FTDI (Future Technology Devices International Ltd.) is a Scottish privately held fabless semiconductor device company specializing in Universal Serial Bus (USB) technology. The company develops innovative silicon solutions that enhance interaction with the latest in global technology, focusing on 'bridging technologies' to support engineers with sophisticated, feature-rich, robust, and simple-to-use product platforms. These platforms enable the creation of electronic designs with high performance, low peripheral component requirements, low power budgets, and minimal board real estate.

FTDI was founded on 13 March 1992 by its current CEO, Fred Dart. The company is an indirect descendant of Computer Design Concepts Ltd, a former semiconductor technology startup also founded by Dart. Initially, FTDI produced chipsets for personal computer motherboards, with IBM as a primary customer. As Intel dominated the PC chipset market by 1996, FTDI shifted its focus to the PC peripheral sector and began developing USB solutions. The company has since expanded its product line to include interface translators and other devices for converting between USB and other communication protocols. In 2016, FTDI created a separate company called Bridgetek to focus on microcontroller units (MCUs) and Embedded Video Engine (EVE) technologies.

FTDI's core competencies include the development of Universal Serial Bus (USB) technology, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) design services, and consultancy services for product design. The company is known for its highly integrated system solutions with built-in microcontroller functionality and its ability to provide 'ready to go' solutions that minimize design effort and time-to-market. FTDI also excels in providing robust, royalty-free USB drivers and extensive technical support resources.

FTDI holds a significant position in the semiconductor industry, particularly in the realm of USB technology. The company's products are widely recognized and used in various applications, including the conversion of legacy RS-232 or TTL serial transmissions to and from USB signals. FTDI's global distribution agreements with companies like Arrow Electronics and collaborations with Altium and Mikroelektonika further solidify its market presence.

FTDI's complete product catalog includes a wide array of USB interface ICs, bridge chips, microcontrollers, and EVE graphic controllers. The catalog also features various evaluation boards, cables, and modules designed to facilitate effective bridging to USB. For a detailed list, one can refer to the company's official website and technical documentation.

FTDI's client base includes major companies such as IBM, which used FTDI's chipsets in its AMBRA and PS/1 personal computers. The company also collaborates with other industry leaders through its distribution agreements and technology partnerships.

FTDI has a related company called Bridgetek, which was established in 2016 to focus on microcontroller units (MCUs) and Embedded Video Engine (EVE) technologies. Additionally, FTDI has partnerships with companies like Arrow Electronics, Altium, and Mikroelektonika.

FTDI is headquartered in Glasgow, Scotland, with the following contact details:
Unit 1, 2 Seaward Place, Centurion Business Park, Glasgow, G41 1HH, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0) 141 429 2777
Fax: +44 (0) 141 429 2758
The company also has offices in Singapore, Taipei (Taiwan), Portland (Oregon, USA), and Shanghai (China).

FTDI Chip Official Website