1. Product Overview

Product Name: PCI Bus Opto-Isolated 32/32 Channel Digital Input/Output Card (Negative Logic)
Model: PIO-32/32L(PCI)H
Series: PCI Digital I/O Board Series
Article Number: PIO-32/32L(PCI)H
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd. (Japan)
Product Category: Industrial Automation / Measurement and Control / Digital I/O Interface Boards

The CONTEC PIO-32/32L(PCI)H is a high-performance, opto-isolated digital input/output (DIO) interface board designed for use with standard PCI bus systems. It provides 32 optically isolated digital input channels and 32 optically isolated open-collector digital output channels, supporting negative logic (negative common). The board is engineered for industrial environments requiring reliable signal isolation, noise immunity, and robust protection against surges and overcurrent conditions.

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2. Key Features

- Opto-Isolated I/O:
Both input and output circuits are optically isolated from the internal logic circuitry, providing 1 kVrms isolation to protect the host PC from electrical noise and ground potential differences.

- 32 Inputs / 32 Outputs:
Provides 32 opto-isolated digital inputs (12–24 VDC) and 32 opto-isolated open-collector digital outputs (up to 35 VDC, 100 mA per channel).

- Negative Logic (Negative Common):
Designed for negative common operation, suitable for current sinking configurations commonly used in industrial control systems.

- High Noise Immunity:
Opto-coupler isolation ensures stable operation in electrically noisy environments such as factories and process control systems.

- Fast Response Time:
Maximum response time of 200 µs for both input and output channels, enabling high-speed digital control and monitoring.

- Surge and Overcurrent Protection:
Output transistors are equipped with built-in protection circuits against voltage surges and overcurrent, ensuring long-term reliability.

- Software-Configurable Digital Filter:
Input digital filtering and interrupt trigger edge (rising/falling) can be configured via software to prevent false triggering due to noise or contact bounce.

- Interrupt Functionality:
All 32 input signals can be used as interrupt sources. The board combines 32 interrupt signals into a single interrupt request (INTA) to the PCI bus.

- Power-Saving Design:
Efficient circuit design minimizes power consumption while maintaining high-speed performance.

- Comprehensive Software Support:
Includes Windows and Linux drivers (API-TOOL), and LabVIEW VI-DAQ libraries for seamless integration into automation and data acquisition systems.

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3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| Bus Interface | PCI Local Bus, 32-bit, 33 MHz, 5V or 3.3V signaling |
| Input Channels | 32 opto-isolated inputs |
| Output Channels | 32 opto-isolated open-collector outputs |
| Input Signal Type | Opto-isolated (for high sink current output), negative logic |
| Input Voltage Range | 12–24 VDC (±10%) |
| Input Resistance | 4.7 kΩ typical |
| Output Type | Opto-isolated open collector (current sinking type) |
| Output Rating | 35 VDC, 100 mA per channel (2 A max per common) |
| Isolation Voltage | 1 kVrms between I/O and logic circuits |
| Response Time (Max.) | 200 µs |
| Internal Power Requirement | +5 VDC, 250 mA (from PCI bus) |
| External Power Supply | 12–24 VDC for I/O circuits |
| Maximum Wiring Distance | 50 m (depends on cable and environment) |
| I/O Address Allocation | Any 32-byte boundary |
| Board Dimensions | 176.41 mm (L) × 105.68 mm (H) |
| Connector Type | 96-pin half-pitch D-type female connector (PCR-E96LMD [HONDA Tsushin Kogyo] or equivalent) |
| Isolation Type | Opto-coupler isolation between I/O and logic circuits |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +50°C |
| Storage Temperature | -10°C to +60°C |
| Humidity | 10–90% RH (non-condensing) |
| Weight | Approx. 200 g |

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4. Functionality

The PIO-32/32L(PCI)H functions as a digital interface between a host PC and external industrial devices such as sensors, switches, relays, and actuators. The opto-isolated design ensures that electrical noise or voltage spikes from external equipment do not affect the PC’s internal circuitry.

- Digital Input Function:
Each of the 32 input channels accepts 12–24 VDC signals. The opto-coupler converts the external voltage signal into a logic-level signal for the PCI bus. All inputs can be configured as interrupt sources, allowing event-driven control.

- Digital Output Function:
The 32 output channels are open-collector transistors capable of sinking up to 100 mA per channel (35 VDC max). Outputs can drive relays, lamps, or other logic-level devices. Built-in surge and overcurrent protection ensures safe operation.

- Negative Common Configuration:
The board uses a negative common (current sourcing) configuration, suitable for systems where the external device’s common terminal is negative relative to the signal line.

- Software Control:
Through the provided API-TOOL libraries, users can configure digital filters, interrupt edges, and read/write I/O states programmatically.

- Applications:
- Factory automation and process control
- Machine status monitoring
- PLC interfacing and signal conditioning
- Data acquisition systems
- Test and measurement automation
- Industrial equipment control

- Compatibility:
Compatible with standard PCI slots in industrial PCs and workstations. Supports both 5V and 3.3V PCI signaling environments.

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- PIO-32/32L(PCI)H main board
- Standard PCI bracket
- User manual and driver software (downloadable from CONTEC website)

Optional Accessories:
- Cables:
- PCB96P (Flat cable, 96-pin half pitch, 1.5m/3m/5m)
- PCB96PS (Shielded cable, 96-pin half pitch, 1.5m/3m/5m)
- PCB96W / PCB96WS (96-pin to dual 37-pin D-sub converter cables)
- PCB100/96PS (100-pin to 96-pin converter cable for compatibility with other boards)

- Terminal Blocks / Converter Boards:
- EPD-96 (DIN-rail mount terminal block, 96-pin half pitch)
- DTP-64(PC) (Screw-type terminal board, 64 channels)
- CM-64(PC)E (Signal monitor and dummy signal generator tool)
- CCB-96 (96-pin to dual 37-pin D-sub converter board)

- Connectors:
- CN5-H96F (96-pin half-pitch female connector, 5 pcs set)

These accessories facilitate easy wiring, signal monitoring, and connection to external devices.

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6. Installation & Setup

- System Requirements:
- PC with available PCI slot (32-bit, 33 MHz)
- Operating system: Windows (XP/7/10/11) or Linux (kernel modules provided)
- +5V power supply from PCI bus

- Mounting:
The board is designed for standard PCI slots. Insert the card into an available PCI slot and secure it with the bracket screw. Ensure the PC is powered off during installation.

- External Wiring:
Connect external devices via the 96-pin half-pitch connector using appropriate shielded cables. Observe polarity and voltage ratings.

- Configuration:
- I/O addresses are automatically assigned by the PCI Plug & Play mechanism.
- Interrupts can be enabled or disabled via software.
- Digital filters and trigger edges are configurable through the API-TOOL driver.

- Power Supply:
External 12–24 VDC power is required for driving the opto-coupler circuits. Ensure proper grounding and isolation.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Speed:
Input and output response times are within 200 µs, suitable for high-speed digital control and monitoring applications.

- Capacity:
32 input and 32 output channels allow simultaneous monitoring and control of up to 64 digital signals.

- Efficiency:
Opto-coupler isolation minimizes power consumption while maintaining high-speed response.

- Protection:
- Surge protection via Zener diodes on output circuits.
- Overcurrent protection prevents transistor damage.
- Isolation barrier prevents ground loops and electrical interference.

- Limitations:
- Not suitable for AC signal input/output.
- External DC power supply required for I/O circuits.
- Maximum output current per channel limited to 100 mA (2 A per common).

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8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Standard: PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.2 compliant
- Electrical Isolation: 1 kVrms between I/O and logic circuits
- Safety & EMC: Designed for industrial environments with noise immunity and surge protection
- Environmental Compliance: RoHS compliant
- Software Standards:
- Windows API-TOOL (Win32 DLL-based interface)
- Linux API-TOOL (shared library and kernel module)
- LabVIEW VI-DAQ library for National Instruments LabVIEW integration

- Supported Operating Systems:
- Windows 10/11 (32/64-bit)
- Windows Server editions
- Linux distributions with kernel 2.6 or later

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9. Additional Information

- Warranty:
Standard 1-year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.

- Technical Support:
CONTEC provides free technical support, driver updates, and documentation via its global portal (www.contec.com).

- Maintenance:
- Periodically inspect connectors and cables for wear or damage.
- Keep the board free from dust and moisture.
- Avoid exposure to excessive vibration or temperature extremes.

- Software Updates:
Latest drivers and utilities are available for download from CONTEC’s website. Updates include API enhancements, OS compatibility improvements, and bug fixes.

- Related Models:
- PIO-16/16L(PCI)H: 16 input / 16 output version
- PIO-32/32B(PCI)H: Same as PIO-32/32L but with on-board 12V power supply
- PIO-32/32F(PCI): High-speed version with 5 µs response time
- PIO-64/64L(PCI): 64 input / 64 output version
- PIO-32/32RL(PCI)H: Negative-common variant for current sourcing applications

- Software Tools:
- API-TOOL for Windows: Provides DLL-based API for C/C++/C# development.
- API-TOOL for Linux: Includes kernel driver and shared library for C/C++ development.
- LabVIEW VI-DAQ: Free VI library for integrating CONTEC boards into LabVIEW environments.

- Example Applications:
- Automated test equipment (ATE)
- Production line monitoring
- Machine vision trigger control
- PLC signal interfacing
- Environmental monitoring systems

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Summary

The CONTEC PIO-32/32L(PCI)H is a robust, opto-isolated 32-input/32-output PCI digital I/O board designed for industrial automation and control applications. It combines high-speed performance, electrical isolation, and comprehensive software support in a compact PCI form factor. With its 12–24 VDC input range, 35 VDC output capability, and 1 kVrms isolation, it ensures reliable operation in harsh industrial environments. The board’s interrupt capability, digital filtering, and surge protection make it ideal for precise, noise-resistant digital control systems.

Key Technical Highlights:
- 32 opto-isolated inputs (12–24 VDC)
- 32 opto-isolated open-collector outputs (35 VDC, 100 mA/channel)
- 1 kVrms isolation
- 200 µs response time
- PCI 32-bit, 33 MHz interface
- 96-pin half-pitch connector
- Windows, Linux, and LabVIEW support

This board is part of CONTEC’s extensive PCI Digital I/O product line, offering scalable solutions for digital signal interfacing across a wide range of industrial and laboratory applications.