FTDI

FTDI (Future Technology Devices International) is the specialist behind the FT232R USB-to-UART bridge family — the classic single-chip way to add USB serial to embedded equipment. The profiles cover three legacy order codes: the FT232RL in SSOP-28 tube packing, the FT232RQ in QFN-32 tray packing, and the FT232RL-REEL tape-and-reel code. All three carry the same silicon: full-speed USB, an integrated EEPROM for custom descriptors and the FTDIChip-ID, on-chip clock generation and rates up to 3 MBaud. Lifecycle warning: FTDI's Product End-Of-Life Notification of 1 March 2024 ended the whole FT232R family — every order form, tube, tray and tape-and-reel alike — and the last-time-buy date of 1 June 2024 has passed, so remaining supply is existing stock only: check date code and traceability before ordering. For new designs, FTDI's replacement is the FT232RN series — FT232RNL and FT232RNQ are the named pin-to-pin successors, and application note AN_560 covers migration from FT2xxR to FT2xxRN.

Sourcing notes for FTDI parts. Always quote the complete manufacturer ordering code — package, temperature grade, speed or accuracy grade, and packing (reel, tube or tray) all change availability and price, and suffixes are where most mismatches happen. Check the lifecycle status on the manufacturer site before committing to a multi-year build; parts flagged not-recommended or obsolete need a last-time-buy plan or a verified alternate lined up early. With every offer, request traceability documents — date code, lot code and original packing — and confirm the inspection steps your supplier applies to high-risk lots.