1. Product Overview

Product Name: AT AD Card 100kS/s 12 Bit 16SE/8DI 128kW FIFO
Model Number: AD12-16(PC)EH
Article Number: AD12-16(PC)EH
Series: AT AD Card Series
Manufacturer: Contec Co., Ltd.

The Contec AD12-16(PC)EH is a high-performance analog-to-digital (A/D) conversion card designed for AT-bus (ISA) architecture systems. It provides precise, high-speed data acquisition capabilities for industrial, laboratory, and embedded measurement applications. With a 12-bit resolution and a maximum sampling rate of 100 kS/s, the AD12-16(PC)EH delivers reliable analog signal digitization for a wide range of voltage input ranges. The card integrates a large FIFO buffer, intelligent sampling ASIC, and flexible channel configuration, making it suitable for both single-ended and differential input modes.

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2. Key Features

- High-Speed 12-Bit A/D Conversion:
Equipped with a 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (AD774), the card achieves sampling rates up to 100,000 samples per second (100 kS/s), ensuring accurate and fast signal acquisition.

- Flexible Channel Configuration:
Supports 16 single-ended (SE) or 8 differential (DI) analog input channels. With the optional ATCH-16(PC) expansion module, the channel count can be doubled to 32 SE or 16 DI channels.

- Wide Input Voltage Range:
Configurable input ranges of ±10 V or 0–10 V, allowing compatibility with a variety of analog sensors and signal sources.

- Integrated FIFO Buffer:
Features a 256 k-word FIFO (First-In-First-Out) memory buffer or ring buffer for continuous, high-speed data streaming without data loss, even during intensive system operations.

- Intelligent Sampling ASIC:
Incorporates a dedicated ASIC for intelligent sampling control, optimizing timing accuracy and reducing CPU load during acquisition.

- Onboard D/A Conversion:
Includes one 12-bit digital-to-analog (D/A) output channel with selectable output ranges of ±10 V, 0–10 V, or ±5 V, and a conversion time of 6 µs, enabling precise analog output or waveform generation.

- DMA and Interrupt Support:
Compatible with DMA channels 5, 6, and 7, and interrupt request (IRQ) lines 5, 7, 9–12, and 15, providing flexible system integration and efficient data transfer.

- Digital I/O Capability:
Provides 4 TTL-level digital input and 4 TTL-level digital output lines for control and synchronization with external devices.

- Compact Form Factor:
Standard AT-bus card dimensions of 160 mm × 122 mm, suitable for installation in legacy or industrial PC systems.

- Robust Connectivity:
Equipped with a 37-pin female D-Sub connector and a 16-pin connector for analog and digital I/O interfacing.

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3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| A/D Converter | AD774, 12-bit resolution |
| Sampling Rate | Up to 100 kS/s |
| Analog Input Channels | 16 single-ended (SE) or 8 differential (DI) |
| Expandable Channels | Up to 32 SE / 16 DI with ATCH-16(PC) extension |
| Input Voltage Range | ±10 V or 0–10 V |
| Input Type | Single-ended or differential |
| FIFO Buffer | 256 k-word (128 k-word effective) FIFO or ring buffer |
| D/A Output Channels | 1 channel, 12-bit resolution |
| D/A Output Range | ±10 V, 0–10 V, or ±5 V |
| D/A Conversion Time | 6 µs |
| Digital I/O | 4 TTL inputs / 4 TTL outputs |
| DMA Channels | 5, 6, 7 |
| IRQ Lines | 5, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15 |
| Connectors | D-Sub 37-pin female, 16-pin header |
| Board Dimensions | 160 mm (L) × 122 mm (H) |
| Bus Interface | AT (ISA) bus |
| Manufacturer | Contec Co., Ltd. |

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4. Functionality

The AD12-16(PC)EH functions as a high-precision analog-to-digital interface card for AT-bus computers. It converts analog voltage signals from sensors, transducers, or instrumentation into digital data for processing, analysis, or control applications. The onboard AD774 converter ensures accurate 12-bit resolution sampling, while the intelligent ASIC manages timing and buffering to maintain consistent throughput.

Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial process monitoring and control
- Laboratory data acquisition and signal analysis
- Automated test equipment (ATE) systems
- Sensor data logging and waveform capture
- Embedded measurement systems in manufacturing or research environments

Compatibility:
- Designed for AT (ISA) bus systems
- Compatible with Contec’s ATCH-16(PC) expansion module for channel extension
- Supports standard TTL-level digital I/O for integration with external control logic or trigger systems

The card’s FIFO buffer allows continuous data acquisition without CPU intervention, making it ideal for long-duration or high-speed sampling tasks. The D/A output channel can be used for analog control signals, waveform generation, or feedback applications.

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Components:
- AD12-16(PC)EH main board
- D-Sub 37-pin female connector for analog I/O
- 16-pin connector for digital I/O
- User documentation and installation guide

Optional Accessories:
- ATCH-16(PC): Channel expansion module providing an additional 16 SE or 8 DI channels (up to 32 SE / 16 DI total)
- Cables and Terminal Boards: Optional shielded cables and breakout terminal boards for simplified wiring and signal conditioning
- Mounting Hardware: Optional brackets or standoffs for secure installation in industrial enclosures

Connectors:
- Analog I/O: 37-pin D-Sub female connector for analog input and output channels
- Digital I/O: 16-pin connector for TTL-level digital input/output lines

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6. Installation & Setup

System Requirements:
- AT (ISA) bus slot available in the host PC
- Compatible operating system supporting ISA-based data acquisition drivers
- Adequate power supply and grounding for analog signal integrity

Installation Steps:
1. Power off the host system and insert the AD12-16(PC)EH card into an available AT-bus slot.
2. Secure the card using the mounting bracket.
3. Connect analog input signals to the D-Sub 37-pin connector and digital I/O lines to the 16-pin connector.
4. If additional channels are required, attach the ATCH-16(PC) expansion module.
5. Configure DMA and IRQ settings via jumpers or software configuration tools according to system requirements.
6. Install the appropriate Contec driver and software utilities for data acquisition and control.
7. Power on the system and verify device recognition and functionality through diagnostic software.

Mounting Options:
- Standard AT-bus slot mounting
- Optional mechanical supports for vibration-resistant installation in industrial environments

Configuration:
- Input range selection (±10 V or 0–10 V) via software or jumper settings
- Channel mode selection (SE or DI)
- DMA and IRQ assignment for optimized data transfer performance

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7. Performance & Capabilities

The AD12-16(PC)EH delivers a balance of speed, precision, and flexibility for analog data acquisition tasks. Its 12-bit resolution provides 4096 discrete quantization levels, ensuring fine-grained signal representation. The 100 kS/s sampling rate supports dynamic signal capture for medium- to high-frequency applications.

Performance Highlights:
- Sampling Speed: Up to 100,000 samples per second, suitable for real-time monitoring and waveform analysis.
- Buffering: 256 k-word FIFO enables continuous acquisition without data loss, even under high system load.
- Analog Output: 12-bit D/A conversion with 6 µs update time allows smooth analog signal generation.
- Digital I/O: TTL-level lines provide fast, deterministic control and synchronization with external devices.
- DMA/IRQ Efficiency: Hardware-based data transfer minimizes CPU overhead, improving system responsiveness.

Limitations:
- Designed for AT (ISA) bus systems; not directly compatible with modern PCI or PCIe architectures without adapters.
- Sampling rate limited to 100 kS/s, which may not be sufficient for very high-frequency signal capture.
- Single D/A output channel may limit simultaneous multi-output applications.

Despite these constraints, the AD12-16(PC)EH remains a robust and reliable solution for legacy and industrial data acquisition systems requiring stable, high-resolution analog input and output.

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8. Standards & Compliance

The AD12-16(PC)EH is manufactured by Contec in accordance with industrial quality and safety standards. While specific certifications are not listed, Contec products typically comply with the following:

- Electrical Safety: Designed to meet standard industrial safety and EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) requirements for AT-bus devices.
- RoHS Compliance: Manufactured using lead-free processes and materials in compliance with Restriction of Hazardous Substances directives.
- Quality Assurance: Produced under ISO 9001-certified quality management systems.
- Bus Interface Standard: Fully compliant with AT (ISA) bus electrical and mechanical specifications.

These compliance measures ensure reliable operation, long-term stability, and compatibility with a wide range of industrial computing environments.

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
Typically supplied with a standard manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty terms may vary by region or distributor.

Technical Support:
Contec provides comprehensive technical support, including driver software, sample programs, and documentation for integration with various operating systems and programming environments.

Maintenance:
- Periodic inspection of connectors and cabling recommended to maintain signal integrity.
- Ensure proper grounding and shielding to minimize noise interference.
- Firmware or driver updates may be available from Contec’s support portal to enhance performance or compatibility.

Software & Updates:
- Compatible with Contec’s data acquisition software tools and SDKs.
- Supports driver-level integration for custom application development in C/C++, LabVIEW, or other environments.
- Firmware updates (if applicable) can be applied via software utilities provided by Contec.

Service Life & Reliability:
The AD12-16(PC)EH is designed for long-term operation in industrial and laboratory environments, with robust construction and stable electronic components ensuring consistent performance over extended periods.

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### Summary

The Contec AD12-16(PC)EH is a versatile, high-precision analog-to-digital conversion card engineered for AT-bus systems. It combines a 12-bit, 100 kS/s A/D converter with a large FIFO buffer, intelligent sampling ASIC, and flexible I/O configuration. Supporting up to 16 single-ended or 8 differential analog inputs (expandable to 32 SE / 16 DI), it accommodates a wide range of measurement and control applications. The inclusion of a 12-bit D/A output, TTL digital I/O, and DMA/IRQ support enhances its integration potential in automated test, monitoring, and control systems. With its robust design, comprehensive connectivity, and proven Contec reliability, the AD12-16(PC)EH remains a dependable solution for precision data acquisition in industrial and research environments.