You might need to install the drivers in your PC to recognize the FTDI chip. They are available at the FTDI website. You can get a Virtual COM port driver (and use HyperTerminal) or a DLL to connect to your own application.
Isn't it just an FTDI USB to serial converter chip?
So it is really just like using an external USB to serial port converter that you buy for $10 at the local computer shop except there is no need to convert to RS-232 levels and back.
