alt Hacker NewsThat really sucks for hotplugging since TRS connectors sliding in basically make random connections before seating properly.
Granted, you shouldn't hotplug TTL serial, but everyone™ does it anyway. (In some situations you're even forced to, to avoid reverse powering something.)
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foresto • today at 12:01 AM
They're not random connections; they're predictable. I'm not worried about Tx briefly touching Rx or ground in these devices.
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I've been using this ftdi cable too for the last 15 years or so and, while trs isn't a great connector, I haven't had any issues in practice.
It works well for capturing serial logs, a console or software updates in development. The advantage i saw was that I could order 50 cables from a distributor and give one to everyone that works on the device.
If someone needs one on the other side of the world, they can get one from a local suppliers.
Hot plugging hasn't been a problem in my designs, I add a series resistors to the uart net and ESD protection if software developers will use it.
When I use it for other devices, like routers, SBCs and IP cameras I avoid hot plugging and leaving it connected when the device isn't powered.