How to Use FT232RL Module: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The FT232RL is a USB to serial UART interface module based on the FT232RL chip from FTDI. It is designed to provide seamless communication between a USB port and serial devices, such as microcontrollers, sensors, and other embedded systems. The module is widely used in electronics projects to enable USB connectivity for devices that lack native USB support.

• Programming and debugging microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, ESP8266, ESP32)
• USB-to-TTL serial communication for embedded systems
• Interfacing with sensors and modules that use UART communication
• Data logging and serial communication with PCs
• Prototyping and testing serial devices

The FT232RL module is a versatile and reliable component with the following key specifications:

The FT232RL module typically includes a 6-pin header for serial communication and power. Below is the pinout:

1. Connect the Module to Your Device:

   • Connect the TXD pin of the FT232RL module to the RX pin of your device.
   • Connect the RXD pin of the FT232RL module to the TX pin of your device.
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.
   • Provide power to the module via the VCC pin (3.3V or 5V, depending on your device).

2. Install Drivers:

   • Download and install the FTDI drivers from the official FTDI website (https://ftdichip.com/).
   • Ensure the drivers are properly installed on your operating system.

3. Connect to a PC:

   • Use a USB cable to connect the FT232RL module to your computer.
   • The module should appear as a virtual COM port in your system's device manager.

4. Test Communication:

   • Use a serial terminal program (e.g., PuTTY, Tera Term, or Arduino Serial Monitor) to test communication.
   • Set the baud rate and other serial parameters to match your device's configuration.

• Voltage Selection: Ensure the module's voltage level (3.3V or 5V) matches your device's requirements. Incorrect voltage levels can damage your device.
• Cross-Check Connections: Always double-check the TXD and RXD connections to avoid communication issues.
• Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed the module's current rating. If powering external devices, ensure the total current draw is within safe limits.
• Use DTR for Auto-Reset: When programming microcontrollers like Arduino, connect the DTR pin to the reset pin of the microcontroller via a 0.1 µF capacitor for automatic reset during uploads.

Below is an example of how to use the FT232RL module to upload code to an Arduino UNO:

1. Connect the FT232RL module to the Arduino UNO as follows:

   • TXD → RX (Pin 0 on Arduino)
   • RXD → TX (Pin 1 on Arduino)
   • GND → GND
   • DTR → RESET (via a 0.1 µF capacitor)

2. Open the Arduino IDE and select the correct COM port.

3. Upload the following code to test serial communication:

   // Simple echo program for testing FT232RL communication
   void setup() {
     Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud
     Serial.println("FT232RL Test: Ready to echo data!");
   }
   
   void loop() {
     if (Serial.available()) { // Check if data is available to read
       char received = Serial.read(); // Read the incoming byte
       Serial.print("Echo: "); // Print "Echo:" before the received data
       Serial.println(received); // Echo the received byte back to the sender
     }
   }
   

4. Open the Serial Monitor in the Arduino IDE, set the baud rate to 9600, and test the communication by typing characters.

1. FT232RL Module Not Detected by PC:

   • Ensure the USB cable is functional and properly connected.
   • Verify that the FTDI drivers are installed correctly.
   • Try a different USB port or cable.

2. No Data Transmission:

   • Check the TXD and RXD connections. Ensure they are not swapped.
   • Verify that the baud rate and serial settings match between the module and the device.

3. Device Not Resetting During Upload:

   • Ensure the DTR pin is connected to the reset pin of the microcontroller via a 0.1 µF capacitor.
   • Check for loose connections or damaged components.

4. Overheating or Power Issues:

   • Confirm that the module's voltage level matches your device's requirements.
   • Avoid powering high-current devices directly from the module.

Q: Can the FT232RL module be used with 3.3V devices?
A: Yes, the module supports both 3.3V and 5V logic levels. Use the onboard jumper to select the appropriate voltage.

Q: Is the FT232RL module compatible with macOS and Linux?
A: Yes, the module is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. Ensure the appropriate drivers are installed.

Q: Can I use the FT232RL module for SPI or I2C communication?
A: No, the FT232RL module is designed for UART (serial) communication only. For SPI or I2C, consider using other interface modules.

Q: How do I identify the correct COM port for the module?
A: After connecting the module to your PC, check the device manager (Windows) or use the ls /dev/tty* command (Linux/macOS) to find the assigned COM port.

By following this documentation, you can effectively use the FT232RL module in your projects and troubleshoot common issues with ease.