Waveshare FT232RL USB to TTL/UART Serial Converter Module (Micro USB Interface)

SKU: FA2047
Main Chipset

Original FTDI FT232RL
USB Interface

Micro USB (Type-B)
Logic Levels

3.3V or 5V (User Selectable)
Baud Rate Range

300 bps to 3 Mbps
Output Power

3.3V (approx. 50mA) / 5V (USB limited)
Supported OS

Windows 11/10/8/7, macOS, Linux, Android
Communication Mode

Full-Duplex UART
Dimensions

36mm x 19mm
Product Description
The Waveshare FT232RL USB to UART Module is a high-performance, industrial-grade serial bridge designed for mission-critical data transmission. Built around the world-renowned original FTDI FT232RL chipset, this module provides a rock-solid connection between a computer’s USB port and any TTL-level serial device. Unlike budget alternatives, Waveshare’s implementation ensures bit-perfect data integrity and maximum driver stability across all major operating systems.
Designed for professional versatility, the module features an onboard toggle for switching between 3.3V and 5V logic levels—essential for protecting sensitive modern microcontrollers like the ESP32 or STM32. Its compact form factor utilizes a Micro USB interface, making it compatible with the standard cables already found in most laboratories. Whether you are performing high-speed firmware flashing, long-term industrial data logging, or real-time hardware debugging, this FT232RL module delivers the “gold standard” in USB-to-Serial connectivity.
Key Features
  • Genuine FTDI FT232RL Core: Industry-leading stability with official driver support integrated into Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Dual-Voltage Versatility: Integrated jumper/switch allows for instant selection between 3.3V and 5V VCC and logic levels.
  • Triple LED Status Indicators: Features high-visibility LEDs for Power (PWR), Transmit (TXD), and Receive (RXD) for real-time diagnostic feedback.
  • Universal Micro USB Port: Convenient connectivity using standard Micro USB cables—no specialized adapters required.
  • Full Signal Breakout: Provides all essential pins (VCC, GND, TXD, RXD, RTS, and CTS) for comprehensive hardware flow control and serial communication.
  • Industrial Protection: High-quality PCB design with gold-plated finish for superior solderability and corrosion resistance in harsh environments.
Usage & Applications
  • Microcontroller Programming: The professional choice for uploading code to Arduino Pro Mini, ESP8266, and industrial ARM-based boards.
  • Firmware Recovery (Flashing): Accessing the serial console of routers, switches, and hard drive controllers for low-level repair and “unbricking.”
  • Industrial Automation: Interfacing PC-based SCADA systems with TTL-level industrial sensors (GPS, Flow Meters, LiDAR).
  • IoT Development: A reliable bridge for configuring LoRa, Bluetooth, and WiFi modules during the prototyping and production phases.
  • Lab Prototyping: A stable USB-to-UART bridge for testing new serial protocols and hardware communication links
Q: Why should I choose this over a cheaper CH340 or CP2102 module?

The FTDI FT232RL is widely considered the most reliable serial chip in the industry. It offers the best driver stability (drivers are often pre-installed in Windows) and handles high-speed, continuous data streams with significantly fewer errors than budget alternatives

Q: Do I need to move the jumper for my project?

Yes. If you are working with 3.3V devices (like ESP32 or Raspberry Pi), ensure the jumper is set to 3.3V. For standard 5V Arduino-based projects, use the 5V setting. Sending 5V logic to a 3.3V device can cause permanent damage

Q: Does this module support "Auto-Reset" for Arduino?

Yes. This module breaks out the RTS and CTS pins. While the standard 6-pin layout is used for most programming, these pins can be used for hardware flow control or manually triggering resets in custom circuits

Q: Where can I find the drivers?

Most modern operating systems download the drivers automatically. If not, the latest official drivers are always available directly from the FTDI Chip website.

Q: Can this module power my external circuit?

It can provide 5V or 3.3V. However, the 3.3V output comes from the FTDI chip’s internal regulator (limited to ~50mA), which is enough for small sensors but not for high-power devices like motors or cellular modems

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