USB to TTL Adapter FT232RL User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the USB to TTL Adapter FT232RL, a versatile USB to serial converter designed for various communication and programming tasks. Built with the original FTDI IC device 'FT232RL', this adapter efficiently handles all USB signaling and protocols, offering reliable UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter) communication.

It features a convenient physical switch for selecting between 3.3V and 5V power output, and draws power directly from your PC/laptop via the USB connection, eliminating the need for an external power adapter. The board includes LED indicators for power (POW) and data transmission/reception (RXD/TXD) to monitor communication status.

2. Key Features

• Integrated FTDI FT232RL IC: Ensures reliable USB to serial conversion.
• Voltage Select Switch: Easily switch between 3.3V and 5V power output.
• USB Powered: No external power supply required.
• UART Interface: Provides access to Transmit (Tx), Receive (Rx), Request To Send (RTS#), Clear To Send (CTS#), VCC, and Ground (GND) connections.
• LED Indicators: Dedicated LEDs for Power (POW), Receive Data (RXD), and Transmit Data (TXD) for visual status feedback.
• Wide OS Compatibility: Supports Windows (10, 8/8.1, 7, Vista, XP, 98, 98SE, ME, 2000, Server 2003, XP, Server 2008, Server 2012 R2, XP Embedded, CE 4.2/5.0/6.0), Mac OS (8/9, X and above), Linux (2.4 and above), and Android (J2xx). Note: Not compatible with Chrome OS.

3. Specifications

3.1. Dimensions

3.2. Pin Descriptions

The adapter provides a 6-pin header for connecting to your target device. The functions of these pins are detailed below:

4. Setup Guide

1. Connect to PC: Insert the USB-A connector of the FT232RL adapter into an available USB port on your computer. The POW (power) LED on the adapter should illuminate, indicating it is receiving power.
2. Driver Installation: For most modern operating systems (Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS-X, Linux), the necessary FTDI drivers are typically installed automatically upon connection (plug-and-play). If automatic installation fails or for older operating systems, you may need to download and install the official FTDI VCP (Virtual COM Port) drivers from the FTDI website.
3. Select Voltage: Before connecting to your target device, ensure the 3.3V/5V switch on the adapter is set to the correct voltage level required by your device. Incorrect voltage can damage your target device.
4. Connect to Target Device: Wire the appropriate pins (TXD, RXD, GND, VCC, RTS, CTS) from the FT232RL adapter to your target device's serial interface. Ensure that TXD on the adapter connects to RXD on your device, and RXD on the adapter connects to TXD on your device. GND should always be connected.

5. Operating Instructions

1. Identify COM Port: After successful driver installation, your operating system will assign a virtual COM port number to the adapter. You can find this in your device manager (e.g., 'Ports (COM & LPT)' on Windows).
2. Configure Serial Terminal: Use a serial terminal program (e.g., PuTTY, Tera Term, Arduino Serial Monitor) on your computer. Configure the terminal with the correct COM port, baud rate, data bits, parity, and stop bits to match your target device's serial communication settings.
3. Data Transmission: When data is being transmitted from your computer to the target device, the TXD LED on the adapter will flash. When data is being received by your computer from the target device, the RXD LED will flash.
4. Handshaking (Optional): If your application requires hardware flow control, connect the RTS and CTS pins and enable flow control in your serial terminal software.

6. Common Applications

The USB to TTL Adapter FT232RL is suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

• USB to RS232/RS422/RS485 converters
• Support for EEPROM programming
• Vendor ID re-write and Mprog3.5 applications
• Unbricking routers and flashing firmware on hard drives
• Interfacing with GPS modules
• MCU (Microcontroller Unit) program downloading
• Updating transmitter firmware
• Development projects with microcontrollers or other programmable devices
• Upgrading set-top box systems
• General serial debugging and communication

7. Maintenance

• Storage: Store the adapter in a dry, cool environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the adapter to physical shock. Handle by the edges to prevent damage to components.
• Cleaning: If necessary, gently clean the board with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.
• Static Discharge: Take precautions against electrostatic discharge (ESD) when handling the adapter, especially when connecting or disconnecting wires.

8. Troubleshooting

Problem: POW LED does not light up.

Solution: Ensure the adapter is securely plugged into a functional USB port on your computer. Try a different USB port or computer.

Problem: RXD/TXD LEDs do not flash during communication.

Solution:

1. Verify that the TXD and RXD lines are correctly cross-connected between the adapter and your target device (adapter TXD to device RXD, adapter RXD to device TXD).
2. Check that the GND connections are established.
3. Confirm that the baud rate, data bits, parity, and stop bits settings in your serial terminal software match those of your target device.
4. Ensure the target device is powered on and functioning correctly.

Problem: Device not recognized or driver error.

Solution:

1. Disconnect and reconnect the adapter.
2. Check Device Manager (Windows) or equivalent system information (Mac/Linux) to see if the device appears.
3. If drivers were not automatically installed, download and manually install the latest FTDI VCP drivers from the official FTDI website.
4. Ensure your operating system is compatible (refer to Section 2, Key Features).

Problem: Communication errors or garbled data.

Solution:

1. Double-check all wiring connections for looseness or errors.
2. Verify that the baud rate and other serial settings are identical on both the computer and the target device.
3. Ensure the 3.3V/5V switch is set to the correct voltage for your target device.
4. Check for electrical noise or interference in the environment.

9. User Tips

• Always verify the voltage setting (3.3V or 5V) before connecting to a new device to prevent damage.
• When troubleshooting communication issues, start by checking the GND connection, as it is crucial for stable serial communication.
• For driver issues, searching for "FTDI VCP drivers" on the official FTDI website is usually the most reliable way to get the correct and latest drivers.

10. Warranty and Support

This product is typically covered by a standard manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. For specific warranty details, please refer to the product packaging or contact your retailer. Technical support may be available through the seller or the FTDI website for driver-related issues.