FT232RL-TUBE USB to UART Interface IC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The FT232RL-TUBE is a USB Full-Speed to UART serial interface bridge manufactured by FTDI. This 28-SSOP packaged IC converts USB 2.0 signals to UART protocol, enabling serial communication between USB hosts and legacy UART devices. The part is classified as Not For New Designs, indicating it has been superseded in FTDI's product roadmap. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary for ongoing production support, legacy system maintenance, and design flexibility when the primary part becomes unavailable.

Substiute Parts

FT232RL-TUBE

FTDI, Future Technology Devices International LtdIn Stock: 3398FT232RL-TUBE 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

Substitution eligibility for USB to UART interface ICs is determined by the following critical parameters:

Primary Substitution Criteria:

• USB protocol compliance (USB 2.0 Full-Speed)
• UART interface functionality
• Voltage supply compatibility (3.3V ~ 5.25V range or subset thereof)
• Operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C minimum)
• RoHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status
• Packaging compatibility or functional equivalence

Substitute Parts Identified:

1. FT231XS-U — Functionally equivalent USB to UART bridge with reduced pin count (20-SSOP vs. 28-SSOP). Meets all electrical and compliance requirements with lower supply current (8mA vs. 15mA). Active product status provides long-term availability.

2. FT232RNL-TUBE — Direct functional equivalent in identical 28-SSOP package. Maintains all electrical specifications and operating parameters. Active product status ensures continued supply and support.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

FT232RNL-TUBE is the primary substitute for direct replacement applications. It maintains identical electrical specifications, package footprint, and pin configuration as the FT232RL-TUBE while offering Active product status, ensuring long-term availability and manufacturing support. This part is suitable for legacy system maintenance and production continuity without PCB redesign.

FT231XS-U is the recommended substitute for new circuit designs or applications where PCB layout redesign is feasible. The 20-SSOP package reduces board space by approximately 28% compared to the 28-SSOP footprint. The reduced supply current (8mA vs. 15mA) provides power efficiency benefits. The voltage supply range (3.3V ~ 5V) is compatible with 3.3V systems and 5V systems operating at the lower end of the FT232RL-TUBE specification. Active product status and FTDI's X-Chip series designation indicate this is the forward-looking technology platform.

Both substitutes maintain full RoHS3 compliance, REACH unaffected status, and identical operating temperature ranges, ensuring regulatory and environmental compliance equivalence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can FT231XS-U replace FT232RL-TUBE in existing designs without PCB modification?

A: No. The FT231XS-U uses a 20-SSOP package (0.154" width) versus the 28-SSOP package (0.209" width) of the FT232RL-TUBE. Pin count and pinout differ. PCB layout and schematic redesign are required. For drop-in replacement without redesign, use FT232RNL-TUBE.

Q: Are there electrical compatibility concerns when substituting FT231XS-U?

A: The FT231XS-U voltage supply range (3.3V ~ 5V) is narrower than the FT232RL-TUBE (3.3V ~ 5.25V). If your application requires operation above 5V, FT231XS-U is not suitable. Both parts operate identically across the 3.3V ~ 5V overlap range. Supply current is lower on FT231XS-U (8mA vs. 15mA), which is advantageous for power-constrained applications.

Q: What is the difference between FT232RL-TUBE and FT232RNL-TUBE?

A: Both are 28-SSOP USB to UART bridges with identical electrical specifications. The primary difference is product status: FT232RL-TUBE is Not For New Designs (legacy), while FT232RNL-TUBE is Active. FT232RNL-TUBE is the current production equivalent and is recommended for all applications.

Q: Do all three parts meet the same compliance standards?

A: Yes. FT232RL-TUBE, FT231XS-U, and FT232RNL-TUBE are all ROHS3 compliant, REACH unaffected, and carry identical MSL 3 (168 Hours) moisture sensitivity ratings. They share the same ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS classifications.

Q: Which substitute should I choose for a new design?

A: FT231XS-U is recommended for new designs. It is an Active product with lower power consumption and represents FTDI's current X-Chip technology platform. If your existing PCB footprint or pinout is locked to 28-SSOP, use FT232RNL-TUBE.

Q: Is FT232RL-TUBE still available for purchase?

A: FT232RL-TUBE remains in stock (3,300 Pcs reported), but its Not For New Designs status indicates FTDI has transitioned to newer alternatives. For long-term supply security, transition to FT232RNL-TUBE or FT231XS-U.