Why are USB UART converters so important?
The UART technology is based on a mode of operation that is not compatible with USB. Accordingly, you need a USB to UART bridge as a connector so that data can pass from one component to the other.
The term USB is now familiar to laymen, but what does UART actually mean? Written out in full, the technical term is Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter. Behind this term are electronic circuits that are indispensable for classic serial interfaces such as RS-232 and RS-485. UARTs generate the data bits and the data frame to be transmitted; they form the heart of these serial interfaces. Such an interface also consists of other components such as level converters and a plug.
A USB UART interface converter ensures that data transmission between a UART interface and USB works smoothly.
Significance of UART today
In some application areas, UART is considered obsolete because other technologies perform better. For example, manufacturers of PCs, notebooks, printers and the like now use USB ports – they no longer equip these devices with ports such as COM ports. You only need a USB to UART adapter if you want to connect a modern peripheral device to an older PC.
The situation may be different for a microcontroller and other technical applications. UART is convincing in terms of cost efficiency and is an option if the task profile meets these requirements:
- low speed
- low data throughput
In addition to the low costs, those responsible for development and production integrate these components with little effort. Is a bridge to USB required on the board or in another environment? Buy a suitable UART to USB converter from us!
Numerous variants of USB to UART converters
Here in this shop, you will find a variety of USB to UART converters. Pay attention to the product names! Three examples should clarify this:
- Articles labelled FTDI: This converter includes a chip adapter from the company of the same name. It is a high-performance USB-UART interface chip that is found in many converters.
- Products with the addition USB-C: These have a USB-C plug.
- Converters with the term TTL: They refer to TTL-RS232 interfaces, which differ from RS232 interfaces in terms of signal. Corresponding adapters are called USB TTL.
These and many other details can be found in the product descriptions. There you can read, for example, with which operating systems the converter is compatible and for which specific application areas such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi it is suitable.
What is USB UART and what is it used for?
The term USB to UART covers all converters that ensure smooth data transfer between these different technologies. These modules are available, for example, as adapters or as cables with an integrated converter. Furthermore, our shop offers boards with an integrated single-chip bridge that converts from USB to UART. All these components are used in a wide range of applications. Connecting peripheral devices, developing a circuit board for an industrial control system and much more: wherever USB meets UART, a USB UART bridge provides valuable services.
Which USB UART converter do I need?
That depends on numerous factors. First, check what type of UART and USB connection you are working with. For USB, the first thing to consider is the version, such as USB 2.0 or 4. The second thing to consider is the connector type, such as USB-C. Also pay attention to the specific UART model – for example, check whether it is a classic RS-232 serial interface. The drivers for the USB UART converter must also be compatible with your operating system. Other helpful questions: Do LEDs indicate the operating status? Does the USB UART bridge board have additional pins? We offer you a customised USB UART converter for every requirement profile! Important: Be sure to pay attention to the appropriate voltage level. The converter must support the voltage level used in your UART application, such as 3.3 V or 5 V. This is the only way to ensure stable data transmission and avoid the risk of damage to the connected devices.
What do I need to know about programming with USB UART?
To program the interface, you need to be able to install the respective driver for your USB UART converter. In most cases, the USB UART bridge fulfils another function: this interface converter allows you to program the connected component like an electrical circuit. The type of programming you want to do is important here.
