SparkFun FTDI Basic Breakout - 5V

Product Overview

The SparkFun FTDI Basic Breakout is the go-to tool for programming your Arduino that's not equipped with on-board USB, such as the Arduino Pro Mini, LilyPad, and other custom 5V compatible boards. We designed this board to be as compact and robust as possible, utilizing a low-profile SMD 6-pin header to keep your setup clean and durable.

Data Terminal Ready

The standout feature of this board is the Data Terminal Ready (DTR) pin. Unlike standard FTDI cables that break out the RTS pin, our board breaks out the DTR pin. This allows the FTDI Basic to automatically reset your Arduino when a new sketch is downloaded.

• Why does this matter? You don't have to time a "reset button press" perfectly every time you upload code. Just hit "Upload" in the Arduino IDE, and the board handles the rest.

Visual Debugging & Connectivity

Troubleshooting serial connections can be a pain when you can't see what's happening. We’ve included TX and RX LEDs right on the board so you can actually see the serial traffic. This visual confirmation is incredibly helpful for verifying that your board is talking to your computer. This board is flexible enough for a variety of projects, with features that allow you to adapt it as your needs change:

• Voltage Jumper: While this board ships configured for 5V operation (both power and logic), there is a trace on the back that can be cut and a jumper that can be soldered to switch the board to 3.3V.
• Mini USB: This board uses a reinforced Mini-B USB connector for a secure connection.

Easy Alignment

To prevent plugging it in backwards, we've labeled the pins BLK (Black) and GRN (Green) to match the standard colored wires on FTDI cables and the silk screen on Arduino Pro and LilyPad boards. Just match the labels, and you are good to go.

Note: We understand that Mini USB is an older connector type. Never fear, we've got you covered! Check out our FT231X Breakout for micro USB and our CH340C Serial Basic Breakout for USB-C options!