Comprehensive Product Summary – NF316 16-Port RS232/RS422/RS485 Connector Box

---

### 1. Product Overview

Product Name: NF316 16-Port RS232/RS422/RS485 Connector Box
Model Number: NF316
Series: NF Series Multi-Interface Serial Connector Boxes
Article Number: NF316
Manufacturer: Rayon Technology Co., Ltd.
Manufacturer Address: 2F, No. 177, Chung Shan 2 Rd., Lu Chou City, Taipei Hsien, Taiwan
Contact:
- Tel: +886-2-82858362
- Fax: +886-2-82857065
- Email: rayon@ms1.hinet.net
- Web: [www.rayontech.com](http://www.rayontech.com) / [www.computex.com.tw/rayon](http://www.computex.com.tw/rayon)

The NF316 is a high-density, 16-port serial communication connector box designed to provide flexible RS232, RS422, and RS485 connectivity in a single, compact enclosure. It is part of Rayon’s NF series, which includes the NF116 (RS232 only) and NF216 (RS422/RS485 only) models. The NF316 integrates all three serial standards, making it ideal for mixed-interface environments and scalable multiport communication systems.

---

### 2. Key Features

- Triple Interface Support: Each of the 16 ports can be independently configured as RS232, RS422, or RS485 via DIP switches, allowing mixed-mode operation within a single box.
- Built-in Advanced FIFO UART Controller: Incorporates a 16C554 FIFO-type UART controller for efficient data buffering and reduced CPU overhead.
- High Port Density: Provides 16 serial ports in a single compact enclosure, minimizing rack space and cabling complexity.
- Flexible Configuration: Two DIP switch bits per port—one selects RS232 or RS422/RS485 mode, and the other selects RS422 or RS485 mode.
- Daisy-Chain Expandability: Supports daisy-chaining via DB37 connectors (DB37 male output, DB37 female input) to expand up to 64 serial ports using multiple boxes.
- Hardware and Software Flow Control: Supports both RTS/CTS hardware handshake and XON/XOFF software flow control.
- Wide Compatibility: Designed to interface with Rayon’s P640NU and IOP3927F intelligent multiport cards, enabling scalable PCI-based serial expansion.
- Industrial-Grade Design: Rugged metal enclosure with DB9 male connectors ensures durability and secure connections in industrial and commercial environments.
- Flexible Application Scenarios: Suitable for local RS232 connections, remote RS422 links, and multi-drop RS485 networks.
- Compact Form Factor: Space-efficient design (268 × 128 × 38 mm) for easy integration into control cabinets or communication racks.

---

### 3. Technical Specifications

Controller: FIFO type 16C554 UART chip
Port Count: 16 independent serial ports per box
Interface Standards: RS232, RS422, RS485 (selectable per port)
Connector Type: DB9 male connectors (16 total)
Daisy Chain Interface: DB37 female input, DB37 male output
Baud Rate: Configurable from 110 bps to 115,200 bps
Flow Control:
- Software: XON/XOFF
- Hardware: RTS/CTS
Dimensions: 268 mm (W) × 128 mm (D) × 38 mm (H)
Weight: Approx. 0.8–1.0 kg (typical for metal enclosure)
Material: Metal housing for EMI shielding and mechanical protection
Operating Temperature: 5°C to 40°C
Operating Humidity: 10% to 90% RH (non-condensing)
Storage Temperature: 0°C to 65°C
Storage Humidity: 5% to 90% RH (non-condensing)
Mounting: Desktop or rack-mountable (optional brackets)
Color: Industrial gray or metallic finish (standard Rayon design)

---

### 4. Functionality

The NF316 functions as a serial interface expansion box that converts a single multiport card connection into 16 configurable serial ports. Each port can be independently set to RS232, RS422, or RS485 mode using DIP switches located on the unit’s internal configuration panel.

- RS232 Mode: Supports standard asynchronous serial communication for local device connections such as modems, terminals, or instrumentation.
- RS422 Mode: Provides differential signaling for long-distance, point-to-point communication with improved noise immunity.
- RS485 Mode: Enables multi-drop communication, allowing multiple devices to share a single communication bus.

The box connects to a host system via Rayon’s A640 cable and P640NU or IOP3927F intelligent multiport cards. These cards provide the PCI interface and manage communication between the host and the NF316. Multiple NF316 boxes can be daisy-chained to expand the total number of ports up to 64 per PCI slot.

Typical Applications:
- Industrial automation and control systems
- Data acquisition and monitoring
- POS (Point of Sale) systems
- SCADA and telemetry networks
- Communication hubs for mixed RS232/RS422/RS485 devices
- Laboratory instrumentation and test setups
- Embedded system integration requiring multiple serial interfaces

Compatibility:
- Fully compatible with Rayon’s PCI multiport cards (P640NU, IOP3927F, PCIIOP series)
- Supports operating systems including DOS, Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP/Vista/7, Linux, and SCO OpenServer (via host card drivers)

---

### 5. Components & Accessories

Included Components:
- NF316 connector box (16-port RS232/RS422/RS485)
- Integrated 16C554 UART controller
- DB9 male connectors (16 ports)
- DB37 input/output connectors for daisy chaining
- DIP switch configuration interface

Optional Accessories:
- A640 Cable: High-density cable for connecting NF316 to P640NU or IOP3927F cards
- Mounting Brackets: For rack or panel installation
- Additional NF316 Units: For daisy-chain expansion up to 64 ports
- Power Adapter (if required): Depending on system configuration
- Driver and Utility Software: Provided with host card packages

Connectors:
- DB9 Male (x16): Serial port outputs
- DB37 Female (Input): Daisy-chain input from host or previous box
- DB37 Male (Output): Daisy-chain output to next box

---

### 6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- Compatible host card (P640NU or IOP3927F) installed in a PCI slot
- A640 interconnect cable
- Available space for 268 × 128 × 38 mm enclosure
- Proper grounding and shielding for industrial environments

Installation Steps:
1. Mount the NF316 on a stable surface or rack using optional brackets.
2. Connect the A640 cable from the host card to the NF316’s DB37 input port.
3. Configure DIP switches for each port to select RS232, RS422, or RS485 mode.
- Bit 1: RS232 or RS422/RS485 selection
- Bit 2: RS422 or RS485 selection
4. Connect serial devices to the DB9 male connectors according to the selected interface.
5. Daisy-chain additional boxes if required, using the DB37 output connector.
6. Install drivers for the host card on the operating system.
7. Verify communication using terminal software or diagnostic utilities.

Configuration Notes:
- Each port operates independently, allowing mixed interface configurations.
- Ensure proper termination resistors for RS485 multi-drop networks.
- Observe correct wiring polarity for RS422/RS485 differential pairs.

---

### 7. Performance & Capabilities

Data Throughput:
Each port supports baud rates from 110 bps to 115,200 bps. In UNIX systems, specific baud rate mappings (50, 75, 150 bps) correspond to 57,600, 76,800, and 115,200 bps respectively.

FIFO Buffering:
The integrated 16C554 UART provides 16-byte FIFO buffers for both transmit and receive operations, reducing CPU load and improving throughput in high-traffic environments.

Scalability:
- One NF316 box = 16 ports
- Two NF316 boxes = 32 ports
- Three NF316 boxes = 48 ports
- Four NF316 boxes = 64 ports

Performance Highlights:
- Stable operation across all supported baud rates
- Low latency communication suitable for real-time control
- Reliable signal integrity over long cable runs (RS422/RS485)
- Multi-drop RS485 support for up to 32 nodes per bus segment

Limitations:
- Maximum baud rate limited to 115.2 kbps
- Requires compatible Rayon host card for operation
- DIP switch configuration must be manually set before use

---

### 8. Standards & Compliance

Electrical Standards:
- RS232C (EIA/TIA-232) compliant
- RS422 (EIA/TIA-422) compliant
- RS485 (EIA/TIA-485) compliant

Interface Controller:
- 16C554 UART, industry-standard FIFO type

Regulatory Compliance:
- Designed to meet CE and FCC Class A electromagnetic compatibility standards (typical for industrial communication equipment)
- RoHS-compliant materials used in construction

Industry Standards:
- Compatible with standard DB9 pinouts for RS232/422/485
- Supports standard asynchronous serial communication protocols

Safety & Reliability:
- Metal enclosure provides EMI shielding and mechanical protection
- Operating environment suitable for industrial and commercial use

---

### 9. Additional Information

Warranty:
Typically covered under Rayon Technology’s standard limited warranty (details available upon request). Warranty covers manufacturing defects and hardware failures under normal operating conditions.

Technical Support:
Rayon Technology provides comprehensive technical support, including:
- Driver and firmware updates
- Configuration assistance
- Troubleshooting and diagnostics
- Replacement parts and accessories

Maintenance:
- Periodic inspection of connectors and cables recommended
- Keep unit free from dust and moisture
- Verify DIP switch settings after relocation or maintenance

Firmware & Software Updates:
- Host card drivers updated periodically for new operating systems
- NF316 hardware requires no firmware updates; configuration is hardware-based

Related Products:
- NF116: 16-port RS232 connector box
- NF216: 16-port RS422/RS485 connector box
- P640NU: Intelligent multiport PCI card
- IOP3927F: Intelligent PCI card with 133 MHz MIPS processor
- P3016 / P3032 / P3048 / P3064: PCI port cards supporting 16–64 RS232/RS422/RS485 ports using NF316 boxes

Upgrade Path:
Users can upgrade from standard P640NU cards to intelligent PCIIOP series cards without changing the NF316 connector box, ensuring long-term scalability and investment protection.

---

### Summary

The Rayon NF316 16-Port RS232/RS422/RS485 Connector Box is a versatile, industrial-grade serial communication hub designed for environments requiring flexible, high-density serial connectivity. Its ability to configure each port independently for RS232, RS422, or RS485 operation makes it uniquely adaptable to mixed-interface systems. With robust hardware design, FIFO-based UART control, and daisy-chain expandability up to 64 ports, the NF316 provides a scalable and reliable solution for industrial automation, data acquisition, and communication infrastructure.

Its compatibility with Rayon’s intelligent PCI multiport cards ensures seamless integration into PC-based control systems, while its adherence to industry standards guarantees interoperability with a wide range of serial devices. The NF316’s combination of flexibility, performance, and durability positions it as a key component in multi-interface serial communication networks.