The Abaco Systems PMC421 is an 8-port serial interface module designed for integration into VMEbus, CompactPCI, and specialized processor-based systems via PMC connector. The module features an onboard 32-bit RISC CPU (i960VH) that offloads host processing, implements character blocking, and manages DMA operations for efficient PCI utilization across all eight fully independent ports.
Technical Specifications
• Serial Protocols: RS232, RS422, RS485 (full and half duplex)
• Port Count: 8 independent ports
• Baud Rate: 150 bps to 1.5 Mbps (software selectable)
• Onboard Processor: 32-bit RISC CPU (i960VH), external bus 33 MHz, internal clock 100 MHz
• Memory: 4 Mbytes local DRAM for firmware execution and character data buffering
• PCI Interface: Revision 2.1 compatible, 33 MHz/32-bit transactions, slave and master operation with DMA engines for extended bursts
• Firmware: Auto-loaded from local FLASH memory on power-up; field upgradeable without module removal
• Form Factor: PMC (PCI Mezzanine Card)
• I/O Configuration: Front or rear I/O options available
– Key Features
• Onboard CPU eliminates host processing bottlenecks for serial data
• Processor directly controls UARTs and signal drivers for complete software configuration
• Independent port operation allows simultaneous multi-protocol communication
• DMA capability optimizes PCI bandwidth utilization
• Custom firmware options support specialized applications
– Typical Applications
Embedded industrial systems, avionics platforms, defense instrumentation, telecommunications infrastructure, and test automation requiring multi-port serial connectivity with autonomous onboard processing.
– Compatibility & Integration
Directly compatible with current-generation VMEbus and CompactPCI single board computers, plus any special-purpose processor featuring a PMC connector. Integration with card-edge PCI systems requires the PMC239 adapter.
Product Status: Entered Restricted Production Phase (RPP) as of December 31, 2010.
