USB to TTL FT232 issues (buyed more than 20 pcs)

[bZk]

Hello all,

I'm writing because I have issues with new USB to TTL/RS485 modules. I have purchased more than 20 pieces from different suppliers, and I don't know where to buy them from or how to resolve the issues with the modules I've already bought.

At the moment, I have 2 functional modules purchased in 2022 or 2021, something like that.

Currently, I'm not sure what to do. I’ve also purchased from Aliexpress and local suppliers, but I’ve noticed that all the modules come with the same serial number (A5069RR4). With FT Prog, there are no changes when I try to modify anything.

Can anyone help me?

[mcallegari]

I think they are Chinese clones with fake FTDI chips.
You've probably been scammed.

[bZk]

Where to buy original?

[ACoTam2]

Hi,
I have encountered a ton of issues with those boards and it's basically a lottery, however:
boards with small Q1 Transistor (like on the picture) won't work without modifying of the MAX485 part (right to the jumpers)
boards without this transistor usually work out of the box, but with a lot of problems: random flicker, fixtures not working, etc...
replacing the FTDI chip and tranciever to original chips doesn't change anything at all. I Have purchased and replaced the chips on two adapters made that way and there are still issues
Back to the "Q1 Transistor" board, i made mine completely unusable, however you could try that "wrong board fix" in the meanwhile: https://diyprojects.tech/2014/04/dmx-rs ... board-fix/

I'm going to reverse engineer that revision soon, because amount of DIY projects using this type of board is enormous, while quality being absolute trash.

p.s FT-Prog doesn't work on fake FTDI

[bZk]

I've already tested the fixes solution mentioned on the blog, but does not work no one. Also tried to wire the DO/RE to the GND, but neither work.