bio said:Is it possible to flash the CAv3 with a universal USB TTL converter or only with the special FTDI cable?
In theory any device that can make a virtual COM port on your PC and output it into a TTL level RS232 signal should work. However, I've heard of people having problems with the cheaper brand adapters usually running the prolific chipset or clones. In some cases shortening the cable length was required and then it was OK. The CA also has resistors inline with the TX and RX connections to protect against stray voltages damaging the chip, but that means that a TTL drivers with high output impedance or low impedance on their input might have communication issues and be more susceptible to noise.
If people can comment on 3rd party USB->TTL adapters that they have comfirmed DO work for programming the CA3 then that would be useful. We tested a number before settling on the FTDI as being the most troublefee and reliable so decided to stock that, but it's also one of the more expensive units which isn't to everyone's taste.
-Justin