GESPAC Introduces a Four/Eight-channel single-slot CompactPCI Serial Interface

<%=company1%> introduces the PCISIO-4/8, a four/eight-channel serial interface board for CompactPCI systems. This module is fully compatible with the 16Cx5x Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART), allowing data transfers at speeds up to 115 kbaud (1 Mbaud with 550-compatibility mode). Each channel can be individually configured for RS-232 or RS-422 operation by means of user-selectable jumpers.

The PCISIO-4/8 is a 32-bit CompactPCI peripheral adapter in a 3U, single-slot form factor. Featuring one (PCISIO-4) or two (PCISIO-8) quad UARTs 16C954, each serial channel contains a 128-byte Transmit/Receive FIFO buffer and a programmable baud rate generator operating from 50 to 115 kbaud. In addition, each channel is individually programmable for 5, 6, 7, or 8-bit character transmission, even, odd, or no parity bit generation and 1, 1-1/2, or 2 stop bits generation. The board also offers a 9-bit data framing for industrial applications.

The PCISIO-4/8 front panel is 4TE in width and is fully compliant with the IEEE 1101.10 specifications. Direct interface to each port is achieved by using a high density, 62-pin female D-sub front panel connector. An optional breakout cable to adapt to standard DB25 connectors is available.

The front panel interface includes the signals TD, RD, RTS, CTS, DSR, DTR and DCD for each RS-232 port, and TD, RD for each RS-422 port. The RI signal for the RS-232 ports and the RTS, CTS signals for the RS-422 ports are available on one serial line per quad UART. The PCISIO-4/8 is fully compliant with the EMC requirements.

Optional rear I/O connection can be implemented through the P2 connector of the CompactPCI backplane so that the serial cables can be connected to the back of the chassis by using a rear plug-in adapter module. This feature allows the PCISIO-4/8 to be removed and reinserted without cable disassembly, meeting the requirements of telecommunication systems and other high availability applications. Software drivers are provided by GESPAC for use with Windows NT. VxWorks, QNX and OS-9 drivers are optionally available

For more than 20 years, GESPAC has been a leader in developing and manufacturing modular, embedded computers and subsystems. GESPAC has been an active participant in the PICMG contributing to the standardization of the CompactPCI bus architecture. The presence of GESPAC engineering teams on three continents enables the company to work with some of the biggest names in the transportation, military, medical and telecommunications industries.