CP2102
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CP2102 USB-to-Serial Adapter
The CP2102 is a highly integrated USB-to-UART bridge controller developed by Silicon Labs. It offers a reliable and cost-effective solution for converting USB signals to TTL-level serial, making it ideal for embedded development, firmware flashing, and interfacing with microcontrollers.
It is currently the best choice of USB to Serial conversion in terms of quality, cost and reliability.
Overview
- 💡 Single-Chip Solution: Integrates USB 2.0 full-speed transceiver, oscillator, and voltage regulator—no external components required.
- 🔌 Voltage Compatibility: Supports both 3.3V and 5V logic levels via onboard voltage selection.
- 🧰 Driver Support: Provides royalty-free Virtual COM Port (VCP) drivers for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- 📈 Performance: Supports baud rates up to 1 Mbps, suitable for high-speed serial communication.
CP2102 Breakout Module
Breakout boards featuring the CP2102 chip are widely used due to their simplicity and versatility.
Pin Configuration
| Pin Label | Function | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GND | Ground | Common reference point; connect first |
| TXD | Transmit Data | Serial output from adapter (connect to target RX) |
| RXD | Receive Data | Serial input to adapter (connect to target TX) |
| VCC | Power Supply | Connect to 3.3V or 5V depending on logic level |
| 3V3 | 3.3V Output | Provides up to 100 mA; useful for powering low-current 3.3V devices |
| DTR | Data Terminal Ready | Used for auto-reset in programming microcontrollers |
| RTS | Request to Send | Hardware flow control output |
| CTS | Clear to Send | Hardware flow control input |
Voltage Configuration Tips
- **Logic Level Selection**: Use the onboard jumper or switch to select between 3.3V and 5V logic levels.
- **Powering the Module**: The module is typically powered via the VCC pin connected to the USB's 5V supply. Ensure that the target device's voltage requirements align with the module's output.
- **3.3V Output Usage**: The 3V3 pin provides a regulated 3.3V output, suitable for powering low-current devices. Do not use it to power the entire system.
Wiring Instructions
- **Ground Connection**: Always connect the GND pin first to establish a common ground between the adapter and the target device.
- **Serial Connections**: Cross-connect the serial lines—adapter's TXD to target's RXD, and adapter's RXD to target's TXD.
- **Voltage Matching**: Ensure that the logic levels of the adapter and the target device are compatible. Use level shifters if necessary.
- **Flow Control**: If not using hardware flow control, leave the RTS and CTS pins unconnected or configure them appropriately in software.
Applications
- **Microcontroller Programming**: Commonly used for programming Arduino Pro Mini, ESP8266, STM32, and other microcontrollers via UART.
- **Serial Debugging**: Facilitates serial communication for debugging embedded systems.
- **Firmware Updates**: Enables firmware flashing on devices that support UART-based updates.
- **Data Logging**: Useful in applications requiring serial data logging to a PC.