CP2102 USB 2.0 to TTL UART Serial Converter Module 6-Pin

Specifications

• Controller: Silicon Labs CP2102.

• USB Standard: USB 2.0 Full Speed.

• Baud Rates: 300 bps to 1 Mbps.

• Output Voltages: Dual 3.3V and 5V power pins available.

• Logic Level: 3.3V (5V Tolerant inputs).

• On-board Indicators: Power LED, TX and RX data LEDs.

• Integrated Features: 1024-byte EEPROM, integrated clock, and voltage regulator.

• Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C.

Key Applications & Projects

• Microcontroller Programming: The go-to tool for Pro Mini, ESP8266, and ESP32 boards.

• Router & Modem Recovery: Access the serial console of network hardware to fix firmware issues.

• DIY Data Loggers: Stream sensor data from your workbench directly into Excel or Python via Serial.

• PLC Interfacing: Bridging modern PCs to legacy industrial equipment via UART.

Project Evolution

• Past Projects (Prerequisites): If you’ve spent hours wrestling with CH340 driver signatures on macOS or Windows 11, this is your solution.

• Feature Upgrade: The CP2102 unlocks higher reliability at high baud rates (up to 921600) and provides much cleaner 3.3V power compared to entry-level converters. It also includes the DTR pin, essential for the "Auto-Reset" feature required by the Arduino IDE.

• Effort/Requirements: Beginner Friendly. Silicon Labs officially maintain drivers and are often pre-installed in modern OS kernels.

Virtual Technician & Wiring

⚠️ Wiring Tip: Remember that UART is a "cross-over" protocol. TX goes to RX!

Helpful Tutorials & Resources

• Official Silicon Labs Drivers

• GitHub: Troubleshooting Serial Communication 

Package Includes: 1 x CP2102 USB 2.0 to TTL UART Serial Converter Module

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Does this work with Windows 11? Yes, it is fully compatible with Windows 11 using official VCP drivers.
• Can I power an ESP32 from the 3.3V pin? While it can power basic ESP32 modules, we recommend an external supply for high-current Wi-Fi transmissions.
• Does it support macOS Sequoia? Yes, it works natively on Intel and Apple Silicon Macs.
• Is the 6-pin header pre-soldered? Yes, it comes ready to plug into a breadboard or female jumpers.
• What happens if I cross TX and RX? No damage will occur, but data will not transmit. Simply swap them back.
• Does it have a reset pin? It has a DTR pin which acts as the reset trigger for Arduino boards.
• Is this faster than the CH340? While baud rates are similar, the CP2102 has better buffer management and driver stability.
• Can I use this for 1.8V logic? No, this module uses 3.3V/5V logic levels.
• Do I need a special USB cable? It uses a standard USB-A male connector (plugs directly into your PC).
• Does it support Linux? Yes, it is supported by the cp210x driver in the Linux kernel.
• Can I change the VID/PID? Yes, the internal EEPROM allows for customization using Silicon Labs tools.
• What is the current limit of the 5V pin? It is limited by your computer's USB port (usually 500mA).
• Are there LEDs on the board? Yes, there are LEDs for Power, TX, and RX for easy debugging.
• Is it 5V tolerant? Yes, the RX pin can safely receive 5V signals.
• What is the pin pitch? Standard 2.54mm (0.1 inch).
• Does it work with the Arduino IDE? Yes, it appears as a standard COM or tty port.
• Can I use it to program an ATmega328P on a breadboard? Yes, using the DTR, TX, RX, VCC, and GND pins.
• Is it original Silicon Labs? We only source verified, original-grade silicon for our modules.
• Does it support Android? Yes, via USB Host mode and appropriate apps/drivers.
• Can it handle 921600 baud for ESP32 flashing? Yes, it is rated for high-speed stable communication.