Multiserial communication controller
September 2002
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
The PCL-747+ from Advantech, is an expandable intelligent multiserial communication controller available in 8, 16, 24 and 32-port configurations. With its 40 MHz RISC processor, 512 KB of RAM, and a suite of software drivers/tools for Advantech's multiport boards, the intelligent PCL-747+ acts as a front end I/O processor, relieving the workload of the host computer.
Four PCL-747+ multiport controllers can be installed in a single host computer, providing up to 128 serial communication channels. The PCL-747+ complies with ISA specifications.
The control board resides in the host computer with an on-board RISC processor managing I/O traffic. The control board and external multiport modules communicate with each other via a high speed RS422 synchronous interface over a standard 2 m cable.
The CPU module also has its own RISC processor that works with the control board to reduce host CPU overhead. This double CPU architecture can raise performance to the highest degree. The CPU module features power-on and self-test LEDs that allow the user to monitor individual port activity for easy diagnostics.
To improve overall performance, each UART module is equipped with an efficient serial communication controller that allows transfer rates of 460,8 Kbps per port. The UART module is available with an RS232 or an RS422 interface and male or female DB-25 connectors.
For optimum system performance, an intelligent board needs smart firmware. This relieves the host CPU of all device interrupt handling, performs 'cooked' data processing and handles all hardware and software flow control. The PCL-747+ supports all popular operating systems such as Windows 3.x, Windows 95/98, Wiindows NT/2000, Linux and DOS, Advantech is represented locally by ProMicro.
For more information contact, Elton Prytz, ProMicro, 011 706 7913, [email protected], www.promicro.co.za
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