The Combined Charging System (CCS) is an electric-vehicle charging system that brings AC and DC charging together through a vehicle inlet, charging equipment, control functions, and communication between the vehicle and charger. It is more than a plug: the term also covers how charging is controlled and how the two sides communicate.
What does CCS mean in EV charging?
CCS stands for Combined Charging System. CharIN describes it as an integrated solution for AC and DC charging. In CharIN’s 2023 guide, “Within CCS Basic, conductive AC and DC charging is combined in a single vehicle inlet.” The guide is an overview, not a substitute for applicable standards.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Why CCS is more than a connector
A CCS implementation includes the vehicle inlet and connector interface, charging control, and communication between the vehicle and charging infrastructure. The inlet provides the physical connection, while signaling and communication support the charging process. CharIN’s CCS FAQ explains the system at a high level and notes that its answers are not legally binding or a replacement for standards.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
How CCS connector variants differ by region
CCS extends an AC connector interface with two additional contacts for DC charging in the combined vehicle inlet. CharIN’s guide gives these regional examples:
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Regional example | AC interface | DC interface |
|---|---|---|
| United States framing | Type 1 | Combo 1 |
| European framing | Type 2 | Combo 2 |
These are examples, not a guarantee that a vehicle or charger will work together. Check the actual vehicle inlet, the charging functions it supports, and the charging equipment configuration. Connector shape alone does not establish compatibility.
How AC and DC charging fit into the system
In the combined inlet, AC and DC charging use different contact arrangements and control considerations. The CCS Basic guide identifies AC connection configurations and a separate pair of DC contacts. It describes basic signaling using PWM and high-level communication using power-line communication (PLC) for DC charging. The physical presence of contacts does not, by itself, establish the charging capability or performance of a particular vehicle or charger.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Which standards define CCS-related requirements?
CCS sits within a broader standards framework. CharIN references standards for charging equipment, connector interfaces, and vehicle-to-charger communication. The relevant specification depends on the function being addressed:
- IEC 61851: charging equipment and related requirements. The IEC catalog says IEC 61851-1:2017 covers EV supply equipment characteristics, connection to the vehicle, and electrical safety; that edition includes requirements for combined AC and DC use on the same contacts.
- IEC 62196: connector interfaces, as referenced in CharIN’s standards overview.
- ISO/IEC 15118 and DIN SPEC 70121: communication standards referenced by CharIN for CCS.
- IEC 61851-24:2023: digital communication between DC charging equipment and an electric road vehicle to control conductive DC power transfer, as described in the IEC catalog.
CharIN’s 2023 CCS Basic guide is version 1.1.1.1, dated 2023-10-10, and expressly says complete requirements must be taken from the relevant national and international standards. For engineering or compliance work, consult the applicable current standards rather than relying on an overview.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How to check whether a CCS charger fits a vehicle
Use the vehicle and charging-equipment documentation rather than the CCS label alone. Check the inlet type and region, whether the vehicle supports AC charging, DC charging, or both through that inlet, and whether the charger’s configuration and communication are supported by the vehicle. For a specific compatibility decision, use the vehicle and equipment manufacturers’ documentation; the standards determine requirements but do not establish fit for every product combination.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
