>>If you don't understand why you'd care about ensuring that you're using quality components rather than cheaply made knock-off fakes
Today, using a ftdi chip in a new design means :
- using a too common device, typical target for compatibles and fakes
- using a device which costs too much (hence the easy and obvious target for fakes)
- using a part which presents a serious risk of customer return you have to take the cost because of a malicious action from FTDI. You use original chips, but you will be bitten due to good fakes being non discernable
I won't use FTDI in my upcoming products. There are better alternatives who cost half, are of equivalent value, and don't try to screw you to keep asking for a premium price.