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

Part Overview

The FT232BL-TRAY is a USB Full-Speed to UART bridge interface IC manufactured by FTDI (Future Technology Devices International Ltd). This component provides USB 2.0 connectivity with UART serial communication in a 32-LQFP package format. The product is currently obsolete, making equivalent substitute parts necessary for new designs, legacy system repairs, and ongoing production support where alternative solutions are required.

Substiute Parts

FT232BL-TRAY

FTDI, Future Technology Devices International LtdIn Stock: 3019FT232BL-TRAY Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

FT231XS-U

FTDI, Future Technology Devices International LtdIn Stock: 1983FT231XS-U Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

FT232RNL-TUBE

FTDI, Future Technology Devices International LtdIn Stock: 17649FT232RNL-TUBE Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the FT232BL-TRAY are selected based on the following critical parameters that determine functional compatibility:

Core Substitution Criteria:

• Function: USB Bridge, USB to UART
• Protocol: USB
• Interface Type: UART
• Standards: USB 2.0
• Manufacturer: FTDI (same manufacturer ensures protocol consistency and driver compatibility)
• RoHS Status: ROHS3 Compliant (regulatory alignment)
• Moisture Sensitivity Level: 3 (168 Hours) (handling and storage compatibility)

Package Considerations: Substitute parts may use different package types (20-SSOP or 28-SSOP) compared to the original 32-LQFP, requiring PCB layout redesign but maintaining electrical functionality.

Electrical Parameter Ranges: Substitute parts operate within compatible voltage supply ranges (3.3V ~ 5.25V) and current consumption levels (8mA ~ 15mA), which are acceptable for most applications originally designed for the FT232BL-TRAY.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

FT231XS-U is an active product with reduced current consumption (8mA versus 25mA) and extended operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C). This substitute is suitable for applications requiring lower power operation and wider temperature performance. The 20-SSOP package requires PCB redesign compared to the original 32-LQFP footprint.

FT232RNL-TUBE is an active product with moderate current consumption (15mA) and extended operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C). This substitute provides a balance between the original FT232BL-TRAY specifications and modern performance requirements. The 28-SSOP package requires PCB redesign but offers a smaller footprint than the original 32-LQFP.

Both substitute parts maintain ROHS3 compliance, identical Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL 3), and USB 2.0 UART interface functionality. Selection between FT231XS-U and FT232RNL-TUBE depends on specific application requirements for power consumption, temperature range, and available PCB layout space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can FT231XS-U or FT232RNL-TUBE directly replace FT232BL-TRAY without PCB modifications?

A: No. The FT231XS-U uses a 20-SSOP package and FT232RNL-TUBE uses a 28-SSOP package, while the original FT232BL-TRAY uses a 32-LQFP package. PCB layout redesign is required for either substitute part.

Q: Are the substitute parts compatible with existing FT232BL-TRAY drivers and firmware?

A: Both FT231XS-U and FT232RNL-TUBE are FTDI USB to UART bridge devices using the same protocol and interface standards. Driver compatibility depends on the specific operating system and application software implementation.

Q: What is the key difference in power consumption between these parts?

A: FT231XS-U operates at 8mA supply current, FT232RNL-TUBE at 15mA, and the original FT232BL-TRAY at 25mA. Lower current consumption in substitute parts reduces thermal load and power supply requirements.

Q: Do the substitute parts support the same operating temperature range as FT232BL-TRAY?

A: No. The original FT232BL-TRAY operates from 0°C ~ 70°C. Both substitute parts extend this range to -40°C ~ 85°C, providing wider temperature performance suitable for industrial and extended-range applications.

Q: Are all three parts RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. FT232BL-TRAY, FT231XS-U, and FT232RNL-TUBE are all ROHS3 compliant with identical Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL 3, 168 Hours).

Q: Which substitute part should be selected for space-constrained PCB designs?

A: FT231XS-U with its 20-SSOP package offers the smallest footprint among the three parts, making it suitable for space-constrained applications.