B&B Electronics 3PCIU4 User Manual

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Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

International Headquarters

B&B Electronics Mfg. Co. Inc.

707 Dayton Road

Ottawa, IL 61350 USA

Phone [phone] -- General Fax [phone]

Website: www.bb-elec.com

Sales e-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support e-mail: [e-mail]

European Headquarters

B&B Electronics

Westlink Commercial Park

Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland

Phone [phone] -- Fax [phone]

Website: www.bb-europe.com

Sales e-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support e-mail: [e-mail]

© 2008 B&B Electronics – Revised February 2008

-- Fax [phone]

-- Fax [phone]

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

B&B Electronics Mfg Co Inc – 707 Dayton Rd - PO Box 1040 - Ottawa IL 61350 - Ph 815-433-5100 - Fax [phone] – www.bb-elec.com

B&B Electronics Ltd – Westlink Commercial Park – Oranmore, Galway, Ireland – Ph [phone] – Fax [phone] – www.bb-europe.com

CAUTION:
This is an Electrostatic Sensitive Device. Use ESD precautions for safe
handling.

Before removing the card from the anti-static protective packaging:

- Discharge any static electricity buildup on your body by touching a large
grounded metal surface or the metal chassis on equipment connected to earth
ground by a 3-wire power cord. Use of a grounding wrist strap is recommended.

- Avoid touching the gold connectors or other parts on the card except when
necessary to set the configuration DIP switches.

- Remove AC power from the computer before inserting the card

©

2008 B&B Electronics. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or
mechanical, including photography, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system without written consent. Information
in this manual is subject to change without notice, and does not represent a commitment on the part of B&B Electronics.

B&B Electronics shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages resulting from the furnishing, performance, or use of
this manual.

All brand names used in this manual are the registered trademarks of their respective owners. The use of trademarks or other
designations in this publication is for reference purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by the trademark holder.

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Table of Contents i

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TABLE OF CONTENTS ...........................................................................................II

CHAPTER 1: GENERAL INFORMATION ........................................................... 1

INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................... 1

FEATURES ................................................................................................................... 1

MIPORT MODELS AND FEATURES ............................................................................... 3

QUICK START GUIDE .................................................................................................. 5

SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................... 7

CHAPTER 2: SERIAL CARD SETUP ..................................................................... 8

PRE-SETUP STEPS ....................................................................................................... 8

ESD Precautions .................................................................................................... 8

Initial Configuration .............................................................................................. 8

OVERVIEW OF OPERATIONAL MODES ......................................................................... 9

RS-232 Mode .......................................................................................................... 9

RS-422 Mode .......................................................................................................... 9

RS-485 Mode .......................................................................................................... 9

OPERATING MODE SELECTION ................................................................................. 10

Setting the DIP Switches on RS-232/422/485 Ports ............................................. 11

Setting the DIP Switches on RS-422/485 Only Ports ........................................... 12

INSTALLING THE SERIAL CARD ................................................................................. 14

CHAPTER 3: DRIVER SOFTWARE INSTALLATION ...................................... 15

INSTALLING WINDOWS VISTA DRIVER SOFTWARE ................................................... 15

Pre-Installation Steps ........................................................................................... 15

Using the Found New Hardware Wizard ............................................................. 16

INSTALLING WINDOWS XP PROFESSIONAL DRIVER SOFTWARE ............................... 17

Windows Settings ................................................................................................. 17

Pre-Installation Steps ........................................................................................... 17

Using the Found New Hardware Wizard ............................................................. 18

Checking the Driver Installation .......................................................................... 20

INSTALLING WINDOWS 2000 PROFESSIONAL DRIVER SOFTWARE ............................ 22

Windows Settings ................................................................................................. 22

Pre-Installation Steps ........................................................................................... 22

Using the Found New Hardware Wizard ............................................................. 23

Checking the Driver Installation .......................................................................... 27

INSTALLING WINDOWS 98 OR ME DRIVER SOFTWARE ............................................. 28

Windows Settings ................................................................................................. 28

Pre-Installation Steps ........................................................................................... 28

Using the Add New Hardware Wizard ................................................................. 29

Checking the Driver Installation .......................................................................... 32

ii Table of Contents Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

INSTALLING WINDOWS NT DRIVER SOFTWARE ....................................................... 34

INSTALLING WINDOWS NT DRIVER SOFTWARE ....................................................... 34

Windows Settings ................................................................................................. 34

Pre-Installation Steps ........................................................................................... 34

Installing the Driver Software .............................................................................. 34

Configuring the Serial Ports ................................................................................ 37

CHAPTER 4: SETTING DRIVER OPTIONS ....................................................... 40

CONFIGURING PORT SETTINGS (DOES NOT APPLY TO WINDOWS NT.) ..................... 40

SETTING THE FIFO BUFFERS .................................................................................... 41

SETTING THE RTS CONTROL PARAMETER ................................................................ 42

SETTING THE HARDWARE HANDSHAKING LEVEL ..................................................... 42

CHANGING THE COM PORT NAME/NUMBER ............................................................ 42

CHAPTER 5: INSTALLING LINUX DRIVER SOFTWARE ............................. 44

INSTALLING MIPORT DRIVERS IN LINUX .................................................................. 44

Preparing the Linux Files .................................................................................... 44

Compiling the Driver ........................................................................................... 44

Installing the Driver ............................................................................................. 45

CHECKING THE DRIVER INSTALLATION .................................................................... 47

USING THE EXAR SERIAL GUI EXAMPLE APPLICATION ........................................... 48

Preparing the Example Application Files ............................................................ 48

Running the Exar Serial Test GUI ....................................................................... 48

Configuring Port Settings .................................................................................... 50

CHAPTER 6: REMOVING DRIVERS, PORTS AND CARDS............................ 51

REMOVING MIPORT CARDS FROM WIN98/ME/2000/2003 SERVER/XP/VISTA ......... 51

Uninstalling the MIport Card .............................................................................. 51

Uninstalling the COM ports ................................................................................. 51

Removing INF and PNF Driver Files .................................................................. 52

REMOVING MIPORT CARDS FROM WINDOWS NT ..................................................... 54

Uninstalling the MIport Card .............................................................................. 54

Uninstalling the Driver ........................................................................................ 54

CHAPTER 7: RS-232 CONNECTIONS/OPERATION ......................................... 55

RS-232 MODE .......................................................................................................... 55

RS-232 SIGNAL DESIGNATIONS AND DB-9 PINOUT ................................................. 55

RS-232 Signal Designations ................................................................................. 56

DTE AND DCE ......................................................................................................... 56

RS-232 SIGNAL LEVELS ........................................................................................... 57

HANDSHAKING ......................................................................................................... 57

RTS CONTROL IN RS-232 MODE ............................................................................. 57

CHAPTER 8: RS-422/485 CONNECTIONS/OPERATION ................................. 59

RS-422/485 MODE ................................................................................................... 59

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Table of Contents iii

RS-422/485 SIGNAL DESIGNATIONS AND DB-9 PINOUT .......................................... 59

RS-422/485 Signal Designations ......................................................................... 60

RS-422/485 DIFFERENTIAL SIGNALS ........................................................................ 60

RS-422 OPERATION .................................................................................................. 61

RS-422 Limitations ............................................................................................... 61

RS-485 OPERATION .................................................................................................. 61

Send Data Control ............................................................................................... 62

RS-485 TERMINATION RESISTORS ............................................................................ 63

RS-485 NETWORK BIASING ...................................................................................... 63

2-WIRE RS-485 CONNECTIONS ................................................................................ 65

2-Wire RS-485 Mode: .......................................................................................... 65

4-WIRE RS-422 AND RS-485 CONNECTIONS ............................................................ 65

RS-422 Point to Point Connection ....................................................................... 65

RS-422 Point to Multipoints Connection ............................................................. 66

4-Wire RS-485 Connection .................................................................................. 66

CHAPTER 9: TROUBLESHOOTING MIPORT CARDS .................................... 68

STARTING UP ............................................................................................................ 68

CHECKING CONNECTIONS ......................................................................................... 68

RS-232/422/485 Operation .................................................................................. 68

RS-232 Operation ................................................................................................ 68

RS-422/485 Operation ......................................................................................... 69

CHECKING THE MIPORT CARD ................................................................................. 69

Support ................................................................................................................. 71

APPENDIX A: DIP SWITCH/MODE SETTINGS .................................................. 1

SETTING THE DIP SWITCHES ON RS-232/422/485 PORTS ........................................... 1

DIP Switch 1 (RS-232/422/485 ports) .................................................................... 1

DIP Switch 2 (RS-232/422/485 ports) .................................................................... 1

DIP Switch 3 (RS-232/422/485 ports) .................................................................... 2

SETTING THE DIP SWITCHES ON RS-422/485 ONLY PORTS ........................................ 2

APPENDIX B: CONNECTOR PINOUTS ............................................................... 1

RS-232 PINOUTS ........................................................................................................ 1

RS-422/485 PINOUTS ................................................................................................. 2

APPENDIX C: TROUBLESHOOTING WITH COMTEST ................................. 1

COMTEST FEATURES .................................................................................................. 1

INSTALLING COMTEST ............................................................................................... 2

LOOPBACK TESTING WITH COMTEST ......................................................................... 2

APPENDIX D: DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY STATEMENT ................ 5

iv Table of Contents Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

General Information

Introduction

MIport PCI serial interface cards allow you to add RS-232, RS-422 and RS­485 interfaces to Windows based computers equipped with a PCI bus.
Depending on your choice of card one, two or four optically isolated serial
ports, or two, four or eight non-isolated serial ports, can be added. MIport
PCI serial cards are Plug and Play compatible, which allows the Windows
Operating System and driver to set the addresses and IRQ used by the card.

CChhaapptteerr 11:: GGeenneerraall IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn

Figure 1. A 3PCIOU2 Optically Isolated Two-Port PCI Serial

Interface Card

Features

• Optically isolated or non-isolated models available

• Isolated models available in 1, 2 or 4 ports

• Non-isolated models available in 2, 4 or 8 ports

• 4 and 8 port models include fanout cables

• Plug & Play compatible – Windows sets addresses and IRQ used

• 5 volt and 3.3 volt PCI bus compatible

• PCI-X compatible

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 1 1

General Information

• Conform to the PCI V2.3 Universal PCI specification

• RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 interfaces

• 2-wire or 4-wire RS-485 operation (half or full-duplex)

• Automatic Send Data Control for RS-485 operation

• Buffered high speed XR17D15x PCI Bus UARTs (16C550 compatible)

with 64 byte FIFOs for input/output with programmable trigger
thresholds

• Advanced driver function for COM port rename (Refer to Chapter 4)

• Supports baud rates up to 460.8 kbps

• Windows 98, ME, NT4.0, 2000, 2003 Server, XP, Vista and Linux 2.4

supported

2 Chapter 1 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

General Information

MIport Models and Features

Model

Number

3PCIOU1

3PCIOU2

3PCIOU4

Ports Interface Connectors

1 RS-232/422/485 DB-9 male

2 RS-232/422/485 DB-9 male

4 2 RS-232/422/485 ports

2 RS-422/485 ports

2 x DB-9 male use 2nd expansion

2 x DB-9 male

slot

Figure 2. MIport Optically Isolated PCI Cards

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 1 3

General Information

Model

Number

3PCIU2

3PCIU4

Ports Interface Connectors

2 RS-232/422/485 2 x DB-9 male

4 RS-232/422/485 DB-37 female

(plus DB-37 to 4x DB-9 male

cable)

3PCIU8

8 4 RS-232/422/485 ports

4 RS-232 ports

DB-78 female

(plus DB-78 to 8x DB-9 male

cable)

Figure 3. MIport Non-Isolated PCI Cards

4 Chapter 1 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

General Information

Quick Start Guide

CAUTION:
This is an Electrostatic Sensitive Device. Use ESD precautions for safe
handling.

Before removing the card from the anti-static protective packaging:

- Discharge any static electricity buildup on your body by touching a large
grounded metal surface or the metal chassis on equipment connected to earth
ground by a 3-wire power cord. Use of a grounding wrist strap is recommended.

- Avoid touching the gold connectors or other parts on the card except when
necessary to set the configuration DIP switches.

- Remove AC power from the computer before inserting the card

1. Determine the interface requirements of your application, including:
a. Interface standard(s) (RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485)
b. Data transmission mode (Two-wire or four-wire)
c. Cable lengths, connectors, pinouts

Note: For information on cables and pinouts refer to Chapter 5 (RS-

232) or Chapter 6 (RS-422/RS-485).

2. Set the operating mode DIP switches to configure the

communications interface for the required interface standard and
transmit/receive mode.

Note: Refer to the DIP switch table in Chapter 2.

3. Shut down your computer. (You may want to unplug the computer

power cord to prevent accidentally turning the computer on during
installation.)

4. Install the PCI card in your computer and replace the cover.

5. Connect the cable(s) from the card to your peripheral device (Cable

also can be connected/changed later.)

6. Power up the computer

7. Insert the driver disc into your CD-ROM drive

8. Wait until new hardware is detected.

9. Follow the instructions in the Add New Hardware Wizard. (This

varies depending on your operating system.)

Note: Refer to Chapter 3.

10. Check for new COM ports in Device Manager.

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 1 5

General Information

11. Select the appropriate COM port, double-click and check properties.

12. Check and set up Port Settings

13. Under Advanced Settings, set Buffer, RTS Control and Hysteresis

14. If your card was not connected to a peripheral device in Step 5,

15. Use a communications test program (such as ComTest) to check

Level. Change the COM port name, if necessary.

make your connections now. (Powering down the computer while
making connections is recommended.)

communications between the computer and your peripheral device.

6 Chapter 1 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

General Information

Specifications

OS Supported

Bus

Slot

Baud Rates

UARTs

Character Length

Parity

Stop Bits

Optical Isolation

(3PCIOU1,
3PCIOU2,
3PCIOU4 only)

Connectors

Data Signals

Environmental

Dimensions

Accessories

Windows 98, ME, NT 4.0, 2000, 2003 Server, XP, Vista and Linux 2.4

PCI bus (33MHz/32-bit) PCI Bus specification

Requires one PCI slot (3.3V or 5V signaling)

Maximum: Up to 460.8 kbps (RS-232/422/485)

Typical: 75, 110, 134, 150, 300, 600, 1200, 1800, 2400, 4800,

7200, 9600, 14.4k, 19.2k, 38.4k, 57.6k, 115.2k,

230.4k, 460.8k

XR17D15x (16C550 compatible) with 64 byte FIFO buffers

5, 6, 7 or 8 bits

Even, odd, none, space or mark

1, 1.5 or 2

2000 VDC minimum on all lines

Ports are isolated from the PC power and ground, as well as other ports
on the same card.

3PCIOU1: 1 – DB-9 male

3PCIOU2: 2 – DB-9 male

3PCIOU4: 2 – DB-9 male (RS-232/422/485 ports)

nd

2 – DB-9 male via ribbon cable on 2

expansion slot

bracket (RS-422/485 ports)

3PCIU2: 2 – DB-9 male

3PCIU4: 1 – DB-37 female with DB-37 to 4 x DB-9 male

cable

3PCIU8: 1 - DB-78 female with DB-78 to 8 x DB-9 male
cable (4 x RS-232/422/485 and 4 x RS-232)

RS-232: TD, RD, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR, DCD, RI and GND
(TD, RD, RTS, CTS, GND only on 3PCIOU4)

RS-422: TD(A)-, TD(B)+, RD(A)-, RD(B)+ and GND

RS-485: Data(A)-, Data(B)+ and GND

Operating temperature range: 0º to 50ºC minimum

Operating humidity: 5% to 95%, non-condensing

4.8 x 3.8 in (12.2 x 9.6 cm) card edge

(Mounting bracket, 1.2 x 12.1 x 0.9 cm)

Software: Driver CD-ROM disc for Windows 98, ME, NT,

4.0, 2000, 2003 Server, XP, Vista, and Linux 2.4

Manual: Instruction Manual Contained on CD ROM

Figure 4. MIport Serial Card Specifications

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 1 7

Serial Card Setup

CChhaapptteerr 22:: SSeerriiaall CCaarrdd SSeettuupp

The following Serial Card Setup section applies to the following PCI cards:

• 3PCIOU1 one port optically isolated PCI serial card

• 3PCIOU2 two port optically isolated PCI serial card

• 3PCIOU4 four port optically isolated PCI serial card

• 3PCIU2 two port non-isolated PCI serial card

• 3PCIU4 four port non-isolated PCI serial card

• 3PCIU8 eight port non-isolated PCI serial card

Any deviations from the procedure for specific models are noted.

Pre-Setup Steps

Your serial card has been tested for proper operation before packaging and
shipping. It should be in perfect mechanical and electrical condition upon receipt.

ESD Precautions

To ensure a successful installation and setup it is important that you follow the
standard ESD precautions outlined below:

CAUTION:
This is an Electrostatic Sensitive Device. Use ESD precautions for safe
handling.

Before removing the card from the anti-static protective packaging:

- Discharge any static electricity buildup on your body by touching a large
grounded metal surface or the metal chassis on equipment connected to earth
ground by a 3-wire power cord. Use of a grounding wrist strap is recommended.

- Avoid touching the gold connectors or other parts on the card except when
necessary to set the configuration DIP switches.

- Remove AC power from the computer before inserting the card

Initial Configuration

The ports in your MIport card are normally pre-configured for RS-232
operation. To ensure the card is configured correctly for your desired operating
mode, you will have to check and/or set the three operating mode DIP switches
on the card. If you are configuring for RS-485 Mode you also may have to set
up the RTS Control parameter in the device driver.

Note: Refer to Chapter 4 for information on Setting Driver Options.

8 Chapter 2 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

Serial Card Setup

Overview of Operational Modes

RS-232 Mode

In RS-232 Mode MIport serial ports function as buffered standard PC serial
ports and operate as DTEs (Data Terminal Equipment). RS-232 interfaces are
commonly used for communications with modems, serial printers, and
computer-controlled devices such as security equipment, bar code scanners
and point-of-sale devices.

For most MIport models, RS-232 Mode supports eight single-ended signal
lines and signal ground (GND) including transmit (TD), receive (RD) and six
hardware handshake lines (DTR, DSR, RTS, CTS, DCD, RI). The only
exception to this is the MIport Model 3PCIOU4 card, which supports TD,
RD, RTS, CTS and GND.

RS-422 Mode

In RS-422 mode MIport serial ports provide two sets of differential signal
pairs (TD and RD) and signal ground for each port. The RS-422 standard
uses balanced differential drivers and receivers for each signal. This
facilitates greater communication distances than unbalanced systems such as
RS-232. In RS-422 mode the transmitter and receiver are always enabled (TX
ON, RX ON).

RS-422 operation is suitable for interconnecting a computer and one device
for full duplex (point-to-point) bi-directional communication, or a computer
and several devices for unidirectional (point-to-multipoints) communication.
RS-422 interfaces are commonly used for video editing/control, camera
control, electronic signage, television studio/satellite dish control,
performance lighting and audio equipment control.

RS-485 Mode

In RS-485 Mode MIport cards provide RS-485 interfaces which operate with
the same signals and signal levels as RS-422. RS-485 interfaces differ from
RS-422 in that they allow multiple devices to share the same communication
link using half duplex (2-wire) or full duplex (4-wire) connections. Since it is
possible to have more than one transmitter connected to the media,
transmitters must be enabled only while sending data, and tri-stated at all
other times so other devices can use the wire pair. MIport cards automatically
enable the transmitter at the appropriate time using Automatic Send Data
Control, based on the contents of the output buffer. When the buffer has data
to send, the transmitter is enabled (TX SD). When all data in the buffer has
been sent, the transmitter is disabled and tri-stated to a high impedance state.

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 2 9

Serial Card Setup

In half-duplex operation, the receiver is disabled during transmit (RX ),
and enabled when not transmitting. In full-duplex operation the receiver is
always enabled (RX ON). Since RS-485 transmitters are tri-stated when not
transmitting, the receive inputs must be biased to ensure the media floats in
the Mark state so that the first Space state is detected correctly at the start of
the next transmission.

These serial cards incorporate the necessary biasing to accommodate up to 32
standard nodes. (Typical input resistance (Rin) for each load is 12kΩ).
Provisions are made for custom biasing and/or termination.

Note: For more information on RS-485 Mode refer to Chapter 6

Operating Mode Selection

The hardware address and IRQ for the serial card is set by the Windows
Operating System using driver information files and the Plug and Play OS.

The Operating Mode is set using DIP switches, Device Manager Driver
Settings and by your cable connections and software. Each port on a MIport
card has an associated DIP switch to set its operating mode. The port number
associated with the DIP switch is clearly silk screened on the printed circuit
board.

Note: Refer to Appendix x for DIP switch locations on various MIport
cards.

10 Chapter 2 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

Serial Card Setup

Setting the DIP Switches on RS-232/422/485 Ports

Set the DIP switches to configure the desired operating mode as follows:

422/485

TX On

RX On

Switch 1

232

TX SD

RX SD

Switch 2

Switch 3

RS-232 Mode

422/485

TX On

RX On

232

TX SD

RX SD

RS-422 Mode

422/485

TX On

RX On

232

TX SD

RX SD

4-wire RS-485 Mode

422/485

TX On

RX On

2-wire RS-485 Mode

232

TX SD

RX SD

Figure 5. RS-232/422/485 DIP Switch Settings.

DIP Switch 1 (RS-232/422/485 ports)

The top DIP switch (1) configures the port for RS-232 or RS-422/485
operation. This switch is the only one that is required to be set for RS-232
operation. The positions of switches 2 and 3 do not matter when switch 1 is
set for RS-232 operation.

DIP Switch 2 (RS-232/422/485 ports)

The middle DIP switch (2) configures the port for RS-485 or RS-422
operation. For RS-422 operation (which uses two wire pairs and sends point­to-point or point-to-multipoints) the transmitter can be enabled all the time.
Placing the middle DIP switch in the TX ON position accomplishes this.

For RS-485 operation the middle DIP switch is placed in the TX SD position.
In this position the transmitter is only enabled when data is being sent. The
transmitter is tri-stated when not sending data, allowing other transmitters on
the communications line to transmit without interference.

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 2 11

Serial Card Setup

DIP Switch 3 (RS-232/422/485 ports)

The bottom DIP switch (3) configures the port for half-duplex (two-wire)
RS-485 operation or full-duplex (four wire) RS-422/RS-485 operation.
Placing the bottom DIP switch in the RX ON position configures the port for
four wire operation. In this mode the receiver is continuously enabled,
allowing it to receive all data on the communications line. Since the
transmitter sends data on the other wire pair the port does not receive its own
transmissions.

Placing the bottom DIP switch in the RX

position configures the port for
two wire operation. In this mode the transmitter and receiver are connected to
the same wire pair. The receiver is disabled when its transmitter is sending,
preventing the port from receiving its own data.

Setting the DIP Switches on RS-422/485 Only Ports

The 3PCIOU4 MIport card provides a combination of RS-232/422/485 and
RS-422/485 only ports. Ports that do not include RS-232 operation use
double DIP switches rather than triple DIP switches. These DIP switches
operate the same as the two bottom DIP switches in the RS232/422/485 ports

TX On

RX On

RS-422 Mode

Figure 6. RS-422/485 only DIP Switch Settings

Switch 1

TX SD

Switch 2

RX SD

TX On

RX On

4-wire RS-485 Mode

TX SD

RX SD

TX On

RX On

2-wire RS-485 Mode

TX SD

RX SD

DIP Switch 1 (RS-422/485 only)

The top DIP switch (1) configures the port for RS-485 or RS-422 operation.
For RS-422 operation (which uses two wire pairs and sends point-to-point or
point-to-multipoints) the transmitter can be enabled all the time. Placing the
middle DIP switch in the TX ON position accomplishes this.

12 Chapter 2 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

Serial Card Setup

For RS-485 operation the middle DIP switch is placed in the TX SD position.
In this position the transmitter is only enabled when data is being sent. The
transmitter is tri-stated when not sending data, allowing other transmitters on
the communications line to transmit without interference.

DIP Switch 2 (RS-422/485 only)

The bottom DIP switch (2) configures the port for half-duplex (two-wire)
RS-485 operation or full-duplex (four wire) RS-422/RS-485 operation.
Placing the bottom DIP switch in the RX ON position configures the port for
four wire operation. In this mode the port’s receiver is continuously enabled,
allowing it to receive all data on the communications line. Since the port’s
transmitter sends data on the other wire pair the port does not receive its own
transmissions.

Placing the bottom DIP switch in the RX

position configures the port for
two wire operation. In this mode the port’s transmitter and receiver are
connected to the same wire pair. The receiver is disabled when its transmitter
is sending, preventing the port from receiving its own data.

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 2 13

Serial Card Setup

Installing the Serial Card

CAUTION:
This is an Electrostatic Sensitive Device. Use ESD precautions for safe
handling.

Before removing the card from the anti-static protective packaging:

- Discharge any static electricity buildup on your body by touching a large
grounded metal surface or the metal chassis on equipment connected to earth
ground by a 3-wire power cord. Use of a grounding wrist strap is recommended.

- Avoid touching the gold connectors or other parts on the card except when
necessary to set the configuration DIP switches.

- Remove AC power from the computer before inserting the card

1. Shut down your computer.

2. Unplug the power cord to remove power to prevent accidentally

turning on the computer during installation.

3. Remove the cover of the computer.

4. Locate an empty PCI expansion slot.

5. Remove the expansion slot cover. Save the retaining screw.

6. Ground yourself to the computer chassis before and while inserting

the card.

7. Install the card into the unused slot. Be certain that the card is

inserted completely (fully seated) in the slot.

8. Secure the card with the mounting screw from Step 5.

9. Replace the cover; plug in the power cord.

10. Connect your cables.

11. Power up the system.

12. Install the drivers as described in Chapter 3.

14 Chapter 2 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

Driver Software Installation

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Installing Windows Vista Driver Software

Installation of the MIport driver software on Windows Vista is a three-step
process:

1. Windows Vista searches and identifies new hardware that has been

installed.

2. You use the Found New Hardware Wizard to install the driver

software for the card.

3. You use the Found New Hardware Wizard to install the software for

each port on the card.

There are several possible methods for installing the software. The procedure
outlined here is recommended for most situations.

Note: If at some point in the future, you want to update these drivers,
remove the old drivers before installing the new version. Refer to
Chapter 6 for driver removal procedures.

Pre-Installation Steps

1. Configure the port(s) on the card for the desired mode (RS-232, RS-

422 or RS-485) using the three DIP switches on the card.

2. If configuring for RS-422 or RS-485 Modes, and bias or termination

resistors are needed, add them at this time.

Note: Refer to Chapter 2 of information on DIP switch settings and
bias/termination resistors.

3. Install the card in the slot. Use appropriate ESD handling

precautions.

4. Power up the computer

5. Insert your driver disc in the CD-ROM drive.

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 3 15

Driver Software Installation

Using the Found New Hardware Wizard

Windows will detect the PCI card and start the Found New Hardware

Wizard

to begin the driver installation. The following dialog box will appear:

Drive software (on CD-ROM) is provided with your MIport card. Do not
connect to Windows Update to search for software.

6. Select No, not at this time and click Next.

PCI Card Software Installation

Once the new hardware has been detected, the wizard will proceed to install
the software for the card. The following dialog box will appear:

7. To begin the installation of the software for the PCI card, click

Install the software automatically. Click Next.

Windows will find the appropriate files on the CD, then display a
dialog box concerning Window Logo testing for Vista. This feature
of Vista simply indicates that these drivers have not yet undergone
the Microsoft testing procedure required to use the Windows Vista
Logo on the packaging. Diver compatibility is not affected.

8. Click Continue Anyway.

A dialog box will appear indicating the software installation is
proceeding.

9. When the Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard dialog

appears, click Finish.

Port Driver Installation

The Welcome to the Found New Hardware Wizard will appear again, indicating it has
detected a port on the PCI card. Repeat the steps above to install the port driver
software.

If the cared you are installing has more than one port, Windows Vista will find each
port in sequence and re-launch the Found New Hardware Wizard for each port.
Repeat the previous steps for each port.

Checking the Driver Installation

You may want to check to verify that the new B&B COM ports are now available.

1. From the Widows Desktop, click Start → Control Panel

→System and Maintenance → Device Manager

2. In the Device Manager, click Multi-port serial adapters.

16 Chapter 3 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

Driver Software Installation

All serial adapter cards should appear in the list. Additional
information about the cards can be obtained by double-clicking the
name of the card.

3. Click Ports (COM & LPT)

All installed ports should appear in the list. The COM port number
assigned to each port will be shown.

Installing Windows XP Professional Driver Software

Installation of the MIport driver software on Windows XP Professional is a
three-step process:

1. Windows XP searches for and identifies new hardware that has

been installed.

2. You use the Found New Hardware Wizard to install the driver

software for the card.

3. You use the Found New Hardware Wizard to install the software for

each port on the card.

There are several possible methods for installing the software. The procedure
outlined here is recommended for most situations.

Note: If at some point in the future, you want to update these drivers,
remove the old drivers before installing the new version. Refer to
Chapter 6 for driver removal procedures.

Windows Settings

Windows Classic settings are used in the following screenshots. To configure
Windows XP for Windows Classic settings, position the mouse pointer over
the

Taskbar (at the bottom of the Desktop), then right click. On the menu

that appears, click Properties. The Taskbar and Start Menu Properties
dialog will appear. Click the Start Menu tab, then click Classic Start Menu.
Click

OK.

Pre-Installation Steps

4. Configure the port(s) on the card for the desired mode (RS-232, RS-

422 or RS-485) using the three DIP switches on the card.

5. If configuring for RS-422 or RS-485 Modes, and bias or termination

resistors are needed, add them at this time.

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 3 17

Driver Software Installation

Note: Refer to Chapter 2 of information on DIP switch settings and
bias/termination resistors.

6. Install the card in the slot. Use appropriate ESD handling

precautions.

7. Power up the computer

8. Insert your driver disc in the CD-ROM drive.

Using the Found New Hardware Wizard

Windows will detect the PCI card and start the Found New Hardware

Wizard to begin the driver installation. The following dialog box will appear:

Figure 7. The XP Found New Hardware Wizard

Driver software (on CD-ROM) is provided with your MIport card.
Do not connect to Windows Update to search for software.

9. Select

PCI Card Software Installation

No, not this time and click Next.

Once the new hardware has been detected, the wizard will proceed to install
the software for the card. The following dialog box will appear:

18 Chapter 3 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

Driver Software Installation

Figure 8. The “Install the Card Software Automatically” Dialog

10. To begin the installation of the software for the PCI card, click

Install the software automatically. Click Next.

Windows will find the appropriate files on the CD, then display a
dialog box concerning Windows Logo testing for XP. This feature
of XP simply indicates that these drivers have not yet undergone the
Microsoft testing procedures required to use the Windows XP Logo
on the packaging. Driver compatibility is not affected.

Figure 9. Windows Logo Testing Screen

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 3 19

Driver Software Installation

11. Click Continue Anyway.

A dialog box will appear indicating the software installation is
proceeding.

12. When the

Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard dialog

appears, click Finish.

Port Driver Installation

The Welcome to the Found New Hardware Wizard will appear again,
indicating it has detected a port on the PCI card. Repeat the steps above to
install the port driver software.

If the card you are installing has more than one port, Windows XP will find
each port in sequence and re-launch the
each port. Repeat the previous steps for each port.

Checking the Driver Installation

You may want to check to verify that the new B&B COM ports are now
available.

1. From the Windows Desktop, click

Panel → System

2. On the

System Properties dialog box, click the Hardware tab, then

click the Device Manager button. The Device Manager window
will appear:

Found New Hardware Wizard for

Start → Settings → Control

20 Chapter 3 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008

Driver Software Installation

Figure 10. The Device Manager Window

3. In the Device Manager, click Multi-port serial adapters.

All serial adapter cards should appear in the list. Additional
information about the cards can be obtained by double-clicking the
name of the card.

4. Click

Ports (COM & LPT)

All installed ports should appear in the list. The COM port number assigned
to each port will be shown.

Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008 Chapter 3 21

Driver Software Installation

Installing Windows 2000 Professional Driver
Software

Installation of the MIport driver software on Windows 2000 Professional is a
three-step process:

1. Windows searches for and identifies new hardware that has been

installed.

2. You use the Found New Hardware Wizard to install the driver

software for the card.

3. You use the Found New Hardware Wizard to install the software for

each port on the card.

There are several possible methods for installing the software. The procedure
outlined here is recommended for most situations.

Note: If at some point in the future, you want to update these drivers,
remove the old drivers before installing the new version. Refer to
Chapter 6 for driver removal procedures.

Windows Settings

Windows Classic settings are used in the following screenshots. To configure
Windows for Windows Classic settings, position the mouse pointer over the

Taskbar (at the bottom of the Desktop), then right click. On the menu that

appears, click Properties. The Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog will
appear. Click the

Start Menu tab, then click Classic Start Menu. Click OK.

Pre-Installation Steps

4. Configure the port(s) on the card for the desired mode (RS-232, RS-

422 or RS-485) using the three DIP switches on the card.

5. If configuring for RS-422 or RS-485 Modes, and bias or termination

resistors are needed, add them at this time.

Note: Refer to Chapter 2 of information on DIP switch settings and
bias/termination resistors.

6. Install the card in the slot. Use appropriate ESD handling

precautions.

7. Make sure PnP OS is set in the BIOS.

8. Power up the computer

9. Insert your driver disc in the CD-ROM drive.

22 Chapter 3 Manual Documentation Number 3PCIoUx-1008