New PCI Express Serial Interface Adds Two RS-232/422/485 Ports

Sealevel Systems announces a new two-port PCI Express serial interface adapter with advanced UART architecture, the COMM+2.PCIe. The high-performance 16C950 UART includes 128-byte FIFOs, eight times larger than those found on comparable serial adapters, and provides error-free operation in high-speed serial applications. Additionally, the 16C950 UART supports 9-bit framing and is fully software compatible with legacy 16550 UART applications.

The serial ports on the COMM+2.PCIe are individually configurable for RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485. The 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 COMM+2.PCIe to be used with standard serial applications while removing the risk of bus contention and data corruption. In RS-232 mode, all modem control signals are implemented providing maximum compatibility with a variety of serial peripherals, such as PLC’s, bar code readers, scales, and other data acquisition/control devices.

All Sealevel PCI Express serial adapters include SeaCOM software for Windows 98, ME, 2000, NT, XP, Vista 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 COMM+2.PCIe is available for low profile and standard size PCI Express slots. Both items include a cable with two DB-9M 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 COMM+2.PCIe is backed by a lifetime warranty.