Comparing CY7C65223 vs FT2232HQ: Which USB to Serial Bridge is Better?
In the world of USB to serial bridge chips, two names stand out: CY7C65223 and FT2232HQ. Both are versatile and widely used in the industry, but which one is the better choice? Let's take a closer look.
The CY7C65223, also known as FX2LP, is manufactured by Cypress Semiconductor. It operates at speeds of up to 480Mbps and supports USB 2.0. It has 16 configurable GPIO pins, making it ideal for interfacing with various external devices. It also features an integrated microcontroller, meaning it can be customized for specific applications.
The FT2232HQ, on the other hand, is produced by FTDI (Future Technology Devices International). It supports USB 2.0 as well but can operate at speeds of up to 480Mbps or 12Mbps. It has a slightly lesser number of GPIO pins (10), but it also has dual-channel serial interfaces, making it useful for applications that require two different serial channels.
One major difference between the two is in the programming interface. The CY7C65223 uses the familiar EZ-USB FX2LP EEPROM programming model, while the FT2232HQ requires a more complex programming process using FTDI's proprietary interface.
In terms of pricing, the CY7C65223 is generally more affordable, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious projects. It is also easier to find and purchase compared to the FT2232HQ, which is more specialized and not as widely available.
So, which one is better? It ultimately depends on your project's specific needs. If you require higher speed and more configurable GPIO pins, the CY7C65223 may be the better choice. The FT2232HQ, on the other hand, would be suitable for projects that require multiple serial channels and are willing to go through a more complicated programming process.
In conclusion, both the CY7C65223 and FT2232HQ are powerful and reliable USB to serial bridge chips, each with its unique features and advantages. It's worth considering your project's requirements and budget before making a decision. Whichever you choose, both are sure to serve as excellent choices for your next USB to serial bridge application.