SparkFun Serial Basic CH340C Hookup Guide
Contributors:
Elias The Sparkiest
Elias The Sparkiest 
Resources and Going Further
Once you've got serial communication working, you're ready to start playing with serial projects. Consider connecting to a GPS module like the GP-20U7, taking a look at our tutorial on GPS and watching the serial strings roll by. Or, you can use the Serial Basic to program and debug devices like the Arduino Pro Mini. There are tons of devices that use serial to communicate, so go explore!
The Serial Basic programming an Arduino Pro Mini
Heads up! The image shows the Serial Basic connected to an Arduino Pro Mini 3.3V/8MHz. If you are using an Arduino Pro Mini 5V/16MHz, make sure to adjust the jumper pad for the voltage selection on the back of the Serial Basic.
Check out these other resources for the Serial Basic.
- Schematic (PDF)
- Eagle Files (ZIP)
- Datasheet (PDF) (CH340C)
- Fritzing Part (FZPZ)
- WCH: CH340 Drivers - Latest drivers can be found from the manufacturer
- Windows (EXE) -- Driver executable
- Windows (ZIP) -- Driver version 3.4 (2016-09-27)
- Linux (ZIP) -- Driver v1.5 (2018-03-18)
- Mac (ZIP) -- Driver v1.5 (2018-07-04)
- GitHub
Check out these other great SparkFun tutorials.
Getting Started with OBD-II
A general guide to the OBD-II protocols used for communication in automotive and industrial applications.
Simultaneous RFID Tag Reader Hookup Guide
A basic guide to getting started with the RFID Tag Reader breakout and how to read and write multiple RFID tags over multiple feet!
Three Quick Tips About Using U.FL
Quick tips regarding how to connect, protect, and disconnect U.FL connectors.
ARGOS (ARTIC R2) Satellite Communication Guide
A guide describing the ARGOS satellite network - as used by our ARTIC R2 satellite communication products
Need some inspiration for your next project? Check out some of these related tutorials:
Serial Communication
Asynchronous serial communication concepts: packets, signal levels, baud rates, UARTs and more!
GPS Basics
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is an engineering marvel that we all have access to for a relatively low cost and no subscription fee. With the correct hardware and minimal effort, you can determine your position and time almost anywhere on the globe.
Using the Arduino Pro Mini 3.3V
This tutorial is your guide to all things Arduino Pro Mini. It explains what it is, what it's not, and how to get started using it.
Serial Terminal Basics
This tutorial will show you how to communicate with your serial devices using a variety of terminal emulator applications.