New 2-Port RS-422/485 Serial Interface for PCI Express

Sealevel Systems announces the 7204e, a new PCI Express serial interface adapter that provides two serial ports individually configurable for RS-422 or RS-485 communications. For error-free operation in high-speed serial applications, the board’s high-performance 16C950 UART includes 128-byte FIFOs, eight times larger than those found on standard 16550 UARTs. Additionally, the 16C950 UART supports 9-bit framing and is fully software compatible with legacy UART applications. The 7204e is ideal for a variety of applications including point of sale, process control, and test and measurement.

The 7204e’s 14.7456 MHz oscillator and the UART’s flexible clock prescaler support the widest range of standard and non-standard baud rates. With this advanced architecture, each serial port is capable of data rates to 921.6K bps. In RS-485 mode, the transmitter is automatically enabled in hardware, eliminating the need for application software control. This allows the 7204e to be used with standard serial applications while removing the risk of bus contention and data corruption.

All Sealevel PCI Express serial adapters include SeaCOM software for Windows and Linux operating systems. As an added value, customers also receive WinSSD, a full-featured application for testing and diagnostics including BERT (Bit Error Rate Testing), throughput monitoring, loopback tests, and test pattern message transmissions.

The 7204e ships with a 36-inch cable that terminates to two DB9M connectors. Standard operating temperature range for is 0°C to 70°C (extended temperature versions operating from -40°C to 85°C are available). Like all Sealevel I/O products, the 7204e is backed by a lifetime warranty.