User Guide
Trademark Notices
Document Number: 2000284 Rev. G
Comtrol and RocketPort are trademarks of Comtrol Corporation.
Windows and Microsoft are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective
owners.
Seventh Edition (Rev G), October 13, 2011
Copyright © 2011. Comtrol Corporation.
All Rights Reserved.
Comtrol Corporation makes no representations or warranties with regard to the contents of this document or
to the suitability of the Comtrol product for any particular purpose. Specifications subject to change without
notice. Some software or features may not be available at the time of publication. Contact your reseller for
current product information.
Table of Contents
Overview...................................................................................................................................5
Product Overview.......................................................................................................................................... 5
Supported Models.......................................................................................................................................... 5
Before Installing the RocketPort Universal PCI ................................................................................... 6
Locating the Latest Drivers and Documentation .................................................................................. 6
Card and Interface Installation ..........................................................................................7
Installing the Card ........................................................................................................................................ 7
Attaching a Quadcable or Octacable Interface ...................................................................................... 7
Attaching a Panel Interface Box ................................................................................................................ 8
Installing a Rackmount Interface Box ..................................................................................................... 9
Connecting Serial Devices .................................................................................................11
DTE Versus DCE .......................................................................................................................................... 11
DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs ................................................................................................. 11
DB9 Signals............................................................................................................................................... 12
DB9 Null-Modem Cables .......................................................................................................................... 12
RS-232 Null-Modem Cable ............................................................................................................... 12
RS-422 Null-Modem Cable ................................................................................................................ 13
DB9 Straight-Through Cables ................................................................................................................. 13
DB9 Loopback Plugs................................................................................................................................. 13
RS-232 Female Loopback Plug .......................................................................................................... 13
DB25 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs ............................................................................................... 14
RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs (4J)........................................................................................ 17
RJ11 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs (8J)........................................................................................ 19
RS-422 Loopback Plug ....................................................................................................................... 13
DB25 Signals............................................................................................................................................. 14
DB25 Null-Modem Cables ........................................................................................................................ 15
DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232) ........................................................................................................ 15
DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422).................................................................................................. 15
DB25 Straight-Through Cables (RS-232) ................................................................................................ 15
DB25 Loopback Plugs............................................................................................................................... 16
RS-232 Female Loopback Plug .......................................................................................................... 16
RS-422 Female Loopback Plug .......................................................................................................... 16
RS-232 Male Loopback Plug .............................................................................................................. 16
RS-422 Male Loopback Plug .............................................................................................................. 16
RJ45 Pinouts ............................................................................................................................................. 17
RJ45 Null-Modem Cables ........................................................................................................................ 17
RJ45 Straight-Through Cables ............................................................................................................... 18
RJ45 Loopback Plugs................................................................................................................................ 18
RJ11 Pinouts ............................................................................................................................................. 19
RJ11 Null-Modem Cables......................................................................................................................... 19
RJ11 Null-Modem Cable (RS-232) .................................................................................................... 19
RJ11 Null-Modem Cable (RS-422) .................................................................................................... 19
RJ11 Straight-Through Cable (RS-232) .................................................................................................. 20
RJ11 Loopback Plugs................................................................................................................................ 20
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Table of Contents - iii
Table of Contents
Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................21
Before Calling Technical Support ........................................................................................................... 21
RocketPort Universal PCI Diagnostics .................................................................................................. 21
Bootable CD .............................................................................................................................................. 22
Running the Bootable Diagnostic CD ...................................................................................................... 22
Testing a Port or Ports ....................................................................................................................... 22
Stress Testing the RocketPort Universal PCI .................................................................................. 23
Exiting the Diagnostic ....................................................................................................................... 23
Troubleshooting Windows Systems......................................................................................................... 23
Troubleshooting Linux Systems .............................................................................................................. 31
Technical Support ....................................................................................................................................... 32
If the Diagnostic Fails........................................................................................................................ 23
Comtrol Utility.......................................................................................................................................... 24
Using PortMon to Test the Driver Installation ................................................................................ 26
Using Test Terminal to Test a Port ................................................................................................... 29
lcom(1) ....................................................................................................................................................... 31
File Transfer ............................................................................................................................................. 31
Changing Serial Port Settings (stty) ....................................................................................................... 31
Setting Up Terminals and Modems (mgetty, getty) ............................................................................... 31
Testing with minicom ............................................................................................................................... 31
iv - Table of Contents RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
Product Overview
Overview
The RocketPort Universal PCI series multiport serial card fits into the PCI slot of
a personal computer, and uses a 36 MHz processor that is specifically designed to
process asynchronous serial communications.
It supports 3.3 and 5.0 volt PCI bus architecture and is compatible with 32- and
64-bit PCI slots.
The RocketPort Universal PCI series uses Comtrol Application Specific Integrated
Circuit (ASIC) technology to replace most hardware functionality to minimize
components, including:
• The processor
• A serial controller
• Bus interface logic and other miscellaneous logic
You can install up to four RocketPort Universal PCI cards in one computer,
providing a maximum of 128 additional serial ports. The PC must comply with the
PCI 2.2 specification or greater.
Supported Models
The RocketPort Universal PCI family consists of the following models:
• 4-Port adapters with the following interface options:
- Quadcable (fanout cable) with DB9 or DB25 connectors
- RJ45 connectors built into the edge of the card
• 8-Port adapters with the following interface options:
- Octacable (fanout cable) with DB9, DB25, or RJ45 connectors
- RJ11 connectors built into the edge of the card
- Panel mount RS-232 interface box with DB25F connectors
- Panel mount RS-232/422 interface box with DB25F connectors
- Panel mount RS-232/422 Surge interface box with DB25M connectors
• 16-Port adapter with the following interface options:
- Panel mount RS-232 interface box with sixteen DB25F connectors
- Panel mount RS-232/422 interface box with sixteen DB25F connectors
- Panel mount RS-232/422 Surge interface box with sixteen DB25M
connectors
- Rack mount RS-232 interface box with sixteen RJ45 connectors
- Rack mount RS-422 interface box with sixteen RJ45 connectors
• 32-Port adapter with the following interface options:
- Panel mount RS-232 interface box with sixteen DB25F connectors
- Panel mount RS-232/422 interface box with sixteen DB25F connectors
- Panel mount RS-232/422 Surge interface box with sixteen DB25M
connectors
- Rack mount RS-232 interface box with sixteen RJ45 connectors
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Overview - 5
Overview
- Rack mount RS-232 interface box with thirty-two RJ45 connectors
- Rack mount RS-422 interface box with sixteen RJ45 connectors
Before Installing the RocketPort Universal PCI
If you are planning on installing the RocketPort Universal PCI in a Windows
system make sure that you have placed the device driver assembly to a location
that is available to the host system before installing the card in the host.
You can use the Software and Documentation CD to locate the latest device drivers
and documentation. Optionally, you can use the links in the following subsection.
You may want to record the model and serial number of the RocketPort Universal
PCI before installing the card in the event you need to call technical support.
Locating the Latest Drivers and Documentation
This table contains links the software and installation documentation.
Software or
Document
Device drivers ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/RPuPCI_drivers.htm
Diagnostic and
Utilities
User Guides ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/RPuPCI_docs.htm
ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/RPuPCI_diag.htm
Location
6 - Overview RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
Installing the Card
Caution
Caution
Octacable
DB9
Card and Interface Installation
Use the following procedure to install a RocketPort Universal PCI card.
1. If this is a Windows installation, copy the latest driver to your system before
installing the RocketPort Universal PCI. See Locating the Latest Drivers and
Documentation on Page 6 to locate the latest driver and installation
documentation.
2. Turn off the host computer.
Note: You may want to write down the model number and serial number of
the card before installation.
3. Remove the system cover from your computer.
4. Select a PCI expansion slot.
5. Remove the slot cover or release the clamp.
6. Insert the card into the slot and seat it securely.
7. Reinstall the expansion slot retaining screw or clamp.
Do not connect an interface to the card when the host system is
powered on, this can cause card failure.
8. Attach the interface or cable to the RocketPort Universal PCI:
• If this is a 4J or 8J installation, see Connecting Serial Devices
for cabling information after driver installation.
• Attaching a
• Attaching a Panel Interface Box
• Installing a Rackmount Interface Box
Quadcable or Octacable Interface on Page 7 (below)
Attaching a Quadcable or Octacable Interface
Use this procedure to complete the Quadcable or Octacable installation.
1. Make sure that the host system is powered off before connecting the cable.
2. Attach the DB78 end of the Quadcable or Octacable to the card.
Make sure that the connectors are properly
aligned and forcefully push the connector of
the Quadcable or Octacable with a rocking
motion into the card connector. Make sure
that the connector is seated tightly before
tightening the retaining screws on the
connector.
3. Tighten the retaining screws on the connector.
4. Power on the host system.
5. Click Cancel if a Found New Hardware message appears on a Windows
operating system.
Execute the device driver file to start the driver installation.
on Page 11
on Page 8
on Page 9
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Card and Interface Installation - 7
Card and Interface Installation
Caution
For other operating system device drivers, see Locating the Latest Drivers and
Documentation on Page 6.
6. After installing the driver, you should verify that the ports are functioning
properly and then connect your serial devices.
You can use the Troubleshooting
for your operating system.
Refer to Connecting Serial Devices
connecting serial devices.
Attaching a Panel Interface Box
Use the following to attach a panel interface box.
Do not connect the cable to the RocketPort Universal PCI card or
interface box when the computer is powered on.
Connecting the cable to the RocketPort Universal PCI card or interface
box while the computer is powered on may damage the electronics on
the card or interface box.
1. Make sure that the host system is powered off before connecting the cable
2. Attach the male end of the RocketPort Universal PCI cable to the card and the
female end to the connector labeled Host on the interface box.
Note: The male DB25 port labeled Host is
reserved for Comtrol use and no user
accessible signals are present at this port.
3. Tighten the retaining screws.
Note: If you have a 32-port adapter, the connector
labeled J1 corresponds to Ports 0 through
15 and the connector labeled J2 (closest to
the bus) corresponds to Ports 16 through
31.
4. If this is an RS-232/422 switchable interface,
make sure that you set the ports to the
appropriate interface mode.
5. Power on the host system.
6. Click Cancel if a Found New Hardware message
appears on a Windows operating system.
Execute the device driver file to start the driver installation.
For other operating system device drivers, see Locating the Latest Drivers and
Documentation on Page 6.
7. After installing the driver, you should verify that the ports are functioning
properly and then connect your serial devices.
You can use the Troubleshooting
for your operating system.
Refer to Connecting Serial Devices
connecting serial devices.
section on Page 21 for port testing procedures
on Page 11 for information about
section on Page 21 for port testing procedures
on Page 11 for information about
8 - Card and Interface Installation RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
Installing a Rackmount Interface Box
Caution
Caution
Caution
Rackmount interface boxes are sturdy enough to allow you to stack several units
on a shelf, or you can mount it directly into a rack.
Do not connect the cable to the RocketPort Universal PCI card or
interface box when the computer is powered on.
Connecting the cable to the RocketPort Universal PCI card or interface
box while the computer is powered on may damage the electronics on
the card or interface box.
1. Make sure that the host system is powered off before connecting the cable.
2. Place the Rackmount interface box on a stable surface or attach the brackets
to the interface box using the screws supplied with the unit and attach the
bracket into your rack.
Note: You can mount the Rackmount interface box facing in either direction.
3. Attach the 3-foot cable or the 3-foot and the 10-foot cables together between
the interface and the board.
Make sure that the connectors are properly aligned. Do NOT use force
when connecting the cables to the host adapter card.
Card and Interface Installation
Note: The cables are interchangeable. You may connect either or both cables
depending upon the distance between the card and the rack. The
maximum distance permitted between the interface box and card is 15
feet.
4. Optionally, for the RM32-RJ45, attach the two cables to the card and the
interface. The connector labeled J1 corresponds to Host A (Ports 0 through
15), and the connector labeled J2 (closest to the bus) corresponds to Host B
(Ports 16 through 32).
Do not connect 16-port cards located in different machines to the
RM32-RJ45. It is possible to damage the interface and card if the
interface is connected to two PCs using separate line power sources.
5. Power on the host system.
6. Click Cancel if a Found New Hardware message appears on a Windows
operating system. Execute the device driver file to start the driver installation.
For other operating system device drivers, see Locating the Latest Drivers and
Documentation on Page 6.
7. After installing the driver, you should verify that the ports are functioning
properly and then connect your serial devices.
The rackmount interface boxes provide LEDs that display the following:
• 16-Port RS-422 (with red LEDs that display port activity)
• 16-Port RS-232 with integrated status LEDs. The yellow LEDs show
receiving activity. The green LEDs show transmitting activity.
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Card and Interface Installation - 9
Card and Interface Installation
• 32-Port RS-232 with integrated status LEDs. The yellow LEDs show
receiving activity. The green LEDs show transmitting activity.
You can use the Troubleshooting
section on Page 21 for port testing procedures
for your operating system.
Refer to Connecting Serial Devices
connecting serial devices.
on Page 11 for information about
10 - Card and Interface Installation RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
DTE Versus DCE
Connecting Serial Devices
This section provides information about the RocketPort Universal PCI connectors,
in the event that you need to build cables or loopback plugs.
• DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs on Page 11
• DB25 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs on Page 14
• RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs (4J) on Page 17
• RJ11 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs (8J) on Page 19
A loopback plug is a serial port plug with pins wired together that you can use
with application (for example, the diagnostic, Test Terminal, or minicom) to test
serial ports. See
about using the test application shipped with the RocketPort Universal PCI.
Most serial devices, except modems, are Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) devices.
Modems are Data Communication Equipment (DCE) devices.
How you build a cable depends on which device your are connecting to (DTE or
DCE). For example, you need a null-modem cable to connect the COM ports
(COM1 or COM2) on the computer or the RocketPort Universal PCI ports to
printers, terminals, bar code readers or DNC equipment. If you are connecting a
DTE device to a DCE device you need a straight-through modem cable.
• Straight-through cable (DTE to DCE) - connects TxD to TxD and RxD to RxD.
• Null-modem cable (DTE to DTE) - connects TxD to RxD and RxD to TxD.
Before Calling Technical Support on Page 21 for information
DB9 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs
The following figures and table illustrate the signals present on DB9 connectors if
you need to build your own null-modem or straight-through DB9 serial cables.
• DB9 Signals on Page 12
• DB9 Null-Modem Cables on Page 12
• DB9 Straight-Through Cables on Page 13
• DB9 Loopback Plugs on Page 13
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Connecting Serial Devices - 11
Connecting Serial Devices
Pin 1
Pin 5
Pin 6
Pin 9
DB9 Male (Quad/Octacable)
Pin 1
Pin 5
Pin 6
Pin 9
DB9 Female (Interface Boxes)
RocketPort
TxD
RxD
RTS
CTS
DSR
GND
DCD
DTR
Signal
RxD
TxD
CTS
RTS
DTR
GND
DCD
DSR
Signal
DB9
2
3
8
7
4
5
1
6
Pins
DB25
3
2
4
7
8
6
Pins
20
5
DB9
3
2
7
8
6
5
1
4
Pins
Customer DTE
DB9 Signals This subsection provides DB9 signal information. Refer to the manufacturer’s
installation documentation if you need help with the connector pinouts or cabling
for the serial device.
Pins RS-232 Signals RS-422 Signals*
1 CD Not Used
2 RxD TxD-
3 TxD RxD+
4 DTR Not Used
5 Signal GND Not Used
6 DSR Not Used
7 RTS TxD+
8 CTS RxD-
9 RI** Not Used
* RS-422 is only available if you are using an RS-422
interface box or RS-232/422 switchable interface
box.
** RI is only supported on Quad/Octacable cards.
DB9 Null-Modem Cables
RS-232 Null-Modem Cable
12 - Connecting Serial Devices RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
You need a null-modem cable to connect to DTE devices. For example, you can
connect one end of a a null-modem cable to COM2 on one computer and the other
end of the null-modem cable to COM2 on another computer.
The following image displays the pinouts for an RS-232 null-modem cable.
Note: You can also attach a null-modem adapter to one end of a straight-through
cable to create a null-modem cable.
Connecting Serial Devices
RocketPort
TxD+
TxDRxD+
Signal
DB9
7
2
3
Pins
RxD+
RxD-
Signal
TxD+
TxD-
RxD- 8
Customer DTE
RocketPort
DB9
1
2
3
4
5
8
6
7
Pins
DCD
RxD
TxD
DTR
GND
CTS
DSR
RTS
Signal
DB9
1
2
3
4
5
8
6
7
Pins
DCD
RxD
TxD
DTR
GND
CTS
DSR
RTS
Signal
RI 9
9RI
DB25
8
3
2
20
7
5
6
4
Pins
22
Customer DCE
Pin 1
Pin 5
Pin 6
Pin 9
RS-232 (Back View)
RS-422 Null-Modem Cable
DB9 StraightThrough Cables
The following image displays the pinouts for an RS-422 null-modem cable.
Note: RS-422 pinouts are not standardized. Each serial device manufacturer uses
different pinouts. Refer to the serial device User Manual to determine the
signals.
Straight-through cables connect modems to other DCE devices. For example, you
can connect one end of a straight-through cable to COM2 on one computer and the
other end of a straight-through cable to a modem.
The following image displays the pinouts for an RS-232 straight-through cable.
DB9 Loopback Plugs RocketPort Universal PCI are shipped with a a single loopback plug. You can use
RS-232 Female Loopback Plug
RS-422 Loopback Plug
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Connecting Serial Devices - 13
Note: Ring Indicator (RI) is only supported on Quad/Octacable cards.
loopback plugs with application software (for example, Test Terminal) to test
serial ports.
Wire the following pins together to build additional plugs or replace a missing
loopback plug.
The Quadcable and Octacable use the RS-232 female
loopback plug. To build a loopback plug for the Quadcable
and Octacable, wire the following pins together:
• Pins 1 to 4 to 6
•Pins 2 to 3
• Pins 7 to 8 to 9
Note: Ring Indicator (RI) is only supported on Quad/Octacable cards.
To build a DB9 loopback plug for RS-422, wire the following pins together:
•Pin 2 to 8
•Pin 3 to 7
Connecting Serial Devices
Pin 13 Pin 1
Pin 25 Pin 14
DB25 Female
Pin 14 Pin 25
Pin 1 Pin 13
DB25 Male
Standard Interface Boxes
Surge Interface Boxes
Quad/Octacable
DB25 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs
The following figures and table illustrate the signals present on DB25
connectors if you need to build your own null-modem or straight-through
serial cables. Refer to the manufacturer’s installation guide if you need help
with connector pinouts or cables for the peripheral device.
• DB25 Signals
• DB25 Null-Modem Cables
• DB25 Straight-Through Cables (RS-232)
• DB25 Loopback Plugs on Page 16
DB25 Signals This subsection provides DB25 signal information. Refer to the manufacturer’s
installation documentation if you need help with the connector pinouts or cabling
for the serial device.
Standard interface modules use female DB25 connectors, while the Surge
interface boxes, Quadcable, and Octacable fanouts use male connectors.
14 - Connecting Serial Devices RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
This table shows connector information for DB25 connectors.
Interface Boxes Quad/Octacable
Pin RS-232 Signal RS-422 Signal* RS-232 Signal
1 Not used Not used Not used
2 TxD Not used TxD
3 RxD Not used RxD
4 RTS Not used RTS
5 CTS Not used CTS
6 DSR Not used DSR
7 Signal ground Signal ground Signal ground
8 DCD Not used DCD
9 to 14 Not used Not used Not used
15 Not used RxD+ Not used
16 Not used Not used Not used
17 Not used RxD- Not used
18 Not used Not used Not used
19 Not used TxD+ Not used
20 DTR Not used DTR
21 Not used Not used Not used
22 Not used Not used RI**
23-24 Not used Not used Not used
25 Not used TxD- Not used
* Quad/Octacables do not support RS-422 mode. RS-422 is only available
if you purchased an RS-422 interface box or RS-232/422 interface box.
** RI is only supported on Quad/Octacable adapters.
Connecting Serial Devices
TxD
RxD
RTS
CTS
DSR
GND
DCD
DTR
Signal
RxD
TxD
CTS
RTS
DTR
GND
DCD
DSR
Signal
DB9
2
3
8
7
4
5
1
6
Pins
DB25
3
2
4
7
8
6
Pins
20
5
DB25
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
20
Pins
RI* RI92222
RocketPort DTE Serial Device
* Ring Indicator (RI) is only available on Quad/
Octacables.
TxD+
TxD-
RxD+
Signal
DB25
19
25
15
Pins
RxD+
RxD-
Signal
TxD+
TxD-
RocketPort
DTE Serial
Device
RxD- 17
DB9
1
2
3
4
5
8
6
7
Pins
DCD
RxD
TxD
DTR
GND
CTS
DSR
RTS
Signal
DB25
8
3
2
20
7
5
6
4
Pins
DCD
RxD
TxD
DTR
GND
CTS
DSR
RTS
Signal
RI* 22
9RI
DB25
8
3
2
20
7
5
6
4
Pins
22
RocketPort DCE Serial Device
* Ring Indicator (RI) is only available on
Quad/Octacables.
DB25 Null-Modem Cables
DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-232)
DB25 Null-Modem Cables (RS-422)
You need a null-modem cable to connect to DTE devices. For example, you can
connect one end of a a null-modem cable to COM2 on one computer and the other
end of the null-modem cable to COM2 on another computer.
The following image displays the
pinouts for an RS-232 nullmodem cable.
Note: You can also attach a null-
modem adapter to one end
of a straight-through cable
to create a null-modem
cable.
The following image displays the pinouts for
an RS-422 null-modem cable.
RS-422 pinouts are not standardized. Each
serial device manufacturer uses different
pinouts. Refer to the serial device User
Manual to determine the signals.
Note: You can also attach a null-modem
adapter to one end of a straight-through
cable to create a null-modem cable.
DB25 StraightThrough Cables (RS-
232)
Use the following figure if you need to build an RS-232 straight-through cable.
Straight-through cables are used to connect modems and other DTE devices. For
example, a straight-through cable can be used to connect COM2 of one PC to a
modem.
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Connecting Serial Devices - 15
Connecting Serial Devices
Pin 13Pin 1
RS-232 Only (Back View)
Pin 14
Pin 25
Pin 25Pin 14
Pin 13Pin 1
RS-422 Only (Back View)
Pin 13 Pin 1
Pin 14Pin 25
RS-232 Only (Back View)
Pin 25 Pin 14
Pin 1Pin 13
RS-422 Only (Back View)
DB25 Loopback Plugs
RS-232 Female Loopback Plug
RS-422 Female Loopback Plug
RS-232 Male Loopback Plug
A loopback plug is a DB25 serial port plug with pins wired together. You can use a
loopback plug with application software (for example, Test Terminal) to test serial
ports.
The Surge RS-232/422 switchable interface box,
Quadcable, and Octacable use the RS-232 female
loopback plug. To build a DB25 loopback plug for a
Surge interface box, Quadcable, or Octacable, wire
the following pins together:
•Pins 2 to 3
• Pins 4 to 5 to 22
• Pins 6 to 8 to 20
To build a DB25 loopback plug (Surge RS-232/422
switchable interface box) for an RS-422 serial
connection, wire the following pins together:
• Pins 15 to 19
• Pins 17 to 25
The RS-232 and RS-232/422 interface boxes (8-port
and 16-port models) use the RS-232 male loopback
plug. To build a DB25 loopback plug for an RS-232
serial connection, wire the following pins together:
•Pins 2 to 3
• Pins 4 to 5 to 22
• Pins 6 to 8 to 20
RS-422 Male Loopback Plug
To build a DB25 loopback plug for an RS-422 serial
connection, wire the following pins together.
• Pins 15 to 19
• Pins 17 to 25
16 - Connecting Serial Devices RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
Connecting Serial Devices
RocketPort
TxD
RxD
RTS
CTS
DSR
GND
DCD
DTR
Signal
RxD
TxD
CTS
RTS
DTR
GND
DCD
DSR
Signal
DB9
2
3
8
7
4
5
1
6
Pins
DB25
3
2
4
7
8
6
Pins
RJ45
4
5
1
8
7
3
6
2
Pins
20
5
DTE Device
RJ45 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs (4J)
This section describe how to build your own null-modem or straight-through RJ45
serial cables.
• RJ45 Pinouts
• RJ45 Null-Modem Cables on Page 17
• RJ45 Straight-Through Cables on Page 18
• RJ45 Loopback Plugs on Page 18
There are no standards for the RJ45. Before you build the custom RJ45 serial
cable for your terminal equipment or device you should:
• Refer to the manufacturer’s installation guide if you need help with connector
pinouts or cables for the peripheral device.
• Supported RS-modes are described in the electronic document shipped with
your Comtrol device.
RJ45 Pinouts The following figures provide pinout information for the RJ45
connectors used on the Octacable interface module.
Note: Ring indicator is not supported on the RJ45 connector.
RJ45 Null-Modem Cables
You need a null-modem cable to connect to DTE devices. For example, you can
connect one end of a null-modem cable to COM2 on one computer and the other
end of the null-modem cable to COM2 on another computer.
You can also attach a null-modem adapter to one end of a straight-through cable to
create a null-modem cable.
The following image displays the pinouts for an RS-232 null-modem cable.
Note: RJ45 pinouts are not standardized. Each peripheral manufacturer uses
different pinouts. Refer to the document for the peripheral device to
determine the pinouts for the signals above.
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Connecting Serial Devices - 17
Connecting Serial Devices
RocketPort
DB9
1
2
3
4
5
8
6
7
Pins
DCD
RxD
TxD
DTR
GND
CTS
DSR
RTS
Signal
DCD
RxD
TxD
DTR
GND
CTS
DSR
RTS
Signal
RI
9
RJ45
6
5
4
2
3
8
7
1
Pins
N/A
DB25
8
3
2
20
7
5
6
4
Pins
Customer DCE
22
RI
RJ45 StraightThrough Cables
RJ45 Loopback Plugs
Straight-through cables connect modems to other DCE devices. For example, you
can connect one end of a straight-through cable to COM2 on one computer and the
other end of the straight-through cable to a modem.
The following image displays the pinouts for an RS-232 straight-through cable.
Note: If your RJ45 wiring differs from the one shown above, adjust the RJ45
pinouts accordingly.
A loopback plug is an RJ45 serial port plug with pins wired
together. You can use loopback plugs with application
software (for example, Test Terminal) to test serial ports.
To build an RJ45 loopback plug, wire the following pins
together:
•Pins 4 to 5
•Pins 1 to 8
•Pins 2 to 6 to 7
18 - Connecting Serial Devices RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
RJ11 Serial Cables and Loopback Plugs (8J)
TxD
RxD
Signal
RxD
TxD
RTS
Signal
DB25
3
2
Pins
RJ11
3
4
Pins
4
RocketPort
DTE Serial Device
DB9
2
3
7
Pins
CTS 6
DCD
DTR
DCD
DTR
20
5
1
8
1
14
GND
GND
7
2
5
RS-232
TxD+
TxDRxD+
Signal
RJ11
1
3
6
Pins
RxD+
RxD-
Signal
RxD- 4
TxD+
TxD-
DTE Serial
Device
RocketPort
RS-422
This subsection describes RJ11 cables and looback plugs.
• RJ11 Pinouts
• RJ11 Null-Modem Cables on Page 19
• RJ11 Loopback Plugs on Page 20
The RocketPort Universal PCI has eight standard RJ11 modular connectors,
located on the controller board mounting bracket. The ports are numbered 0
through 7, with Port 7 being the connector closest to the bus.
There are no standards for the RJ11. Before you build the custom RJ11 serial
cable for your terminal equipment or device you should:
• Refer to the manufacturer’s installation guide if you need help with connector
pinouts or cables for the peripheral device.
• Supported RS-modes are described in the electronic document shipped with
your Comtrol device.
Connecting Serial Devices
RJ11 Pinouts This topic describes pinouts for the RJ11 interface
connector for an RS-232 port. The following figures
provide pinout information for the RJ11 jack plug
and receptacle.
RJ11 Null-Modem Cables
You need a null-modem cable to connect to DTE devices. For example, you can
connect one end of a a null-modem cable to COM2 on one computer and the other
end of the null-modem cable to COM2 on another computer.
RJ11 Null-Modem Cable (RS-232)
Use the following figure if you need
to build an RS-232 null-modem
cable. A null-modem cable is
required for connecting DTE devices.
RJ11 Null-Modem Cable (RS-422)
Use the following figure if you need to build
an RS-422 null-modem cable. A null-modem
cable is required for connecting DTE devices.
Note: RS-422 pinouts are not standardized.
Each serial manufacturer uses
various pinouts. Please refer to the
documentation for the serial to
determine the pinouts for the signals
in the previous picture.
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Connecting Serial Devices - 19
Connecting Serial Devices
DTR
1
DCD
RxD
TxD
DTR
GND
Signal
DCD
RxD
TxD
GND
Signal
RJ11
5
4
3
2
Pins
DB25
8
3
2
20
7
Pins
RocketPort
DCE Serial Device
DB9
1
2
3
4
5
Pins
CTS
CTS
6
5
8
RJ11 StraightThrough Cable (RS-
232)
RJ11 Loopback Plugs
Use straight-through cables to connect modems and other DTE devices. For
example, you can connect one end of a straight-through cable to COM2 on one
computer and the other end of the straight-through cable to a modem.
A loopback plug is an RJ11 serial port plug with pins wired together. You can use
it with application software (for example, Test Terminal) to test serial ports.
To build an RJ11 loopback plug, wire these pins together:
•Pins 3 to 4
•Pins 1 to 5 to 6
20 - Connecting Serial Devices RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
Troubleshooting
If you are experiencing problems with the RocketPort Universal PCI, review the
troubleshooting procedures for your system before calling Technical Support.
Before Calling Technical Support
Review the following information before calling Technical Support because they
will request that you perform many of the procedures or verifications before they
will be able to help you diagnose a problem.
• Verify the cabling using Connecting Serial Devices
Note: Most customer problems reported to Comtrol Technical Support are
eventually traced to cabling or network problems.
• If you have not done so, run the diagnostics (RocketPort Universal PCI
Diagnostics on Page 21).
• Verify that you have installed the latest RocketPort Universal PCI device
driver, see Locating the Latest Drivers and Documentation
If necessary, remove or update the existing driver using the procedures in the
RocketPort Universal PCI Device Driver Installation Guide for Windows or
README file packaged with the FreeBSD, Linux, QNX, or SCO OpenServer
driver.
If none of the above work, you can refer to one of these subsections:
• Troubleshooting Windows Systems
• Troubleshooting Linux Systems
on Page 11.
on Page 6.
on Page 23
on Page 31
RocketPort Universal PCI Diagnostics
This subsection describes how to create and run the bootable diagnostic to verify
that the RocketPort Universal PCI hardware is functioning properly. The
RocketPort Universal PCI is shipped with a bootable diagnostic on the Software
and Documentation CD that executes hardware diagnostics.
You can use the diagnostic to:
• Confirm that the hardware is functioning
• Determine resolutions to conflicts during installation
• Perform a stress test on all RocketPort Universal PCI ports in the system
The diagnostic requires a loopback plug to test a port or ports. A single loopback
plug is shipped with the RocketPort Universal PCI. You can build additional
loopback plugs or move the loopback plug to the port you want to test. See
Connecting Serial Devices
on Page 11 if you want to build loopback plugs.
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Troubleshooting - 21
Troubleshooting
Bootable CD Use the following procedure to create a bootable Diagnostic CD.
1. Copy the .iso file to a temporary location.
The diagnostic .iso file can be copied from the Software and Documentation
CD or you can download the latest version (Locating the Latest Drivers and
Documentation on Page 6).
2. Burn the image to a CD-ROM.
Note: An .iso file cannot be copied onto a CD but must be burned using an
application that burns the image to the CD. If you do not have an
application available, you can use a freeware application that is on the
Comtrol Software and Documentation CD or download it at: ftp://
ftp.comtrol.com/iso/IsoBurner/.
3. To run the diagnostic, you will need at least one loopback plug. A loopback
plug was shipped with the RocketPort Universal PCI. To build a loopback plug,
see DB9 Loopback Plugs
on Page 13.
4. To start the diagnostic, reboot your system with the Diagnostics CD in the
drive and follow the instructions in the diagnostic.
Running the Bootable Diagnostic CD
Testing a Port or Ports
Use the following procedure to run the diagnostics.
Note: If the diagnostic goes into sleep mode while unattended, press the Num Lock
key to activate the screen. Use Ctrl/Alt Delete to kill the diagnostic process at
any time.
1. Insert the bootable CD that contains the diagnostic and restart your machine.
Note: If the Diagnostic CD does not boot the PC, you may need to change your
BIOS settings so that the PC can boot from a CD drive.
The diagnostic starts automatically and takes a few moments before the first
screen appears.
Note: If the diagnostics did not detect the RocketPort Universal PCI, the
adapter has a hardware failure, contact Technical support (Page 32).
2. Press Any Key at the disclaimer screen to begin the diagnostic.
3. Press Any Key at the Please Note screen about RocketPort ISA.
4. Press Enter to Are there ISA boards installed? in the VERIFY TEST screen.
5. Press Enter to the Is this board configured for RS-422? query.
Note: The caution at the bottom of the screen that the RS-232 test will fail
when run on an RS-422 port.
6. Press Enter to the Is this board configured for RJ45 cables? qquery.
7. Select from the following options and use the appropriate steps:
• Testing a Port or Ports
• Stress Testing the RocketPort Universal PCI
8. Enter 1 to 4 and press Enter to test a port or ports on a specific RocketPort
Universal PCI or on multiple adapters.
9. Press Enter to test ALL ports on the RocketPort Universal PCI or enter the
port number of a port that you want to test.
10. Follow the instructions on the screen. If you are testing all of the ports and
have only one loopback plug, you must move it from port to port during the
test.
Note: Port 0 in the diagnostic is Port 1 on the Octacable or interfaces.
The diagnostic will provide hardware status on the TESTING SERIAL I/O,
MODEM CONTROL AND IRQ screen.
22 - Troubleshooting RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
Troubleshooting
11. Choose from the following options:
• Press Q to quit the diagnostic without reviewing the Test Summary screen.
• Press R to return to the board test screen.
• Press any key or Enter to review the Test Summary screen, which provides
the ability to restart (Y) or quit (N) the diagnostic.
Stress Testing the RocketPort Universal PCI
Select S and press Enter to access the STRESS TEST screen. Make sure that you
have a loopback plug installed on each port on each adapter.
The stress test uses a default configuration to simultaneously stream data to all
ports of the RocketPort Universal PCI cards in a system until you stop the test.
The following options are available:
• To stop the test and review the results of the stress test, enter S.
• To return to the board test screen, press R.
Exiting the Diagnostic
To end the diagnostic, you may need to select b to return to a screen that contains
a q to quit. Type reboot, select Enter, and remove the CD from the drive when
prompted.
If the Diagnostic Fails
If the diagnostic fails, try the following before contacting Technical Support.
1. Turn off the power and reseat the RocketPort Universal PCI card into the slot.
2. Try running the diagnostics again. If they fail again, you may have a bad port,
contact Technical Support
Troubleshooting Windows Systems
If you are using a RocketPort Universal PCI driver on a Windows system and the
diagnostic verified that the card is functional, you can check the following:
1. Verify that the RocketPort Universal PCI has installed by checking the Device
Manager to verify that the RocketPort Universal PCI card displays.
2. Verify that you are addressing the port correctly.
In many applications, device names above COM9 require the prefix \\.\ in
order to be recognized. For example, to reference COM20, use \\.\COM20 as
the file or port name.RocketPort Universal PCI.
3. After driver installation, if a port does not open; go to Ports COM & LPT, right-
click on the yellow exclamation mark on the port, and click Update Driver. Use
the same procedure used when installing the ports that are detected with plug
and play systems.
4. Enable the Verbose Event Log feature on the Options tab of the RocketPort
Universal PCI driver and then reboot the server.
5. Install and use one of the tools in the Comtrol Utility package. Use the
following subsection, Comtrol Utility, below for installation and adapter
testing procedures.
on Page 32.
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Troubleshooting - 23
Troubleshooting
Comtrol Utility The Comtrol Utility is available on the Software and Documentation CD or you
can download
(Page 6) the latest version. The file is a self-extracting zip file that
automatically starts the installation procedure. It is not necessary to reboot the
PC after installation.
The Comtrol Utility package includes the following applications that you can access from the Comtrol Program group:
• Port Monitor (PMon2) checks for errors, modem control, and status signals. In
addition, it provides you with raw byte input, output counts, and confirm that
the device driver is functioning. It can determine if the ports are in use by
another application.
• Test Terminal (WCOM2) can be used to troubleshoot communications on a port-
by-port basis (Using Test Terminal to Test a Port
on Page 29). Test Terminal
requires a loopback plug. You can build a loopback plug if you are missing the
loopback plug shipped with the adapter (Connecting Serial Devices
on Page
11).
Use the following
procedure to install the
Comtrol Utility package.
1. Execute the
Comtrol_Utility_Pack
age_x.xx.msi file,
where x_xx is the
Comtrol Utility
version number.
2. Click Next.
3. Click Next.
24 - Troubleshooting RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
4. Click Install.
5. Click Finish.
Troubleshooting
6. Go to Using PortMon to Test the Driver Installation
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Troubleshooting - 25
on Page 26.
Troubleshooting
Using PortMon to Test the Driver Installation
You can use PortMon to check whether the RocketPort Universal PCI can
communicate through the device driver for Windows. If necessary, use Comtrol
Utility on Page 24 to install PortMon.
1. From the Start menu, select Programs > Comtrol > Utilities > Port Monitor
(PMon2).
2. Click Add Ports using the icon or Tools > Add Ports, click Driver, ROCKETPORT,
and click Ok.
26 - Troubleshooting RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
Troubleshooting
3. If the RocketPort Universal PCI is communicating with the device driver for
Windows, Port Monitor should display CLOSED status. If a port is open for an
application, it displays as OPEN, and displays Actual Throughput, TxTotal and
RxTotal statistics.
Normally, there should be no data errors recorded or they should be very
small. To find out what the actual errors are, scroll to the right. You will see
three columns: Overrun Errors, Framing Errors, and Parity Errors.
If the errors are:
• Overrun Errors represent receive buffer overflow errors. If this is the case,
you will have to configure either software or hardware handshaking to
control the flow of data. The most common errors are Overrun errors.
• Framing Errors indicate that there is an synchronization error between the
beginning of a data frame and the end of the data frame. A frame usually
consists of a start bit, 8 data bits, and a stop bit or two. The framing error
occurs if the stop bit is not detected or it occurs in the wrong time frame.
Most causes for framing errors are electrical noise on the data lines, or
differences in the data clocks of the RocketPort Universal PCI and the
connected device.
• Parity Errors occur when parity is used and the parity bit is not what is
expected. This can also be caused by noise on the data lines.
4. You can view additional statistics to Port Monitor by adding columns. Click
Tools and Add Columns.
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Troubleshooting - 27
Troubleshooting
5. Highlight or shift-click to add multiple statistics and click Ok.
Note: See the Port Monitor help system if you need an explanation of a
column.
6. Scroll to the right to view the new columns.
7. If you want to capture this session, you can save a current session as a report.
To do this, select one of the following save options:
• File > Save As
• File > Save - if the report already exists in an older format
• Save Active Session button
Reports can be opened, viewed and re-used when needed. To open and view a
report:
a. Select File > Open or the Open Existing Session button. The Open
Session dialog appears.
b. Locate the session (table), you want to open and click the Open button.
Optionally, if you want to continue monitoring for an existing session, you
need to activate the Polling Interval.
• Select Tools > Settings to access the PMon2 Settings dialog
• Change the Polling Interval field to a value other than zero (0)
8. Leave Port Monitor open so that you can review events when using Test
Terminal to test a port or ports.
28 - Troubleshooting RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
Troubleshooting
Using Test Terminal to Test a Port
Test Terminal (WCom2) allows you to open a port, send characters and commands
to the port, and toggle the control signals. This application can be used to
troubleshoot communications on a port-by-port basis.
The Send and Receive Test Data sends data out the transmit line to the loopback
plug, which has the transmit and receive pins connected thus sending the data
back through the Rx line to Tes t Ter min a l, which then displays the received data in
the terminal window for that port. This test is only testing the Tx and Rx signal
lines and nothing else. A failure in this test will essentially prevent the port from
working in any manner.
The Loopback Test tests all of the modem control signals such as RTS, DTR, CTS,
DSR, DCD, and RI along with the Tx and Rx signals.
Note: This test will fail if set to RS-422 mode on the interface box and is expected
to fail since RS-422 does not have the modem control signals that are
present in RS-232 for which this test is designed.
The following procedure shows how to use Test Terminal to send and receive test
data to the serial ports and run a loopback test. If necessary, install the Comtrol
Utility package using Comtrol Utility
on Page 24.
1. Stop all applications that may be accessing the ports such as RRAS or any
faxing or production software. See the appropriate help systems or manuals
for instructions on stopping these services or applications.
If another application is controlling the port, then Te s t Te rm i na l will be unable
to open the port and an error message will be shown.
2. From the Start menu, select Programs > Comtrol > Utilities > Test Terminal
(WCom2).
3. Select File > Open Port, the
appropriate port (or ports)
from the Open Ports drop list
and Ok.
Note: If you left Port Monitor
open from the previous
subsection, you should
show that the port is
open.
4. Install the loopback plug
(Connecting Serial Devices
on
Page 11) onto the port (or
ports) that you want to test.
5. Select Port > Send and Receive
Tes t Data .
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Troubleshooting - 29
Troubleshooting
You should see the
alphabet scrolling
across the port. If so,
then the port installed
properly and is
operational.
Note: If you left Port
Monitor
running, it
should show
data sent and
received and
show the
average data
throughput on
the port.
6. Select Port > Send and
Receive Test Data to stop
the scrolling data.
7. Close Tes t Te rm in al .
If this test successfully completed, then the port is operational as expected.
Note: Do NOT forget to restart the communications application.
30 - Troubleshooting RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Linux Systems
You can use the following subsections to test the serial ports.
lcom(1) Comtrol has available lcom(1), which is a multiport serial I/O test program. You
can use lcom in test mode to send test data to any serial port.
lcom is available on the Software and Documentation CD or you can download
latest version.
Note: For assistance using lcom, use the manual page, lcom(1) that accompanies
the program.
File Transfer You can transfer a file using the following information. The default settings are
9600, 8, n, 1, and no parity. To send a file you can redirect output to a device; for
example:
cat /etc/inittab > /dev/ttyR0
Sends the contents of the /etc/inittab file to the ttyR0 device at 9600 baud, 8, n, 1,
and no parity.
the
Changing Serial Port Settings (stty)
Setting Up Terminals and Modems (mgetty, getty)
Testing with minicom
Use the following information if you need assistance changing or viewing the baud
rate settings.
To change the baud rate, use the following example, which changes the baud rate
to 19200:
stty 19200 </dev/ttyR0
To view the current serial port settings for ttyR0, enter:
stty -a </dev/ttyR0
Note: Settings changes via stty are only valid during current log in session. For
permanent setting changes, use the /etc/inittab file.
Add the appropriate line or lines to the /etc/inittab file then restart.
Terminal Example:
T0:23:respawn:/sbin/agetty -L ttyR0 57600 vt100
Modem Example:
T1:23:respawn:+/sbin/mgetty -m ‘”” AT&F OK’ -D -x9 -s 115200 ttyR0
Note: If necessary, see the manual pages for more information on mgetty.
You can also use minicom, which shipped with most Linux distributions, to test the
serial ports. A Comtrol document is available for using minicom
.
RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G Troubleshooting - 31
Troubleshooting
Technical Support
Comtrol has a staff of support technicians available to help you. You should review
Before Calling Technical Support
on Page 21 before calling Technical Support. If
you call for Technical Support, please have the following information available:
• Model number
• Serial number
• Interface type
• Operating system type, release, and service package, and if Linux, the kernel
version
• Device driver version
• Computer make, model, speed, and single or dual processor
• List other devices in the computer and their addresses
Contact Method Corporate Headquarters
Support http://www.comtrol.com/pub/en/Support
Web site http://www.comtrol.com
Phone 763.494.4100
Downloads ftp://ftp.comtrol.com/html/default.htm
Note: See Locating the Latest Drivers and Documentation
additional links.
on Page 6 for
32 - Troubleshooting RocketPort Universal PCI User Guide: 2000284 Rev. G
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