1. Product Overview

Product Name: PCI Bus Expansion Chassis
Model: ECH(PCI)BE-H13A
Series: ECH(PCI)BE Bus Extension Type Expansion Chassis
Article Number: ECH(PCI)BE-H13A
Manufacturer: CONTEC CO., LTD. (Osaka, Japan)
Product Category: Industrial Automation / Measurement and Control – Bus Expansion System

The CONTEC ECH(PCI)BE-H13A is a high-capacity PCI bus expansion chassis designed to extend the PCI bus of a host PC, providing thirteen additional short-size PCI slots. It is part of CONTEC’s Bus Extension Type series, which enables direct PCI bus signal transmission between the host computer and the external chassis. The unit is engineered for industrial and laboratory environments requiring multiple PCI boards for measurement, control, or data acquisition applications. The chassis integrates a robust steel enclosure, a built-in power supply, and cooling fans, ensuring stable operation under continuous industrial use.

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2. Key Features

- 13 PCI Expansion Slots: Provides thirteen short-size PCI slots (5V/32-bit, 33MHz) compliant with PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.3.
- Direct PCI Bus Extension: Transmits PCI bus signals directly between the host PC and the expansion chassis via a dedicated expansion adapter and cable.
- Built-in Power Supply: Internal power supply with selectable 115/230VAC input and automatic synchronization with the host PC’s power state.
- Industrial-Grade Construction: Heavy-duty steel chassis suitable for factory and laboratory environments.
- Cooling System: Integrated cooling fan and ventilation design to maintain optimal internal temperature.
- Power Interlocking Function: The chassis power can be automatically turned on/off in synchronization with the host PC.
- Rack-Mountable Design: Includes brackets and screws for horizontal or vertical rack mounting.
- Compatibility: Works with CONTEC expansion adapters EAD(PCI)BE, EAD(LPCI)BE, and EAD-BE-LPE.
- High Power Capacity: Supports up to 230W total output power (temperature-dependent).
- Comprehensive Safety and Reliability: Designed for continuous operation with built-in protection and compliance with CE and RoHS standards.

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3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|------------------|
| Bus Type | PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.3 (+5V type) |
| Address Space | 32-bit memory and I/O addressing |
| Interrupt Level | INTA – INTD |
| Bus Operating Clock | 33 MHz (maximum) |
| User Slots | 13 short-size PCI slots |
| Acceptable Board Size | 176.5 mm (L) × 107 mm (H) |
| Power Supply Output (Max.) | +5VDC: 18A, +3.3VDC: 15A, +12VDC: 9A, -12VDC: 0.8A |
| Total Power Capacity | 230W (0–30°C), 205W (30–40°C), 175W (40–50°C) |
| AC Input Voltage | 115/230VAC (switch selectable) |
| AC Input Range | 90–132VAC / 180–250VAC |
| AC Frequency | 50–60Hz |
| AC Input Current | 6A (115VAC) / 4A (230VAC) |
| Operating Temperature | 0–50°C |
| Operating Humidity | 20–80% RH (no condensation) |
| Storage Temperature | 0–60°C |
| Storage Humidity | 10–90% RH (no condensation) |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 424.0 × 156.0 × 255.0 mm (no fittings) |
| Weight | 7.5 kg |
| Material | Steel chassis, light gray finish |
| Cooling | Built-in fan with air intake/exhaust vents |
| Power Cable | 2.5 m, 3P type |
| Compliance | CE marking, RoHS compliant |
| Expected Component Life | Power supply: ~5 years; Fan: ~5 years; Filter: ~1 year (at 25°C, 60% RH) |

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4. Functionality

The ECH(PCI)BE-H13A functions as an external PCI bus expansion unit that connects to a host PC through a dedicated expansion adapter and cable. It replicates the PCI bus environment externally, allowing the installation of up to thirteen additional PCI boards. The chassis operates as an extension of the host’s PCI bus, enabling seamless integration of additional I/O, communication, or control boards without modifying the host system.

Operation Principle:
- The host PC is equipped with an expansion adapter (EAD(PCI)BE, EAD(LPCI)BE, or EAD-BE-LPE).
- A 1-meter dedicated cable (CB-BF96 or CB-CB68/96) connects the adapter to the chassis interface (BUS-PAC(PCI)A).
- The chassis’ internal PCI backplane distributes bus signals to the 13 PCI slots.
- Power interlocking allows the chassis to power on/off automatically with the host PC.

Use Cases:
- Industrial measurement and control systems requiring multiple PCI I/O boards.
- Data acquisition systems in laboratories or production lines.
- Machine automation and motion control applications.
- Communication interface expansion (GPIB, serial, digital I/O).
- Test and inspection systems requiring multiple PCI-based instruments.

Compatibility:
- Compatible with Windows XP, 2000, Vista, and later OS versions (depending on adapter).
- Works with standard PCI-compliant boards (5V/32-bit, 33MHz).
- Not compatible with video display boards, additional PCI bus expansion boards, or boards marked “Cannot be used with PCI-to-PCI Bridge.”

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- ECH(PCI)BE-H13A expansion chassis (1 unit)
- Power cable (1)
- Rack-mount brackets (2)
- Bracket fixing screws (6)
- Slot covers (13)
- Board fixing screws (13)
- Rubber feet (4)
- User’s Manual (1)

Optional Accessories:
- Expansion Adapters:
- EAD(PCI)BE (for standard PCI slot)
- EAD(LPCI)BE (for low-profile PCI slot)
- EAD-BE-LPE (for PCI Express slot)
- Connection Cables:
- CB-BF96 (1m)
- CB-CB68/96 (1m)
- Replacement Parts:
- Power supply module (POW300 series)
- Cooling fan (FAN1238, FAN0925, FAN0820)
- Fan filter (FLT120, FLT121, FLT90 series)

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6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- Host PC with compatible PCI, Low Profile PCI, or PCI Express slot.
- Appropriate expansion adapter and connection cable.
- Stable AC power source (115/230VAC).

Installation Steps:
1. Preparation: Ensure both PC and chassis are powered off and unplugged.
2. Install PCI Boards: Remove the chassis cover, insert PCI boards into available slots, and secure with screws.
3. Connect Cable: Attach the 96-pin connector from the expansion adapter to the BUS-PAC(PCI)A interface on the chassis.
4. Power Connection: Plug the power cable into the AC inlet and wall outlet.
5. Power Interlocking Setup: Configure jumper JP1 on BUS-PAC(PCI)A for synchronized or independent power control.
6. Startup: Power on the host PC; the chassis will automatically power on.
7. Verification: Confirm detection of “PCI-to-PCI Bridge” devices in Windows Device Manager.

Mounting Options:
- Horizontal or vertical placement.
- Rack-mountable using included brackets.
- Maintain at least 20mm clearance for ventilation.

Configuration Notes:
- The chassis power supply can be manually toggled via the front panel switch.
- Ensure total current draw of installed boards does not exceed rated output.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Bus Performance: 33MHz PCI bus operation, 32-bit addressing, full compatibility with standard PCI signaling.
- Power Efficiency: High-efficiency internal PSU with temperature-dependent derating for thermal stability.
- Thermal Management: Continuous airflow via integrated fan; designed for 0–50°C ambient operation.
- Capacity: Supports up to 13 PCI boards simultaneously.
- Reliability: Industrial-grade components rated for long-term operation; power and fan units replaceable.
- Limitations:
- Not suitable for cascading multiple expansion chassis.
- Not compatible with PCI-to-PCI bridge-restricted boards.
- Bus mastering performance may be slightly reduced compared to direct motherboard slots due to bridge latency.

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8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Standard: PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.3 (+5V type).
- Electrical Safety: CE marking compliant (EN60950-1).
- Environmental Compliance: RoHS compliant (lead-free manufacturing).
- EMC Compliance: Designed to meet industrial electromagnetic compatibility standards.
- Operating Environment: 0–50°C, 20–80%RH (non-condensing).
- Power Supply Certification: CE-certified internal PSU with selectable 115/230VAC input.
- Quality Assurance: Manufactured under ISO 9001-certified processes.

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- Limited three-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
- Warranty excludes normal wear, misuse, or damage from improper handling.
- Repairs or replacements require Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA).

Support & Maintenance:
- Technical documentation, drivers, and updates available at [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com).
- Periodic inspection recommended to ensure ventilation slits are free of dust.
- Replace fan and power supply approximately every five years under normal conditions.
- Fan filters should be replaced annually.

Service Life & Replacement Parts:
- Power Supply: ~5 years (25°C, 60% RH).
- Cooling Fan: ~5 years.
- Fan Filter: ~1 year.
- Replacement parts available under CONTEC part numbers POW300/POW301 (PSU), FAN1238/FAN0925 (fans), FLT120/FLT121 (filters).

Safety Precautions:
- Do not operate in environments with flammable gases, corrosive vapors, or excessive dust.
- Always power off and unplug before installing or removing boards.
- Maintain adequate ventilation; do not block air inlets or outlets.
- Avoid exposure to strong magnetic fields or vibration.

Customer Support:
- Japan: [www.contec.co.jp](http://www.contec.co.jp)
- Global: [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
- China: [www.contec.com.cn](http://www.contec.com.cn)

Product Lifecycle & Updates:
CONTEC periodically updates product firmware, drivers, and manuals. Users are encouraged to download the latest versions to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.

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### Summary

The CONTEC ECH(PCI)BE-H13A is a robust, high-capacity PCI bus expansion chassis engineered for industrial and laboratory applications requiring extensive PCI slot availability. With 13 short-size PCI slots, a built-in power supply, and synchronized power control, it provides a reliable and scalable solution for expanding system I/O capabilities. Its compliance with PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.3 ensures compatibility with a wide range of PCI boards, while its industrial-grade construction and cooling system guarantee stable operation in demanding environments. The chassis integrates seamlessly with CONTEC’s range of expansion adapters, offering flexible connectivity options for PCI, Low Profile PCI, and PCI Express host systems.