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- Dual-Port RS-422/485 Interface: Provides two independent asynchronous serial communication ports supporting both RS-422 and RS-485 standards, enabling long-distance, noise-resistant data transmission.
- 16550 UART Controller: Each port is equipped with a 16550 Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART), offering 16-byte FIFO buffers for both transmit and receive operations, reducing CPU overhead and improving data throughput.
- Flexible Baud Rate Range: Supports data transmission speeds from 50 bps to 57,600 bps, accommodating a wide range of serial communication devices and protocols.
- Selectable IRQ and I/O Address: Hardware-configurable via DIP switches, allowing selection of IRQ lines 2–7 and I/O port addresses from 200h to 3F8h, ensuring compatibility with various system configurations.
- Status Indication LEDs: Four onboard status LEDs provide real-time visual feedback for port activity and operational status, simplifying diagnostics and monitoring.
- Standard Connectors: Equipped with two D-type 9-pin male connectors (DB9M) for direct connection to serial devices.
- Compact Form Factor: PCB dimensions of 132 mm x 100 mm, suitable for standard PC expansion slots and compact industrial enclosures.
- Industrial-Grade Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in demanding environments, offering stable performance and long-term durability.
- 16550 UART Controller: Each port is equipped with a 16550 Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART), offering 16-byte FIFO buffers for both transmit and receive operations, reducing CPU overhead and improving data throughput.
- Flexible Baud Rate Range: Supports data transmission speeds from 50 bps to 57,600 bps, accommodating a wide range of serial communication devices and protocols.
- Selectable IRQ and I/O Address: Hardware-configurable via DIP switches, allowing selection of IRQ lines 2–7 and I/O port addresses from 200h to 3F8h, ensuring compatibility with various system configurations.
- Status Indication LEDs: Four onboard status LEDs provide real-time visual feedback for port activity and operational status, simplifying diagnostics and monitoring.
- Standard Connectors: Equipped with two D-type 9-pin male connectors (DB9M) for direct connection to serial devices.
- Compact Form Factor: PCB dimensions of 132 mm x 100 mm, suitable for standard PC expansion slots and compact industrial enclosures.
- Industrial-Grade Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in demanding environments, offering stable performance and long-term durability.
1. Product Overview
Product Name: AX4285B+
Model Number: AX4285B+
Series: AX4000 Series Serial Communication Interface Cards
Article Number: AX4285B+
Manufacturer: Axiom
The Axiom AX4285B+ is a dual-port asynchronous serial communication card designed for industrial and embedded computing environments requiring reliable RS-422/485 connectivity. It integrates two independent serial ports, each equipped with a 16550 UART controller, providing stable and efficient data transmission for a wide range of serial communication applications. The card is engineered for use in PCs and industrial control systems that demand robust serial interfacing with configurable communication parameters and hardware-level control.
2. Key Features
- Dual-Port RS-422/485 Interface: Provides two independent asynchronous serial communication ports supporting both RS-422 and RS-485 standards, enabling long-distance, noise-resistant data transmission.
- 16550 UART Controller: Each port is equipped with a 16550 Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART), offering 16-byte FIFO buffers for both transmit and receive operations, reducing CPU overhead and improving data throughput.
- Flexible Baud Rate Range: Supports data transmission speeds from 50 bps to 57,600 bps, accommodating a wide range of serial communication devices and protocols.
- Selectable IRQ and I/O Address: Hardware-configurable via DIP switches, allowing selection of IRQ lines 2–7 and I/O port addresses from 200h to 3F8h, ensuring compatibility with various system configurations.
- Status Indication LEDs: Four onboard status LEDs provide real-time visual feedback for port activity and operational status, simplifying diagnostics and monitoring.
- Standard Connectors: Equipped with two D-type 9-pin male connectors (DB9M) for direct connection to serial devices.
- Compact Form Factor: PCB dimensions of 132 mm x 100 mm, suitable for standard PC expansion slots and compact industrial enclosures.
- Industrial-Grade Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in demanding environments, offering stable performance and long-term durability.
3. Technical Specifications
- Interface Type: RS-422/RS-485 (asynchronous serial communication)
- Number of Ports: 2 independent serial ports
- UART Type: 16550 UART with 16-byte FIFO buffers
- Baud Rate Range: 50 bps to 57,600 bps
- Interrupt Request (IRQ): Selectable from IRQ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7
- I/O Address Range: Selectable from 200h to 3F8h via DIP switch
- Connectors: 2 × DB9 male (D-type 9-pin)
- Status Indicators: 4 × LED indicators (port activity and status)
- Board Dimensions: 132 mm (L) × 100 mm (W)
- Weight: Approx. 100–150 g (typical for PCB of this size and configuration)
- Material: Multi-layer PCB with gold-plated edge connector and industrial-grade components
- Operating Mode: Asynchronous full-duplex communication
- Signal Support: Differential signaling for RS-422/485 for improved noise immunity and longer cable lengths
- Power Requirements: Supplied via system bus (typical 5V DC from host system)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C (typical industrial range)
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to 85°C
- Relative Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing
4. Functionality
The Axiom AX4285B+ functions as a dual-port serial communication interface card that enables PCs or embedded systems to communicate with external devices using RS-422 or RS-485 protocols. Each port operates independently, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple serial devices such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, motor drives, barcode scanners, and industrial instruments.
The card’s 16550 UART provides hardware buffering and interrupt-driven communication, minimizing CPU load and ensuring smooth data flow even at higher baud rates. The RS-422 mode supports point-to-point communication with differential signaling for enhanced noise immunity, while RS-485 mode supports multi-drop configurations, allowing multiple devices to share the same communication bus.
Typical Use Cases:
- Industrial automation and process control systems
- Data acquisition and monitoring equipment
- SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems
- CNC machine interfaces
- Building management and environmental monitoring systems
- Serial device networking and legacy equipment integration
Compatibility:
The AX4285B+ is compatible with standard PC architectures supporting ISA or similar expansion interfaces (depending on system configuration). It can be used with operating systems that provide serial port driver support, including DOS, Windows, and various real-time or embedded OS environments.
5. Components & Accessories
Included Components:
- 1 × AX4285B+ RS-422/485 dual-port serial card
- 2 × DB9 male connectors integrated on the card
- 1 × DIP switch block for configuration of IRQ and I/O address
- 4 × Onboard status LEDs for port activity indication
- 1 × User manual or quick installation guide (depending on packaging)
Optional Accessories (available separately):
- DB9-to-terminal block adapters for field wiring
- Shielded RS-422/485 communication cables
- External surge protection modules for industrial environments
- Mounting brackets or slot covers for specific chassis types
Connectors and Pinouts:
Each DB9 male connector provides standard RS-422/485 signal lines, including differential transmit (TX+/TX−) and receive (RX+/RX−) pairs, along with ground reference. The pin configuration follows standard serial communication pin assignments for compatibility with existing cabling and devices.
6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- Available ISA or compatible expansion slot
- Host system supporting serial communication drivers
- Power supply from system bus (no external power required)
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the host system and disconnect it from the power source.
2. Insert the AX4285B+ card into an available expansion slot, ensuring proper alignment with the connector.
3. Secure the card using the chassis mounting screw.
4. Configure the desired IRQ and I/O address using the onboard DIP switches according to system resource availability.
5. Connect external RS-422/485 devices to the DB9 connectors using appropriate cables.
6. Power on the system and install any required drivers or configure the operating system to recognize the new serial ports.
7. Verify operation using the status LEDs and communication test utilities.
Mounting Options:
The card is designed for internal installation within a PC or industrial computer chassis. It can be mounted horizontally in a standard expansion slot. For embedded or custom enclosures, optional brackets or adapters may be used.
Configuration:
DIP switches allow manual configuration of hardware parameters, including interrupt lines and I/O address ranges. This ensures flexibility in multi-card systems or environments with specific resource allocation requirements.
7. Performance & Capabilities
The AX4285B+ delivers stable and efficient serial communication performance across a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. The integrated 16550 UART provides 16-byte FIFO buffers, enabling smooth data transfer and reducing the likelihood of data loss during high-speed communication.
Performance Highlights:
- Data Rate: 50 to 57,600 bps, supporting both low-speed and moderate-speed serial devices.
- Transmission Distance: Up to 1,200 meters (typical for RS-422/485 differential signaling, depending on cable quality and environment).
- Bus Loading: Supports up to 32 devices on a single RS-485 bus (multi-drop configuration).
- Error Handling: Hardware-level parity checking and interrupt-driven communication for reliable data integrity.
- Latency: Low interrupt latency due to hardware buffering and efficient UART design.
- Efficiency: Reduced CPU utilization through FIFO buffering and interrupt-driven data handling.
Limitations:
- Maximum baud rate limited to 57,600 bps (not suitable for high-speed serial applications requiring >115,200 bps).
- Requires manual configuration via DIP switches (no plug-and-play auto-configuration).
- Designed primarily for legacy or industrial systems with ISA or similar interfaces.
8. Standards & Compliance
The Axiom AX4285B+ conforms to established electrical and communication standards for serial data transmission and industrial reliability.
Applicable Standards:
- RS-422 (EIA-422): Balanced differential signaling for point-to-point communication.
- RS-485 (EIA-485): Balanced differential signaling for multi-point communication networks.
- UART Standard: 16550-compatible asynchronous serial communication interface.
- Electrical Compliance: Meets standard PC bus voltage and current specifications.
- EMC Compliance: Designed to meet typical electromagnetic compatibility requirements for industrial and commercial environments.
Regulatory Compliance:
- CE (Conformité Européenne) – indicative of compliance with European safety and EMC directives (depending on region).
- RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) – compliant with environmental standards restricting hazardous materials in electronic components.
- ISO 9001 manufacturing process compliance (Axiom production standards).
9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Typically supplied with a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal operating conditions. Extended warranty options may be available through authorized distributors.
Technical Support:
Axiom provides technical documentation, driver support, and configuration assistance through its official support channels. Users can access installation guides, troubleshooting resources, and firmware updates (if applicable) via the manufacturer’s website or authorized service partners.
Maintenance:
The AX4285B+ requires minimal maintenance. Periodic inspection of connectors and cables is recommended to ensure reliable electrical contact. The card should be kept free from dust and moisture, and operated within specified environmental conditions.
Firmware & Updates:
As a hardware-based serial interface card, the AX4285B+ does not typically require firmware updates. However, driver updates or configuration utilities may be provided to enhance compatibility with newer operating systems.
Service Life & Reliability:
Designed for long-term industrial use, the card employs high-quality components rated for extended operational lifespans. The robust PCB design and gold-plated connectors ensure consistent performance over years of continuous operation.
Documentation & Resources:
- User manual with configuration tables for IRQ and I/O address settings
- Pinout diagrams for DB9 connectors
- Example wiring configurations for RS-422 and RS-485 modes
- Troubleshooting guide for communication setup and diagnostics
### Summary
The Axiom AX4285B+ RS-422/485 Dual-Port Serial Card is a reliable, industrial-grade communication interface designed to extend the serial connectivity of PCs and embedded systems. With two independent asynchronous ports, 16550 UART controllers, and flexible configuration options, it provides a robust solution for connecting industrial devices, sensors, and control systems. Its combination of hardware-level reliability, configurable parameters, and diagnostic LEDs makes it an ideal choice for engineers and system integrators seeking dependable serial communication in automation, control, and data acquisition environments.
Key Highlights:
- Dual RS-422/485 ports with 16550 UART
- 50–57,600 bps baud rate range
- DIP switch-selectable IRQ (2–7) and I/O address (200h–3F8h)
- 4 status LEDs for monitoring
- Compact 132 × 100 mm PCB design
- Industrial-grade reliability and long-term support
The AX4285B+ exemplifies Axiom’s commitment to providing high-quality, configurable, and durable communication hardware for industrial and embedded computing applications.
Product Name: AX4285B+
Model Number: AX4285B+
Series: AX4000 Series Serial Communication Interface Cards
Article Number: AX4285B+
Manufacturer: Axiom
The Axiom AX4285B+ is a dual-port asynchronous serial communication card designed for industrial and embedded computing environments requiring reliable RS-422/485 connectivity. It integrates two independent serial ports, each equipped with a 16550 UART controller, providing stable and efficient data transmission for a wide range of serial communication applications. The card is engineered for use in PCs and industrial control systems that demand robust serial interfacing with configurable communication parameters and hardware-level control.
2. Key Features
- Dual-Port RS-422/485 Interface: Provides two independent asynchronous serial communication ports supporting both RS-422 and RS-485 standards, enabling long-distance, noise-resistant data transmission.
- 16550 UART Controller: Each port is equipped with a 16550 Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART), offering 16-byte FIFO buffers for both transmit and receive operations, reducing CPU overhead and improving data throughput.
- Flexible Baud Rate Range: Supports data transmission speeds from 50 bps to 57,600 bps, accommodating a wide range of serial communication devices and protocols.
- Selectable IRQ and I/O Address: Hardware-configurable via DIP switches, allowing selection of IRQ lines 2–7 and I/O port addresses from 200h to 3F8h, ensuring compatibility with various system configurations.
- Status Indication LEDs: Four onboard status LEDs provide real-time visual feedback for port activity and operational status, simplifying diagnostics and monitoring.
- Standard Connectors: Equipped with two D-type 9-pin male connectors (DB9M) for direct connection to serial devices.
- Compact Form Factor: PCB dimensions of 132 mm x 100 mm, suitable for standard PC expansion slots and compact industrial enclosures.
- Industrial-Grade Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in demanding environments, offering stable performance and long-term durability.
3. Technical Specifications
- Interface Type: RS-422/RS-485 (asynchronous serial communication)
- Number of Ports: 2 independent serial ports
- UART Type: 16550 UART with 16-byte FIFO buffers
- Baud Rate Range: 50 bps to 57,600 bps
- Interrupt Request (IRQ): Selectable from IRQ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7
- I/O Address Range: Selectable from 200h to 3F8h via DIP switch
- Connectors: 2 × DB9 male (D-type 9-pin)
- Status Indicators: 4 × LED indicators (port activity and status)
- Board Dimensions: 132 mm (L) × 100 mm (W)
- Weight: Approx. 100–150 g (typical for PCB of this size and configuration)
- Material: Multi-layer PCB with gold-plated edge connector and industrial-grade components
- Operating Mode: Asynchronous full-duplex communication
- Signal Support: Differential signaling for RS-422/485 for improved noise immunity and longer cable lengths
- Power Requirements: Supplied via system bus (typical 5V DC from host system)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C (typical industrial range)
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to 85°C
- Relative Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing
4. Functionality
The Axiom AX4285B+ functions as a dual-port serial communication interface card that enables PCs or embedded systems to communicate with external devices using RS-422 or RS-485 protocols. Each port operates independently, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple serial devices such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, motor drives, barcode scanners, and industrial instruments.
The card’s 16550 UART provides hardware buffering and interrupt-driven communication, minimizing CPU load and ensuring smooth data flow even at higher baud rates. The RS-422 mode supports point-to-point communication with differential signaling for enhanced noise immunity, while RS-485 mode supports multi-drop configurations, allowing multiple devices to share the same communication bus.
Typical Use Cases:
- Industrial automation and process control systems
- Data acquisition and monitoring equipment
- SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems
- CNC machine interfaces
- Building management and environmental monitoring systems
- Serial device networking and legacy equipment integration
Compatibility:
The AX4285B+ is compatible with standard PC architectures supporting ISA or similar expansion interfaces (depending on system configuration). It can be used with operating systems that provide serial port driver support, including DOS, Windows, and various real-time or embedded OS environments.
5. Components & Accessories
Included Components:
- 1 × AX4285B+ RS-422/485 dual-port serial card
- 2 × DB9 male connectors integrated on the card
- 1 × DIP switch block for configuration of IRQ and I/O address
- 4 × Onboard status LEDs for port activity indication
- 1 × User manual or quick installation guide (depending on packaging)
Optional Accessories (available separately):
- DB9-to-terminal block adapters for field wiring
- Shielded RS-422/485 communication cables
- External surge protection modules for industrial environments
- Mounting brackets or slot covers for specific chassis types
Connectors and Pinouts:
Each DB9 male connector provides standard RS-422/485 signal lines, including differential transmit (TX+/TX−) and receive (RX+/RX−) pairs, along with ground reference. The pin configuration follows standard serial communication pin assignments for compatibility with existing cabling and devices.
6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- Available ISA or compatible expansion slot
- Host system supporting serial communication drivers
- Power supply from system bus (no external power required)
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the host system and disconnect it from the power source.
2. Insert the AX4285B+ card into an available expansion slot, ensuring proper alignment with the connector.
3. Secure the card using the chassis mounting screw.
4. Configure the desired IRQ and I/O address using the onboard DIP switches according to system resource availability.
5. Connect external RS-422/485 devices to the DB9 connectors using appropriate cables.
6. Power on the system and install any required drivers or configure the operating system to recognize the new serial ports.
7. Verify operation using the status LEDs and communication test utilities.
Mounting Options:
The card is designed for internal installation within a PC or industrial computer chassis. It can be mounted horizontally in a standard expansion slot. For embedded or custom enclosures, optional brackets or adapters may be used.
Configuration:
DIP switches allow manual configuration of hardware parameters, including interrupt lines and I/O address ranges. This ensures flexibility in multi-card systems or environments with specific resource allocation requirements.
7. Performance & Capabilities
The AX4285B+ delivers stable and efficient serial communication performance across a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. The integrated 16550 UART provides 16-byte FIFO buffers, enabling smooth data transfer and reducing the likelihood of data loss during high-speed communication.
Performance Highlights:
- Data Rate: 50 to 57,600 bps, supporting both low-speed and moderate-speed serial devices.
- Transmission Distance: Up to 1,200 meters (typical for RS-422/485 differential signaling, depending on cable quality and environment).
- Bus Loading: Supports up to 32 devices on a single RS-485 bus (multi-drop configuration).
- Error Handling: Hardware-level parity checking and interrupt-driven communication for reliable data integrity.
- Latency: Low interrupt latency due to hardware buffering and efficient UART design.
- Efficiency: Reduced CPU utilization through FIFO buffering and interrupt-driven data handling.
Limitations:
- Maximum baud rate limited to 57,600 bps (not suitable for high-speed serial applications requiring >115,200 bps).
- Requires manual configuration via DIP switches (no plug-and-play auto-configuration).
- Designed primarily for legacy or industrial systems with ISA or similar interfaces.
8. Standards & Compliance
The Axiom AX4285B+ conforms to established electrical and communication standards for serial data transmission and industrial reliability.
Applicable Standards:
- RS-422 (EIA-422): Balanced differential signaling for point-to-point communication.
- RS-485 (EIA-485): Balanced differential signaling for multi-point communication networks.
- UART Standard: 16550-compatible asynchronous serial communication interface.
- Electrical Compliance: Meets standard PC bus voltage and current specifications.
- EMC Compliance: Designed to meet typical electromagnetic compatibility requirements for industrial and commercial environments.
Regulatory Compliance:
- CE (Conformité Européenne) – indicative of compliance with European safety and EMC directives (depending on region).
- RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) – compliant with environmental standards restricting hazardous materials in electronic components.
- ISO 9001 manufacturing process compliance (Axiom production standards).
9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Typically supplied with a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal operating conditions. Extended warranty options may be available through authorized distributors.
Technical Support:
Axiom provides technical documentation, driver support, and configuration assistance through its official support channels. Users can access installation guides, troubleshooting resources, and firmware updates (if applicable) via the manufacturer’s website or authorized service partners.
Maintenance:
The AX4285B+ requires minimal maintenance. Periodic inspection of connectors and cables is recommended to ensure reliable electrical contact. The card should be kept free from dust and moisture, and operated within specified environmental conditions.
Firmware & Updates:
As a hardware-based serial interface card, the AX4285B+ does not typically require firmware updates. However, driver updates or configuration utilities may be provided to enhance compatibility with newer operating systems.
Service Life & Reliability:
Designed for long-term industrial use, the card employs high-quality components rated for extended operational lifespans. The robust PCB design and gold-plated connectors ensure consistent performance over years of continuous operation.
Documentation & Resources:
- User manual with configuration tables for IRQ and I/O address settings
- Pinout diagrams for DB9 connectors
- Example wiring configurations for RS-422 and RS-485 modes
- Troubleshooting guide for communication setup and diagnostics
### Summary
The Axiom AX4285B+ RS-422/485 Dual-Port Serial Card is a reliable, industrial-grade communication interface designed to extend the serial connectivity of PCs and embedded systems. With two independent asynchronous ports, 16550 UART controllers, and flexible configuration options, it provides a robust solution for connecting industrial devices, sensors, and control systems. Its combination of hardware-level reliability, configurable parameters, and diagnostic LEDs makes it an ideal choice for engineers and system integrators seeking dependable serial communication in automation, control, and data acquisition environments.
Key Highlights:
- Dual RS-422/485 ports with 16550 UART
- 50–57,600 bps baud rate range
- DIP switch-selectable IRQ (2–7) and I/O address (200h–3F8h)
- 4 status LEDs for monitoring
- Compact 132 × 100 mm PCB design
- Industrial-grade reliability and long-term support
The AX4285B+ exemplifies Axiom’s commitment to providing high-quality, configurable, and durable communication hardware for industrial and embedded computing applications.
No manuals/catalogs available.
No accessories available.
