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- Windows 3.1x and Windows 95 Compatibility:
Fully supports legacy Windows operating systems, ensuring stable operation on older PC platforms used in industrial control systems.
- ISA/AT Bus Support:
Designed for CONTEC’s ISA-based digital I/O boards, providing direct hardware-level communication and control.
- Unified API Interface:
Offers a consistent API structure across CONTEC’s DIO product line, simplifying software development and reducing integration time.
- High Channel Count:
Supports up to 64 digital I/O channels per board, allowing for extensive signal monitoring and control.
- Hardware Filtering and Bit-Level Control:
Includes digital filtering to prevent chattering and supports bit-level input/output operations for precise control.
- Diagnostic and Configuration Utilities:
Bundled with setup and diagnostic tools to simplify installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
- Integration with CONTEC API-PAC Framework:
Compatible with CONTEC’s API-PAC(W32) unified driver library, enabling cross-compatibility with other CONTEC analog, counter, and communication modules.
- Sample Programs and Documentation:
Includes example source code and documentation to accelerate application development.
- LabVIEW and Visual Studio Support (via API-PAC):
Can be used in conjunction with CONTEC’s API-PAC and VI-DAQ libraries for integration with National Instruments LabVIEW and Microsoft Visual Basic/C++ environments.
Fully supports legacy Windows operating systems, ensuring stable operation on older PC platforms used in industrial control systems.
- ISA/AT Bus Support:
Designed for CONTEC’s ISA-based digital I/O boards, providing direct hardware-level communication and control.
- Unified API Interface:
Offers a consistent API structure across CONTEC’s DIO product line, simplifying software development and reducing integration time.
- High Channel Count:
Supports up to 64 digital I/O channels per board, allowing for extensive signal monitoring and control.
- Hardware Filtering and Bit-Level Control:
Includes digital filtering to prevent chattering and supports bit-level input/output operations for precise control.
- Diagnostic and Configuration Utilities:
Bundled with setup and diagnostic tools to simplify installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
- Integration with CONTEC API-PAC Framework:
Compatible with CONTEC’s API-PAC(W32) unified driver library, enabling cross-compatibility with other CONTEC analog, counter, and communication modules.
- Sample Programs and Documentation:
Includes example source code and documentation to accelerate application development.
- LabVIEW and Visual Studio Support (via API-PAC):
Can be used in conjunction with CONTEC’s API-PAC and VI-DAQ libraries for integration with National Instruments LabVIEW and Microsoft Visual Basic/C++ environments.
Comprehensive Product Summary – CONTEC API-DIO(PC)WIN
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: API-DIO(PC)WIN
Model / Series: API-DIO Series (Windows Device Driver for Digital I/O Boards)
Article Number: API-DIO(PC)WIN
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd.
Product Type: Windows device driver software for CONTEC digital I/O (DIO) boards
Supported Hardware Bus: ISA / AT bus (legacy PC architecture)
Supported Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows 3.1x and Windows 95
General Description:
The CONTEC API-DIO(PC)WIN is a Windows-based device driver designed specifically for CONTEC’s range of digital input/output (DIO) interface boards that operate on the ISA/AT bus. It provides a standardized software interface for controlling and monitoring digital I/O channels under early Windows environments. The driver enables seamless integration of CONTEC DIO hardware into custom measurement, control, and automation systems, supporting both industrial and laboratory applications.
### 2. Key Features
- Windows 3.1x and Windows 95 Compatibility:
Fully supports legacy Windows operating systems, ensuring stable operation on older PC platforms used in industrial control systems.
- ISA/AT Bus Support:
Designed for CONTEC’s ISA-based digital I/O boards, providing direct hardware-level communication and control.
- Unified API Interface:
Offers a consistent API structure across CONTEC’s DIO product line, simplifying software development and reducing integration time.
- High Channel Count:
Supports up to 64 digital I/O channels per board, allowing for extensive signal monitoring and control.
- Hardware Filtering and Bit-Level Control:
Includes digital filtering to prevent chattering and supports bit-level input/output operations for precise control.
- Diagnostic and Configuration Utilities:
Bundled with setup and diagnostic tools to simplify installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
- Integration with CONTEC API-PAC Framework:
Compatible with CONTEC’s API-PAC(W32) unified driver library, enabling cross-compatibility with other CONTEC analog, counter, and communication modules.
- Sample Programs and Documentation:
Includes example source code and documentation to accelerate application development.
- LabVIEW and Visual Studio Support (via API-PAC):
Can be used in conjunction with CONTEC’s API-PAC and VI-DAQ libraries for integration with National Instruments LabVIEW and Microsoft Visual Basic/C++ environments.
### 3. Technical Specifications
Supported Hardware Bus: ISA / AT bus
Supported Operating Systems: Windows 3.1x, Windows 95
Supported Board Types: CONTEC Digital I/O (DIO) boards for ISA bus
Maximum Controllable Channels: 64 digital I/O channels per board
Digital Input/Output: Configurable per port or bit
Hardware Features:
- Digital filter for noise suppression
- Bit-level I/O control
- Interrupt-driven event handling (board-dependent)
Software Architecture:
- 16-bit Windows driver model
- API function library (DLL-based)
- Configuration and diagnostic utilities included
Physical Media:
Distributed via floppy disk or CD-ROM (depending on production year)
Documentation:
User manual, installation guide, and API reference included
Weight / Dimensions:
Software-only product (no physical dimensions applicable)
### 4. Functionality
Operational Overview:
API-DIO(PC)WIN acts as a middleware layer between the Windows operating system and CONTEC’s ISA-based digital I/O boards. It provides a set of callable API functions that allow user applications to perform digital input and output operations, configure ports, and monitor hardware status.
Core Functions:
- Digital Input: Read logic levels from external devices or sensors connected to the DIO board.
- Digital Output: Write logic levels to control actuators, relays, or indicators.
- Port Configuration: Define input/output direction per port or bit.
- Interrupt Handling: Respond to hardware-triggered events (if supported by the board).
- Status Monitoring: Retrieve board and channel status for diagnostics.
Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial automation and process control
- Laboratory data acquisition systems
- Machine monitoring and control
- Production line testing and inspection systems
- Embedded control in legacy PC-based systems
Compatibility:
- Compatible with CONTEC’s ISA DIO boards such as PI-32L(PC), PO-32L(PC), PIO-16/16L(PC), PIO-48W(PC), and similar models.
- Integrates with CONTEC’s API-PAC(W32) framework for unified control across analog, digital, counter, and communication modules.
- Can be used in conjunction with LabVIEW via VI-DAQ or API-GPLV(W32) for GPIB communication.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- API-DIO(PC)WIN driver software (installation disk)
- Setup and configuration utility
- Diagnostic utility for board verification
- API function library (DLL)
- Sample programs (C, Visual Basic)
- User documentation and API reference manual
Optional Add-ons:
- API-PAC(W32): Unified driver library for Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP environments (for newer systems).
- VI-DAQ: LabVIEW-compliant VI library for analog, digital, and counter I/O modules.
- API-GPLV(W32): LabVIEW-compliant GPIB driver for communication modules.
- COM-DRV(W32): Standard COM driver for serial communication modules.
Connectors and Interfaces:
Dependent on the specific DIO board used; typically 37-pin or 50-pin D-sub connectors for digital I/O signal lines.
### 6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- IBM PC/AT compatible computer
- Available ISA slot for CONTEC DIO board
- Windows 3.1x or Windows 95 operating system
- Minimum 4 MB RAM (typical for Windows 3.1x)
- Available disk space for driver installation
Installation Procedure:
1. Insert the installation disk or CD-ROM.
2. Run the setup program (SETUP.EXE) under Windows.
3. Select the target CONTEC DIO board model from the list.
4. The installer copies the appropriate driver files and registers the board.
5. Reboot the system to complete installation.
Configuration:
- Use the included configuration utility to assign I/O addresses, interrupt levels, and port directions.
- Diagnostic utility can verify board detection and test digital I/O functionality.
Mounting Options:
Not applicable (software product).
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
Channel Capacity: Up to 64 digital I/O channels per board
I/O Speed: Dependent on ISA bus performance; typically several hundred kHz for digital toggling
Response Time: Determined by system interrupt latency and bus speed
Data Transfer Mode: Programmed I/O (polling or interrupt-driven)
Reliability: Industrial-grade stability under Windows 3.1x and Windows 95 environments
Limitations:
- Not compatible with PCI, CompactPCI, or PC Card DIO boards
- Limited to 16-bit Windows environments
- No support for multitasking under modern Windows OS
- Requires ISA bus hardware (obsolete in modern PCs)
Efficiency Enhancements:
- Hardware digital filtering reduces false triggering
- Bit-level control allows efficient use of I/O resources
- Diagnostic tools minimize downtime during setup and maintenance
### 8. Standards & Compliance
Regulatory Compliance:
- IEEE standard digital logic levels (TTL-compatible I/O)
- Compliant with Microsoft Windows 3.1x and Windows 95 driver architecture
- Compatible with CONTEC’s internal API-PAC standard for driver interoperability
Industry Standards:
- ISA/AT bus electrical and mechanical specifications
- IEEE-488 (GPIB) compatibility when used with API-GPIB drivers
- LabVIEW VI-DAQ compliance for measurement and automation integration
Certifications:
- CONTEC internal quality assurance certification
- Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality management system
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Standard CONTEC software warranty (typically one year from purchase) covering defects in media and documentation.
Technical Support:
- Online resources available at [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
- Access to API-TOOL Developer’s Site for driver updates and sample programs
- Email and phone support for registered users
Maintenance:
- Periodic updates available through CONTEC’s global portal
- Diagnostic utilities assist in verifying driver and hardware functionality
- Backward-compatible with other API-DIO versions for legacy system maintenance
Software Updates:
- Free downloads of updated driver libraries and sample programs from CONTEC’s website
- API-PAC(W32) and API-DIO(98/PC)W95/NT provide migration paths for newer Windows versions
Documentation and Resources:
- API function reference manual (PDF)
- Installation and configuration guide
- Sample source code for Visual Basic and C/C++
- LabVIEW integration notes (via VI-DAQ)
Related Products:
- API-DIO(98/PC)W95 / NT: Updated versions for Windows 95/98/NT environments
- API-DIO(LNX): Linux-compatible digital I/O driver
- API-AIO(WDM): High-performance analog I/O driver
- API-GPIB(98/PC): GPIB communication driver
- API-SIO(98/PC): Serial communication driver
- API-CNT(98/PC): Counter input driver
- API-SMC(98/PC): Motor control driver
- API-TIMER(W32): High-precision timer control driver
Legacy and Migration Path:
API-DIO(PC)WIN represents the earliest generation of CONTEC’s digital I/O driver family. For users migrating to newer systems, CONTEC provides updated driver suites (API-DIO(98/PC)W95, API-DIO(WDM), and API-DIO(LNX)) that maintain backward compatibility with existing applications while supporting modern operating systems and hardware interfaces (PCI, CompactPCI, PC Card, and USB).
### Summary
The CONTEC API-DIO(PC)WIN is a foundational Windows device driver enabling digital I/O control for CONTEC’s ISA-based DIO boards under Windows 3.1x and Windows 95. It provides a stable, unified API for digital input/output operations, supporting up to 64 channels per board. With built-in configuration and diagnostic utilities, it simplifies integration into industrial automation, measurement, and control systems. Although designed for legacy environments, its architecture laid the groundwork for CONTEC’s modern API-PAC driver suite, ensuring continuity and compatibility across generations of hardware and software platforms.
Manufacturer Contact:
CONTEC Co., Ltd.
Global Portal: [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
Support and Downloads: [www.contec.com/apipac/](http://www.contec.com/apipac/)
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: API-DIO(PC)WIN
Model / Series: API-DIO Series (Windows Device Driver for Digital I/O Boards)
Article Number: API-DIO(PC)WIN
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd.
Product Type: Windows device driver software for CONTEC digital I/O (DIO) boards
Supported Hardware Bus: ISA / AT bus (legacy PC architecture)
Supported Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows 3.1x and Windows 95
General Description:
The CONTEC API-DIO(PC)WIN is a Windows-based device driver designed specifically for CONTEC’s range of digital input/output (DIO) interface boards that operate on the ISA/AT bus. It provides a standardized software interface for controlling and monitoring digital I/O channels under early Windows environments. The driver enables seamless integration of CONTEC DIO hardware into custom measurement, control, and automation systems, supporting both industrial and laboratory applications.
### 2. Key Features
- Windows 3.1x and Windows 95 Compatibility:
Fully supports legacy Windows operating systems, ensuring stable operation on older PC platforms used in industrial control systems.
- ISA/AT Bus Support:
Designed for CONTEC’s ISA-based digital I/O boards, providing direct hardware-level communication and control.
- Unified API Interface:
Offers a consistent API structure across CONTEC’s DIO product line, simplifying software development and reducing integration time.
- High Channel Count:
Supports up to 64 digital I/O channels per board, allowing for extensive signal monitoring and control.
- Hardware Filtering and Bit-Level Control:
Includes digital filtering to prevent chattering and supports bit-level input/output operations for precise control.
- Diagnostic and Configuration Utilities:
Bundled with setup and diagnostic tools to simplify installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
- Integration with CONTEC API-PAC Framework:
Compatible with CONTEC’s API-PAC(W32) unified driver library, enabling cross-compatibility with other CONTEC analog, counter, and communication modules.
- Sample Programs and Documentation:
Includes example source code and documentation to accelerate application development.
- LabVIEW and Visual Studio Support (via API-PAC):
Can be used in conjunction with CONTEC’s API-PAC and VI-DAQ libraries for integration with National Instruments LabVIEW and Microsoft Visual Basic/C++ environments.
### 3. Technical Specifications
Supported Hardware Bus: ISA / AT bus
Supported Operating Systems: Windows 3.1x, Windows 95
Supported Board Types: CONTEC Digital I/O (DIO) boards for ISA bus
Maximum Controllable Channels: 64 digital I/O channels per board
Digital Input/Output: Configurable per port or bit
Hardware Features:
- Digital filter for noise suppression
- Bit-level I/O control
- Interrupt-driven event handling (board-dependent)
Software Architecture:
- 16-bit Windows driver model
- API function library (DLL-based)
- Configuration and diagnostic utilities included
Physical Media:
Distributed via floppy disk or CD-ROM (depending on production year)
Documentation:
User manual, installation guide, and API reference included
Weight / Dimensions:
Software-only product (no physical dimensions applicable)
### 4. Functionality
Operational Overview:
API-DIO(PC)WIN acts as a middleware layer between the Windows operating system and CONTEC’s ISA-based digital I/O boards. It provides a set of callable API functions that allow user applications to perform digital input and output operations, configure ports, and monitor hardware status.
Core Functions:
- Digital Input: Read logic levels from external devices or sensors connected to the DIO board.
- Digital Output: Write logic levels to control actuators, relays, or indicators.
- Port Configuration: Define input/output direction per port or bit.
- Interrupt Handling: Respond to hardware-triggered events (if supported by the board).
- Status Monitoring: Retrieve board and channel status for diagnostics.
Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial automation and process control
- Laboratory data acquisition systems
- Machine monitoring and control
- Production line testing and inspection systems
- Embedded control in legacy PC-based systems
Compatibility:
- Compatible with CONTEC’s ISA DIO boards such as PI-32L(PC), PO-32L(PC), PIO-16/16L(PC), PIO-48W(PC), and similar models.
- Integrates with CONTEC’s API-PAC(W32) framework for unified control across analog, digital, counter, and communication modules.
- Can be used in conjunction with LabVIEW via VI-DAQ or API-GPLV(W32) for GPIB communication.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- API-DIO(PC)WIN driver software (installation disk)
- Setup and configuration utility
- Diagnostic utility for board verification
- API function library (DLL)
- Sample programs (C, Visual Basic)
- User documentation and API reference manual
Optional Add-ons:
- API-PAC(W32): Unified driver library for Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP environments (for newer systems).
- VI-DAQ: LabVIEW-compliant VI library for analog, digital, and counter I/O modules.
- API-GPLV(W32): LabVIEW-compliant GPIB driver for communication modules.
- COM-DRV(W32): Standard COM driver for serial communication modules.
Connectors and Interfaces:
Dependent on the specific DIO board used; typically 37-pin or 50-pin D-sub connectors for digital I/O signal lines.
### 6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- IBM PC/AT compatible computer
- Available ISA slot for CONTEC DIO board
- Windows 3.1x or Windows 95 operating system
- Minimum 4 MB RAM (typical for Windows 3.1x)
- Available disk space for driver installation
Installation Procedure:
1. Insert the installation disk or CD-ROM.
2. Run the setup program (SETUP.EXE) under Windows.
3. Select the target CONTEC DIO board model from the list.
4. The installer copies the appropriate driver files and registers the board.
5. Reboot the system to complete installation.
Configuration:
- Use the included configuration utility to assign I/O addresses, interrupt levels, and port directions.
- Diagnostic utility can verify board detection and test digital I/O functionality.
Mounting Options:
Not applicable (software product).
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
Channel Capacity: Up to 64 digital I/O channels per board
I/O Speed: Dependent on ISA bus performance; typically several hundred kHz for digital toggling
Response Time: Determined by system interrupt latency and bus speed
Data Transfer Mode: Programmed I/O (polling or interrupt-driven)
Reliability: Industrial-grade stability under Windows 3.1x and Windows 95 environments
Limitations:
- Not compatible with PCI, CompactPCI, or PC Card DIO boards
- Limited to 16-bit Windows environments
- No support for multitasking under modern Windows OS
- Requires ISA bus hardware (obsolete in modern PCs)
Efficiency Enhancements:
- Hardware digital filtering reduces false triggering
- Bit-level control allows efficient use of I/O resources
- Diagnostic tools minimize downtime during setup and maintenance
### 8. Standards & Compliance
Regulatory Compliance:
- IEEE standard digital logic levels (TTL-compatible I/O)
- Compliant with Microsoft Windows 3.1x and Windows 95 driver architecture
- Compatible with CONTEC’s internal API-PAC standard for driver interoperability
Industry Standards:
- ISA/AT bus electrical and mechanical specifications
- IEEE-488 (GPIB) compatibility when used with API-GPIB drivers
- LabVIEW VI-DAQ compliance for measurement and automation integration
Certifications:
- CONTEC internal quality assurance certification
- Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality management system
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Standard CONTEC software warranty (typically one year from purchase) covering defects in media and documentation.
Technical Support:
- Online resources available at [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
- Access to API-TOOL Developer’s Site for driver updates and sample programs
- Email and phone support for registered users
Maintenance:
- Periodic updates available through CONTEC’s global portal
- Diagnostic utilities assist in verifying driver and hardware functionality
- Backward-compatible with other API-DIO versions for legacy system maintenance
Software Updates:
- Free downloads of updated driver libraries and sample programs from CONTEC’s website
- API-PAC(W32) and API-DIO(98/PC)W95/NT provide migration paths for newer Windows versions
Documentation and Resources:
- API function reference manual (PDF)
- Installation and configuration guide
- Sample source code for Visual Basic and C/C++
- LabVIEW integration notes (via VI-DAQ)
Related Products:
- API-DIO(98/PC)W95 / NT: Updated versions for Windows 95/98/NT environments
- API-DIO(LNX): Linux-compatible digital I/O driver
- API-AIO(WDM): High-performance analog I/O driver
- API-GPIB(98/PC): GPIB communication driver
- API-SIO(98/PC): Serial communication driver
- API-CNT(98/PC): Counter input driver
- API-SMC(98/PC): Motor control driver
- API-TIMER(W32): High-precision timer control driver
Legacy and Migration Path:
API-DIO(PC)WIN represents the earliest generation of CONTEC’s digital I/O driver family. For users migrating to newer systems, CONTEC provides updated driver suites (API-DIO(98/PC)W95, API-DIO(WDM), and API-DIO(LNX)) that maintain backward compatibility with existing applications while supporting modern operating systems and hardware interfaces (PCI, CompactPCI, PC Card, and USB).
### Summary
The CONTEC API-DIO(PC)WIN is a foundational Windows device driver enabling digital I/O control for CONTEC’s ISA-based DIO boards under Windows 3.1x and Windows 95. It provides a stable, unified API for digital input/output operations, supporting up to 64 channels per board. With built-in configuration and diagnostic utilities, it simplifies integration into industrial automation, measurement, and control systems. Although designed for legacy environments, its architecture laid the groundwork for CONTEC’s modern API-PAC driver suite, ensuring continuity and compatibility across generations of hardware and software platforms.
Manufacturer Contact:
CONTEC Co., Ltd.
Global Portal: [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
Support and Downloads: [www.contec.com/apipac/](http://www.contec.com/apipac/)
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