1. Product Overview

Product Name: COM-1(PM)
Model Number: COM-1(PM)
Series: PCMCIA Serial Communication Interface Series
Article Number: COM-1(PM)
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd.
Product Type: PCMCIA Type II Serial RS-232C Interface Card

The CONTEC COM-1(PM) is a compact, high-reliability PCMCIA Type II serial communication card designed to provide a single-channel RS-232C asynchronous serial interface for notebook and embedded systems. It is part of CONTEC’s extensive communication interface lineup, which includes PCI, Low Profile PCI, USB, and PC Card (CardBus/PCMCIA) models. The COM-1(PM) is engineered for industrial and embedded applications requiring stable, standards-compliant serial connectivity in portable computing environments.

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2. Key Features

- RS-232C Standard Compliance: Fully compliant with the EIA RS-232C asynchronous serial communication standard, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of serial devices such as modems, sensors, and industrial controllers.
- PCMCIA Type II Interface: Conforms to PCMCIA Release 2.0 and JEIDA 4.1 standards, allowing installation in standard PCMCIA slots on laptops and embedded systems.
- UART 16550 Controller: Incorporates a 16550-compatible UART with a 16-byte FIFO buffer for both transmission and reception, providing stable data flow and reduced CPU load.
- Selectable Communication Speed: Supports baud rates from 2 to 115,200 bps, configurable through software.
- Standard COM Port Emulation: Appears as a standard COM port (COM1–COM4) under Windows or Linux, enabling use with existing serial communication software without modification.
- Cross-Platform Driver Support: Includes Windows and Linux drivers, along with the CONTEC COM Setup Disk and API-PAC(W32) software for configuration and integration.
- Compact and Portable: Designed for mobile and embedded applications where space and power efficiency are critical.
- Low Power Consumption: Operates at 5VDC with a maximum current draw of 100mA, suitable for battery-powered systems.
- High Reliability: Industrial-grade design ensures stable operation in demanding environments.
- Wide Compatibility: Compatible with legacy and modern operating systems including Windows XP/2000/Me/98 and Linux distributions supporting PCMCIA interfaces.

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3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| Interface Type | RS-232C (Asynchronous) |
| Number of Channels | 1 channel |
| Communication Speed | 2 to 115,200 bps |
| Data Bits | 5, 6, 7, or 8 bits |
| Stop Bits | 1, 1.5, or 2 stop bits |
| Parity Check | Even, Odd, or None |
| Controller | 16550-compatible UART (16-byte FIFO buffer) |
| Interrupts | Selectable from IRQ3–7, 9–12, 14, or 15 |
| Wiring Distance | Up to 15 meters (maximum) |
| I/O Address | Any 8-byte boundary |
| Power Supply | 5VDC ±5% |
| Power Consumption | 100mA (maximum) |
| Bus Standard | PCMCIA Release 2.0 / JEIDA 4.1 Type II |
| Connector Type | 9-pin D-sub male connector (DELC-J9PAF-20L9 [JAE] or equivalent) |
| Dimensions | PCMCIA Type II form factor (approx. 85.6 mm × 54.0 mm × 5.0 mm typical) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 50°C (typical) |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C to 70°C (typical) |
| Relative Humidity | 10% to 90% (non-condensing) |
| Weight | Approx. 50 g (typical) |
| Compliance | PCMCIA Rel. 2.0, JEIDA 4.1 upper standard |

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4. Functionality

The COM-1(PM) functions as a standard serial communication port for PCs equipped with a PCMCIA slot. Once installed, the card is recognized by the operating system as a standard COM port, allowing seamless integration with existing serial communication applications. The onboard 16550 UART controller manages asynchronous data transmission and reception, using a 16-byte FIFO buffer to minimize CPU overhead and prevent data loss during high-speed communication.

Typical Use Cases:
- Connecting industrial equipment such as PLCs, sensors, and barcode readers to portable computers.
- Serial communication with laboratory instruments, modems, and GPS receivers.
- Field data acquisition and control in mobile or embedded systems.
- Maintenance and configuration of serial-based devices in industrial automation environments.
- Integration into embedded systems requiring a reliable RS-232C interface.

Compatibility:
- Operating Systems: Windows XP, 2000, Me, 98, and Linux (kernel versions supporting PCMCIA).
- Compatible with standard serial communication software and terminal emulators.
- Supports API-PAC(W32) for advanced control and configuration.

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- COM-1(PM) PCMCIA Type II card
- Windows and Linux driver software (Standard COM Driver / COM Setup Disk)
- API-PAC(W32) software package for configuration and programming
- User manual and installation guide

Optional Accessories:
- Cables:
- RSS-9M/F (9-pin male/female RS-232C cable)
- RSC-9F (9-pin female cable)
- RSS-25M/9F (25-pin to 9-pin conversion cable)
- RSC-25F/9F (25-pin female to 9-pin female cable)
- CN5-D9F (9-pin D-sub connector assembly)

These accessories allow flexible connection to various RS-232C devices and configurations.

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6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- A computer equipped with a PCMCIA Type II slot compliant with PCMCIA Rel. 2.0 / JEIDA 4.1.
- Supported operating system (Windows XP/2000/Me/98 or Linux).
- Available IRQ line (IRQ3–7, 9–12, 14, or 15).

Installation Procedure:
1. Insert the COM-1(PM) card into the PCMCIA slot of the host computer.
2. The operating system detects the card and prompts for driver installation.
3. Install the driver using the provided COM Setup Disk or API-PAC(W32) software.
4. Configure the communication parameters (baud rate, parity, stop bits, etc.) through the driver interface or application software.
5. The card will appear as a standard COM port (e.g., COM1–COM4) and can be used immediately with compatible serial communication software.

Mounting Options:
The card is designed for direct insertion into PCMCIA slots; no external power supply or mounting hardware is required.

Configuration:
Communication parameters can be configured via software utilities included in the driver package. IRQ and I/O address assignments are automatically managed by the operating system or can be manually configured if necessary.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Data Rate: Supports communication speeds from 2 to 115,200 bps, suitable for most RS-232C devices.
- FIFO Buffer: 16-byte transmit and receive buffers reduce CPU load and improve data integrity.
- Distance: Reliable communication up to 15 meters depending on cable quality and environment.
- Channel Capacity: Single-channel operation; one COM-1(PM) card provides one RS-232C port.
- Interrupt Handling: Supports multiple interrupt lines for flexible system integration.
- Power Efficiency: Low power consumption (100mA at 5VDC) ensures minimal impact on battery life in portable systems.
- Limitations:
- Maximum baud rate limited to 115.2 kbps (unlike newer CardBus models supporting up to 921.6 kbps).
- Not isolated; for electrically noisy environments, the COM-1D(PM) (RS-422A/485 isolated version) is recommended.
- Limited to one or two cards per system depending on OS and hardware resources.

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8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Standard: PCMCIA Release 2.0 / JEIDA 4.1 Type II
- Communication Standard: RS-232C (EIA/TIA-232-E compliant)
- Controller Standard: 16550 UART compatibility
- Software Standards:
- Windows COM driver (standard serial port emulation)
- Linux COM driver (standard ttyS device support)
- API-PAC(W32) for Windows-based configuration and control
- Electrical Safety: Designed for compliance with industrial-grade electrical specifications.
- Environmental Compliance: RoHS-compliant manufacturing (lead-free components).
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets CE and FCC Class A/B emission standards (depending on region).

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
Typically covered by CONTEC’s standard limited warranty (1 year from date of purchase), covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

Technical Support:
CONTEC provides comprehensive technical support through its global portal (www.contec.com), including driver downloads, software updates, and documentation.

Maintenance:
No periodic maintenance required. Users should ensure connectors remain clean and free from dust. Avoid exposure to excessive heat, humidity, or vibration.

Software Updates:
Driver and firmware updates are periodically released by CONTEC to maintain compatibility with new operating systems and hardware platforms.

Related Models in the Series:
- COM-2(PM): 2-channel RS-232C PCMCIA card (2–115,200 bps, 16-byte FIFO).
- COM-1D(PM): 1-channel isolated RS-422A/RS-485 PCMCIA card (up to 1200 m communication distance).

Product Line Context:
The COM-1(PM) belongs to CONTEC’s broader communication interface family, which includes PCI, Low Profile PCI, USB, and Media Converter models. This modular lineup allows users to select the appropriate interface type and communication standard (RS-232C, RS-422A, RS-485, or Ethernet) for their specific application.

Applications Summary:
- Industrial automation and control systems
- Field service and maintenance tools
- Laboratory instrumentation
- Embedded system integration
- Data logging and monitoring systems
- Serial device configuration and diagnostics

Support Software:
- Standard COM Driver / COM Setup Disk: Enables installation and configuration of the serial communication board in Windows or Linux.
- API-PAC(W32): Provides an API library for developers to integrate serial communication functions into custom applications.

Documentation and Resources:
- User manual (installation and configuration guide)
- Driver installation instructions
- API reference documentation
- Example code and configuration utilities

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Summary

The CONTEC COM-1(PM) is a robust, industrial-grade PCMCIA Type II serial communication card providing a single RS-232C asynchronous channel. Designed for mobile and embedded computing environments, it delivers reliable serial connectivity with full compatibility across Windows and Linux platforms. Featuring a 16550 UART controller, 16-byte FIFO buffering, and low power consumption, the COM-1(PM) ensures stable and efficient data communication for a wide range of industrial and laboratory applications. Its compliance with PCMCIA Rel.2.0 and JEIDA 4.1 standards guarantees broad hardware compatibility, while CONTEC’s driver and software support simplify integration and long-term maintenance.

With its proven reliability, compact design, and cross-platform support, the COM-1(PM) remains an ideal solution for engineers and system integrators requiring dependable RS-232C communication in portable or embedded systems.