USB to RS232 chips


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  1. #1
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    Default USB to RS232 chips

    Anybody have any experience with the FT232R USB-RS232 interface chip? or simular? I am looking at it as a built in solution for not using USB in my project.
    -Bert

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    http://foamcasualty.com/ - Warbird R/C scratch building with foam!

  2. #2
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    check out the latest Microchip solutions, they have something similar if not better. MCP2200
    Steve

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    There's no problem, only learning opportunities.

  3. #3
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    FTDI has been doing this for years and most Operating Systems support it. It's even built-in to the Linux kernel.

    I've used FTDI http://www.ftdichip.com/FTDrivers.htm and Silicon Labs chips http://www.silabs.com/Pages/default.aspx but it really depends on your aims. If you want to build it into a product for distribution, I would go with FTDI because of the wide support. If you're only interested in one-off for your own use, I would just use this...
    Last edited by dhouston; - 24th January 2011 at 03:39.

  4. #4
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    Thanks guys. The FTDI seems like the most cost effective solution. No externals, Great driver support. I am not sure, will I still need a max chip or will this replace it?
    -Bert

    The glass is not half full or half empty, Its twice as big as needed for the job!

    http://foamcasualty.com/ - Warbird R/C scratch building with foam!

  5. #5
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    MCP2200 only support 8N1, so be careful...
    I'm using PL2303.
    You need MAX232 or similar level converter.

  6. #6
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    Quote Originally Posted by cncmachineguy View Post
    I am not sure, will I still need a max chip or will this replace it?
    I assume you want to interface with a PIC via serial and to a PC via USB. I cannot think of any situation where you need a MAX232. FTDI usually gives you numerous schematics covering several scenarios. They should answer any further questions for you. The datasheet says (p1)
    • Integrated +3.3V level converter for USB I/O.
      Integrated level converter on UART and CBUS for interfacing to between +1.8V and +5V logic.

    The PL2303 http://www.prolific.com.tw/eng/Products.asp?ID=59 recommended by pedja089 is probably a viable choice as well. I've never used it at the chip level so did not include it but a Prolific chip (probably the PL2303) is used in the dongle type adapter I referenced. I have used it under Windows, Linux & OSX.
    Last edited by dhouston; - 24th January 2011 at 13:22.

  7. #7
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    Thanks Dave, Somehow I saw -1.8 instead of +1.8. Hmmm must get eyes checked.

    Ok, Thanks for all the help guys, still not sure which way I want to go but at least I know more now.
    -Bert

    The glass is not half full or half empty, Its twice as big as needed for the job!

    http://foamcasualty.com/ - Warbird R/C scratch building with foam!

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