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- Windows 3.1x Compatibility: Specifically designed for legacy Windows 3.1x environments, ensuring stable operation with older industrial and laboratory systems.
- Support for CNT24-4(PC) and TCR-10(PC): Provides full driver-level control for CONTEC’s ISA-based counter input boards, enabling precise event counting and timing operations.
- Part of the API-PAC Suite: Integrates with CONTEC’s unified API-PAC driver architecture, allowing consistent programming across analog, digital, counter, and communication modules.
- Unified API Structure: Offers a standardized DLL-based API for easy integration into custom applications using languages such as Visual Basic, Visual C/C++, and LabVIEW.
- High-Speed Counter Input: Supports high-frequency counting and event detection, suitable for industrial automation, motion control, and measurement systems.
- Diagnostic and Configuration Utilities: Includes setup and diagnostic tools for verifying hardware installation, driver functionality, and board configuration.
- Sample Programs and Documentation: Provides example source code and reference materials to accelerate application development.
- Backward Compatibility: Maintains compatibility with earlier CONTEC counter boards and software environments, ensuring long-term usability in legacy systems.
- Support for CNT24-4(PC) and TCR-10(PC): Provides full driver-level control for CONTEC’s ISA-based counter input boards, enabling precise event counting and timing operations.
- Part of the API-PAC Suite: Integrates with CONTEC’s unified API-PAC driver architecture, allowing consistent programming across analog, digital, counter, and communication modules.
- Unified API Structure: Offers a standardized DLL-based API for easy integration into custom applications using languages such as Visual Basic, Visual C/C++, and LabVIEW.
- High-Speed Counter Input: Supports high-frequency counting and event detection, suitable for industrial automation, motion control, and measurement systems.
- Diagnostic and Configuration Utilities: Includes setup and diagnostic tools for verifying hardware installation, driver functionality, and board configuration.
- Sample Programs and Documentation: Provides example source code and reference materials to accelerate application development.
- Backward Compatibility: Maintains compatibility with earlier CONTEC counter boards and software environments, ensuring long-term usability in legacy systems.
1. Product Overview
Product Name: Windows Device Driver for CNT24-4
Model: API-CNT(PC)WIN
Series: API-PAC Software Series
Article Number: API-CNT(PC)WIN
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd. (Japan)
The API-CNT(PC)WIN is a Windows 3.1x–compatible device driver developed by CONTEC for use with the company’s CNT24-4(PC) and TCR-10(PC) counter input boards. It is part of CONTEC’s extensive API-PAC family of software drivers, which provide unified programming interfaces for analog, digital, counter, and communication I/O boards. The driver enables seamless integration of CONTEC’s counter hardware into Windows-based measurement and control systems, offering developers a stable and efficient environment for data acquisition, event counting, and motion control applications.
2. Key Features
- Windows 3.1x Compatibility: Specifically designed for legacy Windows 3.1x environments, ensuring stable operation with older industrial and laboratory systems.
- Support for CNT24-4(PC) and TCR-10(PC): Provides full driver-level control for CONTEC’s ISA-based counter input boards, enabling precise event counting and timing operations.
- Part of the API-PAC Suite: Integrates with CONTEC’s unified API-PAC driver architecture, allowing consistent programming across analog, digital, counter, and communication modules.
- Unified API Structure: Offers a standardized DLL-based API for easy integration into custom applications using languages such as Visual Basic, Visual C/C++, and LabVIEW.
- High-Speed Counter Input: Supports high-frequency counting and event detection, suitable for industrial automation, motion control, and measurement systems.
- Diagnostic and Configuration Utilities: Includes setup and diagnostic tools for verifying hardware installation, driver functionality, and board configuration.
- Sample Programs and Documentation: Provides example source code and reference materials to accelerate application development.
- Backward Compatibility: Maintains compatibility with earlier CONTEC counter boards and software environments, ensuring long-term usability in legacy systems.
3. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| Supported Boards | CNT24-4(PC), TCR-10(PC) |
| Bus Interface | ISA (PC) |
| Operating System | Microsoft Windows 3.1x |
| Driver Type | Device driver (API function library) |
| API Format | Win16 DLL (Dynamic Link Library) |
| Maximum Controllable Boards | Up to 16 boards per system |
| Counter Channels | 24-bit or 32-bit counters (depending on board) |
| Count Modes | Up/Down, Pulse, Quadrature, Frequency, Period measurement |
| Input Signal Type | TTL-level digital input |
| Supported Functions | Count start/stop, preset value setting, read current count, event interrupt generation |
| Configuration Utility | Included setup program for board parameter configuration |
| Diagnostic Utility | Included for hardware/software verification |
| Documentation | User manual, API reference, and sample code |
| Distribution Format | Floppy disk or downloadable package (depending on release date) |
| Manufacturer Website | [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com) |
4. Functionality
The API-CNT(PC)WIN driver provides a software interface between the Windows 3.1x operating system and CONTEC’s counter input boards. It allows applications to access hardware-level counter functions through standardized API calls.
Operation Principle:
The driver installs as a Windows device driver, registering the CNT24-4(PC) or TCR-10(PC) board as a logical device. Applications can then use the provided API functions to configure counter channels, start or stop counting, read current count values, and handle interrupts triggered by specific events (e.g., count match or overflow).
Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial automation systems requiring pulse counting or frequency measurement.
- Motion control systems using encoder feedback.
- Laboratory data acquisition setups for event timing and signal analysis.
- Process monitoring systems that rely on digital pulse inputs.
Compatibility:
- Compatible with CONTEC’s ISA-based counter boards (CNT24-4(PC), TCR-10(PC)).
- Integrates with other CONTEC API-PAC drivers for analog, digital, and communication I/O.
- Can be used in conjunction with development environments such as Microsoft Visual Basic, Visual C++, and National Instruments LabVIEW (via VI-DAQ or API-GPLV).
5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- API-CNT(PC)WIN driver disk (Windows 3.1x version)
- Setup and diagnostic utilities
- User manual and API reference documentation
- Sample programs demonstrating counter operations
Optional Add-ons:
- CNT24-4(PC) or TCR-10(PC) counter input boards
- API-PAC(W32) driver suite for newer Windows versions (XP/2000/NT/Me/98/95)
- VI-DAQ library for LabVIEW integration
- API-GPLV(W32) for GPIB communication under LabVIEW
- COM-DRV(W32) for serial communication modules
Connectors and Interfaces:
- Standard 37-pin D-sub or equivalent connector (depending on board model)
- TTL-level input channels for counter signals
- Optional external clock or trigger input lines
6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- IBM PC/AT or compatible computer with ISA slot
- Microsoft Windows 3.1x operating system
- CNT24-4(PC) or TCR-10(PC) board installed in the system
Installation Procedure:
1. Insert the driver disk and run the setup program under Windows 3.1x.
2. Select the target board (CNT24-4(PC) or TCR-10(PC)) from the list.
3. The setup utility installs the driver files and registers the board as a device.
4. Configure board parameters such as I/O address, interrupt level, and count mode.
5. Use the diagnostic utility to verify correct installation and operation.
Configuration Options:
- Assign I/O port addresses and IRQ levels.
- Define counter modes (up/down, quadrature, etc.).
- Set preset values and enable/disable interrupts.
Mounting Options:
- The driver supports ISA-based boards installed directly in the PC chassis.
- No external mounting or additional hardware configuration is required.
7. Performance & Capabilities
Speed and Capacity:
- Supports high-frequency counting (up to several MHz depending on board).
- Handles up to 16 boards simultaneously, allowing large-scale multi-channel systems.
- Provides 24-bit or 32-bit resolution per counter channel.
Efficiency:
- Optimized for low-latency data acquisition under Windows 3.1x.
- Event-driven interrupt handling minimizes CPU load.
- Supports background data collection while other applications run in the foreground.
Limitations:
- Designed for Windows 3.1x; not natively compatible with modern Windows versions.
- Limited to ISA bus architecture.
- Does not support Plug and Play or automatic hardware detection (manual configuration required).
Reliability:
- Proven stability in industrial and laboratory environments.
- Diagnostic utilities ensure consistent performance and easy troubleshooting.
8. Standards & Compliance
- IEEE-488.2 (for related GPIB modules): While not directly applicable to the counter driver, CONTEC’s API-PAC suite adheres to IEEE-488.2 standards for communication consistency.
- Windows 3.1x Driver Model Compliance: Fully compliant with Microsoft’s 16-bit Windows driver architecture.
- Industrial Quality Standards: Designed and manufactured under CONTEC’s quality management system for industrial automation products.
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets general CE and FCC requirements applicable to PC-based industrial interface boards (depending on board model).
9. Additional Information
Warranty:
CONTEC provides a standard limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for the driver software and associated hardware. Warranty terms vary by region and product type.
Technical Support:
- Online resources available at [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
- Access to the API-TOOL Developer’s Site for driver updates and sample programs
- Email and phone support for installation and configuration assistance
Maintenance:
- Periodic updates and patches available through CONTEC’s global portal.
- Diagnostic utilities included for verifying driver and hardware status.
- Users are encouraged to back up configuration files and maintain version control for legacy systems.
Software Updates:
While API-CNT(PC)WIN is designed for Windows 3.1x, CONTEC offers newer driver versions under the API-CNT(98/PC)NT, API-CNT(98/PC)W95, and API-CNT(W32) designations for Windows NT, 95, 98, 2000, and XP. These updated drivers maintain backward compatibility with the same hardware series, ensuring a smooth migration path for system upgrades.
Integration with API-PAC Ecosystem:
The API-CNT(PC)WIN driver is part of the broader API-PAC software ecosystem, which includes:
- API-AIO for analog input/output boards
- API-DIO for digital I/O boards
- API-GPIB for GPIB communication boards
- API-SIO for serial communication boards
- API-SMC for motor control boards
- API-TIMER for high-precision timing functions
This unified architecture allows developers to build integrated measurement and control systems using multiple CONTEC modules under a consistent programming interface.
Legacy and Modern Support:
Although API-CNT(PC)WIN targets Windows 3.1x, CONTEC continues to support legacy users through documentation archives and compatibility resources. For modern environments, the company provides equivalent functionality through API-CNT(W32) and API-CNT(LNX) for Windows and Linux platforms, respectively.
Summary
The CONTEC API-CNT(PC)WIN driver is a specialized Windows 3.1x device driver designed for the CNT24-4(PC) and TCR-10(PC) counter input boards. As part of the API-PAC software suite, it provides a unified, DLL-based API for controlling counter hardware in industrial and laboratory applications. The driver supports up to 16 boards, offers high-speed counting capabilities, and includes configuration and diagnostic utilities for reliable operation.
Engineered for legacy Windows systems, API-CNT(PC)WIN remains a critical component for maintaining and extending the life of existing measurement and control installations built around CONTEC’s ISA-based counter boards. Its structured API, comprehensive documentation, and integration with the broader API-PAC ecosystem make it a robust and developer-friendly solution for precise event counting and timing applications in industrial automation and research environments.
Product Name: Windows Device Driver for CNT24-4
Model: API-CNT(PC)WIN
Series: API-PAC Software Series
Article Number: API-CNT(PC)WIN
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd. (Japan)
The API-CNT(PC)WIN is a Windows 3.1x–compatible device driver developed by CONTEC for use with the company’s CNT24-4(PC) and TCR-10(PC) counter input boards. It is part of CONTEC’s extensive API-PAC family of software drivers, which provide unified programming interfaces for analog, digital, counter, and communication I/O boards. The driver enables seamless integration of CONTEC’s counter hardware into Windows-based measurement and control systems, offering developers a stable and efficient environment for data acquisition, event counting, and motion control applications.
2. Key Features
- Windows 3.1x Compatibility: Specifically designed for legacy Windows 3.1x environments, ensuring stable operation with older industrial and laboratory systems.
- Support for CNT24-4(PC) and TCR-10(PC): Provides full driver-level control for CONTEC’s ISA-based counter input boards, enabling precise event counting and timing operations.
- Part of the API-PAC Suite: Integrates with CONTEC’s unified API-PAC driver architecture, allowing consistent programming across analog, digital, counter, and communication modules.
- Unified API Structure: Offers a standardized DLL-based API for easy integration into custom applications using languages such as Visual Basic, Visual C/C++, and LabVIEW.
- High-Speed Counter Input: Supports high-frequency counting and event detection, suitable for industrial automation, motion control, and measurement systems.
- Diagnostic and Configuration Utilities: Includes setup and diagnostic tools for verifying hardware installation, driver functionality, and board configuration.
- Sample Programs and Documentation: Provides example source code and reference materials to accelerate application development.
- Backward Compatibility: Maintains compatibility with earlier CONTEC counter boards and software environments, ensuring long-term usability in legacy systems.
3. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| Supported Boards | CNT24-4(PC), TCR-10(PC) |
| Bus Interface | ISA (PC) |
| Operating System | Microsoft Windows 3.1x |
| Driver Type | Device driver (API function library) |
| API Format | Win16 DLL (Dynamic Link Library) |
| Maximum Controllable Boards | Up to 16 boards per system |
| Counter Channels | 24-bit or 32-bit counters (depending on board) |
| Count Modes | Up/Down, Pulse, Quadrature, Frequency, Period measurement |
| Input Signal Type | TTL-level digital input |
| Supported Functions | Count start/stop, preset value setting, read current count, event interrupt generation |
| Configuration Utility | Included setup program for board parameter configuration |
| Diagnostic Utility | Included for hardware/software verification |
| Documentation | User manual, API reference, and sample code |
| Distribution Format | Floppy disk or downloadable package (depending on release date) |
| Manufacturer Website | [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com) |
4. Functionality
The API-CNT(PC)WIN driver provides a software interface between the Windows 3.1x operating system and CONTEC’s counter input boards. It allows applications to access hardware-level counter functions through standardized API calls.
Operation Principle:
The driver installs as a Windows device driver, registering the CNT24-4(PC) or TCR-10(PC) board as a logical device. Applications can then use the provided API functions to configure counter channels, start or stop counting, read current count values, and handle interrupts triggered by specific events (e.g., count match or overflow).
Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial automation systems requiring pulse counting or frequency measurement.
- Motion control systems using encoder feedback.
- Laboratory data acquisition setups for event timing and signal analysis.
- Process monitoring systems that rely on digital pulse inputs.
Compatibility:
- Compatible with CONTEC’s ISA-based counter boards (CNT24-4(PC), TCR-10(PC)).
- Integrates with other CONTEC API-PAC drivers for analog, digital, and communication I/O.
- Can be used in conjunction with development environments such as Microsoft Visual Basic, Visual C++, and National Instruments LabVIEW (via VI-DAQ or API-GPLV).
5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- API-CNT(PC)WIN driver disk (Windows 3.1x version)
- Setup and diagnostic utilities
- User manual and API reference documentation
- Sample programs demonstrating counter operations
Optional Add-ons:
- CNT24-4(PC) or TCR-10(PC) counter input boards
- API-PAC(W32) driver suite for newer Windows versions (XP/2000/NT/Me/98/95)
- VI-DAQ library for LabVIEW integration
- API-GPLV(W32) for GPIB communication under LabVIEW
- COM-DRV(W32) for serial communication modules
Connectors and Interfaces:
- Standard 37-pin D-sub or equivalent connector (depending on board model)
- TTL-level input channels for counter signals
- Optional external clock or trigger input lines
6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- IBM PC/AT or compatible computer with ISA slot
- Microsoft Windows 3.1x operating system
- CNT24-4(PC) or TCR-10(PC) board installed in the system
Installation Procedure:
1. Insert the driver disk and run the setup program under Windows 3.1x.
2. Select the target board (CNT24-4(PC) or TCR-10(PC)) from the list.
3. The setup utility installs the driver files and registers the board as a device.
4. Configure board parameters such as I/O address, interrupt level, and count mode.
5. Use the diagnostic utility to verify correct installation and operation.
Configuration Options:
- Assign I/O port addresses and IRQ levels.
- Define counter modes (up/down, quadrature, etc.).
- Set preset values and enable/disable interrupts.
Mounting Options:
- The driver supports ISA-based boards installed directly in the PC chassis.
- No external mounting or additional hardware configuration is required.
7. Performance & Capabilities
Speed and Capacity:
- Supports high-frequency counting (up to several MHz depending on board).
- Handles up to 16 boards simultaneously, allowing large-scale multi-channel systems.
- Provides 24-bit or 32-bit resolution per counter channel.
Efficiency:
- Optimized for low-latency data acquisition under Windows 3.1x.
- Event-driven interrupt handling minimizes CPU load.
- Supports background data collection while other applications run in the foreground.
Limitations:
- Designed for Windows 3.1x; not natively compatible with modern Windows versions.
- Limited to ISA bus architecture.
- Does not support Plug and Play or automatic hardware detection (manual configuration required).
Reliability:
- Proven stability in industrial and laboratory environments.
- Diagnostic utilities ensure consistent performance and easy troubleshooting.
8. Standards & Compliance
- IEEE-488.2 (for related GPIB modules): While not directly applicable to the counter driver, CONTEC’s API-PAC suite adheres to IEEE-488.2 standards for communication consistency.
- Windows 3.1x Driver Model Compliance: Fully compliant with Microsoft’s 16-bit Windows driver architecture.
- Industrial Quality Standards: Designed and manufactured under CONTEC’s quality management system for industrial automation products.
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets general CE and FCC requirements applicable to PC-based industrial interface boards (depending on board model).
9. Additional Information
Warranty:
CONTEC provides a standard limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for the driver software and associated hardware. Warranty terms vary by region and product type.
Technical Support:
- Online resources available at [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
- Access to the API-TOOL Developer’s Site for driver updates and sample programs
- Email and phone support for installation and configuration assistance
Maintenance:
- Periodic updates and patches available through CONTEC’s global portal.
- Diagnostic utilities included for verifying driver and hardware status.
- Users are encouraged to back up configuration files and maintain version control for legacy systems.
Software Updates:
While API-CNT(PC)WIN is designed for Windows 3.1x, CONTEC offers newer driver versions under the API-CNT(98/PC)NT, API-CNT(98/PC)W95, and API-CNT(W32) designations for Windows NT, 95, 98, 2000, and XP. These updated drivers maintain backward compatibility with the same hardware series, ensuring a smooth migration path for system upgrades.
Integration with API-PAC Ecosystem:
The API-CNT(PC)WIN driver is part of the broader API-PAC software ecosystem, which includes:
- API-AIO for analog input/output boards
- API-DIO for digital I/O boards
- API-GPIB for GPIB communication boards
- API-SIO for serial communication boards
- API-SMC for motor control boards
- API-TIMER for high-precision timing functions
This unified architecture allows developers to build integrated measurement and control systems using multiple CONTEC modules under a consistent programming interface.
Legacy and Modern Support:
Although API-CNT(PC)WIN targets Windows 3.1x, CONTEC continues to support legacy users through documentation archives and compatibility resources. For modern environments, the company provides equivalent functionality through API-CNT(W32) and API-CNT(LNX) for Windows and Linux platforms, respectively.
Summary
The CONTEC API-CNT(PC)WIN driver is a specialized Windows 3.1x device driver designed for the CNT24-4(PC) and TCR-10(PC) counter input boards. As part of the API-PAC software suite, it provides a unified, DLL-based API for controlling counter hardware in industrial and laboratory applications. The driver supports up to 16 boards, offers high-speed counting capabilities, and includes configuration and diagnostic utilities for reliable operation.
Engineered for legacy Windows systems, API-CNT(PC)WIN remains a critical component for maintaining and extending the life of existing measurement and control installations built around CONTEC’s ISA-based counter boards. Its structured API, comprehensive documentation, and integration with the broader API-PAC ecosystem make it a robust and developer-friendly solution for precise event counting and timing applications in industrial automation and research environments.
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