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cPCI-3544/25

cPCI 4-port isolated RS422/RS485 Card DB25m
  • Manufacturer Adlink Technology Inc.
  • Category: cPCI Serial 4/8-Port
  • The ADLINK cPCI-3544/25 is an industrial-grade, four-port isolated serial communication module designed for CompactPCI platforms. It provides robust, isolated RS-422 and RS-485 interfaces for industrial automation, data acquisition, and communication control applications. The module supports both front and rear I/O configurations and is engineered for high reliability in demanding environments.
- Four Independent Isolated Serial Ports:
Each port supports RS-422 or RS-485 communication, selectable via DIP switch.
Channel-to-channel isolation ensures signal integrity and protection against ground loops.

- High Isolation Voltage:
1000 V RMS isolation between channels and system ground, providing robust electrical protection.

- Auto-Direction Flow Control for RS-485:
Hardware-based automatic data direction control eliminates the need for software toggling of RTS signals.

- CompactPCI 32-bit Interface:
Fully compliant with PICMG 2.0 Rev. 2.1, supporting 5V signaling and plug-and-play configuration.

- Plug-and-Play Configuration:
IRQ and I/O addresses are automatically assigned by the PCI BIOS, simplifying installation and system integration.

- High-Speed Communication:
Each port supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 115,200 bps, suitable for a wide range of industrial serial devices.

- Scalable System Expansion:
Up to eight cPCI-3544 cards can be installed in a single system, providing a maximum of 32 isolated serial ports.

- Rugged Industrial Design:
Equipped with a durable DB37 female connector and optional DB25 or DB9 breakout cables for field connectivity.

- Surge Protection:
Integrated surge protection circuitry safeguards against transient voltage spikes.

- Operating System Support:
Compatible with Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP/XP Embedded and Linux operating systems.

- Rear I/O Support (cPCI-3544R):
Optional rear I/O version (cPCI-3544R) allows connection through the CompactPCI J2 connector for backplane routing.

Country of origin: Taiwan R.O.C.

Customs tariff number: 8473 3020 000

Comprehensive Product Summary: ADLINK cPCI-3544/25 – 4-Port Isolated RS-422/RS-485 CompactPCI Serial Communications Module




### 1. Product Overview

Product Name: cPCI-3544/25
Model: cPCI-3544
Series: cPCI-3544 Series (part of ADLINK’s cPCI-3534/3544/3538 family)
Article Number: cPCI-3544/25
Manufacturer: ADLINK Technology Inc.
Product Type: 4-Port Isolated RS-422/RS-485 Serial Communication Module for CompactPCI Systems
Form Factor: 3U CompactPCI, 32-bit bus interface compliant with PICMG 2.0 Rev. 2.1

The ADLINK cPCI-3544/25 is an industrial-grade, four-port isolated serial communication module designed for CompactPCI platforms. It provides robust, isolated RS-422 and RS-485 interfaces for industrial automation, data acquisition, and communication control applications. The module supports both front and rear I/O configurations and is engineered for high reliability in demanding environments.




### 2. Key Features

- Four Independent Isolated Serial Ports:
Each port supports RS-422 or RS-485 communication, selectable via DIP switch.
Channel-to-channel isolation ensures signal integrity and protection against ground loops.

- High Isolation Voltage:
1000 V RMS isolation between channels and system ground, providing robust electrical protection.

- Auto-Direction Flow Control for RS-485:
Hardware-based automatic data direction control eliminates the need for software toggling of RTS signals.

- CompactPCI 32-bit Interface:
Fully compliant with PICMG 2.0 Rev. 2.1, supporting 5V signaling and plug-and-play configuration.

- Plug-and-Play Configuration:
IRQ and I/O addresses are automatically assigned by the PCI BIOS, simplifying installation and system integration.

- High-Speed Communication:
Each port supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 115,200 bps, suitable for a wide range of industrial serial devices.

- Scalable System Expansion:
Up to eight cPCI-3544 cards can be installed in a single system, providing a maximum of 32 isolated serial ports.

- Rugged Industrial Design:
Equipped with a durable DB37 female connector and optional DB25 or DB9 breakout cables for field connectivity.

- Surge Protection:
Integrated surge protection circuitry safeguards against transient voltage spikes.

- Operating System Support:
Compatible with Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP/XP Embedded and Linux operating systems.

- Rear I/O Support (cPCI-3544R):
Optional rear I/O version (cPCI-3544R) allows connection through the CompactPCI J2 connector for backplane routing.




### 3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|------------------|
| Bus Interface | 32-bit CompactPCI, PICMG 2.0 Rev. 2.1 |
| Form Factor | 3U CompactPCI |
| Serial Controller | 16C550A compatible UART |
| Clock Frequency | 1.8432 – 7.3728 MHz |
| Port Configuration | 4 isolated RS-422/RS-485 ports (switch selectable) |
| Isolation Voltage | 1000 V RMS (500 VDC typical) |
| Baud Rate | 50 to 115,200 bps per port |
| Flow Control | RS-485 auto-direction control |
| System I/O Mapping | Assigned by PCI BIOS; shared IRQ |
| Maximum Cards per System | 8 cards (32 ports total) |
| Connectors | DB37 female (onboard); DB25 or DB9 male via cable |
| Cable Options | C425M (DB37 to 4×DB25M), C409M (DB37 to 4×DB9M) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +60°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C to +70°C |
| Humidity | 5% to 95% non-condensing |
| Dimensions | 160 mm (L) × 100 mm (W) (6.3 × 3.9 in.) |
| Power Consumption | +5V @ 1400 mA typical |
| Weight | Approx. 200 g (board only) |
| Material | FR-4 PCB, industrial-grade components |




### 4. Functionality

The cPCI-3544/25 functions as a high-performance serial communication interface for CompactPCI-based systems. It provides four independent, isolated serial channels that can be configured as RS-422 or RS-485. Each channel operates asynchronously and supports full-duplex (RS-422) or half-duplex (RS-485) communication.

How It Works:
- The onboard 16C550A-compatible UART manages serial data transmission and reception.
- The PCI BIOS automatically assigns system resources (I/O addresses and IRQs).
- RS-485 ports utilize automatic direction control, enabling seamless half-duplex communication without software intervention.
- Electrical isolation between channels prevents ground potential differences and protects connected equipment.

Use Cases and Applications:
- Factory Automation: PLC communication, sensor data acquisition, and machine control.
- Distributed Monitoring Systems: Remote data collection and control in industrial networks.
- Telecommunications: Serial data links for modems and network management.
- POS and Financial Systems: Reliable serial connectivity for terminals and transaction devices.
- Traffic Control and Transportation: Communication with roadside controllers and sensors.
- Stock Market and Data Display Systems: High-speed, reliable serial data exchange.

Compatibility:
- Compatible with CompactPCI backplanes supporting 5V signaling.
- Works with standard RS-422/RS-485 devices such as PLCs, sensors, and industrial controllers.
- Supported by multiple operating systems with available drivers for Windows and Linux.




### 5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- cPCI-3544/25 module (4-port isolated RS-422/RS-485)
- DB37 to DB25 male cable (C425M) or DB37 to DB9 male cable (C409M)
- User manual and driver CD (Windows/Linux)
- Optional rear I/O transition board (for cPCI-3544R)

Optional Accessories:
- C409M: DB37 to four DB9 male connectors (for RS-422/RS-485)
- C425M: DB37 to four DB25 male connectors (for RS-422/RS-485)
- cPCI-R3544: Rear I/O transition board for backplane connectivity

Connectors:
- Front I/O: DB37 female connector on the front panel
- Rear I/O (R version): CompactPCI J2 connector for rear transition board
- Cable Pinouts: Fully documented for RS-422 and RS-485 modes, ensuring correct wiring for TXD±, RXD±, D±, and isolated grounds.




### 6. Installation & Setup

System Requirements:
- CompactPCI chassis with available 3U slot and 5V signaling
- Compatible operating system (Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP or Linux)
- Administrative privileges for driver installation

Installation Procedure:
1. Power off the CompactPCI system and disconnect peripherals.
2. Insert the cPCI-3544 module into an available 3U CompactPCI slot.
3. Secure the module using the front panel screws.
4. Connect the DB37 cable to the front connector or rear I/O transition board.
5. Power on the system; the PCI BIOS will automatically detect and configure the card.
6. Install the appropriate driver from the ADLINK driver CD or website.

Software Setup:
- Windows: Plug-and-play detection; drivers installed via Device Manager or provided setup utility.
- Linux: Driver installation via provided scripts (`pci_3544.tgz` package). Supports automatic device detection and node creation.
- Configuration Utility: ADLINK’s *AdlComSet.exe* allows software-based configuration of RS-422/RS-485 modes and COM port assignments.

DIP Switch & Jumper Settings:
- DIP switches select RS-422 or RS-485 mode per port.
- Jumpers (JP1–JP8) enable or disable termination resistors for each channel.
- SW1-3 identifies card number in multi-card systems (up to 8 cards).




### 7. Performance & Capabilities

- Data Rate: 50 to 115,200 bps per port (asynchronous)
- Throughput: 115.2 Kbps × 4 ports concurrently
- Isolation: 1000 V RMS channel-to-channel and channel-to-system
- Signal Integrity: Independent isolated grounds per port minimize noise coupling.
- Auto-Direction Control: Hardware-managed RS-485 direction switching ensures efficient half-duplex communication.
- Scalability: Supports up to 8 cards per system (32 total ports).
- Reliability: Industrial-grade design with surge protection and wide temperature tolerance.
- Limitations:
- RS-485 mode supports half-duplex only.
- Maximum baud rate limited to 115.2 Kbps per port.
- CompactPCI 5V signaling only (not compatible with 3.3V-only backplanes).




### 8. Standards & Compliance

- CompactPCI Compliance: PICMG 2.0 Rev. 2.1
- PCI Specification: PCI Rev. 2.1 compliant
- Electrical Isolation: 1000 V RMS (500 VDC typical)
- Environmental Standards:
- Operating temperature: 0°C to +60°C
- Storage temperature: -20°C to +70°C
- Humidity: 5%–95% non-condensing
- Safety & EMC: Designed for industrial environments with surge protection and isolation.
- Software Compatibility:
- Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP/XP Embedded
- Linux (kernel driver and utilities provided)
- Industry Applications: Factory automation, telecommunications, distributed control, and data acquisition systems.




### 9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- Standard 2-year limited warranty (1 year in China).
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship.
- Excludes damage from misuse, improper installation, or environmental factors.
- RMA service available via ADLINK’s online portal: [http://rma.adlinktech.com/policy/](http://rma.adlinktech.com/policy/)

Support & Maintenance:
- Technical support via email: service@adlinktech.com
- Global service hotline: +886-2-82265877
- Firmware and driver updates available from [www.adlinktech.com](http://www.adlinktech.com)

Maintenance Recommendations:
- Handle modules using anti-static precautions.
- Ensure proper grounding and shielding in installation.
- Periodically inspect connectors and cables for wear or damage.
- Use only ADLINK-approved accessories and cables.

Documentation & Updates:
- User’s Guide (Manual Revision 1.30, April 30, 2004)
- Product datasheet and driver packages updated periodically (latest update: March 28, 2012).
- All specifications subject to change without notice to improve reliability and performance.




### Summary

The ADLINK cPCI-3544/25 is a robust, high-performance 4-port isolated RS-422/RS-485 serial communication module designed for CompactPCI systems. With its 1000 V RMS isolation, auto-direction RS-485 control, and plug-and-play PCI configuration, it delivers reliable serial connectivity for industrial automation, control, and data acquisition applications. Its modular design, comprehensive OS support, and optional rear I/O capability make it a versatile solution for system integrators and OEMs requiring scalable, noise-immune serial communication in mission-critical environments.




Manufacturer Contact Information:
ADLINK Technology Inc.
9F, No. 166, Jian Yi Road, Chungho City, Taipei 235, Taiwan
Tel: +886-2-82265877 | Fax: +886-2-82265717
Website: [www.adlinktech.com](http://www.adlinktech.com)
Email: service@adlinktech.com

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