DB9 USB to Digital Modules Introduced by FTDI

These modules all utilise FTDI’s FT232R USB to serial UART bridge chip, which is capable of supporting data rates of 12 Mbits/s (USB Full Speed). They allow for the quick and easy upgrading of pieces of hardware to today’s most widely used serial interface standard in a highly convenient and cost effective manner. Drivers for the modules are available to download direct from the FTDI website.

“These simple but ingenious active connectors contain all the necessary USB/digital level conversion electronics while fitting directly into the same board space and having an identical profile to a standard DB9 connector,” states Fred Dart, Managing Director of FTDI. “This means manufacturers and systems integrators can carry out the adaptation of older designs to USB, thereby realising the major benefits offered by modern interfacing, without needing to allocate a large proportion of their engineering resources or committing to heavy financial outlay.”

Supplied in a compact 30.8 mm x 19.8 mm x 11.5 mm package, each of the modules uses a standard USB mini-B connector. They have an operational temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C, permitting them to be specified for heavy duty industrial applications.