DTECH USB to TTL Serial 5V Adapter Cable (Model DT-6555) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The DTECH USB to TTL Serial 5V Adapter Cable is designed for reliable serial communication between your computer and devices requiring 5V logic levels. Featuring a genuine FTDI FT232RL chip, this 6-foot cable provides a stable and efficient solution for various applications, including debugging, boot-loading, and programming microcontrollers or other embedded systems.

The cable converts USB 2.0 signals to 5V TTL serial signals, offering access to standard UART pins: VCC (5V), GND, TXD, RXD, RTS, and CTS. It is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, ensuring broad usability for professionals and hobbyists alike.

Image 1: DTECH USB to TTL Serial 5V Adapter Cable with supported operating systems (Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android).

2. Setup and Driver Installation

Before connecting the cable to your target device, ensure the necessary drivers are installed on your computer. The DTECH USB to TTL Serial Adapter Cable utilizes an FTDI FT232RL chip, which often has drivers automatically installed by modern operating systems. If automatic installation does not occur, or if you encounter issues, manual driver installation may be required.

2.1 Driver Installation

1. Automatic Installation: For most recent versions of Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, connecting the cable to a USB port will prompt the operating system to automatically detect and install the appropriate FTDI VCP (Virtual COM Port) drivers.
2. Manual Installation: If drivers are not installed automatically, or if you require specific D2XX drivers, please visit the official FTDI website for the latest drivers and installation guides. A general resource for installation guides can be found at: ftdichip.com/Support/Documents/InstallGuides.htm. Follow the instructions provided on the FTDI website for your specific operating system.

2.2 Connecting the Cable

The cable features a USB Type-A connector for your computer and a 6-pin 0.1-inch pitch female socket header for your target device. Ensure correct pin alignment before connecting to avoid damage.

Image 2: Pinout diagram for the 6-pin female socket header.

The pinout for the 6-pin female socket header is as follows:

Connect the USB-A end of the cable to an available USB port on your computer. Then, connect the 6-pin header to the corresponding pins on your target device, ensuring the pinout matches correctly.

3. Operating Instructions

Once the drivers are installed and the cable is physically connected, your computer will recognize the adapter as a Virtual COM Port (VCP). You can then use any serial terminal program or development environment (e.g., Arduino IDE, PuTTY, Tera Term) to communicate with your target device.

3.1 Basic Operation

1. Identify COM Port: Open your computer's Device Manager (Windows) or check /dev/ttyUSBx (Linux) or /dev/cu.usbserial-xxxx (Mac OS) to identify the assigned COM port number for the FTDI USB Serial Port.
2. Configure Serial Terminal: In your serial terminal software, select the identified COM port and configure the serial parameters (baud rate, data bits, stop bits, parity, flow control) to match those of your target device. The cable supports data transfer rates from 300 baud to 3M baud.
3. Communicate: You can now send and receive data between your computer and the connected device. The I/O pins operate at a 5.0V logic level.

3.2 Advanced Features

• Handshaking: Supports fully assisted hardware (RTS#/CTS#) or X-On / X-Off software handshaking.
• UART Interface: Supports 7 or 8 data bits, 1 or 2 stop bits, and odd / even / mark / space / no parity.
• EEPROM: The FTDI chipset includes an internal EEPROM with a user-writable area, allowing for configuration of parameters such as Vendor ID (VID), Product ID (PID), and inversion of UART signals.

4. Maintenance

The DTECH USB to TTL Serial Adapter Cable is designed for durability and requires minimal maintenance. To ensure its longevity and proper function:

• Storage: Store the cable in a dry environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handling: Avoid excessive bending or pulling on the cable, especially near the connectors, to prevent internal wire damage.
• Cleaning: If necessary, gently wipe the cable and connectors with a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while using your DTECH USB to TTL Serial Adapter Cable, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Driver Not Recognized:
  • Verify that the FTDI drivers are correctly installed for your operating system. Refer to Section 2.1 for driver installation instructions.
  • Try connecting the cable to a different USB port on your computer.
  • Restart your computer after driver installation.
• No Communication with Device:
  • Double-check the pinout connections between the cable and your target device. Ensure TXD is connected to RXD, RXD to TXD, and GND to GND.
  • Confirm that the serial parameters (baud rate, data bits, stop bits, parity) in your serial terminal software match those of your target device.
  • Ensure the target device is powered on and functioning correctly.
  • Verify that the correct COM port is selected in your serial terminal software.
• Intermittent Connection:
  • Ensure all connections are secure and free from loose contacts.
  • Avoid placing the cable near sources of strong electromagnetic interference.

For further assistance with driver or usage issues, please refer to the official FTDI website or contact DTECH customer support.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty Information

This DTECH USB to TTL Serial 5V Adapter Cable (Model DT-6555) comes with a 1-Year Limited Warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and material faults under normal use. It does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized modifications, or improper installation.

For warranty claims or further details, please retain your proof of purchase and contact DTECH customer support.

8. Support

For technical support, driver downloads, or detailed usage guides, please refer to the official FTDI website: www.ftdichip.com.

If you require further assistance or have questions regarding your DTECH product, please contact the manufacturer directly through their official support channels.