Adafruit
USB/Serial Converter [FT232RL]
This USB-to-serial converter adds a DB9 RS-232 serial port to your computer via USB. Based on the FTDI FT232RL chip, it delivers true RS-232 voltage levels (...
This USB-to-serial converter adds a DB9 RS-232 serial port to your computer via USB. Based on the FTDI FT232RL chip, it delivers true RS-232 voltage levels (approximately ±10V) rather than TTL 5V — ensuring compatibility with older devices like GPS receivers, handheld programmers, and other equipment with DB9 serial ports.
Three built-in LEDs provide at-a-glance status: a power LED confirms the adapter is connected, and RX/TX LEDs help debug your serial connection. FTDI drivers are available for macOS, Linux, and Windows.
Key Features
- FTDI FT232RL Chip – Reliable performance with rock-solid driver support
- True RS-232 Levels – Voltage doubler/inverter for ±10V output (not just 0–5V)
- DB9 Connector – Standard 9-pin serial port for legacy devices
- Status LEDs – Power, RX, and TX indicators for easy debugging
- Cross-Platform – Works with macOS, Linux, and Windows
Ideal For
- Connecting legacy RS-232 devices to modern computers
- GPS receivers, handheld programmers, and industrial equipment
- Serial debugging and communication
Resources
Jargon buster
Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.
- GPS
- The US satellite navigation system used by GNSS receivers to calculate position and time. Support for GPS is important because it is widely available and often used together with other constellations for more reliable positioning.
- LED
- A light-emitting diode is a small electronic component that lights up when current flows through it in the correct direction. In this kit, LEDs create the flashing effect, so polarity and correct soldering matter for the project to work.
- RS-232
- An older serial communication standard that uses higher signal voltages than modern microcontroller logic pins. If you are connecting this breakout to a microcontroller, you may need an RS-232 interface or level converter rather than wiring it directly.
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