Tag-Connect, LLC
Tag Connect TC2030-FTDI-TTL-232RG-VIP USB to Serial Cable
Tag Connect TC2030-FTDI-TTL-232RG-VIP USB to Serial Cable
SKU: TC2030-FTDI-TTL-232RG-VIP
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Key Features
Overview
The TC2030-FTDI-TTL-232RG-VIP combines FTDI's industry-leading USB-to-serial technology with Tag Connect's revolutionary solderless connector system. This professional debugging cable automatically adapts to target voltage levels from 1.8V to 5.25V, making it perfect for modern mixed-voltage designs.
The integrated FT232RQ chip handles all USB protocols and provides robust serial communication up to 3 Mbaud. The cable's VIP (Voltage Input Power) technology eliminates voltage level concerns by using your target system's power rail to set the appropriate logic levels.
Compatible with TC2030-CLIP retaining boards for hands-free debugging sessions. Also available as TC2030-NL version for production programming applications.
Why Engineers Choose The Tag Connect TC2030-FTDI-TTL-232RG-VIP USB to Serial Cable
Voltage Flexibility
Space Efficiency
Cost Reduction
Revolutionary Debugging Cable with Voltage-Adaptive TTL Interface
The Tag Connect TC2030-FTDI-TTL-232RG-VIP represents a groundbreaking fusion of FTDI's advanced voltage-adaptive TTL-232RG-VIP technology with Tag Connect's patented space-saving connector system. This professional debugging cable eliminates the need for permanent connectors on your PCB whilst offering complete voltage flexibility from 1.8V to 5.25V.
VIP Technology: Voltage Input Power for Ultimate Flexibility
Unlike fixed-voltage cables, the VIP (Voltage Input Power) version adapts to your target system's voltage level. The cable's UART signal output levels automatically match the VCCIO input voltage supplied by your target device, ensuring perfect logic level compatibility across the entire 1.8V to 5.25V range.
TC2030 Connector: Maximum Space Efficiency
The TC2030 "Legged" Tag-Connector features four precision alignment pins that snap securely into a tiny PCB footprint measuring just 0.09 square inches. This revolutionary connector eliminates expensive mating components whilst providing reliable spring-pin contact for extended debugging sessions.
| TC2030 Pin | Signal | Type | Wire Colour | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | VCCIO | Input | Red | VCC input from target system (1.8V to 5.25V) |
| 2 | CTS/TMS | Input | Brown | Clear to Send control input |
| 3 | RXD/TDI | Input | Yellow | Receive data input to FTDI |
| 4 | TXD/TCLK | Output | Orange | Transmit data output from FTDI |
| 5 | GND | Ground | Black | Ground reference |
| 6 | RTS/TDO | Output | Green | Request to Send control output |
Wiring Quick-Start
Connection to your target microcontroller requires only three essential signals plus power and ground:
Target MCU TC2030 Pin Wire Colour VCC (1.8-5.25V) ←→ Pin 1 Red (VCCIO Input) GND ←→ Pin 5 Black (Ground) MCU TX ←→ Pin 3 Yellow (RXD) MCU RX ←→ Pin 4 Orange (TXD) Professional Tip
For production programming, consider the TC2030-NL version, with no legs for rapid board-to-board operations.
PCB Footprint Requirements
The TC2030 footprint requires six contact pads and four alignment holes on a 0.05" × 0.1" grid. No mating connector is required, saving both cost and PCB real estate.
| General Information | |
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Part Number (SKU) |
TC2030-FTDI-TTL-232RG-VIP
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Manufacturer |
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| Other | |
Warranty |
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HS Code Customs Tariff code
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EAN |
5055383614233
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Question?
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How long is the cable and what's the build quality?
The cable is 1.8 metres (6 feet) long with professional-grade construction. It's RoHS compliant, FCC/CE approved, and rated for -40°C to +85°C operation.
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What applications is this cable designed for?
Ideal for microcontroller debugging, firmware upload, serial console access, and any application requiring USB-to-TTL conversion with voltage level flexibility.
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Is the cable suitable for production programming?
The legged version is optimised for development use. For production programming, the TC2030-NL version offers faster connect/disconnect cycles and can be used with automated test fixtures.
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What PCB footprint is required for the TC2030 connector?
The TC2030 requires six contact pads and four alignment holes on a 0.05" × 0.1" grid. Detailed footprint files are available for major CAD packages including KiCad, Altium, and Eagle.
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Can I power my target device from this cable?
No, the VIP version requires power input from your target system. The VCCIO pin is an input that sets the logic levels. For cables that can provide power, consider the TC2030-FTDI-TTL-232RG-VREG3V3.
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What's the maximum data rate supported?
The FT232RQ chip supports data rates from 300 baud up to 3 Mbaud with full hardware handshaking via RTS/CTS signals.
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Do I need special drivers for the FTDI chip?
FTDI provides free VCP (Virtual COM Port) and D2XX drivers for Windows, Linux, and Mac. The cable appears as a standard COM port for easy integration with terminal software and development tools.
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What's the difference between TC2030 and TC2030-NL versions?
The standard TC2030 has four legs that snap into the PCB for secure attachment during development. The NL (No Legs) version has a smaller footprint ideal for production programming where quick connection/disconnection is required.
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How does the TC2030 connector attach to my PCB?
The TC2030 uses spring-loaded pogo pins that make contact with plated pads on your PCB. The legged version has four alignment pins that snap into holes for secure attachment during debugging sessions.
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What voltage levels does the VIP version support?
The TC2030-FTDI-TTL-232RG-VIP automatically adapts to any voltage between 1.8V and 5.25V supplied by your target system via the VCCIO pin. The cable's logic levels will match your target voltage precisely.