Multi-Chip Solution for Developing USB-to-RS232 Systems

The USB-DUO solution is comprised of FTDI’s FT231XS USB bridge controller IC and FT3243S RS232 transceiver IC, benefiting from the feature-rich composition of the two ICs. The FT231XS provides the USB-to-UART conversion operation while the FT3243S transceiver provides the digital-to-RS232 conversion, translating the 3.3 V level UART signal from the FT231XS to RS232 voltage levels.

Handling storage of USB configuration data, the FT231XS’s internal EEPROM memory allows for customising of the device descriptors to match an OEM’s particular description preference. System timing is provided by an internal phased-locked-loop. The FT3243S transceiver has a built-in transient voltage suppressor, complying with the EN6100-4-2 standard of ±15 kV for air gap discharge. Therefore, additional electro-static discharge protection circuitry is unnecessary. With a minimal number of external components being required, OEMs can reduce both the bill of materials and the PCB area required to implement their complete system design.

Drawing just 9 mA when it is active, the USB-DUO solution exhibits very low overall power consumption of just 135 µA while its FT231XS X-Chip element is in suspend mode. Suitable for use in demanding industrial settings, the USB-DUO solution is capable of supporting an operational temperature range covering -40 °C to 85 °C.

“By combining two of our interface chips into one highly integrated product we can offer the industry a solution that is optimised for space constrained and cost-sensitive designs. This will allow engineers to bring the convenience of USB connectivity to legacy systems,” commented Fred Dart, CEO and founder of FTDI Chip.

Pricing for the USB-DUO solution is US $1.98 in quantities of 10,000 units.