The MCP2200-I/MQ is a high-performance USB to UART serial converter from Microchip Technology, designed to provide seamless communication between a USB interface and UART-based devices. This versatile integrated circuit (IC) is perfect for developers looking to implement USB connectivity in their projects without the complexity of firmware development associated with full-speed USB devices.

Key Features

• USB 2.0 Compliant: The MCP2200 supports full-speed USB at 12 Mbps and is compliant with USB 2.0 specifications, ensuring broad compatibility with USB hosts.
• Integrated UART: The device offers a built-in UART interface with data rates up to 1 Mbps, providing a simple way to bridge USB and serial communication.
• Configurable Options: It comes with 256 bytes of integrated user EEPROM, allowing customization of the USB configuration descriptors such as Vendor ID (VID), Product ID (PID), and other device characteristics.
• GPIO Functionality: Eight general-purpose input/output (GPIO) pins are available, offering additional interfacing capabilities and eliminating the need for separate GPIO controllers.
• LED Driver Pins: Dedicated pins for driving LEDs are included, which can be used to indicate serial traffic and provide visual feedback for the connection status.
• Crystal-less Operation: The MCP2200-I/MQ can operate without an external crystal, reducing the overall bill of materials and simplifying the design.
• Driver Support: It supports drivers for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, facilitating easy integration across different operating systems without the need for additional software development.

Applications

The MCP2200-I/MQ is ideal for a wide range of applications, including but not limited to:

• PC-based automation controls
• USB to RS-232/RS-485 converters
• USB interface for medical instruments
• Industrial control and monitoring systems
• Upgrade of legacy peripherals to USB

With its compact 20-pin QFN package, the MCP2200-I/MQ offers a small footprint solution for space-constrained applications. Its ease of use and robust feature set make it an excellent choice for developers looking to add USB connectivity with minimal design effort.