The National Instruments PCI-232I/4 is a four-port isolated serial interface card for PCI systems, delivering RS-232 communication with optical isolation for noise immunity and protection against voltage spikes and ground loops. Designed for industrial environments requiring reliable serial data transfer over extended distances, the card integrates ESD protection, 64-byte FIFO buffering, and a 6C650-compatible UART controller to handle demanding applications with minimal data loss.
Technical Specifications
• Model: PCI-232I/4 (Part Number 777854-04)
• Ports: 4 isolated RS-232 channels
• Bus Interface: 32-bit and 64-bit PCI (3.3V and 5V keying)
• Data Rate: Maximum 115.2 kb/sec per port
• Maximum Distance: 50 ft without interruption
• FIFO Buffer: 64 bytes
• UART Controller: 6C650 compatible
• ESD Protection: ±15 kV on data lines
• Power Supply: +5 VDC
• Current Consumption: 500 mA typical, 750 mA maximum
• Operating Humidity: 10% to 90% RH
• Board Dimensions: 4.2 x 6.9 inches
– Key Features
• Optical isolation eliminates ground loops and protects against electrical transients in harsh industrial settings
• ±15 kV ESD protection on all data lines
• 10-position modular (10P10C) connectors with optional DB-9 and DB-25 adapter support
• Compatible signal pins: RXD, TXD, RTS, CTS, GND
• Plug-and-play installation under Windows operating systems
– Typical Applications
Isolated serial communication in industrial control systems, data acquisition networks, legacy equipment integration, and environments subject to electromagnetic interference or ground potential differences.
– Compatibility & Integration
Supported operating systems include Windows XP, Vista, 7, and 8 via NI-Serial driver software. Full integration with LabVIEW, Measurement Studio, and LabWindows/CVI development environments. Device driver, diagnostic utilities, and configuration tools included in NI-Serial package.
