Overview
IEC 63563-7:2025 - Qi Specification version 2.0, Part 7: Foreign Object Detection (FOD) - defines methods to ensure wireless power transfer proceeds without heating metal objects in the magnetic field of a Power Transmitter. Published by IEC and based on the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) Qi Specification v2.0, this standard describes optional and mandatory-convention methods for detecting foreign objects; some methods require assistance from the Power Receiver.
Keywords: IEC 63563-7:2025, Qi Specification v2.0, Foreign Object Detection, FOD, wireless power, wireless charging.
Key technical topics and requirements
- Scope and compliance model:
- The specification is part of the Qi family and follows IEC/ISO directive conventions. Provisions use standard verbal forms (e.g., shall, should, may) for requirements and recommendations.
- FOD method families covered:
- Pre-power transfer FOD methods: tests performed before power delivery begins, such as the empty surface test and resonance change detection.
- In-power transfer FOD methods: continuous or calibrated monitoring during power transfer, including basic power loss accounting and calibrated power loss accounting.
- Representative and test methods:
- The document identifies representative foreign objects and prescribes approaches for determining reference FOD values (normative Annex A).
- An informative Open-air Q test (Annex B) explains measuring the quality factor (Q), Q-deflection, threshold selection, temperature compensation, and practical test flow for assessing FOD sensitivity.
- Implementation notes:
- Methods are optional for transmitters; some require receiver cooperation for measurement or calibration.
- The standard emphasizes correct application of referenced documents and that numeric values have no implied tolerances unless specified.
Practical applications
- Ensures safety and performance for wireless charging pads, smartphone chargers, in-vehicle wireless power modules, and other flat-surface wireless power products (Baseline and Extended Power Profiles).
- Prevents heating of metal objects (coins, keys, tools) on or near transmitters by detecting and reacting to foreign-object conditions.
- Supports design choices for transmitter control logic, FOD algorithms, and test procedures used during product development and certification.
Who should use this standard
- Product designers and hardware engineers for wireless power transmitters and receivers
- Test engineers and compliance laboratories performing FOD testing
- Safety and certification teams validating wireless chargers against Qi/FOD requirements
- Manufacturers implementing Qi Specification v2.0 features (power delivery, communications, thermal/mechanical integration)
Related standards
- Other Qi specification parts in the WPC suite: Mechanical, Thermal & User Interface; Power Delivery; Communications Physical Layer & Protocol; NFC Tag Protection; Authentication Protocol - all relevant when implementing a full wireless charging solution.