FTDI Basic USB to TTL Programmer

The FTDI Basic USB to TTL Programmer (FT232RL) is a high-quality USB-to-serial adapter designed for reliable programming, debugging, and communication with Arduino boards, ESP modules, STC microcontrollers, and many other TTL-level devices.
This board uses a genuine FTDI FT232RL chipset, ensuring stable drivers, accurate baud rates, and far fewer programming errors than clone or non-genuine ICs.

This latest revision features a compact SMD 6-pin header layout that is fully compatible with Arduino Pro, Pro Mini, LilyPad, and other FTDI-based targets. The pinout matches standard FTDI cables and includes DTR (Data Terminal Ready) instead of RTS, allowing automatic reset when uploading sketches, eliminating the need to manually press the reset button.

A built-in 3.3 V / 5 V I/O voltage selector allows the TX, RX, CTS, and DTR lines to be safely matched to your target device. This makes the FTDI Basic suitable for both 3.3 V logic devices (such as ESP8266, ESP32, and sensors) and 5 V microcontrollers.

On-board power, TX, and RX LEDs give instant visual feedback, making it easy to confirm power and serial data activity during uploads and communication.

For added safety, the board includes a 500 mA self-healing fuse, protecting your USB port and target hardware from over-current or wiring mistakes.

Key Applications

Arduino Pro, Pro Mini, LilyPad
ESP8266, ESP32, RP2040 serial programming
STC microcontroller downloading
USB-to-TTL serial communication
Debugging and serial console access
Embedded system development

Technical Specifications

Chipset
FTDI FT232RL (genuine IC)

USB Interface
USB 2.0 Full Speed

Logic Level Selection
Selectable 3.3 V or 5 V on TX, RX, CTS, and DTR lines

Target Power Output
5 V VCC from USB

Maximum Output Current
Up to 500 mA (protected by self-healing fuse)

Serial Signals
TXD, RXD, CTS, DTR, VCC, GND

Header Type
6-pin SMD header (FTDI standard layout)

Pin Alignment
BLK = GND (matches black wire on FTDI cable)
GRN = CTS (matches green wire on FTDI cable)

Status Indicators
Power LED
TX (Transmit) LED
RX (Receive) LED

Auto Reset Support
Yes, via DTR line

Driver Support
Windows
Linux
macOS

Baud Rate
Supports standard FT232RL serial baud rates

Operating Voltage (USB side)
5 V from USB

Why Choose the Original FT232RL Version

Unlike low-cost clones, this module uses a genuine FTDI FT232RL chip, which provides:

Stable USB drivers
Accurate serial timing
Fewer upload failures
Full compatibility with Arduino IDE and serial tools
Long-term reliability in production and development environments

This makes it ideal for both hobbyists and professional developers who need dependable USB-to-TTL communication.

What’s in the Box

1 × FTDI Basic USB to TTL Programmer (FT232RL, 3.3 V / 5 V Selectable)