FTDI Chip is committed to taking appropriate measures to protect its customers from the adverse impacts caused by counterfeiting of FTDI Chip devices.
Many of these counterfeit devices resemble authentic FTDI Chip markings which may lead the customer to believe they are genuine products.
FTDI Chip has established a proactive and global process aimed at detecting and deterring such counterfeit activity. In order to protect our customers from acquiring counterfeit FTDI Chip devices, FTDI strongly advises the purchase of products directly from FTDI Chip or one of FTDI's authorized distributors.
When you buy FTDI FT232RL chips from shady suppliers you have a good chance of getting mysteriously buggy chip which only works with drivers 2.08.14 or earlier.
An evaluation by Zeptobars identified that the fake chip was working somewhat functionally until FTDI released a driver update. The update was able to detect fake chips via USB and send only 0's. (photo credits: Zeptobars.ru)
The FT232R is the latest unit to be added to FTDI's range of USB UART interface Integrated Circuit units.
The FT232R is a USB to serial UART interface with optional clock generator output, and the new FTDIChip-ID security dongle feature.
Could you tell the difference between the authentic laser engraved FTDI FT232RL chip and the printed counterfeit?
To ensure you receive authentic FTDI chips, always buy from authorized FTDI dealers. (image: zeprobars)
The authentic FTDI FT232RL compared to the counterfeit in an evaluation by Zeptobars.ru (photo credits)
An FTDI updated driver release, renders the counterfeit inoperable and allows detection of fake chips via USB.
Comparison of the etched metal layers of the authentic FTDI FT232RL compared to the counterfeit in an evaluation by Zeptobars.ru (photo credits)
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