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PIO-16/16RL(PC)
Opto-isolated 16/16 chan DIO AT Card (negative common)
- Opto‑Isolated I/O:
Both input and output circuits are isolated from the PC’s internal logic using opto‑couplers, preventing electrical interference and protecting the host system from voltage surges and ground potential differences.
- Negative‑Common Configuration:
Supports current‑sourcing circuits (negative common), ideal for interfacing with sensors and actuators that require reverse polarity relative to standard current‑sinking configurations.
- 16 Digital Inputs / 16 Digital Outputs:
Provides a balanced configuration for monitoring and control tasks, enabling simultaneous acquisition and actuation.
- Wide Input Voltage Range:
Accepts 12–24 V DC input signals with built‑in 2 kΩ input resistance, allowing direct connection to industrial sensors and switches.
- Robust Output Capability:
Open‑collector transistor outputs rated at up to 35 V DC, 200 mA per channel, suitable for driving relays, lamps, and solenoids.
- High Isolation Voltage:
5 kV isolation between I/O and logic circuits ensures safe operation in electrically noisy environments.
- Interrupt Support:
Two independent interrupt request lines (IRQ 2–7, 9–12, 14, 15) can be assigned, enabling event‑driven input monitoring.
- Surge and Overcurrent Protection:
Output transistors incorporate Zener diode protection to guard against voltage surges and overcurrent conditions.
- Compact ISA Form Factor:
Standard AT‑bus board size (approx. 160 × 122 mm) fits legacy and embedded industrial PCs.
- Standard 37‑Pin D‑Sub Connector:
A single 37‑pin female D‑type connector provides all I/O connections, simplifying cabling and integration.
- Software Support:
Compatible with CONTEC’s API‑TOOL driver suite for Windows® and Linux®, and with VI‑DAQ libraries for National Instruments LabVIEW™.
Both input and output circuits are isolated from the PC’s internal logic using opto‑couplers, preventing electrical interference and protecting the host system from voltage surges and ground potential differences.
- Negative‑Common Configuration:
Supports current‑sourcing circuits (negative common), ideal for interfacing with sensors and actuators that require reverse polarity relative to standard current‑sinking configurations.
- 16 Digital Inputs / 16 Digital Outputs:
Provides a balanced configuration for monitoring and control tasks, enabling simultaneous acquisition and actuation.
- Wide Input Voltage Range:
Accepts 12–24 V DC input signals with built‑in 2 kΩ input resistance, allowing direct connection to industrial sensors and switches.
- Robust Output Capability:
Open‑collector transistor outputs rated at up to 35 V DC, 200 mA per channel, suitable for driving relays, lamps, and solenoids.
- High Isolation Voltage:
5 kV isolation between I/O and logic circuits ensures safe operation in electrically noisy environments.
- Interrupt Support:
Two independent interrupt request lines (IRQ 2–7, 9–12, 14, 15) can be assigned, enabling event‑driven input monitoring.
- Surge and Overcurrent Protection:
Output transistors incorporate Zener diode protection to guard against voltage surges and overcurrent conditions.
- Compact ISA Form Factor:
Standard AT‑bus board size (approx. 160 × 122 mm) fits legacy and embedded industrial PCs.
- Standard 37‑Pin D‑Sub Connector:
A single 37‑pin female D‑type connector provides all I/O connections, simplifying cabling and integration.
- Software Support:
Compatible with CONTEC’s API‑TOOL driver suite for Windows® and Linux®, and with VI‑DAQ libraries for National Instruments LabVIEW™.
Comprehensive Product Summary – PIO‑16/16RL(PC)
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: Opto‑Isolated 16/16 Channel Digital Input/Output AT Card (Negative Common)
Model: PIO‑16/16RL(PC)
Series: PIO‑RL Series (Negative‑Common Opto‑Isolated Digital I/O Boards)
Article Number: PIO‑16/16RL(PC)
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd. (Japan)
Product Category: Industrial Automation / Measurement and Control / Digital I/O Interface Boards
Bus Type: ISA AT Bus (PC/AT compatible)
The CONTEC PIO‑16/16RL(PC) is an opto‑isolated digital input/output interface card designed for PC/AT‑compatible systems. It provides 16 optically isolated input channels and 16 optically isolated output channels configured for negative‑common operation, meaning the I/O circuits share a negative common line suitable for current‑sourcing external devices. The board is engineered for industrial automation, process control, and data acquisition applications requiring electrical isolation, noise immunity, and reliable digital signal interfacing.
### 2. Key Features
- Opto‑Isolated I/O:
Both input and output circuits are isolated from the PC’s internal logic using opto‑couplers, preventing electrical interference and protecting the host system from voltage surges and ground potential differences.
- Negative‑Common Configuration:
Supports current‑sourcing circuits (negative common), ideal for interfacing with sensors and actuators that require reverse polarity relative to standard current‑sinking configurations.
- 16 Digital Inputs / 16 Digital Outputs:
Provides a balanced configuration for monitoring and control tasks, enabling simultaneous acquisition and actuation.
- Wide Input Voltage Range:
Accepts 12–24 V DC input signals with built‑in 2 kΩ input resistance, allowing direct connection to industrial sensors and switches.
- Robust Output Capability:
Open‑collector transistor outputs rated at up to 35 V DC, 200 mA per channel, suitable for driving relays, lamps, and solenoids.
- High Isolation Voltage:
5 kV isolation between I/O and logic circuits ensures safe operation in electrically noisy environments.
- Interrupt Support:
Two independent interrupt request lines (IRQ 2–7, 9–12, 14, 15) can be assigned, enabling event‑driven input monitoring.
- Surge and Overcurrent Protection:
Output transistors incorporate Zener diode protection to guard against voltage surges and overcurrent conditions.
- Compact ISA Form Factor:
Standard AT‑bus board size (approx. 160 × 122 mm) fits legacy and embedded industrial PCs.
- Standard 37‑Pin D‑Sub Connector:
A single 37‑pin female D‑type connector provides all I/O connections, simplifying cabling and integration.
- Software Support:
Compatible with CONTEC’s API‑TOOL driver suite for Windows® and Linux®, and with VI‑DAQ libraries for National Instruments LabVIEW™.
### 3. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|------------------|
| Bus Interface | ISA AT Bus |
| Input Channels | 16 opto‑isolated inputs |
| Output Channels | 16 opto‑isolated open‑collector outputs |
| Input Type | Opto‑isolated (for high sink current output) |
| Input Signal Level | 12 – 24 V DC (negative common) |
| Input Resistance | 2 kΩ (typical) |
| Input Isolation Voltage | 5 kV (photocoupler isolation) |
| Output Type | Opto‑isolated open collector (current‑sinking transistor) |
| Output Rating | 35 V DC max., 200 mA max. per channel |
| Output Protection | Zener diode surge and overcurrent protection |
| Response Time (Max.) | 200 µs |
| Interrupts | 2 × IRQ selectable from 2–7, 9–12, 14, 15 |
| Internal Power Requirement | +5 V DC ± 5 %, approx. 300 mA |
| External Power Supply | 12 – 24 V DC for I/O circuits |
| Isolation Method | Opto‑coupler isolation between I/O and logic |
| Wiring Distance | Up to 50 m (depending on cable and environment) |
| I/O Address Range | Any 32‑byte boundary (configurable) |
| Board Dimensions | 160 mm (L) × 122 mm (H) |
| Connector Type | 37‑pin D‑Sub female (DCL‑J37SAF‑20L9 [JAE] or equivalent) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 – 50 °C (typical industrial range) |
| Storage Temperature | –20 – 60 °C |
| Humidity | 10 – 90 % RH (non‑condensing) |
| Weight | Approx. 200 g |
| Mounting | Internal PC expansion slot (ISA) |
### 4. Functionality
The PIO‑16/16RL(PC) functions as a digital interface between a PC and external industrial devices. Each input channel detects DC voltage levels from sensors, switches, or logic circuits. The opto‑couplers convert these signals into TTL‑level logic for the PC while maintaining galvanic isolation. Each output channel uses an open‑collector transistor to switch external loads such as relays, solenoids, or indicator lamps.
Use Cases and Applications:
- Factory automation and process control systems
- Machine status monitoring and alarm signaling
- PLC‑to‑PC interfacing and supervisory control
- Data acquisition and test automation
- Industrial robotics and motion control feedback
- Laboratory instrumentation requiring isolated digital I/O
Compatibility:
- Compatible with PC/AT‑compatible computers equipped with ISA expansion slots.
- Works with CONTEC’s API‑TOOL driver suite for Windows 10/11 and Linux distributions.
- Supported by LabVIEW™ via VI‑DAQ library for graphical programming environments.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- PIO‑16/16RL(PC) board
- User manual and setup guide
- Driver software (downloadable from CONTEC website)
Optional Accessories:
- Cables:
- PCA37P / PCB37P (37‑pin D‑Sub cable, 1.5 m)
- PCA37PS / PCB37PS (shielded 37‑pin cable)
- CN5‑D37M (connector set for custom wiring)
- Terminal Blocks:
- EPD‑37A, EPD‑37 (screw‑terminal breakout boards)
- CM‑32(PC)E (DIN‑rail mountable terminal block)
- Extension Cables:
- DTP‑3(PC), DTP‑4(PC) (ribbon‑type extension cables)
These accessories simplify wiring between the board and field devices, providing flexible connection options for various installation environments.
### 6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- IBM PC/AT‑compatible computer with available ISA slot
- +5 V DC power supply from the PC bus
- External 12–24 V DC power source for driving I/O circuits
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the PC and remove the cover.
2. Insert the PIO‑16/16RL(PC) into an available ISA slot.
3. Secure the board with the bracket screw.
4. Connect the external I/O wiring to the 37‑pin D‑Sub connector using an appropriate cable or terminal block.
5. Configure I/O address and interrupt settings via DIP switches or jumpers (refer to manual).
6. Install the CONTEC API‑TOOL driver software.
7. Verify operation using the provided diagnostic utility or sample programs.
Mounting Options:
- Standard internal mounting in desktop or industrial PC chassis.
- Can be used with rack‑mount or embedded systems supporting ISA bus.
Configuration:
- I/O address assignment on any 32‑byte boundary.
- IRQ selection from available lines (2–7, 9–12, 14, 15).
- Software‑configurable interrupt enable/disable.
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
- Speed:
Maximum response time of 200 µs ensures reliable detection of fast‑changing digital signals.
- Capacity:
16 input + 16 output channels provide 32 points of digital control per board. Multiple boards can be installed for expanded capacity.
- Efficiency:
Opto‑coupler isolation minimizes power consumption while maintaining high noise immunity.
- Protection:
Built‑in surge suppression and overcurrent protection enhance durability in harsh industrial environments.
- Limitations:
- Designed for DC signal interfacing only (not suitable for AC inputs).
- Output current limited to 200 mA per channel; external relays may be required for higher loads.
- Requires external 12–24 V DC supply for I/O circuits.
### 8. Standards & Compliance
- Bus Standard: ISA AT Bus (8/16‑bit compatible)
- Electrical Isolation: 5 kV opto‑coupler isolation between I/O and logic circuits
- EMC/EMI: Designed for industrial noise immunity; conforms to CE marking requirements (when installed in compliant systems)
- Safety: Meets industrial control equipment standards for isolation and surge protection
- Software Standards:
- Windows API‑TOOL (Win32 DLL) compliant
- Linux kernel module and shared library support
- LabVIEW VI‑DAQ compatibility
Regulatory Compliance:
CONTEC products are manufactured under ISO 9001‑certified quality systems and comply with RoHS directives for hazardous substance reduction.
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Standard 1‑year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Extended warranty options available through CONTEC distributors.
Technical Support:
- Online documentation and driver downloads at [www.contec.com](https://www.contec.com)
- Email and phone support for installation and configuration assistance
- Sample source code and API reference included with driver package
Maintenance:
- Periodic inspection of connectors and cables recommended.
- Ensure proper grounding and shielding in high‑noise environments.
- Firmware updates and driver revisions available via CONTEC’s support portal.
Software Updates:
- API‑TOOL for Windows: License‑free driver and development kit supporting Win32 API calls (DLL).
- API‑TOOL for Linux: Open‑source compatible driver with shared library interface.
- LabVIEW VI‑DAQ: Free downloadable VI library enabling direct integration with National Instruments LabVIEW for data acquisition and control.
Related Products:
- PIO‑32/32RL(PC): 32 input / 32 output negative‑common version for higher channel density.
- PIO‑16/16L(PC): Standard opto‑isolated I/O (positive common).
- PIO‑16/16H(PC): High‑voltage (24–48 V DC) variant.
- PIO‑16/16RY(PC): Relay‑output version supporting AC/DC loads.
Typical Applications:
- Industrial machinery control panels
- Automated test equipment (ATE)
- Building management systems
- Environmental monitoring and alarm systems
- Process instrumentation interfaces
### Summary
The CONTEC PIO‑16/16RL(PC) is a robust, opto‑isolated digital I/O board engineered for industrial PC systems requiring reliable, noise‑immune digital interfacing. Its negative‑common configuration, 16 inputs and 16 outputs, and 5 kV isolation make it ideal for connecting to sensors and actuators in electrically harsh environments. With surge protection, interrupt capability, and broad software support across Windows, Linux, and LabVIEW, it provides a flexible and dependable solution for automation, monitoring, and control applications.
The board’s adherence to industrial standards, comprehensive accessory ecosystem, and long‑term manufacturer support ensure seamless integration into both legacy and modern control architectures.
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: Opto‑Isolated 16/16 Channel Digital Input/Output AT Card (Negative Common)
Model: PIO‑16/16RL(PC)
Series: PIO‑RL Series (Negative‑Common Opto‑Isolated Digital I/O Boards)
Article Number: PIO‑16/16RL(PC)
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd. (Japan)
Product Category: Industrial Automation / Measurement and Control / Digital I/O Interface Boards
Bus Type: ISA AT Bus (PC/AT compatible)
The CONTEC PIO‑16/16RL(PC) is an opto‑isolated digital input/output interface card designed for PC/AT‑compatible systems. It provides 16 optically isolated input channels and 16 optically isolated output channels configured for negative‑common operation, meaning the I/O circuits share a negative common line suitable for current‑sourcing external devices. The board is engineered for industrial automation, process control, and data acquisition applications requiring electrical isolation, noise immunity, and reliable digital signal interfacing.
### 2. Key Features
- Opto‑Isolated I/O:
Both input and output circuits are isolated from the PC’s internal logic using opto‑couplers, preventing electrical interference and protecting the host system from voltage surges and ground potential differences.
- Negative‑Common Configuration:
Supports current‑sourcing circuits (negative common), ideal for interfacing with sensors and actuators that require reverse polarity relative to standard current‑sinking configurations.
- 16 Digital Inputs / 16 Digital Outputs:
Provides a balanced configuration for monitoring and control tasks, enabling simultaneous acquisition and actuation.
- Wide Input Voltage Range:
Accepts 12–24 V DC input signals with built‑in 2 kΩ input resistance, allowing direct connection to industrial sensors and switches.
- Robust Output Capability:
Open‑collector transistor outputs rated at up to 35 V DC, 200 mA per channel, suitable for driving relays, lamps, and solenoids.
- High Isolation Voltage:
5 kV isolation between I/O and logic circuits ensures safe operation in electrically noisy environments.
- Interrupt Support:
Two independent interrupt request lines (IRQ 2–7, 9–12, 14, 15) can be assigned, enabling event‑driven input monitoring.
- Surge and Overcurrent Protection:
Output transistors incorporate Zener diode protection to guard against voltage surges and overcurrent conditions.
- Compact ISA Form Factor:
Standard AT‑bus board size (approx. 160 × 122 mm) fits legacy and embedded industrial PCs.
- Standard 37‑Pin D‑Sub Connector:
A single 37‑pin female D‑type connector provides all I/O connections, simplifying cabling and integration.
- Software Support:
Compatible with CONTEC’s API‑TOOL driver suite for Windows® and Linux®, and with VI‑DAQ libraries for National Instruments LabVIEW™.
### 3. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|------------------|
| Bus Interface | ISA AT Bus |
| Input Channels | 16 opto‑isolated inputs |
| Output Channels | 16 opto‑isolated open‑collector outputs |
| Input Type | Opto‑isolated (for high sink current output) |
| Input Signal Level | 12 – 24 V DC (negative common) |
| Input Resistance | 2 kΩ (typical) |
| Input Isolation Voltage | 5 kV (photocoupler isolation) |
| Output Type | Opto‑isolated open collector (current‑sinking transistor) |
| Output Rating | 35 V DC max., 200 mA max. per channel |
| Output Protection | Zener diode surge and overcurrent protection |
| Response Time (Max.) | 200 µs |
| Interrupts | 2 × IRQ selectable from 2–7, 9–12, 14, 15 |
| Internal Power Requirement | +5 V DC ± 5 %, approx. 300 mA |
| External Power Supply | 12 – 24 V DC for I/O circuits |
| Isolation Method | Opto‑coupler isolation between I/O and logic |
| Wiring Distance | Up to 50 m (depending on cable and environment) |
| I/O Address Range | Any 32‑byte boundary (configurable) |
| Board Dimensions | 160 mm (L) × 122 mm (H) |
| Connector Type | 37‑pin D‑Sub female (DCL‑J37SAF‑20L9 [JAE] or equivalent) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 – 50 °C (typical industrial range) |
| Storage Temperature | –20 – 60 °C |
| Humidity | 10 – 90 % RH (non‑condensing) |
| Weight | Approx. 200 g |
| Mounting | Internal PC expansion slot (ISA) |
### 4. Functionality
The PIO‑16/16RL(PC) functions as a digital interface between a PC and external industrial devices. Each input channel detects DC voltage levels from sensors, switches, or logic circuits. The opto‑couplers convert these signals into TTL‑level logic for the PC while maintaining galvanic isolation. Each output channel uses an open‑collector transistor to switch external loads such as relays, solenoids, or indicator lamps.
Use Cases and Applications:
- Factory automation and process control systems
- Machine status monitoring and alarm signaling
- PLC‑to‑PC interfacing and supervisory control
- Data acquisition and test automation
- Industrial robotics and motion control feedback
- Laboratory instrumentation requiring isolated digital I/O
Compatibility:
- Compatible with PC/AT‑compatible computers equipped with ISA expansion slots.
- Works with CONTEC’s API‑TOOL driver suite for Windows 10/11 and Linux distributions.
- Supported by LabVIEW™ via VI‑DAQ library for graphical programming environments.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- PIO‑16/16RL(PC) board
- User manual and setup guide
- Driver software (downloadable from CONTEC website)
Optional Accessories:
- Cables:
- PCA37P / PCB37P (37‑pin D‑Sub cable, 1.5 m)
- PCA37PS / PCB37PS (shielded 37‑pin cable)
- CN5‑D37M (connector set for custom wiring)
- Terminal Blocks:
- EPD‑37A, EPD‑37 (screw‑terminal breakout boards)
- CM‑32(PC)E (DIN‑rail mountable terminal block)
- Extension Cables:
- DTP‑3(PC), DTP‑4(PC) (ribbon‑type extension cables)
These accessories simplify wiring between the board and field devices, providing flexible connection options for various installation environments.
### 6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- IBM PC/AT‑compatible computer with available ISA slot
- +5 V DC power supply from the PC bus
- External 12–24 V DC power source for driving I/O circuits
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the PC and remove the cover.
2. Insert the PIO‑16/16RL(PC) into an available ISA slot.
3. Secure the board with the bracket screw.
4. Connect the external I/O wiring to the 37‑pin D‑Sub connector using an appropriate cable or terminal block.
5. Configure I/O address and interrupt settings via DIP switches or jumpers (refer to manual).
6. Install the CONTEC API‑TOOL driver software.
7. Verify operation using the provided diagnostic utility or sample programs.
Mounting Options:
- Standard internal mounting in desktop or industrial PC chassis.
- Can be used with rack‑mount or embedded systems supporting ISA bus.
Configuration:
- I/O address assignment on any 32‑byte boundary.
- IRQ selection from available lines (2–7, 9–12, 14, 15).
- Software‑configurable interrupt enable/disable.
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
- Speed:
Maximum response time of 200 µs ensures reliable detection of fast‑changing digital signals.
- Capacity:
16 input + 16 output channels provide 32 points of digital control per board. Multiple boards can be installed for expanded capacity.
- Efficiency:
Opto‑coupler isolation minimizes power consumption while maintaining high noise immunity.
- Protection:
Built‑in surge suppression and overcurrent protection enhance durability in harsh industrial environments.
- Limitations:
- Designed for DC signal interfacing only (not suitable for AC inputs).
- Output current limited to 200 mA per channel; external relays may be required for higher loads.
- Requires external 12–24 V DC supply for I/O circuits.
### 8. Standards & Compliance
- Bus Standard: ISA AT Bus (8/16‑bit compatible)
- Electrical Isolation: 5 kV opto‑coupler isolation between I/O and logic circuits
- EMC/EMI: Designed for industrial noise immunity; conforms to CE marking requirements (when installed in compliant systems)
- Safety: Meets industrial control equipment standards for isolation and surge protection
- Software Standards:
- Windows API‑TOOL (Win32 DLL) compliant
- Linux kernel module and shared library support
- LabVIEW VI‑DAQ compatibility
Regulatory Compliance:
CONTEC products are manufactured under ISO 9001‑certified quality systems and comply with RoHS directives for hazardous substance reduction.
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Standard 1‑year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Extended warranty options available through CONTEC distributors.
Technical Support:
- Online documentation and driver downloads at [www.contec.com](https://www.contec.com)
- Email and phone support for installation and configuration assistance
- Sample source code and API reference included with driver package
Maintenance:
- Periodic inspection of connectors and cables recommended.
- Ensure proper grounding and shielding in high‑noise environments.
- Firmware updates and driver revisions available via CONTEC’s support portal.
Software Updates:
- API‑TOOL for Windows: License‑free driver and development kit supporting Win32 API calls (DLL).
- API‑TOOL for Linux: Open‑source compatible driver with shared library interface.
- LabVIEW VI‑DAQ: Free downloadable VI library enabling direct integration with National Instruments LabVIEW for data acquisition and control.
Related Products:
- PIO‑32/32RL(PC): 32 input / 32 output negative‑common version for higher channel density.
- PIO‑16/16L(PC): Standard opto‑isolated I/O (positive common).
- PIO‑16/16H(PC): High‑voltage (24–48 V DC) variant.
- PIO‑16/16RY(PC): Relay‑output version supporting AC/DC loads.
Typical Applications:
- Industrial machinery control panels
- Automated test equipment (ATE)
- Building management systems
- Environmental monitoring and alarm systems
- Process instrumentation interfaces
### Summary
The CONTEC PIO‑16/16RL(PC) is a robust, opto‑isolated digital I/O board engineered for industrial PC systems requiring reliable, noise‑immune digital interfacing. Its negative‑common configuration, 16 inputs and 16 outputs, and 5 kV isolation make it ideal for connecting to sensors and actuators in electrically harsh environments. With surge protection, interrupt capability, and broad software support across Windows, Linux, and LabVIEW, it provides a flexible and dependable solution for automation, monitoring, and control applications.
The board’s adherence to industrial standards, comprehensive accessory ecosystem, and long‑term manufacturer support ensure seamless integration into both legacy and modern control architectures.
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ContecCatalog2011-2012-en-H Digital IO.pdf
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