When developing projects that use microcontrollers, it is always helpful to have the microcontroller communicate with a computer for data logging, debugging or bootloading purposes. Serial communication is quite popular because most microprocessors have UART (Universal Serial Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter) hardware already built in. Most microcontrollers operate at logic voltage levels (0 to 5v DC) , whereas the standard computer serial port (RS232) operates at -12v to +12v DC. Connecting a microcontroller directly to the serial port will instantly damage the circuitry inside of it. Most people incorporate voltage level converter chips and the necessary capacitors into their projects so they can communicate with the computer. This can be expensive and very time consuming.

The Dionysus Design USB to Logic Level converter simulates a serial port using USB. With the drivers installed, every time you plug a USB to Logic Level converter into your computer or hub, a new COM port is automatically created in your computer and assigned to the USB to Logic Level converter cable. The microcontroller can then communicate with your computer software as if it were communicating over a simple serial port.

The USB to TTL Serial Converter cable can supply enough power for your microcontroller. However, you must be careful not to use to much current from USB. It can possibly damage your hub or USB port on your computer. The USB cable can provide 100 ma of current at 5 volts. Normal microprocessors generally consume 20 to 40ma. A single LED also consumes about 20ma. If your project requires more than the USB cable can provide, please leave the red wire unconnected and power your project with another voltage source.

The USB to TTL Serial Converter comes with a 6' long cable with a USB A style connector on one end and a USB B style connector on the other. This cable will connect the USB to TTL serial board to your computer.

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