised as of June 2025. The compact QFN28 5×5 mm package houses a 5V-to-3.3V linear regulator and allows flexible configuration management through SMBus or EEPROM. This feature enables users to customize parameters such as VID/PID and electrical settings for each USB port. What sets VL122 apart is its industry-leading low-power performance, for which it has received the USB-IF USB 2.0 Hub certification (TID# 14201).

The VL122 will be available in both commercial and industrial grades, offering unique serialization options for those manufacturers who prioritize supply chain traceability and accountability.

On the other hand, the VL123 is an upcoming addition that promises to further enhance USB connectivity solutions. It features a Multiple Transaction Translator (MTT) architecture that boosts throughput for multiple USB full-speed devices operating simultaneously. The architecture allows the VL123 to maintain the same flexible configuration scheme as the VL122 via SMBus or EEPROM and is designed to be pin-compatible with its predecessor.

Commitment to Quality and Reliability

Tony Ho, Senior Director of Product and Manufacturing Engineering at VLI, emphasized the rigorous reliability standards that govern the development of these industrial controllers. According to Ho, VLI has developed a comprehensive product reliability verification process that spans from product specification through to quality-driven layout implementation. The critical design intellectual property (IP) and full-chip system validation adhere to international environmental stress testing standards.

VLI has also established an in-house product verification laboratory that utilizes high-coverage self-debug test vectors along with specialized equipment to determine the operational limits and tolerances of the devices under test. This commitment ensures that the controllers yield the lowest Defective Parts Per Million (DPPM) in customer applications.

Market Impact and Future Prospects

As VLI expands into the industrial-grade sector, the introduction of these USB hub controllers not only showcases their technical advancements but also demonstrates their long-term commitment to providing high-reliability designs. With an ever-growing demand for high-performance, reliable connectivity solutions in industrial applications, the VL122 and VL123 controllers are poised to be game-changers.

For potential customers interested in these groundbreaking controllers, VLI encourages inquiries through their local sales representatives or at their event booth during CES 2026. More information can also be accessed via their official website.

By entering the industrial-grade segment, VIA Labs is strategically positioning itself to cater to a larger range of customer needs, ultimately aiming to enhance operational efficiencies across various sectors requiring robust connectivity solutions.