So the first question for a new user is, which of these forums is correct for tech support on a purchased product?
2nd - the question
I am using the BOB CP2102 to connect a MCU to my PC. Is there a problem to have my MCU project board powered up but the 2102 is not connected to a USB Port? This means the 2102 has 5v signals applied but no power because its power comes from the USB bus.
Think of these forums to be more community support rather than the primary support vehicle for SparkFun. I’ve found that the best way to contact SparkFun technical support is via email. They do monitor the forums, but it has been my experience that it can take them longer to respond than it would via an email. If you’re wondering where you order is, or why you didn’t get what your ordered, use email. For technical questions, you can always post a question on the forum for the community to address, like you did.
I don’t anticipate that you will have any problems driving your BOB CP2102 without being powered via the USB connector. I do that all the time with my CP2103 breakout board that interfaces my prototype board with my PC. You obviously want to make sure that you share a common ground between the CP2102 and your other circuitry, and that you don’t exceed the voltage ratings on the pins.