USB to TTL Serial Cable, FTDI FT232RL, 3.3 V/5 V

This cable gives a computer a TTL serial port over USB. The FT232RL chip inside handles the USB protocol, so the other end presents plain Tx, Rx, RTS, CTS, VCC and GND pins that can be wired straight to a microcontroller’s UART or I/O pins.

It offers both 3.3 V and 5 V output, which means the same cable works with a modern 3.3 V board and a legacy 5 V one, and it can power a small external circuit from the USB port at the same time.

Key features

• FTDI FT232RL single-chip USB-to-serial converter
• Six-way output: Tx, Rx, RTS#, CTS#, VCC and GND
• 3.3 V or 5 V output, switchable
• Entire USB protocol handled inside the cable
• 1.8 m (6 ft) lead, USB 2.0 full speed

Specifications

Typical applications

• Programming and debugging microcontroller boards
• Serial consoles for routers, switches and embedded Linux boards
• Connecting sensors and modules to a PC for data logging
• Powering a small 3.3 V or 5 V circuit from USB

Custom and OEM options

Cable length, end connector (bare pins, header socket or audio jack), logic voltage and jacket colour can all be set to your design. Standard items start from 100 pcs and custom builds from 500 pcs, with free samples and mass production in 20–25 working days.

FAQ

Do I need to install a driver?
Most operating systems recognise the FTDI chip automatically. If not, the FTDI VCP driver installs in a minute.

Can it power my board?
Yes, the VCC pin can supply a small current at 3.3 V or 5 V — enough for a microcontroller board, not for a motor or a high-power peripheral.

Samples, packing options, payment terms and warranty conditions are set out in How to Order and Delivery Information.