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

The FT232RL is a USB to serial UART interface module, designed to bridge communication between a USB port and serial devices. It is based on the FT232RL chip from FTDI, which is widely recognized for its reliability and ease of use. This module is commonly used in microcontroller projects, such as Arduino-based systems, to enable USB connectivity for programming, debugging, or data transfer.

• Programming microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, ESP8266, ESP32)
• Debugging serial communication in embedded systems
• USB-to-TTL conversion for legacy serial devices
• Data logging and communication with sensors or other peripherals
• Prototyping and testing serial communication protocols

The FT232RL module has the following key technical details:

The FT232RL module typically includes the following pins:

1. Connect the Module to Your Device:

   • Connect the TXD pin of the FT232RL module to the RX pin of your microcontroller or serial device.
   • Connect the RXD pin of the FT232RL module to the TX pin of your microcontroller or serial device.
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.
   • If your device requires power, connect the VCC pin to the appropriate voltage (3.3V or 5V).

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 USB Port:

   • Plug the FT232RL module into a USB port on your computer using a USB cable.
   • Verify that the module is recognized as a COM port in your operating system.

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 voltage jumper is set correctly (3.3V or 5V) to match your device's requirements.
• Avoid Overloading: Do not draw excessive current from the VCC or 3V3 pins, as the module is USB-powered.
• Static Protection: Handle the module carefully to avoid damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD).
• Auto-Reset Feature: If programming an Arduino, connect the DTR pin to the RESET pin of the Arduino through a 0.1 µF capacitor to enable auto-reset functionality.

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 for the FT232RL module.

3. Upload your sketch to the Arduino UNO.

// Example Arduino Sketch: Blink an LED
// This sketch blinks the built-in LED on pin 13 of the Arduino UNO.

void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Set pin 13 as an output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(13, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
}

1. Module Not Recognized by Computer:

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

2. No Communication with Device:

   • Double-check the TXD and RXD connections (they must be crossed: TXD to RX, RXD to TX).
   • Ensure the baud rate and serial settings match the device's configuration.

3. Device Not Powering On:

   • Verify the voltage jumper setting (3.3V or 5V) matches your device's requirements.
   • Check the USB port for sufficient power output.

4. Auto-Reset Not Working:

   • Ensure the DTR pin is connected to the RESET pin of the microcontroller via a 0.1 µF capacitor.

Q: Can the FT232RL module be used with 1.8V logic devices?
A: No, the FT232RL module supports 3.3V and 5V logic levels only. For 1.8V devices, a level shifter is required.

Q: How do I check the COM port assigned to the FT232RL module?
A: On Windows, open "Device Manager" and look under "Ports (COM & LPT)". On macOS or Linux, use the ls /dev/tty* command to find the device.

Q: Is the FT232RL module compatible with all operating systems?
A: Yes, the module is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, provided 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 dedicated modules or chips.

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