I believe this setup mirrors the functionality of official VE.Direct cables at a much lower price. All the usual caveats apply. No guarantees, might have comms problems, no support, etc…
Parts list:
- 2.0mm JST connector $0.40/ea (AliExpress link) (Technically known as PH Connector)
- PL2303HX USB to UART TTL Cable $1.20 (AliExpress link)
- ADUM1201 magentic isolator board $1.35 (ali express link: a[dot]aliexpress[dot]com/_mL6Z9jV)
Total: $2.95
Probably would want to protect the isolator board with some heat shrink tube, but it works great!