[Elecraft] Fake FTDI chips

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> But what is a RS-232 to USB adapter? Right, a chip from Prolific or
> FTDI ( hopefully). Nobody is protected from a fake chip.

USB to RS-232 adapters are made by many vendors and may use chip sets
by suppliers other than Prolific or FTDI.  For example, Digi
International uses their own Intel based devices.

The key is to purchase the USB to RS-232 adapter from a *reputable*
vendor who purchases his chips from a *reputable* supplier and not deal
with some low-cost no-name cable maker that is trying to save pennies
by buying gray market chips.

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV


On 4/14/2014 2:19 PM, Ingo Meyer, DK3RED wrote:
> Hello Don,
>
>> With the serial cable, I can use a real serial port or a good USB to
>> serial adapter to
>> program my handheld.
>
> I have to disagree with you. Yes, a RS-232 interface is the best choice,
> if you can use a RS-232 interface at your computer. If not, also you
> will use an adapter. But what is a RS-232 to USB adapter? Right, a chip
> from Prolific or FTDI ( hopefully). Nobody is protected from a fake chip.