Exploring the ESP32: Components and Sensor Compatibility
The CP2102/9 is a highly-integrated USB-to-UART bridge controller, which provides a simple solution for updating RS-232 designs to USB using minimal components and PCB space. The CP2102/9 includes a USB 2.0 full-speed function controller, USB transceiver, oscillator, EEPROM or EPROM, and an asynchronous serial data bus.
Furthermore, free Virtual COM Port (VCP) device drivers from Silicon Laboratories allow the CP2102/9 product to appear as a COM port to PC applications.
The CP2102/9 UART interface implements all RS-232 signals, including control and handshaking signals. Consequently, you do not need to modify existing system firmware. In many existing RS-232 designs, all you need to upgrade the design from RS-232 to USB is to replace the RS232 level-translator with the CP2102/9. Additionally, Silicon Laboratories provides direct access driver support.