Embedded World: FTDI unveils X-Chip series of USB interface ics

The series supports a selection of interface types such as UART, full UART, FIFO and I²C and FTDI's proprietary FT1248 I/O. According to FTDI, X-Chip provides a USB interface solution designed to enhance system performance while simultaneously addressing issues such as improved space usage and reduced power consumption. Devices in the series are capable of data rates of up to 3.4Mbits/s, while maintaining low power consumption, <8mA (typical) when fully active and <125µA (typical) while in suspend mode. The X-Chip has built in functionality to detect a charging port and cause logic to switch from data transfer to charging mode. This, says FTDI, means that detection doesn't have to be carried out by the system's microcontroller or microprocessor, enabling it to focus fully on its core activities. The result is said to be a simpler detection process and the capability to charge at a higher current level, shortening the time required for battery charging. Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows XP Embedded, Windows CE, Mac OS-X, Linux 3.2 (and above), plus Android operating systems are all supported. The required USB drivers are free to download from the FTDI website and, since the entire USB protocol is handled by the device, the need for the programming of specific firmware can be negated. An internal 2048 byte, multitime programmable memory enables storage and configuration of the necessary device descriptors. The devices in the X-Chip series are offered in SSOP, QFN and DFN packages. Each has an operational temperature range of -40 to 85 °C and all the necessary USB support and bridging intelligence has been integrated into the devices. In addition to the ICs, FTDI has released a wide selection of development modules, enabling the different functions for each chip type.