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A480
8-port RS232 ISA Card
105,00 EUR
including VAT 124.95 EUR
- Eight Independent RS232 Ports: Provides eight fully functional serial ports for simultaneous communication with multiple RS232 devices.
- 16550A UART Compatibility: Each port integrates a 16550A-compatible UART, ensuring hardware buffering and efficient interrupt handling for high-speed data transmission.
- High-Speed Data Transfer: Supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 115,200 bps, suitable for a wide range of serial communication requirements.
- ISA Bus Interface: Designed for standard 16-bit ISA bus architecture, ensuring compatibility with legacy industrial PCs and embedded systems.
- Comprehensive OS Support: Compatible with DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP, Linux, and SCO UNIX, providing flexibility across diverse system environments.
- Compact Design: Small PCB footprint (122 mm × 101 mm) allows installation in space-constrained systems.
- Flexible Connector Options: Includes a DB37 female to 8 × DB9 male breakout cable; optional DB25 male cable available upon request.
- Multi-Card Support: Up to two A480 cards can be installed in a single system, expanding the total number of available serial ports to sixteen.
- Industrial Reliability: Built with high-quality components and designed for continuous operation in demanding environments.
- 16550A UART Compatibility: Each port integrates a 16550A-compatible UART, ensuring hardware buffering and efficient interrupt handling for high-speed data transmission.
- High-Speed Data Transfer: Supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 115,200 bps, suitable for a wide range of serial communication requirements.
- ISA Bus Interface: Designed for standard 16-bit ISA bus architecture, ensuring compatibility with legacy industrial PCs and embedded systems.
- Comprehensive OS Support: Compatible with DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP, Linux, and SCO UNIX, providing flexibility across diverse system environments.
- Compact Design: Small PCB footprint (122 mm × 101 mm) allows installation in space-constrained systems.
- Flexible Connector Options: Includes a DB37 female to 8 × DB9 male breakout cable; optional DB25 male cable available upon request.
- Multi-Card Support: Up to two A480 cards can be installed in a single system, expanding the total number of available serial ports to sixteen.
- Industrial Reliability: Built with high-quality components and designed for continuous operation in demanding environments.
1. Product Overview
Product Name: A480 8-Port RS232 ISA Card
Model: A480
Series: A400 Series Multi-Port Serial Interface Cards
Article Number: A480
Manufacturer: Rayon
The Rayon A480 is a high-performance, industrial-grade 8-port RS232 serial interface card designed for legacy ISA bus systems. It provides eight independent asynchronous serial communication ports, each fully compatible with the industry-standard 16550A UART. The card is engineered for reliable, high-speed serial data transfer in industrial automation, instrumentation, and communication applications where multiple serial connections are required. With robust driver support across multiple operating systems and a compact form factor, the A480 offers a cost-effective and scalable solution for expanding serial connectivity in legacy PC-based control systems.
2. Key Features
- Eight Independent RS232 Ports: Provides eight fully functional serial ports for simultaneous communication with multiple RS232 devices.
- 16550A UART Compatibility: Each port integrates a 16550A-compatible UART, ensuring hardware buffering and efficient interrupt handling for high-speed data transmission.
- High-Speed Data Transfer: Supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 115,200 bps, suitable for a wide range of serial communication requirements.
- ISA Bus Interface: Designed for standard 16-bit ISA bus architecture, ensuring compatibility with legacy industrial PCs and embedded systems.
- Comprehensive OS Support: Compatible with DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP, Linux, and SCO UNIX, providing flexibility across diverse system environments.
- Compact Design: Small PCB footprint (122 mm × 101 mm) allows installation in space-constrained systems.
- Flexible Connector Options: Includes a DB37 female to 8 × DB9 male breakout cable; optional DB25 male cable available upon request.
- Multi-Card Support: Up to two A480 cards can be installed in a single system, expanding the total number of available serial ports to sixteen.
- Industrial Reliability: Built with high-quality components and designed for continuous operation in demanding environments.
3. Technical Specifications
- Bus Interface: ISA (Industry Standard Architecture), 16-bit
- Number of Ports: 8 independent RS232 serial ports
- UART Type: 16550A-compatible UART per port (with 16-byte FIFO buffer)
- Baud Rate Range: 50 bps to 115,200 bps
- Communication Parameters:
- Data bits: 5, 6, 7, or 8
- Stop bits: 1 or 2
- Parity: None, Even, Odd, Mark, or Space
- Flow Control: Hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) supported
- Connectors:
- On-board: DB37 female connector
- Breakout cable: DB37F to 8 × DB9M (standard)
- Optional cable: DB37F to 8 × DB25M (on request)
- Maximum Cards per System: 2
- Dimensions: 122 mm (L) × 101 mm (H)
- Weight: Approximately 150 g (card only, excluding cable)
- Material: Multi-layer PCB with gold-plated edge connector; industrial-grade electronic components
- Power Requirements:
- +5 VDC from ISA bus
- Typical power consumption: < 2 W
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to +55°C
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to +85°C
- Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing
4. Functionality
The Rayon A480 functions as an expansion card that adds eight RS232 serial communication ports to a computer system via the ISA bus. Each port operates independently, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple serial devices such as modems, barcode scanners, PLCs, CNC controllers, data loggers, and other industrial or laboratory instruments.
The card’s 16550A UARTs provide hardware buffering, reducing CPU overhead and improving data throughput. Each port can be configured individually for baud rate, parity, stop bits, and flow control, enabling flexible integration with a wide range of serial devices.
Typical Use Cases:
- Industrial automation and process control systems
- Serial device networking and data acquisition
- Legacy equipment integration in manufacturing environments
- Communication with instrumentation and measurement devices
- Multi-modem or multi-terminal server applications
- Laboratory and test bench setups requiring multiple serial interfaces
Compatibility:
The A480 supports a broad range of operating systems, including DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP, Linux, and SCO UNIX. Standard serial communication APIs and drivers ensure seamless integration with existing software applications that utilize COM ports.
5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- A480 ISA 8-Port RS232 Card
- 1 × DB37 female to 8 × DB9 male breakout cable (standard configuration)
- Installation guide and driver disk (where applicable)
Optional Accessories:
- DB37 female to 8 × DB25 male breakout cable (available upon request)
- Additional serial cables and adapters for device-specific connections
- Mounting brackets or retention clips for secure installation in industrial chassis
Connectors and Pinouts:
- DB37 Female (on card): Provides the interface to the breakout cable.
- DB9 Male (on breakout cable): Standard RS232 pinout for direct connection to serial devices.
- Optional DB25 Male (on alternate cable): For devices requiring DB25 connectors.
6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- Available ISA slot (16-bit)
- Compatible operating system (DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP, Linux, or SCO UNIX)
- Sufficient system resources (I/O addresses and IRQs) for up to two cards
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the computer and disconnect it from the power source.
2. Remove the system cover and locate an available ISA slot.
3. Insert the A480 card firmly into the slot, ensuring proper alignment of the edge connector.
4. Secure the card with the mounting screw.
5. Connect the supplied DB37-to-8×DB9 breakout cable to the card’s DB37 connector.
6. Attach serial devices to the DB9 connectors as required.
7. Power on the system and install the appropriate drivers for the operating system.
8. Configure COM port assignments and communication parameters through the OS or application software.
Configuration:
- Each port can be assigned a unique I/O address and interrupt (IRQ).
- DIP switches or jumpers (if present) allow manual configuration of hardware resources.
- Software utilities may be provided for automatic detection and configuration under supported operating systems.
Mounting Options:
- Standard ISA slot mounting within desktop or industrial PC chassis.
- Compatible with rackmount or embedded systems supporting ISA expansion.
7. Performance & Capabilities
The A480 delivers stable and efficient serial communication performance across all eight ports. The integrated 16550A UARTs with 16-byte FIFO buffers minimize data loss and ensure smooth operation even under high data throughput conditions.
Performance Metrics:
- Maximum Baud Rate: 115,200 bps per port
- Simultaneous Operation: All eight ports can operate concurrently at full speed
- Data Integrity: Hardware buffering and flow control prevent overrun errors
- Latency: Low interrupt latency due to efficient UART design
- System Load: Reduced CPU utilization compared to non-buffered serial interfaces
Capacity and Scalability:
- Supports up to two cards per system, providing a total of 16 serial ports.
- Each port can be independently configured for different devices and communication parameters.
Efficiency:
- Optimized for continuous operation in industrial environments.
- Reliable data transmission over long cable runs (up to 15 meters typical for RS232).
Limitations:
- Designed for ISA bus systems only; not compatible with PCI or PCIe slots.
- Maximum of two cards per system due to resource allocation constraints.
- RS232 signaling only (no RS422/RS485 support).
8. Standards & Compliance
Electrical and Interface Standards:
- RS232 (EIA/TIA-232) compliant signaling levels
- 16550A UART standard compatibility
- ISA bus interface compliant with PC/AT specifications
Regulatory Compliance:
- Designed to meet CE and FCC Class A requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
- RoHS-compliant manufacturing (lead-free components and soldering processes)
Industry Standards:
- Compatible with standard serial communication protocols and APIs
- Supports standard COM port addressing conventions used in DOS and Windows environments
Software and Driver Compliance:
- Compatible with standard serial drivers in Windows and Linux
- Supports TTY device interface under UNIX/Linux systems
9. Additional Information
Warranty:
- Standard manufacturer’s warranty (typically 1–2 years, depending on region and distributor) covering defects in materials and workmanship.
Technical Support:
- Comprehensive technical documentation and driver downloads available from Rayon’s support portal.
- Email and phone-based technical assistance for installation and configuration issues.
Maintenance:
- No routine maintenance required beyond ensuring secure cable connections and clean operating environment.
- Periodic inspection recommended for connector integrity and dust accumulation in industrial settings.
Firmware and Software Updates:
- Driver updates periodically released to maintain compatibility with newer operating systems.
- Firmware updates generally not required due to hardware-based UART implementation.
Service and Replacement:
- Replacement parts and accessories (breakout cables, connectors) available through authorized distributors.
- RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) process supported for warranty claims.
Environmental Considerations:
- Designed for long-term operation in controlled industrial environments.
- Compliant with environmental directives for electronic waste and recycling.
Summary
The Rayon A480 8-Port RS232 ISA Card is a robust, high-quality serial communication interface designed for legacy ISA-based computer systems. It provides eight independent RS232 ports, each equipped with a 16550A-compatible UART for reliable, high-speed data transfer up to 115,200 bps. With comprehensive operating system support, flexible configuration options, and industrial-grade construction, the A480 is ideal for applications requiring multiple serial connections—such as automation control, data acquisition, and instrumentation. Its compact design, optional connector configurations, and support for up to two cards per system make it a versatile and scalable solution for expanding serial connectivity in industrial and embedded environments.
Product Name: A480 8-Port RS232 ISA Card
Model: A480
Series: A400 Series Multi-Port Serial Interface Cards
Article Number: A480
Manufacturer: Rayon
The Rayon A480 is a high-performance, industrial-grade 8-port RS232 serial interface card designed for legacy ISA bus systems. It provides eight independent asynchronous serial communication ports, each fully compatible with the industry-standard 16550A UART. The card is engineered for reliable, high-speed serial data transfer in industrial automation, instrumentation, and communication applications where multiple serial connections are required. With robust driver support across multiple operating systems and a compact form factor, the A480 offers a cost-effective and scalable solution for expanding serial connectivity in legacy PC-based control systems.
2. Key Features
- Eight Independent RS232 Ports: Provides eight fully functional serial ports for simultaneous communication with multiple RS232 devices.
- 16550A UART Compatibility: Each port integrates a 16550A-compatible UART, ensuring hardware buffering and efficient interrupt handling for high-speed data transmission.
- High-Speed Data Transfer: Supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 115,200 bps, suitable for a wide range of serial communication requirements.
- ISA Bus Interface: Designed for standard 16-bit ISA bus architecture, ensuring compatibility with legacy industrial PCs and embedded systems.
- Comprehensive OS Support: Compatible with DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP, Linux, and SCO UNIX, providing flexibility across diverse system environments.
- Compact Design: Small PCB footprint (122 mm × 101 mm) allows installation in space-constrained systems.
- Flexible Connector Options: Includes a DB37 female to 8 × DB9 male breakout cable; optional DB25 male cable available upon request.
- Multi-Card Support: Up to two A480 cards can be installed in a single system, expanding the total number of available serial ports to sixteen.
- Industrial Reliability: Built with high-quality components and designed for continuous operation in demanding environments.
3. Technical Specifications
- Bus Interface: ISA (Industry Standard Architecture), 16-bit
- Number of Ports: 8 independent RS232 serial ports
- UART Type: 16550A-compatible UART per port (with 16-byte FIFO buffer)
- Baud Rate Range: 50 bps to 115,200 bps
- Communication Parameters:
- Data bits: 5, 6, 7, or 8
- Stop bits: 1 or 2
- Parity: None, Even, Odd, Mark, or Space
- Flow Control: Hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) supported
- Connectors:
- On-board: DB37 female connector
- Breakout cable: DB37F to 8 × DB9M (standard)
- Optional cable: DB37F to 8 × DB25M (on request)
- Maximum Cards per System: 2
- Dimensions: 122 mm (L) × 101 mm (H)
- Weight: Approximately 150 g (card only, excluding cable)
- Material: Multi-layer PCB with gold-plated edge connector; industrial-grade electronic components
- Power Requirements:
- +5 VDC from ISA bus
- Typical power consumption: < 2 W
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to +55°C
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to +85°C
- Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing
4. Functionality
The Rayon A480 functions as an expansion card that adds eight RS232 serial communication ports to a computer system via the ISA bus. Each port operates independently, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple serial devices such as modems, barcode scanners, PLCs, CNC controllers, data loggers, and other industrial or laboratory instruments.
The card’s 16550A UARTs provide hardware buffering, reducing CPU overhead and improving data throughput. Each port can be configured individually for baud rate, parity, stop bits, and flow control, enabling flexible integration with a wide range of serial devices.
Typical Use Cases:
- Industrial automation and process control systems
- Serial device networking and data acquisition
- Legacy equipment integration in manufacturing environments
- Communication with instrumentation and measurement devices
- Multi-modem or multi-terminal server applications
- Laboratory and test bench setups requiring multiple serial interfaces
Compatibility:
The A480 supports a broad range of operating systems, including DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP, Linux, and SCO UNIX. Standard serial communication APIs and drivers ensure seamless integration with existing software applications that utilize COM ports.
5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- A480 ISA 8-Port RS232 Card
- 1 × DB37 female to 8 × DB9 male breakout cable (standard configuration)
- Installation guide and driver disk (where applicable)
Optional Accessories:
- DB37 female to 8 × DB25 male breakout cable (available upon request)
- Additional serial cables and adapters for device-specific connections
- Mounting brackets or retention clips for secure installation in industrial chassis
Connectors and Pinouts:
- DB37 Female (on card): Provides the interface to the breakout cable.
- DB9 Male (on breakout cable): Standard RS232 pinout for direct connection to serial devices.
- Optional DB25 Male (on alternate cable): For devices requiring DB25 connectors.
6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- Available ISA slot (16-bit)
- Compatible operating system (DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP, Linux, or SCO UNIX)
- Sufficient system resources (I/O addresses and IRQs) for up to two cards
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the computer and disconnect it from the power source.
2. Remove the system cover and locate an available ISA slot.
3. Insert the A480 card firmly into the slot, ensuring proper alignment of the edge connector.
4. Secure the card with the mounting screw.
5. Connect the supplied DB37-to-8×DB9 breakout cable to the card’s DB37 connector.
6. Attach serial devices to the DB9 connectors as required.
7. Power on the system and install the appropriate drivers for the operating system.
8. Configure COM port assignments and communication parameters through the OS or application software.
Configuration:
- Each port can be assigned a unique I/O address and interrupt (IRQ).
- DIP switches or jumpers (if present) allow manual configuration of hardware resources.
- Software utilities may be provided for automatic detection and configuration under supported operating systems.
Mounting Options:
- Standard ISA slot mounting within desktop or industrial PC chassis.
- Compatible with rackmount or embedded systems supporting ISA expansion.
7. Performance & Capabilities
The A480 delivers stable and efficient serial communication performance across all eight ports. The integrated 16550A UARTs with 16-byte FIFO buffers minimize data loss and ensure smooth operation even under high data throughput conditions.
Performance Metrics:
- Maximum Baud Rate: 115,200 bps per port
- Simultaneous Operation: All eight ports can operate concurrently at full speed
- Data Integrity: Hardware buffering and flow control prevent overrun errors
- Latency: Low interrupt latency due to efficient UART design
- System Load: Reduced CPU utilization compared to non-buffered serial interfaces
Capacity and Scalability:
- Supports up to two cards per system, providing a total of 16 serial ports.
- Each port can be independently configured for different devices and communication parameters.
Efficiency:
- Optimized for continuous operation in industrial environments.
- Reliable data transmission over long cable runs (up to 15 meters typical for RS232).
Limitations:
- Designed for ISA bus systems only; not compatible with PCI or PCIe slots.
- Maximum of two cards per system due to resource allocation constraints.
- RS232 signaling only (no RS422/RS485 support).
8. Standards & Compliance
Electrical and Interface Standards:
- RS232 (EIA/TIA-232) compliant signaling levels
- 16550A UART standard compatibility
- ISA bus interface compliant with PC/AT specifications
Regulatory Compliance:
- Designed to meet CE and FCC Class A requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
- RoHS-compliant manufacturing (lead-free components and soldering processes)
Industry Standards:
- Compatible with standard serial communication protocols and APIs
- Supports standard COM port addressing conventions used in DOS and Windows environments
Software and Driver Compliance:
- Compatible with standard serial drivers in Windows and Linux
- Supports TTY device interface under UNIX/Linux systems
9. Additional Information
Warranty:
- Standard manufacturer’s warranty (typically 1–2 years, depending on region and distributor) covering defects in materials and workmanship.
Technical Support:
- Comprehensive technical documentation and driver downloads available from Rayon’s support portal.
- Email and phone-based technical assistance for installation and configuration issues.
Maintenance:
- No routine maintenance required beyond ensuring secure cable connections and clean operating environment.
- Periodic inspection recommended for connector integrity and dust accumulation in industrial settings.
Firmware and Software Updates:
- Driver updates periodically released to maintain compatibility with newer operating systems.
- Firmware updates generally not required due to hardware-based UART implementation.
Service and Replacement:
- Replacement parts and accessories (breakout cables, connectors) available through authorized distributors.
- RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) process supported for warranty claims.
Environmental Considerations:
- Designed for long-term operation in controlled industrial environments.
- Compliant with environmental directives for electronic waste and recycling.
Summary
The Rayon A480 8-Port RS232 ISA Card is a robust, high-quality serial communication interface designed for legacy ISA-based computer systems. It provides eight independent RS232 ports, each equipped with a 16550A-compatible UART for reliable, high-speed data transfer up to 115,200 bps. With comprehensive operating system support, flexible configuration options, and industrial-grade construction, the A480 is ideal for applications requiring multiple serial connections—such as automation control, data acquisition, and instrumentation. Its compact design, optional connector configurations, and support for up to two cards per system make it a versatile and scalable solution for expanding serial connectivity in industrial and embedded environments.
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