FTDI
USB-UART, USB-serial interface ICs and communication controllers
About the manufacturer
FTDI - Future Technology Devices International - is a UK semiconductor company best known for integrated circuits that simplify USB connectivity in embedded systems. The manufacturer became widely recognized for USB-to-UART bridge devices that allow microcontrollers, modules and industrial electronics with serial interfaces to communicate directly with a PC or other USB host.
Its portfolio extends beyond basic UART bridges to multi-protocol USB interface devices and communication controllers supporting different channel counts and embedded interface options. By handling USB protocol functions inside the bridge IC, FTDI devices reduce the firmware burden on the target processor and allow designers to add a stable computer interface without implementing a complete USB device stack in the main application.
FTDI components are used in finished products as well as in development, production and service environments. Typical applications include programming interfaces, factory diagnostics, USB-to-serial adapters, industrial controllers and laboratory equipment. Selection should take account of USB speed and device class, required serial standard, channel count, I/O voltage, configuration options, package and driver support for the target operating system.
Applications
FTDI devices are used wherever a computer or USB host needs to communicate with electronics equipped with a serial interface.
- USB-UART converters.
- service and diagnostic interfaces.
- programmers and development tools.
- industrial automation and controllers.
- embedded devices with USB connectivity.
- Manufacturing test – USB access to factory diagnostics and configuration ports.
- Development boards – convenient PC connection to UART-based microcontrollers and modules.
FTDI products available from Maritex
The FTDI range available from Maritex includes widely used USB-UART interface ICs. The catalogue includes the FT230XS-R, FT231XS-R, FT232RL and FT232RNL-REEL for implementing USB-to-serial connections.
Available product groups include:
- USB-to-UART bridge ICs.
- USB-to-multi-protocol and serial-interface devices.
- USB-UART bridges.
- USB-serial interface ICs.
- devices for RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 connectivity.
- components for service and development interfaces.
Selection should consider the supported standard, channel count, data rate, I/O voltage, package and driver availability for the target operating system.
