FT232BL-REEL USB to UART Interface IC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The FT232BL-REEL is a USB Full-Speed to UART bridge interface IC manufactured by FTDI (Future Technology Devices International Ltd). This component implements USB 2.0 protocol conversion to UART serial communication, housed in a 32-LQFP package. The FT232BL-REEL operates within a supply voltage range of 4.35V to 5.25V and draws 25mA during operation across a temperature range of 0°C to 70°C.

The FT232BL-REEL is classified as Obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure supply chain availability, and leverage active product alternatives that meet the same functional and electrical requirements.

Substiute Parts

FT232BL-REEL

FTDI, Future Technology Devices International LtdIn Stock: 9147FT232BL-REEL Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

FT231XS-R

FTDI, Future Technology Devices International LtdIn Stock: 25212FT231XS-R Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

FT232RNL-REEL

FTDI, Future Technology Devices International LtdIn Stock: 5368FT232RNL-REEL Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the FT232BL-REEL are selected based on strict alignment with the following core parameters:

• Protocol & Function: USB protocol with Bridge/USB to UART functionality
• Interface Standard: UART serial interface
• USB Standard: USB 2.0 compliance
• Compliance & Certification: ROHS3 compliance, REACH unaffected status, identical ECCN and HTSUS classifications
• Moisture Sensitivity: MSL 3 (168 Hours) rating

The substitute parts FT231XS-R and FT232RNL-REEL maintain functional equivalence through identical protocol, function, interface, and USB standards. Both are active products with current manufacturing status, ensuring long-term supply availability. Electrical parameters (voltage supply range, current consumption, operating temperature) and package configurations differ to accommodate specific design requirements while preserving core USB-to-UART bridge functionality.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

FT231XS-R is suitable for applications requiring reduced power consumption (8mA versus 25mA) and extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C). The 20-SSOP package provides a smaller footprint compared to the 32-LQFP. This part supports a wider supply voltage range (3.3V to 5V) and is classified as Active, ensuring sustained manufacturing and supply availability.

FT232RNL-REEL maintains closer electrical compatibility with the FT232BL-REEL, with supply voltage range of 3.3V to 5.25V and current consumption of 15mA. The 28-SSOP package offers a mid-range footprint between the original 32-LQFP and the FT231XS-R. This part is also classified as Active and provides extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C).

Both substitute parts carry identical compliance certifications (ROHS3, REACH Unaffected, EAR99 ECCN, 8542.39.0001 HTSUS) and maintain the same Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL 3, 168 Hours) as the original FT232BL-REEL. Selection between substitutes depends on specific design constraints regarding power budget, temperature operating range, and PCB layout requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can FT231XS-R and FT232RNL-REEL be used interchangeably with FT232BL-REEL?

A: Both parts maintain functional equivalence as USB 2.0 to UART bridge interfaces. However, they differ in package configuration, power consumption, and voltage supply ranges. Direct pin-for-pin substitution is not possible due to different package types (32-LQFP versus 20-SSOP and 28-SSOP). PCB layout redesign is required for either substitute.

Q: What are the key differences in electrical specifications?

A: The FT231XS-R operates at lower current (8mA) and supports 3.3V supply voltage, making it suitable for low-power applications. The FT232RNL-REEL draws 15mA and supports 3.3V to 5.25V supply range, providing a middle ground. The original FT232BL-REEL requires 4.35V minimum supply voltage and draws 25mA.

Q: Are there temperature range considerations for substitution?

A: The FT232BL-REEL operates from 0°C to 70°C. Both substitute parts extend this range to -40°C to 85°C, providing broader environmental compatibility. If the original design operates only within 0°C to 70°C, the extended range of substitutes does not impose additional constraints.

Q: How do package differences affect substitution?

A: The FT232BL-REEL uses 32-LQFP (7x7mm), FT231XS-R uses 20-SSOP (3.90mm width), and FT232RNL-REEL uses 28-SSOP (5.30mm width). Package selection impacts PCB footprint, routing complexity, and board space. The smaller FT231XS-R reduces board area, while FT232RNL-REEL provides a compromise between size and pin count.

Q: Are compliance certifications maintained across all parts?

A: Yes. All three parts carry ROHS3 compliance, REACH Unaffected status, EAR99 ECCN classification, and 8542.39.0001 HTSUS code. Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL 3, 168 Hours) is identical across all parts.

Q: Why is FT232BL-REEL classified as Obsolete?

A: The FT232BL-REEL has reached end-of-life status. FTDI recommends migration to active products such as FT231XS-R or FT232RNL-REEL to ensure continued supply chain support and access to manufacturing updates.