New dual and quad channel USB-to-UART/MPSSE bridge ICs

FTDI Chip’s latest series of multi-channel USB interface ICs can deal with next-generation power demands, as larger items of hardware begin to make use of the protocol.

Offered in both two-channel (FT2233HP) and four-channel (FT4233HP) versions, the new Hi-Speed (480Mbits/s) devices offer serial UART (RS232, RS422 or RS485) and MPSSE (JTAG, I2C, SPI or Bit-Bang) interfacing capabilities. Moreover, they are fully compliant with Rev 3.0 of the USB PD specification. Each features a Type-C/PD controller for taking care of all negotiation and power gauging, then selecting on the appropriate path of action. This will allow any equipment that these ICs are integrated into to either draw or give power as the situation dictates – with power levels of up to 100W being supported.

Based on a 32-bit RISC processor core, with 8kB of data RAM and 48kB of code ROM embedded, the PD Policy Engine handles the respective PD ports. The PD1 port can act as either a power source or power sink, while the PD2 port only acts as a power sink. Since all USB protocol handling can be achieved directly on-chip, there is no requirement for USB specific firmware programming to be started upon – which significantly streamlines the entire implementation process. Moreover, access to the company’s royalty-free USB drivers (for Windows, Linux, Mac and Android) removes the requirement for engineers to produce their own drivers from scratch.

The ICs are offered in 76-pin QFN packages, as well as 80-pin LQFP packages. An extended operational temperature range of -40C to 85C is supported, to enable deployment in harsh industrial environments. Among the principal applications for these devices are domestic appliances, factory automation systems, power tools, test instrumentation, lighting equipment, barcode readers and consumer electronics products.