Key Selection Information
| Selection Parameter | Confirmed Information |
|---|---|
| Function | USB Full Speed to UART bridge |
| USB Speed | 12 Mbps Full Speed |
| UART Data Rate | Up to 3 MBaud at TTL/CMOS levels |
| Channels | 1 |
| I/O Voltage | 1.8 V to 5 V |
| Integration | Oscillator, EEPROM and USB resistors integrated |
| Package | SSOP-28 |
| Manufacturer Status | NRND |
Product Overview
FT232RL-REEL is the tape-and-reel SSOP-28 ordering code for FTDI’s FT232R USB-to-UART interface family. It converts USB Full Speed traffic to an asynchronous serial UART and handles the USB protocol internally, allowing a host computer to communicate with legacy or embedded serial interfaces without the target MCU implementing USB device firmware.
A major integration advantage is the built-in oscillator, configuration EEPROM and USB resistors. These reduce external components and let USB descriptors and operating options be stored on-chip. For new product designs, however, FTDI now marks FT232RL as NRND, so lifecycle planning should be part of the selection decision.
Technical Specifications
| Group | Parameter | Value / Condition |
|---|---|---|
| USB | Mode | USB 2.0 Full Speed device |
| USB | Bus rate | 12 Mbps |
| UART | Maximum data rate | 3 MBaud at TTL/CMOS levels |
| Interface | Channels | 1 |
| I/O | Voltage | 1.8 V to 5 V |
| Memory | Configuration EEPROM | Integrated |
| Clock | Oscillator | Integrated |
| Buffers | Receive / transmit | 256-byte RX / 128-byte TX |
| Package | Type | SSOP-28 |
| Operating | Temperature | -40 °C to +85 °C |
Product Status
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Status / Lifecycle | NRND (Not Recommended for New Designs) |
FTDI currently labels FT232RL as NRND.
Functional Highlights
USB implementation is largely contained in the bridge IC
The USB protocol engine, clock source and configuration EEPROM are integrated, reducing firmware and component burden in simple USB-to-serial products.
NRND status matters for long-life new designs
The exact part remains useful for maintaining established FT232R-based hardware, but a fresh design should compare FTDI’s currently recommended USB-UART devices before locking the BOM.
Applications / Application Fit
- USB-to-UART service and debug interfaces
- Legacy serial equipment upgraded with USB connectivity
- Embedded products where the application MCU should not implement a USB device stack
Design Considerations
Treat NRND status as a lifecycle input for new products and confirm the migration path before a long-term design commitment.
Match VCCIO to the target logic domain; UART I/O voltage is not automatically fixed to 5 V.
Follow USB differential-pair and connector/ESD layout practices even though the transceiver and resistors are integrated.
Related Engineering Resources
- FTDI official product/family page — manufacturer-controlled product information and documentation.
- FT232RL-REEL verified Datasheet PDF — identity-verified PDF hosted on HKEQGOO assets.
Alternative Candidates for Engineering Evaluation
| MPN | Manufacturer | Package |
|---|---|---|
| HT8232RSZ | HTCSEMI | SSOP-28 |
| FT232RL-REEL-S | JSMSEMI | SSOP-28 |
| CY7C64225-28PVXCT | Infineon/Cypress | SSOP-28 |
| FT232RNL-TUBE | FTDI | SSOP-28 |
| FT232RNL-REEL | FTDI | SSOP-28 |
Candidate alternative parts require engineering verification before substitution. Electrical characteristics, pinout, package, qualification, and application requirements should be verified before use.
Quality & Verification Support
Third-party inspection or testing can be arranged according to customer requirements. Testing fees are borne by the buyer. Additional verification requirements can be discussed before shipment. After an order is placed, physical product, label, packaging, and Date Code photos may be provided where appropriate.
Request a Quote
To request a quotation, provide the manufacturer part number, required quantity, destination, target Date Code if applicable, and any testing or inspection requirements.
