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- 12 Programmable Counters/Timers:
Four 8254 chips provide twelve 16‑bit down counters. Default configuration includes two chips (six counters), expandable to four chips (twelve counters).
- Flexible Counter Configuration:
Each counter can operate independently or in cascaded mode. Clock and gate sources can be internal, external, or cascaded from other counters.
- Digital I/O Capability:
- 16 digital input channels (shared with external clock/gate lines).
- 8 dedicated digital output channels.
- All I/O are TTL‑compatible.
- Dual Interrupt System:
Two interrupt sources selectable via jumpers:
- High IRQ from /COUT6 (reversed output of cascaded counter).
- Low IRQ from COUT12 or external interrupt (ECLK10).
- IRQ levels selectable from IRQ3–15.
- Clock System:
Internal 10 MHz oscillator with selectable frequency dividers (2 MHz, 1 MHz, 100 kHz).
External or cascaded clock sources supported.
- Compact ISA Half‑Size Form Factor:
Dimensions 163 mm (L) × 108 mm (W).
- Connector Interface:
One 37‑pin D‑type female connector (CN1) for all counter, gate, clock, and DIO signals.
- Software Support:
Comprehensive C/C++ library and DLLs for DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and Windows NT.
Functions include counter read/write, digital I/O, interrupt handling, and mode configuration.
- Applications:
Event counting, frequency generation, pulse width and frequency measurement, watchdog timing, industrial automation, and laboratory instrumentation.
Four 8254 chips provide twelve 16‑bit down counters. Default configuration includes two chips (six counters), expandable to four chips (twelve counters).
- Flexible Counter Configuration:
Each counter can operate independently or in cascaded mode. Clock and gate sources can be internal, external, or cascaded from other counters.
- Digital I/O Capability:
- 16 digital input channels (shared with external clock/gate lines).
- 8 dedicated digital output channels.
- All I/O are TTL‑compatible.
- Dual Interrupt System:
Two interrupt sources selectable via jumpers:
- High IRQ from /COUT6 (reversed output of cascaded counter).
- Low IRQ from COUT12 or external interrupt (ECLK10).
- IRQ levels selectable from IRQ3–15.
- Clock System:
Internal 10 MHz oscillator with selectable frequency dividers (2 MHz, 1 MHz, 100 kHz).
External or cascaded clock sources supported.
- Compact ISA Half‑Size Form Factor:
Dimensions 163 mm (L) × 108 mm (W).
- Connector Interface:
One 37‑pin D‑type female connector (CN1) for all counter, gate, clock, and DIO signals.
- Software Support:
Comprehensive C/C++ library and DLLs for DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and Windows NT.
Functions include counter read/write, digital I/O, interrupt handling, and mode configuration.
- Applications:
Event counting, frequency generation, pulse width and frequency measurement, watchdog timing, industrial automation, and laboratory instrumentation.
Comprehensive Product Summary – ADLINK ACL‑8454/12 ISA 12‑Timer/Counter 16/8 DIO Card
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: ACL‑8454/12
Article Number: ACL‑8454/12
Series: NuDAQ ISA Multifunction Counter/Timer Series
Model Type: ISA 12‑Timer/Counter 16/8 Digital I/O Card with 4×8254
Manufacturer: ADLINK Technology Inc.
Manufacturer Address: 9F, No. 166, Jian Yi Road, Chungho City, Taipei 235, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Website: [www.adlink.com.tw](http://www.adlink.com.tw)
Support Contacts:
- Sales & Service: service@adlink.com.tw
- Technical Support (NuDAQ): nudaq@adlink.com.tw
- Telephone: +886‑2‑82265877
- Fax: +886‑2‑82265717
The ADLINK ACL‑8454/12 is a multifunction ISA‑bus add‑on card designed for IBM‑AT compatible PCs. It provides up to twelve programmable 16‑bit counters/timers and 24 digital I/O channels (16 inputs, 8 outputs). The card integrates four Intel/NEC 8254 programmable interval timer chips and supports flexible clock, gate, and interrupt configurations for industrial control, measurement, and automation applications.
### 2. Key Features
- 12 Programmable Counters/Timers:
Four 8254 chips provide twelve 16‑bit down counters. Default configuration includes two chips (six counters), expandable to four chips (twelve counters).
- Flexible Counter Configuration:
Each counter can operate independently or in cascaded mode. Clock and gate sources can be internal, external, or cascaded from other counters.
- Digital I/O Capability:
- 16 digital input channels (shared with external clock/gate lines).
- 8 dedicated digital output channels.
- All I/O are TTL‑compatible.
- Dual Interrupt System:
Two interrupt sources selectable via jumpers:
- High IRQ from /COUT6 (reversed output of cascaded counter).
- Low IRQ from COUT12 or external interrupt (ECLK10).
- IRQ levels selectable from IRQ3–15.
- Clock System:
Internal 10 MHz oscillator with selectable frequency dividers (2 MHz, 1 MHz, 100 kHz).
External or cascaded clock sources supported.
- Compact ISA Half‑Size Form Factor:
Dimensions 163 mm (L) × 108 mm (W).
- Connector Interface:
One 37‑pin D‑type female connector (CN1) for all counter, gate, clock, and DIO signals.
- Software Support:
Comprehensive C/C++ library and DLLs for DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and Windows NT.
Functions include counter read/write, digital I/O, interrupt handling, and mode configuration.
- Applications:
Event counting, frequency generation, pulse width and frequency measurement, watchdog timing, industrial automation, and laboratory instrumentation.
### 3. Technical Specifications
Programmable Counter/Timer
- Device: 8254 × 4 (maximum)
- Counter Resolution: 16‑bit down counter
- Clock Sources: Internal (10 MHz/2 MHz/1 MHz/100 kHz), external, or cascaded
- Gate Control: Default enable or external control
- Maximum Internal Clock Frequency: 10 MHz
Digital I/O
- Input Channels: 16 (shared with external gate/clock lines)
- Output Channels: 8 (dedicated)
- Signal Type: TTL compatible
General Specifications
- I/O Base Address: 8 consecutive I/O addresses (default 0x240)
- Interrupt Levels:
- Lower IRQ: 3, 5, 6, 7, 9 (jumper selectable)
- Higher IRQ: 10, 11, 12, 15 (jumper selectable)
- Connector: 37‑pin D‑type female
- Power Consumption: +5 V @ 210 mA max
- Dimensions: 163 mm (L) × 108 mm (W)
- Operating Temperature: 0 °C – 60 °C
- Storage Temperature: −20 °C – 80 °C
- Humidity: 5 – 95 % RH, non‑condensing
### 4. Functionality
Operating Principle:
Each 8254 chip provides three independent programmable counters. The ACL‑8454/12 can operate with up to four chips, offering twelve counters. Counters can be configured for timing, counting, frequency generation, or measurement. Clock and gate signals are selectable via jumpers, allowing internal, external, or cascaded operation.
Use Cases & Applications:
- Event Counter: Counts external pulses or events within a defined time window.
- Frequency Generator: Produces square‑wave or rate‑generated signals up to 250 kHz.
- Pulse Width Measurement: Measures high‑level pulse duration with microsecond resolution.
- Frequency Measurement: Measures input frequency using internal gate control and interrupt synchronization.
- Watchdog Timer: Generates periodic interrupts for system monitoring.
- Industrial Automation: Timing and control of machinery, process monitoring.
- Laboratory Measurement: Frequency synthesis, signal timing, and data acquisition synchronization.
Compatibility:
- ISA‑bus (AT‑bus) interface for IBM‑AT compatible PCs.
- Supported operating systems: DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT.
- Software libraries compatible with C/C++ and Visual Basic.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- ACL‑8454/12 Counter/Timer & DIO Card
- ADLINK Software CD (drivers, libraries, utilities, documentation)
- User’s Manual
Optional Accessories:
- Daughter Boards:
- ACLD‑9137, ACLD‑9188, DIN‑37D for signal extension and wiring convenience.
- Additional 8254 Chips:
- Two additional 8254 ICs (U3, U4) can be installed to expand from 6 to 12 counters.
- Cables & Connectors:
- 37‑pin D‑type cable assemblies for external device connection.
Connectors:
- CN1 (37‑pin D‑type female):
Provides all counter I/O, external clock/gate, digital I/O, and interrupt lines.
Key signals include:
- DO0–DO7: Digital outputs
- DI0–DI15: Digital inputs
- ECLK1–ECLK10: External clock inputs
- ExtG1–ExtG10: External gate inputs
- COUT1–COUT12: Counter outputs
- EInt: External interrupt input
- +5 V and GND pins
### 6. Installation & Setup
Requirements:
- IBM‑AT compatible PC with available ISA slot.
- +5 V power supply from system bus.
- Anti‑static handling precautions during installation.
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the PC and remove the cover.
2. Insert the ACL‑8454/12 into an available ISA slot.
3. Configure base I/O address (default 0x240) using DIP switch S1.
4. Set jumpers for clock sources (CK1–CK10), gate control (G1–G4), and interrupt levels (JP1–JP3).
5. Connect external signals via CN1 connector.
6. Install software drivers and libraries from the ADLINK CD.
Default Configuration:
- Base Address: 0x240
- Clock1: 2 MHz
- Clock2: 100 kHz
- Installed Chips: U1, U2 (6 counters active)
- Interrupt Level 1: IRQ 15 (/COUT6)
- Interrupt Level 2: External (ECLK10)
- Gate Sources: External (ExtG1–ExtG4)
Mounting Options:
- Standard ISA slot mounting; half‑size card fits most industrial PCs.
- Optional daughter boards connect via 37‑pin cable.
Configuration Notes:
- Ensure no I/O or IRQ conflicts with other add‑on cards.
- Use anti‑static mat and wrist strap during handling.
- Verify jumper settings before applying power.
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
Counter Performance:
- Resolution: 16 bits per counter (0–65,535 counts).
- Maximum Input Frequency: 10 MHz (depending on 8254 version).
- Minimum Output Frequency (cascaded): ≈ 0.000233 Hz.
- Frequency Generation Range: 250 kHz – 0.000233 Hz.
- Cascaded Counters: Two pairs (5–6, 11–12) for extended 32‑bit timing.
- Synchronized Frequency Measurement: Up to four channels simultaneously.
Digital I/O Performance:
- TTL‑level compatibility ensures direct interface with standard logic devices.
- Input monitoring and output control via software registers.
- 8‑bit output port and 16‑bit input port accessible through I/O addresses.
Interrupt Handling:
- Dual interrupt capability allows simultaneous watchdog and external event handling.
- High IRQ from /COUT6 (internal), low IRQ from COUT12 or ECLK10 (external).
- IRQ levels selectable via jumpers JP1–JP3.
Efficiency & Limitations:
- Efficient for real‑time control and measurement tasks.
- Limited to ISA bus bandwidth and 16‑bit addressing.
- Requires manual jumper configuration for advanced cascaded or gated modes.
### 8. Standards & Compliance
- Bus Interface: ISA (AT‑bus) standard.
- Signal Levels: TTL/DTL compatible.
- Environmental Compliance:
- Operating 0 °C – 60 °C
- Storage −20 °C – 80 °C
- Humidity 5 – 95 % RH non‑condensing
- Electrical Safety: Designed for low‑voltage DC operation (+5 V).
- Regulatory: Manufactured under ADLINK quality standards; conforms to industrial PC add‑on card design norms.
- Software Compatibility: Compliant with Microsoft DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and Windows NT driver models.
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
- One‑year limited warranty from date of purchase.
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship.
- Excludes damage from misuse, modification, or operation beyond specifications.
- Return shipping prepaid; proof of purchase required.
Technical Support & Service:
ADLINK provides comprehensive technical support via email and phone. Users should provide model number, operating environment, and system configuration when requesting assistance.
Maintenance:
- Keep card and connectors free from dust and moisture.
- Avoid mechanical stress and electrostatic discharge.
- Periodically verify jumper and connector integrity.
Software & Updates:
- Driver and library updates available from ADLINK website.
- Utilities include 8454Util for Windows NT driver registry and configuration.
- Example programs (DEMO1.C–DEMO5.C) demonstrate frequency generation, pulse measurement, and event counting.
Programming Interface:
- C/C++ and Visual Basic APIs for counter and DIO control.
- Functions include initialization, counter read/write, digital I/O, and interrupt enable/disable.
- Macros for 8254 modes: Interrupt‑on‑Terminal‑Count, One‑Shot, Square‑Wave, Rate‑Generator, Software/Hardware Strobe.
Maintenance of Expandability:
- Users may install additional 8254 chips (U3, U4) to expand counter capacity.
- Ensure power is off and card removed before installation.
- Configure jumpers for new counters’ clock and gate sources.
Support Utilities:
- 8454.DLL for Windows 95/NT.
- w95_8454.VXD, 8454.SYS, DIO.SYS drivers.
- 8454Util.exe for driver registry and IRQ configuration.
### Summary
The ADLINK ACL‑8454/12 is a robust, flexible ISA‑bus multifunction counter/timer and digital I/O card engineered for industrial and laboratory applications requiring precise timing, counting, and control. With up to twelve 16‑bit counters, dual interrupt capability, and comprehensive software support, it provides a versatile platform for event counting, frequency generation, pulse measurement, and automation control. Its modular architecture, jumper‑selectable configurations, and compatibility with standard 8254 timer chips make it a reliable and customizable solution for embedded and PC‑based measurement systems.
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: ACL‑8454/12
Article Number: ACL‑8454/12
Series: NuDAQ ISA Multifunction Counter/Timer Series
Model Type: ISA 12‑Timer/Counter 16/8 Digital I/O Card with 4×8254
Manufacturer: ADLINK Technology Inc.
Manufacturer Address: 9F, No. 166, Jian Yi Road, Chungho City, Taipei 235, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Website: [www.adlink.com.tw](http://www.adlink.com.tw)
Support Contacts:
- Sales & Service: service@adlink.com.tw
- Technical Support (NuDAQ): nudaq@adlink.com.tw
- Telephone: +886‑2‑82265877
- Fax: +886‑2‑82265717
The ADLINK ACL‑8454/12 is a multifunction ISA‑bus add‑on card designed for IBM‑AT compatible PCs. It provides up to twelve programmable 16‑bit counters/timers and 24 digital I/O channels (16 inputs, 8 outputs). The card integrates four Intel/NEC 8254 programmable interval timer chips and supports flexible clock, gate, and interrupt configurations for industrial control, measurement, and automation applications.
### 2. Key Features
- 12 Programmable Counters/Timers:
Four 8254 chips provide twelve 16‑bit down counters. Default configuration includes two chips (six counters), expandable to four chips (twelve counters).
- Flexible Counter Configuration:
Each counter can operate independently or in cascaded mode. Clock and gate sources can be internal, external, or cascaded from other counters.
- Digital I/O Capability:
- 16 digital input channels (shared with external clock/gate lines).
- 8 dedicated digital output channels.
- All I/O are TTL‑compatible.
- Dual Interrupt System:
Two interrupt sources selectable via jumpers:
- High IRQ from /COUT6 (reversed output of cascaded counter).
- Low IRQ from COUT12 or external interrupt (ECLK10).
- IRQ levels selectable from IRQ3–15.
- Clock System:
Internal 10 MHz oscillator with selectable frequency dividers (2 MHz, 1 MHz, 100 kHz).
External or cascaded clock sources supported.
- Compact ISA Half‑Size Form Factor:
Dimensions 163 mm (L) × 108 mm (W).
- Connector Interface:
One 37‑pin D‑type female connector (CN1) for all counter, gate, clock, and DIO signals.
- Software Support:
Comprehensive C/C++ library and DLLs for DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and Windows NT.
Functions include counter read/write, digital I/O, interrupt handling, and mode configuration.
- Applications:
Event counting, frequency generation, pulse width and frequency measurement, watchdog timing, industrial automation, and laboratory instrumentation.
### 3. Technical Specifications
Programmable Counter/Timer
- Device: 8254 × 4 (maximum)
- Counter Resolution: 16‑bit down counter
- Clock Sources: Internal (10 MHz/2 MHz/1 MHz/100 kHz), external, or cascaded
- Gate Control: Default enable or external control
- Maximum Internal Clock Frequency: 10 MHz
Digital I/O
- Input Channels: 16 (shared with external gate/clock lines)
- Output Channels: 8 (dedicated)
- Signal Type: TTL compatible
General Specifications
- I/O Base Address: 8 consecutive I/O addresses (default 0x240)
- Interrupt Levels:
- Lower IRQ: 3, 5, 6, 7, 9 (jumper selectable)
- Higher IRQ: 10, 11, 12, 15 (jumper selectable)
- Connector: 37‑pin D‑type female
- Power Consumption: +5 V @ 210 mA max
- Dimensions: 163 mm (L) × 108 mm (W)
- Operating Temperature: 0 °C – 60 °C
- Storage Temperature: −20 °C – 80 °C
- Humidity: 5 – 95 % RH, non‑condensing
### 4. Functionality
Operating Principle:
Each 8254 chip provides three independent programmable counters. The ACL‑8454/12 can operate with up to four chips, offering twelve counters. Counters can be configured for timing, counting, frequency generation, or measurement. Clock and gate signals are selectable via jumpers, allowing internal, external, or cascaded operation.
Use Cases & Applications:
- Event Counter: Counts external pulses or events within a defined time window.
- Frequency Generator: Produces square‑wave or rate‑generated signals up to 250 kHz.
- Pulse Width Measurement: Measures high‑level pulse duration with microsecond resolution.
- Frequency Measurement: Measures input frequency using internal gate control and interrupt synchronization.
- Watchdog Timer: Generates periodic interrupts for system monitoring.
- Industrial Automation: Timing and control of machinery, process monitoring.
- Laboratory Measurement: Frequency synthesis, signal timing, and data acquisition synchronization.
Compatibility:
- ISA‑bus (AT‑bus) interface for IBM‑AT compatible PCs.
- Supported operating systems: DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT.
- Software libraries compatible with C/C++ and Visual Basic.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- ACL‑8454/12 Counter/Timer & DIO Card
- ADLINK Software CD (drivers, libraries, utilities, documentation)
- User’s Manual
Optional Accessories:
- Daughter Boards:
- ACLD‑9137, ACLD‑9188, DIN‑37D for signal extension and wiring convenience.
- Additional 8254 Chips:
- Two additional 8254 ICs (U3, U4) can be installed to expand from 6 to 12 counters.
- Cables & Connectors:
- 37‑pin D‑type cable assemblies for external device connection.
Connectors:
- CN1 (37‑pin D‑type female):
Provides all counter I/O, external clock/gate, digital I/O, and interrupt lines.
Key signals include:
- DO0–DO7: Digital outputs
- DI0–DI15: Digital inputs
- ECLK1–ECLK10: External clock inputs
- ExtG1–ExtG10: External gate inputs
- COUT1–COUT12: Counter outputs
- EInt: External interrupt input
- +5 V and GND pins
### 6. Installation & Setup
Requirements:
- IBM‑AT compatible PC with available ISA slot.
- +5 V power supply from system bus.
- Anti‑static handling precautions during installation.
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the PC and remove the cover.
2. Insert the ACL‑8454/12 into an available ISA slot.
3. Configure base I/O address (default 0x240) using DIP switch S1.
4. Set jumpers for clock sources (CK1–CK10), gate control (G1–G4), and interrupt levels (JP1–JP3).
5. Connect external signals via CN1 connector.
6. Install software drivers and libraries from the ADLINK CD.
Default Configuration:
- Base Address: 0x240
- Clock1: 2 MHz
- Clock2: 100 kHz
- Installed Chips: U1, U2 (6 counters active)
- Interrupt Level 1: IRQ 15 (/COUT6)
- Interrupt Level 2: External (ECLK10)
- Gate Sources: External (ExtG1–ExtG4)
Mounting Options:
- Standard ISA slot mounting; half‑size card fits most industrial PCs.
- Optional daughter boards connect via 37‑pin cable.
Configuration Notes:
- Ensure no I/O or IRQ conflicts with other add‑on cards.
- Use anti‑static mat and wrist strap during handling.
- Verify jumper settings before applying power.
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
Counter Performance:
- Resolution: 16 bits per counter (0–65,535 counts).
- Maximum Input Frequency: 10 MHz (depending on 8254 version).
- Minimum Output Frequency (cascaded): ≈ 0.000233 Hz.
- Frequency Generation Range: 250 kHz – 0.000233 Hz.
- Cascaded Counters: Two pairs (5–6, 11–12) for extended 32‑bit timing.
- Synchronized Frequency Measurement: Up to four channels simultaneously.
Digital I/O Performance:
- TTL‑level compatibility ensures direct interface with standard logic devices.
- Input monitoring and output control via software registers.
- 8‑bit output port and 16‑bit input port accessible through I/O addresses.
Interrupt Handling:
- Dual interrupt capability allows simultaneous watchdog and external event handling.
- High IRQ from /COUT6 (internal), low IRQ from COUT12 or ECLK10 (external).
- IRQ levels selectable via jumpers JP1–JP3.
Efficiency & Limitations:
- Efficient for real‑time control and measurement tasks.
- Limited to ISA bus bandwidth and 16‑bit addressing.
- Requires manual jumper configuration for advanced cascaded or gated modes.
### 8. Standards & Compliance
- Bus Interface: ISA (AT‑bus) standard.
- Signal Levels: TTL/DTL compatible.
- Environmental Compliance:
- Operating 0 °C – 60 °C
- Storage −20 °C – 80 °C
- Humidity 5 – 95 % RH non‑condensing
- Electrical Safety: Designed for low‑voltage DC operation (+5 V).
- Regulatory: Manufactured under ADLINK quality standards; conforms to industrial PC add‑on card design norms.
- Software Compatibility: Compliant with Microsoft DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and Windows NT driver models.
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
- One‑year limited warranty from date of purchase.
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship.
- Excludes damage from misuse, modification, or operation beyond specifications.
- Return shipping prepaid; proof of purchase required.
Technical Support & Service:
ADLINK provides comprehensive technical support via email and phone. Users should provide model number, operating environment, and system configuration when requesting assistance.
Maintenance:
- Keep card and connectors free from dust and moisture.
- Avoid mechanical stress and electrostatic discharge.
- Periodically verify jumper and connector integrity.
Software & Updates:
- Driver and library updates available from ADLINK website.
- Utilities include 8454Util for Windows NT driver registry and configuration.
- Example programs (DEMO1.C–DEMO5.C) demonstrate frequency generation, pulse measurement, and event counting.
Programming Interface:
- C/C++ and Visual Basic APIs for counter and DIO control.
- Functions include initialization, counter read/write, digital I/O, and interrupt enable/disable.
- Macros for 8254 modes: Interrupt‑on‑Terminal‑Count, One‑Shot, Square‑Wave, Rate‑Generator, Software/Hardware Strobe.
Maintenance of Expandability:
- Users may install additional 8254 chips (U3, U4) to expand counter capacity.
- Ensure power is off and card removed before installation.
- Configure jumpers for new counters’ clock and gate sources.
Support Utilities:
- 8454.DLL for Windows 95/NT.
- w95_8454.VXD, 8454.SYS, DIO.SYS drivers.
- 8454Util.exe for driver registry and IRQ configuration.
### Summary
The ADLINK ACL‑8454/12 is a robust, flexible ISA‑bus multifunction counter/timer and digital I/O card engineered for industrial and laboratory applications requiring precise timing, counting, and control. With up to twelve 16‑bit counters, dual interrupt capability, and comprehensive software support, it provides a versatile platform for event counting, frequency generation, pulse measurement, and automation control. Its modular architecture, jumper‑selectable configurations, and compatibility with standard 8254 timer chips make it a reliable and customizable solution for embedded and PC‑based measurement systems.
-
A8454 Manual.PDF
Manual
- ACLD-9188 - Panel for mounting low pass filter etc.
- ACLD-9137-01 - Direct 37 small screw terminal
- DIN-37D-01 - 37pin D-type panel DIN rail w/o cable