FT245BL USB FIFO IC - FTDI

The FT245BL is a flagship USB FIFO interface Integrated Circuit from Future Technology Devices International Ltd (FTDI). This versatile IC is designed to facilitate USB connectivity for devices that communicate via a parallel FIFO interface. It is an ideal choice for bridging legacy peripherals and modern USB ports, offering a straightforward and cost-effective solution for upgrading existing devices.

The FT245BL operates as a USB to parallel FIFO bidirectional data transfer interface. It boasts a variety of features that make it a robust and efficient choice for a wide range of applications, including industrial controls, instrumentation, and data loggers. The IC is fully compliant with USB 2.0 Full Speed compatibility and utilizes FTDI’s proprietary royalty-free Virtual COM Port (VCP) and Direct (D2XX) drivers, allowing for ease of integration with minimal learning curve.

Key features of the FT245BL include:

• USB Interface: Compatible with USB 2.0 Full Speed (12 Mbps) and backward compatible with USB 1.1.
• FIFO Interface: 8-bit, with data transfer rates up to 1 Megabyte per second.
• Driver Support: Extensive driver support for Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and other platforms, simplifying development and deployment.
• Integrated EEPROM: For storing device descriptors and custom configurations.
• FTDIChip-ID™: A unique USB serial number programmed into the device, allowing for secure identification and licensing.
• Flexible Signal Power Supply: The IOs support both 5V and 3.3V, which can be derived from USB supply or an external supply.
• Thermal Protection: Integrated thermal shutdown circuitry protects the device from overheating.

The FT245BL is housed in a compact 32-pin LQFP or PDIP package, making it suitable for space-constrained applications. Its synchronous and asynchronous bit-bang mode capabilities also provide additional functionality for various custom designs. With its combination of performance, versatility, and ease of use, the FT245BL from FTDI is an excellent choice for adding USB connectivity to a wide array of peripheral devices.