SparkFun Beefy 3 - FTDI Basic Breakout

The SparkFun Beefy 3 is the heavy-duty evolution of our classic 3.3V FTDI Basic. While it looks similar, we have upgraded the internal circuitry to address a common problem: power-hungry devices. Built around the FTDI FT231X USB-to-serial IC, this board is designed not only to program your Arduinos but also to power them reliably. Even the hungry ones!

Why "Beefy"?

Standard FTDI breakouts rely on the USB chip's onboard regulator, which often provides very little current. The Beefy 3 is equipped with a dedicated AP2112K voltage regulator capable of sourcing up to 600mA.

• The benefit: You can now power power-hungry 3.3V projects—like those with WiFi modules, bright LED arrays, or heavy sensors—directly from the FTDI header without needing an external power supply during programming.

Data Terminal Ready

Just like our standard basics, this board breaks out the Data Terminal Ready (DTR) pin rather than the RTS. This allows the Beefy 3 to automatically reset your Arduino when a new sketch is downloaded.

• Why does this matter? You don't have to time a "reset button press" perfectly every time you upload code. Just hit "Upload" in the Arduino IDE, and the board handles the rest.

Micro-B & Visuals

The connector on this board uses the more modern Micro-B USB, making it compatible with the most common cables on your desk (unlike the Mini-B of the older basics).

• LED Feedback: Like its predecessors, the Beefy 3 features TX and RX LEDs so you can see the serial traffic and verify that data is actually moving

Easy Alignment

To prevent plugging it in backwards, the pins are labelled BLK (Black) and GRN (Green) to match the standard colour-coded wires on FTDI cables and the silk-screened markings on Arduino Pro and LilyPad boards. Just match the labels, and you are good to go.

• Schematic
• Eagle Files
• SparkFun USB to Serial UART Boards Hookup Guide
• How to Install FTDI Drivers
• FTDI Drivers
• GitHub (Design Files)