1. Product Overview

Product Name: APLOG301-I
Model: APLOG301-I
Series: PCI Isolated Serial Communication Monitor Card Series
Article Number: APLOG301-I
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 / info@rayontech.com.tw
- Web: [www.rayontech.com.tw](http://www.rayontech.com.tw)

The RAYON APLOG301-I is a PCI-based isolated two-port RS232/RS422/RS485 special monitor card designed for industrial and laboratory environments requiring reliable, isolated serial communication and real-time data monitoring. It integrates advanced isolation, conversion, and monitoring capabilities into a single PCI expansion card, providing a robust solution for engineers, developers, and system integrators who need to analyze, log, or troubleshoot serial data streams in complex control systems.

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2. Key Features

- Dual-Port Serial Communication: Two independent serial ports per card, each configurable for RS232, RS422, or RS485 operation.
- Ground Isolation: Port A provides galvanic isolation from the PCI bus and Port B, protecting connected equipment from ground loops and electrical noise.
- Flexible Interface Configuration: Each port’s interface type (RS232/RS422/RS485) can be selected via onboard DIP switches, enabling versatile deployment in mixed communication environments.
- Integrated Monitoring Function: Both serial ports can monitor data streams in real time, allowing users to capture, log, and analyze communication between devices without interrupting data flow.
- High Compatibility: Fully compatible with Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7, 8, and Linux operating systems.
- Plug-and-Play PCI Interface: Automatic I/O, memory, and IRQ mapping assigned by the PCI BIOS, simplifying installation and configuration.
- High-Speed Communication: Supports baud rates from 50 to 115,200 bps per port.
- Industrial-Grade Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in industrial control, SCADA, and laboratory environments.
- Compact Design: Standard PCI form factor (100 × 97 mm) with optional low-profile bracket for space-constrained systems.
- Software Utility Support: Compatible with RAYON’s “RAYREAL” monitoring software for simultaneous dual-port data visualization and analysis.
- Hardware Controller: Utilizes the ASIX MCS9865 serial communication controller for stable, high-performance operation.
- Power Supply: Draws power directly from the PCI slot (5V or 3.3V).
- Protective Isolation: Prevents damage from ground potential differences and electrical surges between connected devices.

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3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| Controller Chip | ASIX MCS9865 |
| Bus Interface | PCI (5V or 3.3V slot compatible) |
| Ports | 2 independent serial ports |
| Port A Interface | Ground-isolated RS232/RS422/RS485 selectable via DIP switch |
| Port B Interface | Standard RS232 |
| Baud Rate | 50 to 115,200 bps per port |
| Connector Type | Two DB9 male connectors |
| Dimensions | 100 mm × 97 mm |
| Bracket Options | Standard PCI bracket (low-profile optional) |
| I/O Mapping | Assigned automatically by PCI BIOS |
| Memory Mapping | Assigned automatically by PCI BIOS |
| IRQ Mapping | Assigned automatically by PCI BIOS |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 55°C |
| Storage Temperature | 0°C to 65°C |
| Operating Humidity | 10% to 95% RH (non-condensing) |
| Storage Humidity | 5% to 95% RH (non-condensing) |
| Material | Industrial-grade PCB with reinforced insulation |
| Isolation Type | Electrical ground isolation between Port A and PCI/Port B |
| Power Source | PCI bus (5V or 3.3V) |
| Software Compatibility | Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8, Linux, SCO UNIX |
| Certifications | CE, FCC (manufacturer standard compliance) |

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4. Functionality

The APLOG301-I functions as both a serial interface converter and a data monitoring tool. Installed in a PCI slot, it creates two virtual COM ports within the host PC:

- Port A: Configurable as RS232, RS422, or RS485 with ground isolation.
- Port B: Fixed RS232 interface, sharing ground with the PCI bus.

The card enables bidirectional monitoring of serial communication between two devices. By connecting one device to Port A and another to Port B, users can observe and log all transmitted and received data without disrupting communication. This makes it ideal for debugging, protocol analysis, and system diagnostics.

Use Cases:
- Monitoring communication between PLCs, sensors, and control systems.
- Logging data from industrial devices such as barcode scanners, card readers, or POS terminals.
- Reverse-engineering undocumented serial protocols.
- Testing and validating embedded systems or serial-based equipment.
- Providing galvanic isolation in electrically noisy environments.
- Acting as a converter between RS232 and RS422/RS485 networks.

Compatibility:
- Works with standard PC COM port applications.
- Supports integration with RAYON’s RAYREAL software for real-time data visualization.
- Compatible with major operating systems and industrial control software.

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Components:
- APLOG301-I PCI card (100 × 97 mm)
- Standard PCI bracket (low-profile bracket available upon request)
- Driver and utility CD (includes RAYREAL software and source code)
- User manual and installation guide

Optional Accessories:
- Low-profile PCI bracket for compact chassis
- DB9-to-terminal block adapters for industrial wiring
- Null modem cable for RS232 loopback or monitoring setups

Connectors:
- Two DB9 male connectors (Port A and Port B)
- DIP switch block for interface mode selection (RS232/RS422/RS485)

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6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- Available PCI slot (5V or 3.3V)
- Supported operating system (Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8 or Linux)
- Administrative privileges for driver installation

Installation Steps:
1. Power off the PC and insert the APLOG301-I card into an available PCI slot.
2. Secure the card using the provided bracket.
3. Power on the system; the PCI BIOS will automatically assign I/O, memory, and IRQ resources.
4. Install the driver from the included CD or download from RAYON’s website.
5. Configure the DIP switches on the card to select the desired interface for Port A (RS232, RS422, or RS485).
6. Connect devices to the DB9 connectors using appropriate cables.
7. Launch RAYREAL or other serial monitoring software to begin data capture and analysis.

Mounting Options:
- Standard PCI slot installation in desktop or industrial PC chassis.
- Optional low-profile bracket for compact or embedded systems.

Configuration:
- DIP switch settings determine Port A’s interface type:
- RS232: DIP 1 = OFF, DIP 2 = OFF
- RS422: DIP 1 = ON, DIP 2 = ON
- RS485: DIP 1 = OFF, DIP 2 = ON

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Speed: Supports baud rates from 50 to 115,200 bps per port, suitable for most industrial and commercial serial communication standards.
- Capacity: Two independent serial channels per card, allowing simultaneous monitoring or conversion.
- Efficiency: Hardware-based isolation and conversion minimize CPU load and latency.
- Signal Integrity: Ground isolation eliminates ground loops and reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI).
- Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in industrial environments with wide temperature and humidity tolerance.
- Limitations:
- Maximum baud rate limited to 115,200 bps.
- Requires PCI slot (not compatible with PCIe).
- Isolation applies only to Port A; Port B shares ground with the PCI bus.

Operational Modes:
- RS232-to-RS232 Isolator: Provides galvanic isolation between two RS232 devices.
- RS232-to-RS422 Converter: Enables communication between RS232 and RS422 devices.
- RS232-to-RS485 Converter: Allows RS232 devices to connect to RS485 networks with automatic data direction control (ADDC).
- Monitor Mode: Captures and logs data between two communicating devices for analysis.

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8. Standards & Compliance

The APLOG301-I adheres to industry and regulatory standards for serial communication and electronic safety:

- Electrical Standards:
- RS232 (EIA/TIA-232)
- RS422 (EIA/TIA-422)
- RS485 (EIA/TIA-485)

- Bus Interface Standard:
- PCI Local Bus Specification (5V/3.3V compatible)

- Environmental Compliance:
- RoHS-compliant manufacturing process
- Designed for industrial temperature and humidity ranges

- Certifications:
- CE and FCC compliance (manufacturer standard)
- ISO 9001 manufacturing quality assurance

- Software Standards:
- Compatible with standard COM port drivers under Windows and Linux
- Supports plug-and-play resource allocation via PCI BIOS

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- Standard manufacturer warranty (typically one year, extendable upon request).
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

Technical Support:
- Email and phone support available through RAYON Technology.
- Firmware and driver updates downloadable from the official website.
- Engineering consultation available for OEM and system integration projects.

Maintenance:
- No periodic maintenance required.
- Ensure proper ventilation and avoid exposure to excessive humidity or dust.
- Firmware and driver updates recommended for optimal performance.

Software Updates:
- RAYON provides updated drivers and RAYREAL software versions for new operating systems.
- Source code for RAYREAL utility included for customization and integration into proprietary monitoring systems.

Related Products and Upgrade Options:
- AP102-I: PCI card with two ground-isolated RS232 ports.
- AP132-I: PCI card with two ground-isolated RS422/RS485 ports.
- AP112-I: PCI card with two ground-isolated RS232/RS422/RS485 ports.
- AP301-I: PCI card with one RS232 and one ground-isolated RS232/RS422/RS485 port.
- APCON301-I: PCI card supporting RS232 to ground-isolated RS232/RS422/RS485 conversion.
- ULOG301-I / ULOG310-I: USB-based monitored interface converters with similar isolation and monitoring features.
- iLOG101 / iLOG110: IP-based monitored converters for remote or networked serial communication monitoring.

Applications Across Industries:
- Industrial automation and process control
- SCADA and telemetry systems
- Laboratory instrumentation
- Embedded system development
- IT and network equipment diagnostics
- Academic research and engineering education

Summary:
The RAYON APLOG301-I is a versatile, industrial-grade PCI serial communication card that combines isolation, conversion, and monitoring in one compact solution. It enables engineers and technicians to safely connect, analyze, and troubleshoot serial communication systems across RS232, RS422, and RS485 standards. With its robust design, flexible configuration, and comprehensive software support, the APLOG301-I is an essential tool for any environment where reliable and isolated serial communication is critical.