The NI PCI-485/2 is a 2-channel RS-485/422 serial interface card for PCI bus systems, delivering high-speed multi-drop communication in industrial automation, data acquisition, and instrument control applications. Each channel features a 16550 UART with 16-byte transmit/receiver FIFO buffer, supporting baud rates exceeding 460.8 kbits/s. The card integrates 75ALS180 driver/receivers capable of driving long communication lines while maintaining signal integrity in noise-prone environments.
Technical Specifications
• Channels: 2 independent RS-485/422 ports
• Bus Interface: PCI (compatible with 3.3 V and 5 V slots)
• Maximum Baud Rate: >460.8 kbits/s per channel
• UART: 16550 with 16-byte FIFO (transmit and receive)
• Power Consumption: 350 mA typical at +5 VDC; 750 mA maximum at +5 VDC
• Physical Length: 6.5 inches (165 mm)
• ESD Protection: 15 kV integrated data line protection
• Connector: DB-9 male (standard RS-232/RS-485 pinout)
– Key Features
• Supports RS-485 adjusted and single-ended transmission/reception modes
• Configurable bias voltage for known zero state during transmitter shutdown
• Jumper-selectable termination to eliminate line ringing at system endpoints
• Warm shutdown protection for driver/receivers during communication faults
• Compatible with GND, RTS, CTS, RXD, and TXD signal allocations
– Typical Applications
• Multi-node industrial control networks
• Long-distance sensor and instrument interfacing
• PLC and distributed I/O communication
• Real-time data acquisition over serial links
– Compatibility & Integration
Full Plug and Play support under Windows 2000/NT/XP/Me/9x. Installs as standard serial ports accessible to legacy applications or through NI-VISA APIs. Compatible with Visual Basic, Visual C++, LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, and Measurement Studio. Requires NI-Serial driver software.
