1. Product Overview

Product Name: PCI Expansion 13 Slot Full Size Grey Chassis
Model: ECH(PCI)BE-F13A
Series: ECH(PCI)BE Bus Extension Type Expansion Chassis
Article Number: ECH(PCI)BE-F13A
Manufacturer: CONTEC CO., LTD. (Osaka, Japan)
Product Category: Industrial PCI Bus Expansion Chassis
Product Line: Industrial Automation Products – Measurement and Control Products – Expansion Unit / Bus Adapter Series

The CONTEC ECH(PCI)BE-F13A is a full-size, 13-slot PCI bus expansion chassis designed for industrial and laboratory environments requiring multiple PCI add-on boards. It provides a robust, steel-constructed enclosure with a built-in 230W power supply and supports long-size PCI boards (5V/32-bit, 33MHz). The chassis connects to a host PC through a dedicated CONTEC expansion adapter, enabling external PCI bus extension while maintaining full bus functionality and signal integrity.

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2. Key Features

- 13 PCI Expansion Slots: Supports up to 13 long-size PCI add-on boards compliant with PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.3 (+5V type).
- Full-Size Industrial Chassis: Constructed from durable steel with a light grey finish, suitable for rack-mount or desktop installation.
- Built-in Power Supply: Integrated 230W AC power supply with selectable 115/230VAC input and automatic power synchronization with the host PC.
- High Power Output: Provides +5VDC 18A, +3.3VDC 15A, +12VDC 9A, and -12VDC 0.8A outputs, ensuring stable operation for multiple high-power PCI boards.
- Thermal Management: Equipped with internal cooling fans and ventilation slits for continuous airflow and thermal stability.
- Power Interlocking Function: The chassis power can be automatically turned on/off in synchronization with the host PC’s power supply.
- Compatibility: Works with CONTEC expansion adapters EAD(PCI)BE, EAD(LPCI)BE, and EAD-BE-LPE for PCI, Low Profile PCI, and PCI Express host interfaces.
- Industrial Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in industrial automation, measurement, and control systems.
- Rack-Mountable: Includes brackets and screws for horizontal or vertical rack installation.
- RoHS Compliant: Environmentally friendly design meeting RoHS directives.

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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) |
| Number of Slots | 13 user-available PCI slots |
| Installable Board Size | Long-size PCI boards, 313.8 mm (L) × 107 mm (H) |
| Power Supply Output | +5VDC: 18A, +3.3VDC: 15A, +12VDC: 9A, -12VDC: 0.8A |
| Total Power Capacity | 0–30°C: 230W, 30–40°C: 205W, 40–50°C: 175W |
| AC Input Voltage | 115/230VAC (switch selectable), 90–132VAC / 180–250VAC range |
| AC Frequency | 50–60 Hz |
| AC Input Current | 6A (115VAC) / 4A (230VAC) |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 424.0 × 156.0 × 373.2 mm (without fittings) |
| Weight | Approx. 9.0 kg |
| Color | Light Grey |
| Operating Temperature | 0–50°C |
| Operating Humidity | 20–80% RH (non-condensing) |
| Storage Temperature | 0–60°C |
| Storage Humidity | 10–90% RH (non-condensing) |
| Cooling | Built-in fan with air intake/exhaust vents |
| Material | Steel chassis |
| Compliance | RoHS, CE (conditions apply) |
| Power Cable | 2.5 m, 3P type |

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4. Functionality

The ECH(PCI)BE-F13A functions as an external PCI bus expansion unit, extending the host PC’s PCI bus to an external chassis through a dedicated high-speed connection cable and adapter. The system operates as a transparent PCI-to-PCI bridge, allowing the host system to recognize and manage all installed PCI boards as if they were directly connected to the motherboard.

Operation Principle:
- The host PC is equipped with a CONTEC expansion adapter (EAD(PCI)BE, EAD(LPCI)BE, or EAD-BE-LPE).
- The adapter connects to the ECH(PCI)BE-F13A via a 1-meter dedicated cable (CB-BF96 or CB-CB68/96).
- The chassis replicates the PCI bus environment externally, providing 13 additional PCI slots.
- Power interlocking ensures the chassis powers on/off in sync with the host PC.

Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial automation systems requiring multiple I/O, motion control, or communication boards.
- Measurement and data acquisition systems needing numerous PCI-based DAQ or control cards.
- Laboratory and test environments where modular PCI expansion is required.
- Embedded or rack-mounted control systems with limited internal PCI slots.

Compatibility:
- Compatible with standard PCI (5V/32-bit, 33MHz) boards.
- Works with CONTEC expansion adapters for PCI, Low Profile PCI, and PCI Express host interfaces.
- Not compatible with CardBus-based adapters (EAD(CB)BE) or boards marked “Cannot be used with PCI-to-PCI Bridge.”

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- ECH(PCI)BE-F13A Expansion Chassis (1 unit)
- Power Cable (1 unit, 2.5m, 3P type)
- Rack-Mount Brackets (2 units)
- Bracket Fixing Screws (6 units for F13A)
- Slot Covers (13 units)
- Board Fixing Screws (13 units)
- Rubber Feet (4 units)
- User’s Manual (1 copy)

Optional Accessories:
- Expansion Adapters:
- EAD(PCI)BE (PCI slot host adapter)
- EAD(LPCI)BE (Low Profile PCI host adapter)
- EAD-BE-LPE (PCI Express host adapter)
- Connection Cables:
- CB-BF96 (1m, 96-pin)
- CB-CB68/96 (1m, 68-pin)
- Replacement Parts:
- Power Supply Unit (POW300 series)
- Cooling Fan (FAN1238, FAN1225S)
- Air Filter (FLT120 series)

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6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- Host PC with compatible expansion adapter installed.
- Available PCI, Low Profile PCI, or PCI Express slot on the host PC.
- Proper ventilation and clearance (minimum 20 mm from walls or other equipment).

Installation Steps:
1. Preparation: Power off the host PC and chassis. Unplug all power cables.
2. Install PCI Boards: Remove the chassis cover, insert PCI boards into available slots, and secure with screws.
3. Connect Cable: Attach the dedicated connection cable between the host adapter and the chassis interface connector (BUS-PAC(PCI)A).
4. Power Connection: Plug the AC power cable into the chassis 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 powers on automatically.
7. Verification: Confirm detection of “PCI-to-PCI Bridge” devices in Windows Device Manager.

Mounting Options:
- Horizontal Placement: Standard desktop configuration with rubber feet.
- Vertical Placement: Space-saving orientation using rack brackets.
- Rack Mounting: Attach supplied brackets for 19-inch rack installation.

Configuration Notes:
- Ensure BIOS of the host PC supports PCI-to-PCI bridge recognition.
- Avoid using video or additional PCI expansion boards inside the chassis.
- Maintain airflow by keeping ventilation slits unobstructed.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Bus Performance: 33MHz PCI bus operation, 32-bit addressing, full interrupt support (INTA–INTD).
- Power Efficiency: 230W maximum at 0–30°C, derated to 175W at 50°C for CE compliance.
- Thermal Management: Continuous fan operation ensures stable internal temperature under full load.
- Capacity: Supports up to 13 PCI boards simultaneously, including high-power I/O and control cards.
- Reliability: Designed for 24/7 industrial operation; power supply and fan rated for ~5 years under standard conditions.
- Limitations:
- Cannot cascade multiple expansion chassis.
- Not compatible with CardBus adapters or PCI-to-PCI bridge-restricted boards.
- Total current draw of installed boards must not exceed PSU ratings.

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8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Standard: PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.3 (+5V type)
- Electrical Safety: Designed for 115/230VAC operation with selectable input voltage switch.
- Environmental Compliance: RoHS compliant (lead-free construction).
- CE Marking: Meets CE requirements under specified thermal conditions (≤175W at 50°C).
- Operating Environment:
- Temperature: 0–50°C
- Humidity: 20–80% RH (non-condensing)
- No corrosive gases or excessive dust
- Quality Assurance: Manufactured under CONTEC’s industrial-grade quality control standards.

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- Limited 3-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
- Excludes damage from misuse, modification, or environmental exposure.
- Service provided through authorized CONTEC distributors with RMA procedure.

Maintenance:
- Power Supply: Replace approximately every 5 years under normal office conditions (25°C, 60% RH).
- Cooling Fan: Replace every 5 years or sooner if noise or reduced airflow is observed.
- Fan Filter: Replace annually to maintain airflow efficiency.
- Inspection: Periodically check ventilation slits for dust accumulation and ensure unobstructed airflow.

Support & Documentation:
- Technical manuals, drivers, and updates available at [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com).
- Customer support available through CONTEC regional offices in Japan, USA, and China.
- Manuals include detailed setup, troubleshooting, and safety instructions.

Service Parts Availability:
- Replacement power supplies (POW300 series)
- Cooling fans (FAN1238, FAN1225S)
- Filters (FLT120 series)
- Rack-mount hardware and cables available as spare parts.

Safety Precautions:
- Do not operate near flammable gases or liquids.
- Always power off and disconnect before installing or removing boards.
- Maintain proper grounding and avoid static discharge during installation.
- Ensure total board current consumption does not exceed PSU capacity.

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Summary

The CONTEC ECH(PCI)BE-F13A is a high-capacity, industrial-grade PCI expansion chassis engineered for demanding automation and measurement applications. With 13 long-size PCI slots, robust power delivery, and synchronized power control, it extends the host PC’s PCI bus externally while maintaining full performance and reliability. Its steel construction, integrated cooling, and flexible mounting options make it ideal for both laboratory and production environments. The chassis complies with PCI Local Bus standards, RoHS, and CE requirements, ensuring long-term compatibility and safety. Supported by CONTEC’s 3-year warranty and global service network, the ECH(PCI)BE-F13A provides a scalable, dependable solution for complex PCI-based system expansions.