Comprehensive Product Summary – ECH(PCI)BE-F4B PCI Expansion Chassis

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### 1. Product Overview

Product Name: PCI Expansion 4 Slot Full Size Box
Model Number: ECH(PCI)BE-F4B
Series: ECH(PCI)BE Bus Extension Type Expansion Chassis
Article Number: ECH(PCI)BE-F4B
Manufacturer: CONTEC CO., LTD. (Osaka, Japan)
Product Category: Industrial Automation / Measurement and Control – Bus Expansion System

The CONTEC ECH(PCI)BE-F4B is a four-slot, full-size PCI bus expansion chassis designed to extend the PCI bus of a host PC. It provides additional PCI slots externally via a dedicated expansion adapter and cable connection, enabling the installation of long-size PCI add-on boards. This model is part of CONTEC’s Bus Extension Type series, optimized for environments where measurement and control operations are conducted in close proximity to the host PC.

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### 2. Key Features

- Four Full-Size PCI Slots: Supports up to four long-size PCI add-on boards (5V/32-bit, 33MHz).
- PCI Bus Expansion: Complies with PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.3, providing 32-bit memory and I/O addressing.
- External Bus Extension: Connects to the host PC through an optional expansion adapter (EAD series) and a 1-meter dedicated cable.
- Automatic Power Synchronization: The chassis power supply turns on and off in synchronization with the host PC’s power state.
- Compact Industrial Design: Constructed from durable steel with a black finish, optimized for space-saving installation and portability.
- Active Cooling System: Equipped with a built-in cooling fan to maintain stable operation under continuous industrial use.
- External Power Adapter: Includes a 60W AC adapter (100–240VAC input) for flexible global operation.
- High Reliability: Designed for industrial measurement, control, and automation systems requiring stable PCI bus expansion.
- RoHS Compliant: Environmentally friendly design meeting RoHS directives.
- Compatibility: Works with multiple CONTEC expansion adapters for PCI, Low Profile PCI, PCI Express, and CardBus host interfaces.

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### 3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|------------------|
| Bus Standard | PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.3 (+5V type) |
| Bus Width | 32-bit addressing (Memory and I/O) |
| Bus Clock | 33 MHz (maximum) |
| Interrupt Levels | INTA–INTD |
| Number of Slots | 4 user-available PCI slots |
| Slot Type | Full-size (long) PCI slots |
| Installable Board Dimensions | 313.8 mm (L) × 107 mm (H) |
| Power Supply Type | External AC adapter (included) |
| Power Output (Max.) | +5VDC: 7A, +3.3VDC: 3A, +12VDC: 1.5A, -12VDC: 0.3A |
| Total Power Capacity | 60W maximum |
| AC Input Voltage | 100–240VAC, 47–63Hz |
| AC Adapter Weight | Approx. 0.9 kg |
| Chassis Dimensions | 112.0(W) × 360.0(D) × 144.0(H) mm |
| Chassis Weight | Approx. 2.0 kg |
| Operating Temperature | 0–50°C |
| Operating Humidity | 20–80% RH (no condensation) |
| Storage Temperature | 0–60°C |
| Storage Humidity | 10–90% RH (no condensation) |
| Cooling | Built-in fan |
| Color / Finish | Black, industrial-grade steel |
| Compliance | RoHS compliant |

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### 4. Functionality

The ECH(PCI)BE-F4B functions as an external PCI bus expansion chassis that connects to a host PC via a dedicated expansion adapter and cable. It extends the host’s PCI bus, allowing additional PCI boards to be installed externally without modifying the internal configuration of the PC.

Operation Principle:
- The host PC is equipped with a compatible expansion adapter (e.g., EAD(PCI)BE, EAD(LPCI)BE, EAD-BE-LPE, or EAD(CB)BE).
- The adapter connects to the ECH(PCI)BE-F4B chassis using a 96-pin shielded cable (1m).
- The chassis replicates the PCI bus signals, enabling the installed PCI boards to function as if they were directly connected to the host’s internal bus.
- Power synchronization ensures that the chassis powers on and off automatically with the host PC.

Typical Applications:
- Industrial measurement and control systems.
- Data acquisition and signal processing.
- Machine automation and motion control.
- Laboratory instrumentation requiring multiple PCI boards.
- System integration where additional PCI slots are needed externally.

Compatibility:
- Compatible with standard PCI (5V/32-bit) add-on boards.
- Works with CONTEC expansion adapters for various host interfaces:
- EAD(PCI)BE: PCI slot adapter.
- EAD(LPCI)BE: Low Profile PCI slot adapter.
- EAD-BE-LPE: PCI Express slot adapter.
- EAD(CB)BE: CardBus slot adapter (for notebook PCs).

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### 5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
1. ECH(PCI)BE-F4B Expansion Chassis (1 unit)
2. AC Adapter (60W, 100–240VAC input)
3. Power Cable (1.8m, 2P grounded)
4. Slot Covers (4 pieces)
5. Board Fixing Screws (4 pieces)
6. User’s Manual (1 copy)

Optional Accessories:
- Expansion Adapters (sold separately):
- EAD(PCI)BE (PCI bus)
- EAD(LPCI)BE (Low Profile PCI)
- EAD-BE-LPE (PCI Express)
- EAD(CB)BE (CardBus)
- Dedicated Connection Cable (CB-BF96 or CB-CB68/96, 1m length)
- Replacement parts (fans, filters, power adapters) available under CONTEC maintenance parts catalog.

Connectors:
- 96-pin expansion bus connector (rear panel)
- AC adapter input connector with locking thumb screw
- Power LED indicator on front panel

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### 6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- Host PC with a compatible expansion adapter installed.
- Available PCI, Low Profile PCI, PCI Express, or CardBus slot on the host PC.
- Stable AC power source (100–240VAC).

Installation Steps:
1. Preparation: Ensure both PC and chassis are powered off and disconnected from AC power.
2. Install PCI Boards: Remove the chassis cover, insert PCI boards into available slots, and secure with screws.
3. Connect Cable: Attach the 96-pin connection cable between the expansion adapter and the chassis connector.
4. Connect Power: Attach the AC adapter to the chassis, then plug the adapter into a wall outlet.
5. Power Synchronization: The chassis will power on automatically when the host PC is turned on.
6. Driver Setup: Windows automatically detects the PCI-to-PCI bridge and installs standard drivers.
7. Verification: Confirm detection in Windows Device Manager under “System Devices” as “PCI standard PCI-to-PCI bridge” and “Intel 21152 PCI-to-PCI bridge.”

Mounting Orientation:
The chassis must be used in a vertical position for proper cooling airflow. Maintain at least 20mm clearance around ventilation openings.

Safety Notes:
- Do not connect or disconnect cables while powered.
- Avoid using non-specified AC adapters.
- Ensure total current draw of installed boards does not exceed rated output.

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### 7. Performance & Capabilities

- Bus Performance: 33MHz PCI bus operation, 32-bit addressing.
- Power Delivery: Stable regulated DC output for all PCI slots (+5V, +3.3V, ±12V).
- Cooling Efficiency: Integrated fan maintains optimal internal temperature under full load.
- System Synchronization: Automatic power control with host PC ensures seamless operation.
- Noise and EMI Resistance: Shielded cable and grounded chassis minimize interference.
- Limitations:
- Not compatible with video display boards, additional PCI bus expansion boards, or boards marked “Cannot be used with PCI-to-PCI Bridge.”
- Some PCI-compliant boards may not function due to specific hardware limitations.
- Only one expansion chassis can be connected per adapter; daisy-chaining is not supported.

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### 8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Standard: PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.3
- Electrical Compliance: +5VDC signaling, 32-bit data path
- Safety & Environmental:
- RoHS compliant (lead-free construction)
- CE marking applicable for AC adapter
- Operating Environment:
- Temperature: 0–50°C
- Humidity: 20–80% RH (no condensation)
- No corrosive gases or excessive dust
- Regulatory Notes:
- AC adapter supports universal input (100–240VAC, 47–63Hz).
- Meets industrial safety and EMC standards for measurement and control equipment.

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### 9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- Limited three-year warranty from date of purchase.
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship.
- Excludes damage from misuse, modification, or environmental exposure.

Support & Service:
- Technical support available via CONTEC’s global web portals:
- Japan: [www.contec.co.jp](http://www.contec.co.jp)
- Global: [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
- China: [www.contec.com.cn](http://www.contec.com.cn)
- Online resources include manuals, drivers, and sample programs.
- Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) required for warranty service.

Maintenance:
- Power Supply and Fan Lifespan: Approx. 5 years under normal office conditions (25°C, 60% RH).
- Periodic Inspection: Ensure ventilation slits are free of dust and obstructions.
- Replacement Parts: Fans, filters, and power adapters available as service parts (e.g., FAN1238, POW300X).
- Storage Conditions: Store in original packaging, away from moisture, vibration, and direct sunlight.
- Disposal: Follow local regulations for electronic waste disposal.

Product Family Compatibility:
The ECH(PCI)BE-F4B belongs to a modular family of PCI expansion chassis, including:
- ECH(PCI)BE-H2B (2-slot short)
- ECH(PCI)BE-F2B (2-slot long)
- ECH(PCI)BE-H4B (4-slot short)
- ECH(PCI)BE-F4B (4-slot long, this model)
- ECH(PCI)BE-H4A/F7A/F13A (built-in power supply variants)

Typical System Configuration Example:
- Host PC with EAD(PCI)BE adapter installed.
- 1m CB-BF96 connection cable linking to ECH(PCI)BE-F4B.
- Four PCI boards installed in the expansion chassis.
- AC adapter connected to 100–240VAC mains.
- System powers on synchronously with host PC.

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### Summary

The CONTEC ECH(PCI)BE-F4B is a robust, industrial-grade PCI bus expansion chassis providing four full-size PCI slots for external expansion of a host PC’s PCI bus. Designed for high reliability and ease of integration, it supports a wide range of PCI-based measurement, control, and automation applications. Its compact, fan-cooled design, synchronized power control, and universal AC adapter make it ideal for laboratory, factory, and embedded system environments requiring additional PCI capacity without compromising system stability or space efficiency.

With compliance to PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.3, RoHS environmental standards, and CONTEC’s three-year warranty, the ECH(PCI)BE-F4B offers a dependable and scalable solution for extending PCI functionality in industrial and research computing systems.