This document describes a PCI-Express I/O card designed to add serial and parallel ports to computers that may lack them, particularly newer mainboards. It leverages the PCI-Express interface for high-speed data transfer and is suitable for both general computing and industrial automation applications.
Function Description
The PCI-Express I/O card provides a solution for integrating legacy serial (RS-232) and parallel (IEEE1284) devices with modern computer systems. Many contemporary mainboards no longer include these traditional ports, making this card essential for users who need to connect older peripherals or industrial equipment. By utilizing the PCI-Express bus, the card ensures superior performance and efficient data transfer rates, making it a reliable choice for demanding applications such as industrial automation where precise and timely communication is critical. The card's design focuses on compatibility and ease of integration, allowing users to extend the functionality of their computers without extensive hardware modifications.
Important Technical Specifications
General Features:
- PCI-Express Compliance: Fully compliant with PCI-Express Base Specification Revision 1.0a. This ensures broad compatibility with a wide range of PCI-Express enabled motherboards.
- Lane Configuration: Single-Lane (x1) PCI-Express interface, providing a dedicated high-bandwidth connection to the system.
- Throughput: Offers a robust throughput of up to 2.5Gbps, facilitating rapid data exchange for connected devices.
- Legacy Port Re-map: Supports a re-map function for legacy ports, which helps in seamless integration with existing software and hardware configurations.
- Operating System Support: Comprehensive support for various operating systems, including:
- Windows 2000
- Windows XP (32-bit and 64-bit)
- Windows Server 2003
- Windows Vista (32-bit and 64-bit)
- Linux
- Mac OS
- DOS
This broad compatibility ensures that the card can be deployed in diverse computing environments.
Serial Port (RS-232) Interface:
- UART Compatibility: Compatible with industrial standard 16C450/16C550 UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter), ensuring reliable and standardized serial communication.
- FIFO Depth: Features an on-chip 256-byte depth FIFO (First-In, First-Out) buffer in both the transmit and receive paths of each port. This large buffer helps in managing data flow efficiently, reducing CPU overhead and preventing data loss during high-speed transfers.
- Data Transfer Rates: Supports data transfer rates of up to 250Kbps on each port. A special version of the card can support even higher rates, up to 1Mbps, catering to more demanding applications.
- Flow Control: Supports both hardware and software flow control mechanisms. This allows for robust data integrity and prevents buffer overflows by regulating the data transmission rate between the card and the connected device.
- Serial Data Format: Flexible support for 5-, 6-, 7-, or 8-bit serial data formats, accommodating a wide array of serial devices.
- Parity Options: Supports various parity options including even, odd, none, space, and mark parity, providing flexibility for different communication protocols.
- Stop Bit Operation: Configurable for 1 or 2 stop bit operation, further enhancing compatibility with diverse serial communication standards.
Parallel Port Interface:
- IEEE1284 Compatibility: Fully compatible with the IEEE1284 standard for parallel ports, ensuring interoperability with a broad range of parallel peripherals such as printers, scanners, and older storage devices.
- Operating Modes: Supports multiple parallel port modes, including:
- SPP (Standard Parallel Port)
- PS2* (Bidirectional Parallel Port)
- EPP* (Enhanced Parallel Port)
- ECP* (Extended Capabilities Port)
The availability of these modes allows for optimized performance depending on the connected device and application.
- Fast Data Rates: Capable of achieving fast data rates of up to 1.5Mbps*. The actual performance may vary depending on the system's chipset version.
Usage Features
Hardware Installation:
The installation process is designed to be straightforward, requiring minimal technical expertise.
- Power Down: Before beginning, ensure the computer and all connected devices are turned off to prevent electrical hazards and component damage.
- Access Computer Interior: Remove the computer's cover. Users should consult their computer's manual for specific instructions on how to safely open the case.
- Locate PCI-Express Slot: Identify an available PCI-Express slot on the motherboard. These slots are typically distinct from older PCI slots.
- Remove Bracket: Carefully remove the metal bracket covering the chosen PCI-Express slot opening at the back of the computer case. It is important to save the bracket screw for later use.
- Insert Card: Align the PCI-Express I/O card horizontally with the selected slot. Gently but firmly insert the card into the slot until it is fully seated. Avoid forcing the card, as this could damage the slot or the card itself.
- Secure Card: Once the card is properly seated, use the previously saved bracket screw to secure the card to the computer case. This prevents the card from dislodging due to vibrations or movement.
- Replace Cover: Replace the computer's cover, ensuring all panels are securely fastened.
- Power On: Turn on the computer. The system should now detect the new hardware, and the user will be ready to proceed with driver installation.
Driver Installation (Windows Vista):
- Vista 64-bit Pre-installation Step: For Vista 64-bit operating systems, users must press F8 during boot-up and select "Disable Driver Signature Enforcement." This step is crucial for installing unsigned drivers. This step can be skipped for Vista 32-bit or if using a WHQL (Windows Hardware Quality Labs) certified driver.
- Insert Driver CD: Once Vista has started, insert the provided Driver CD into the CD-ROM drive (e.g., drive D).
- Automatic Detection: Vista will automatically detect the PCI-Express I/O card. Select "Locate and install driver software (recommended)" and click "Continue." Then, choose "I don't have the disc. Show me other options."
- Browse for Driver: Click "Browse my computer for driver software (advanced)" and navigate to the appropriate driver folder on the CD (e.g.,
D:\Moschip MCS9901\Vista for Vista 32-bit).
- Complete Installation: Click "Next" and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Driver Verification: If prompted by Vista with "Windows can't verify the publisher of this driver software," select "Install this driver software anyway."
- Finalize: Click "Close" once all drivers are installed.
Driver Installation (Windows 2000, Server 2003, and XP):
- Start Windows: Boot into Windows and insert the Driver CD.
- Automatic Detection: Windows will detect the new hardware. Select "No, not this time" and click "Next."
- Specify Location: Choose "Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)" and click "Next."
- Browse for Driver: Uncheck "Search removable media" and check "Include this location in the search." Click "Browse" and navigate to the driver folder on the CD (e.g.,
D:\Moschip MCS9901\Win2K_XP_2003Server for Windows XP 32-bit).
- Complete Installation: Click "OK," then "Next."
- Windows Logo Testing: If a prompt regarding Windows Logo testing appears, click "Continue Anyway."
- Finalize: Click "Finish" to complete the installation.
- Connect Devices: After driver installation, users can connect their external serial and parallel devices. Refer to the external device's user manual for its specific driver installation.
Driver Installation (Linux, MacOS, and DOS):
For these operating systems, users should refer to the installation documents provided on the Driver CD. For the latest drivers, the "Updating Drivers" section should be consulted.
Maintenance Features
Updating Drivers:
To ensure optimal performance and compatibility, it is recommended to keep the device drivers updated.
- Online Resource: The latest drivers and any last-minute changes to the documentation are available on the website:
http://www.drivers-download.com.
- Driver Search: Users can search for specific drivers using download codes. The document provides a table with common download codes for different chipset configurations:
- MCS9901 Chipset:
- PCI-E card to multi serial ports (1S/2S/4S/6S): Download Code DL-0234802
- PCI-E card to Single/Dual Parallel Ports (1P/2P): Download Code DL-0234803
- PCI-E card to Multi-function ports (2S1P/2S2P/4S1P): Download Code DL-0234804
General Maintenance:
- Physical Inspection: Periodically inspect the card for any signs of physical damage, dust accumulation, or loose connections.
- Dust Removal: If dust accumulates, gently clean the card using compressed air or a soft brush to prevent overheating and ensure proper operation.
- Secure Connections: Ensure that the card remains securely seated in its PCI-Express slot and that any connected cables are firmly attached.
- Software Updates: Regularly check the manufacturer's website for updated drivers or firmware that may improve performance, add new features, or address compatibility issues.
Important Note: All specifications and information are subject to change without prior notice. All logos and trademarks referenced in the document are the registered trademarks of their respective owners.
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