The FT230X Basic UART from FTDI provides a USB-to-UART connection for compatible serial hardware, such as embedded boards and diagnostic interfaces. Its driver allows Windows to recognize the USB interface and, with the Virtual COM Port (VCP) driver installed, makes it available to applications through a standard COM port. For Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7, choose an FTDI driver package that explicitly supports your operating system and system architecture.

Key Features

• Virtual COM port access: Enables terminal programs, configuration utilities, and other serial applications to communicate with connected UART hardware.
• USB-to-serial communication: Supports data exchange between your PC and equipment built around the FTDI FT230X interface.
• Configurable serial settings: Allows compatible software to select baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits, and supported flow-control options.
• Windows device integration: Registers the interface in Device Manager, where you can check driver status and find the assigned COM port number.

How to Install

1. Check your Windows version and architecture. Confirm whether your PC runs Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7 and identify its system type. Older Windows releases may require a different driver package from newer versions.

1. Download the appropriate FTDI driver. Select a package that supports the FT230X Basic UART and your Windows installation. If the download is a ZIP archive, extract it before proceeding.

1. Install the driver package. Run the included installer if one is provided, then follow the prompts. For a manual installation, connect the device, open Device Manager, right-click the unrecognized interface, and choose Update driver. Browse to the extracted driver folder and include subfolders.

1. Connect and verify the interface. Plug the hardware into a working USB port using a data-capable cable. After VCP installation completes, look under Ports (COM & LPT) in Device Manager for the USB serial port and note its COM number. Restart Windows if prompted.

1. Configure your serial application. Select the assigned COM port and match the communication settings to the connected equipment. If communication fails, check the cable, UART wiring, and signal-voltage compatibility; the driver does not convert UART-level signals into RS-232 electrical levels.

Common Issues and Fixes

• Driver install fails: Use the latest FTDI VCP driver, run the installer as administrator, and reboot. If Windows blocks it, check driver signing/architecture; avoid forcing unsigned older packages.
• Device not detected: Confirm a data-capable USB cable and try a direct port. In Device Manager, check Ports (COM & LPT) or Unknown USB Device; reinstall the FTDI VCP driver and rescan hardware.
• Version/COM port conflicts: Remove older FTDI VCP drivers, including hidden devices, before reinstalling. If the FT230X gets the wrong COM number or conflicts with another USB-serial adapter, reassign the COM port in Device Manager.