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- Dual Independent Serial Ports: Two fully independent RS-422/RS-485 ports for simultaneous communication.
- Optical Isolation: 2 kV isolation between the board and connected devices to protect against voltage surges and ground loops.
- High-Speed UARTs: Equipped with two TI550C UARTs supporting baud rates from 50 bps to 921.6 kbps, ensuring reliable high-speed data transfer.
- Custom ASIC Design: Moxa’s proprietary ASIC reduces component count, minimizes board size, and enhances reliability.
- Software-Configurable Hardware: No jumpers or DIP switches; all I/O addresses and IRQs are configured via software utility (Io-irq.exe).
- EEPROM Configuration Storage: On-board EEPROM retains configuration data, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration.
- Flexible Communication Modes: Supports RS-422 point-to-point and broadcast modes, and RS-485 point-to-point or multidrop, in both half- and full-duplex configurations.
- Comprehensive OS Support: Compatible with DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT, Linux, QNX, SCO UNIX/XENIX/OpenServer, OS/2, and FreeBSD.
- Driver Support: Moxa provides dedicated drivers for DOS, Windows 95, and Windows NT for optimal performance.
- Compact Half-Size ISA Board: Designed for 16-bit ISA bus architecture, compatible with EISA systems.
- High Reliability: Industrial-grade design with opto-isolation and surge protection (in related models).
- Diagnostic and Development Tools: Bundled with Moxa’s PComm and API-232 libraries for application development and diagnostics.
- Optical Isolation: 2 kV isolation between the board and connected devices to protect against voltage surges and ground loops.
- High-Speed UARTs: Equipped with two TI550C UARTs supporting baud rates from 50 bps to 921.6 kbps, ensuring reliable high-speed data transfer.
- Custom ASIC Design: Moxa’s proprietary ASIC reduces component count, minimizes board size, and enhances reliability.
- Software-Configurable Hardware: No jumpers or DIP switches; all I/O addresses and IRQs are configured via software utility (Io-irq.exe).
- EEPROM Configuration Storage: On-board EEPROM retains configuration data, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration.
- Flexible Communication Modes: Supports RS-422 point-to-point and broadcast modes, and RS-485 point-to-point or multidrop, in both half- and full-duplex configurations.
- Comprehensive OS Support: Compatible with DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT, Linux, QNX, SCO UNIX/XENIX/OpenServer, OS/2, and FreeBSD.
- Driver Support: Moxa provides dedicated drivers for DOS, Windows 95, and Windows NT for optimal performance.
- Compact Half-Size ISA Board: Designed for 16-bit ISA bus architecture, compatible with EISA systems.
- High Reliability: Industrial-grade design with opto-isolation and surge protection (in related models).
- Diagnostic and Development Tools: Bundled with Moxa’s PComm and API-232 libraries for application development and diagnostics.
1. Product Overview
Product Name: C102HI
Model: C102HI
Series: C102 Family – Universal RS-422/RS-485 Multiport Serial Boards
Article Number: C102HI
Manufacturer: Moxa Technologies Co., Ltd.
The Moxa C102HI is a dual-port, optically isolated RS-422/RS-485 asynchronous serial communication board designed for industrial and embedded PC applications. It belongs to the C102 Family, a series of high-performance multiport serial boards built with Moxa’s proprietary ASIC technology. The C102HI provides two independent serial ports supporting both RS-422 and RS-485 standards, with full- and half-duplex operation modes. It integrates high-speed TI550C UARTs, supports data rates up to 921.6 kbps, and includes 2 kV optical isolation for robust protection in electrically noisy environments.
2. Key Features
- Dual Independent Serial Ports: Two fully independent RS-422/RS-485 ports for simultaneous communication.
- Optical Isolation: 2 kV isolation between the board and connected devices to protect against voltage surges and ground loops.
- High-Speed UARTs: Equipped with two TI550C UARTs supporting baud rates from 50 bps to 921.6 kbps, ensuring reliable high-speed data transfer.
- Custom ASIC Design: Moxa’s proprietary ASIC reduces component count, minimizes board size, and enhances reliability.
- Software-Configurable Hardware: No jumpers or DIP switches; all I/O addresses and IRQs are configured via software utility (Io-irq.exe).
- EEPROM Configuration Storage: On-board EEPROM retains configuration data, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration.
- Flexible Communication Modes: Supports RS-422 point-to-point and broadcast modes, and RS-485 point-to-point or multidrop, in both half- and full-duplex configurations.
- Comprehensive OS Support: Compatible with DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT, Linux, QNX, SCO UNIX/XENIX/OpenServer, OS/2, and FreeBSD.
- Driver Support: Moxa provides dedicated drivers for DOS, Windows 95, and Windows NT for optimal performance.
- Compact Half-Size ISA Board: Designed for 16-bit ISA bus architecture, compatible with EISA systems.
- High Reliability: Industrial-grade design with opto-isolation and surge protection (in related models).
- Diagnostic and Development Tools: Bundled with Moxa’s PComm and API-232 libraries for application development and diagnostics.
3. Technical Specifications
- Bus Interface: 16-bit ISA (EISA compatible)
- Number of Ports: 2 independent RS-422/RS-485 ports
- I/O Address Range: 0x0000 – 0xFFFF (software selectable)
- IRQ Options: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, 15 (software selectable)
- UART Type: 2 × TI550C (16550C compatible)
- Baud Rate: 50 bps to 921.6 kbps
- Data Bits: 5, 6, 7, 8
- Stop Bits: 1, 1.5, 2
- Parity: None, Even, Odd, Space, Mark
- Connectors: 2 × DB9 male
- Signal Lines: TxDA, TxDB, RxDA, RxDB, RTSA, RTSB, CTSA, CTSB, GND
- Optical Isolation: Up to 2000 V (C102HI, C102HIS models)
- Surge Protection: Up to 2000 V (C102HIS model only)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C
- Power Requirements: +5 V DC, 750 mA maximum
- Dimensions: 157 mm × 105 mm (15.7 cm × 10.5 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 150 g (typical for half-size ISA board)
4. Functionality
The C102HI provides two asynchronous serial communication ports that can be configured for RS-422 or RS-485 operation. Each port operates independently, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple devices.
RS-422 Mode:
- Supports point-to-point full-duplex and broadcast configurations.
- Ideal for long-distance (up to 4000 ft) high-speed communication with up to 10 receivers per driver.
RS-485 Mode:
- Supports point-to-point and multidrop configurations.
- Allows up to 32 drivers and 32 receivers on a single bus.
- Operates in half- or full-duplex modes with selectable echo or non-echo operation.
Control Modes:
- Tx Enable / Rx Enable: Configurable as “Always On,” “By Register,” or “By RTS” for flexible control of transmission and reception.
- Interrupt Vector Support: Optional interrupt vector mode for improved performance over polling.
Compatibility:
- Fully compatible with COM1–COM4 addressing schemes.
- Works with standard serial communication software and Moxa’s proprietary drivers.
Applications:
- Industrial automation and control systems
- Data acquisition and monitoring
- Remote terminal communication
- SCADA and telemetry systems
- Embedded PC-based control systems
5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
1. C102HI dual-port RS-422/RS-485 board
2. User’s Manual
3. Driver diskettes for DOS, Windows 95, and Windows NT
Optional Accessories:
- RS-422/485 connection cables (DB9 to terminal block or DB9 to DB9)
- External surge protection modules (for additional protection beyond built-in isolation)
- Moxa PComm software package (included with Windows drivers)
- API-232 library for DOS development
Connectors:
- Two DB9 male connectors with the following pin assignments:
1. TxDA
2. TxDB
3. RxDB
4. RxDA
5. GND
6. RTSA
7. RTSB
8. CTSB
9. CTSA
6. Installation & Setup
Hardware Installation:
1. Power off the PC and insert the C102HI into an available 16-bit ISA slot.
2. Ensure JP1 jumper is open (default). If CAP address is unknown, short JP1 to force CAP = 0xA700.
3. Power on the PC and boot into DOS.
4. Run the configuration utility Io-irq.exe from the driver diskette.
Software Configuration (Io-irq.exe):
- Configure I/O address, IRQ, and interrupt vector.
- Select normal or high-speed operation (up to 921.6 kbps).
- Set Tx/Rx enable modes for RS-422 or RS-485 operation.
- Store configuration in on-board EEPROM.
Default Factory Settings:
- I/O Address: 0x180 (Port 1), 0x188 (Port 2)
- IRQ: 10
- INT Vector: 0x1C0
- CAP Address: 0x180
Driver Installation:
- Windows NT: Install via Control Panel → Network → Adapters → Add → Have Disk → Select “MOXA C102/C104/C168 Family Adapter.”
- Windows 95: Run Setup95.exe and configure via “MOXA C102_C104_C168 Configuration Panel.”
- DOS: Install API-232 driver using DOSINST.EXE, configure with SETUP.EXE, and load driver SER-DRV.EXE.
Multiple Board Installation:
Up to four C102-family boards can be installed in one system, provided unique I/O addresses and IRQs are assigned.
7. Performance & Capabilities
- Data Rate: 50 bps to 921.6 kbps (high-speed mode)
- Transmission Distance: Up to 4000 ft (RS-422/485 differential signaling)
- Throughput: Supports high-speed, low-latency communication for industrial data exchange.
- FIFO Buffering: 16-byte FIFO per UART for efficient data handling.
- Flow Control: Hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) supported.
- Duplex Modes: Full-duplex and half-duplex operation selectable per port.
- Isolation: 2 kV optical isolation ensures reliable operation in high-noise environments.
- Power Efficiency: Consumes up to 750 mA at +5 V, suitable for industrial PCs.
- Limitations: Requires ISA slot; not compatible with PCI-only systems.
8. Standards & Compliance
- Electrical Standards:
- RS-422 (EIA-422) differential signaling
- RS-485 (EIA-485) differential signaling
- Bus Interface: ISA (Industry Standard Architecture), EISA compatible
- Isolation Rating: 2 kV optical isolation (IEC 61010-1 equivalent)
- Surge Protection: Up to 2 kV (C102HIS model)
- Operating Environment: 0°C to 55°C, suitable for industrial environments
- Regulatory Compliance: Designed to meet CE and FCC Class A industrial standards (typical for Moxa industrial boards)
- Software Standards: Compatible with standard serial communication APIs and Microsoft Win32 COMM API
9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Moxa provides a standard limited hardware warranty (typically 3 years) covering manufacturing defects and hardware failures under normal use.
Technical Support:
- Email: support@moxa.com.tw
- Website: [www.moxa.com](http://www.moxa.com)
- FTP Site: ftp.moxa.com (User ID: ftp, Password: your_email_address)
- Regional Support: Moxa Technologies Co., Ltd. (Taiwan) and Moxa Tech USA (California).
Maintenance:
- Periodically inspect connectors and cables for wear or corrosion.
- Ensure proper grounding and shielding in industrial environments.
- Firmware and driver updates available via Moxa’s FTP and web portals.
Software Tools:
- PComm: Windows-based communication library and utilities for diagnostics, monitoring, and programming.
- API-232: DOS-based communication library supporting C, Pascal, BASIC, Assembly, and Clipper.
- Utilities: Diagnostic, Monitor, and Data Scope tools for testing and debugging serial communication.
Driver Updates:
- Updated drivers for Windows NT/95, Linux, and other OSes are available from Moxa’s FTP site.
- Supports automatic configuration and COM port mapping under Windows.
Troubleshooting Highlights:
- If board not detected, verify I/O address and IRQ settings.
- Use JP1 jumper to recover CAP address (forces CAP = 0xA700).
- Check cable wiring for RS-422/485 standards.
- Ensure no resource conflicts with other ISA devices.
Summary
The Moxa C102HI is a robust, high-performance dual-port RS-422/RS-485 serial communication board engineered for industrial and embedded PC applications. It combines high-speed TI550C UARTs, 2 kV optical isolation, and flexible software configuration in a compact half-size ISA form factor. With support for multiple operating systems, comprehensive driver packages, and advanced diagnostic tools, the C102HI delivers reliable, noise-immune, and high-speed serial connectivity for demanding industrial environments.
Its software-configurable architecture, EEPROM-based configuration storage, and compatibility with standard COM port addressing make it an ideal solution for system integrators and developers requiring stable, long-distance serial communication in automation, control, and data acquisition systems.
Product Name: C102HI
Model: C102HI
Series: C102 Family – Universal RS-422/RS-485 Multiport Serial Boards
Article Number: C102HI
Manufacturer: Moxa Technologies Co., Ltd.
The Moxa C102HI is a dual-port, optically isolated RS-422/RS-485 asynchronous serial communication board designed for industrial and embedded PC applications. It belongs to the C102 Family, a series of high-performance multiport serial boards built with Moxa’s proprietary ASIC technology. The C102HI provides two independent serial ports supporting both RS-422 and RS-485 standards, with full- and half-duplex operation modes. It integrates high-speed TI550C UARTs, supports data rates up to 921.6 kbps, and includes 2 kV optical isolation for robust protection in electrically noisy environments.
2. Key Features
- Dual Independent Serial Ports: Two fully independent RS-422/RS-485 ports for simultaneous communication.
- Optical Isolation: 2 kV isolation between the board and connected devices to protect against voltage surges and ground loops.
- High-Speed UARTs: Equipped with two TI550C UARTs supporting baud rates from 50 bps to 921.6 kbps, ensuring reliable high-speed data transfer.
- Custom ASIC Design: Moxa’s proprietary ASIC reduces component count, minimizes board size, and enhances reliability.
- Software-Configurable Hardware: No jumpers or DIP switches; all I/O addresses and IRQs are configured via software utility (Io-irq.exe).
- EEPROM Configuration Storage: On-board EEPROM retains configuration data, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration.
- Flexible Communication Modes: Supports RS-422 point-to-point and broadcast modes, and RS-485 point-to-point or multidrop, in both half- and full-duplex configurations.
- Comprehensive OS Support: Compatible with DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT, Linux, QNX, SCO UNIX/XENIX/OpenServer, OS/2, and FreeBSD.
- Driver Support: Moxa provides dedicated drivers for DOS, Windows 95, and Windows NT for optimal performance.
- Compact Half-Size ISA Board: Designed for 16-bit ISA bus architecture, compatible with EISA systems.
- High Reliability: Industrial-grade design with opto-isolation and surge protection (in related models).
- Diagnostic and Development Tools: Bundled with Moxa’s PComm and API-232 libraries for application development and diagnostics.
3. Technical Specifications
- Bus Interface: 16-bit ISA (EISA compatible)
- Number of Ports: 2 independent RS-422/RS-485 ports
- I/O Address Range: 0x0000 – 0xFFFF (software selectable)
- IRQ Options: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, 15 (software selectable)
- UART Type: 2 × TI550C (16550C compatible)
- Baud Rate: 50 bps to 921.6 kbps
- Data Bits: 5, 6, 7, 8
- Stop Bits: 1, 1.5, 2
- Parity: None, Even, Odd, Space, Mark
- Connectors: 2 × DB9 male
- Signal Lines: TxDA, TxDB, RxDA, RxDB, RTSA, RTSB, CTSA, CTSB, GND
- Optical Isolation: Up to 2000 V (C102HI, C102HIS models)
- Surge Protection: Up to 2000 V (C102HIS model only)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C
- Power Requirements: +5 V DC, 750 mA maximum
- Dimensions: 157 mm × 105 mm (15.7 cm × 10.5 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 150 g (typical for half-size ISA board)
4. Functionality
The C102HI provides two asynchronous serial communication ports that can be configured for RS-422 or RS-485 operation. Each port operates independently, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple devices.
RS-422 Mode:
- Supports point-to-point full-duplex and broadcast configurations.
- Ideal for long-distance (up to 4000 ft) high-speed communication with up to 10 receivers per driver.
RS-485 Mode:
- Supports point-to-point and multidrop configurations.
- Allows up to 32 drivers and 32 receivers on a single bus.
- Operates in half- or full-duplex modes with selectable echo or non-echo operation.
Control Modes:
- Tx Enable / Rx Enable: Configurable as “Always On,” “By Register,” or “By RTS” for flexible control of transmission and reception.
- Interrupt Vector Support: Optional interrupt vector mode for improved performance over polling.
Compatibility:
- Fully compatible with COM1–COM4 addressing schemes.
- Works with standard serial communication software and Moxa’s proprietary drivers.
Applications:
- Industrial automation and control systems
- Data acquisition and monitoring
- Remote terminal communication
- SCADA and telemetry systems
- Embedded PC-based control systems
5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
1. C102HI dual-port RS-422/RS-485 board
2. User’s Manual
3. Driver diskettes for DOS, Windows 95, and Windows NT
Optional Accessories:
- RS-422/485 connection cables (DB9 to terminal block or DB9 to DB9)
- External surge protection modules (for additional protection beyond built-in isolation)
- Moxa PComm software package (included with Windows drivers)
- API-232 library for DOS development
Connectors:
- Two DB9 male connectors with the following pin assignments:
1. TxDA
2. TxDB
3. RxDB
4. RxDA
5. GND
6. RTSA
7. RTSB
8. CTSB
9. CTSA
6. Installation & Setup
Hardware Installation:
1. Power off the PC and insert the C102HI into an available 16-bit ISA slot.
2. Ensure JP1 jumper is open (default). If CAP address is unknown, short JP1 to force CAP = 0xA700.
3. Power on the PC and boot into DOS.
4. Run the configuration utility Io-irq.exe from the driver diskette.
Software Configuration (Io-irq.exe):
- Configure I/O address, IRQ, and interrupt vector.
- Select normal or high-speed operation (up to 921.6 kbps).
- Set Tx/Rx enable modes for RS-422 or RS-485 operation.
- Store configuration in on-board EEPROM.
Default Factory Settings:
- I/O Address: 0x180 (Port 1), 0x188 (Port 2)
- IRQ: 10
- INT Vector: 0x1C0
- CAP Address: 0x180
Driver Installation:
- Windows NT: Install via Control Panel → Network → Adapters → Add → Have Disk → Select “MOXA C102/C104/C168 Family Adapter.”
- Windows 95: Run Setup95.exe and configure via “MOXA C102_C104_C168 Configuration Panel.”
- DOS: Install API-232 driver using DOSINST.EXE, configure with SETUP.EXE, and load driver SER-DRV.EXE.
Multiple Board Installation:
Up to four C102-family boards can be installed in one system, provided unique I/O addresses and IRQs are assigned.
7. Performance & Capabilities
- Data Rate: 50 bps to 921.6 kbps (high-speed mode)
- Transmission Distance: Up to 4000 ft (RS-422/485 differential signaling)
- Throughput: Supports high-speed, low-latency communication for industrial data exchange.
- FIFO Buffering: 16-byte FIFO per UART for efficient data handling.
- Flow Control: Hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) supported.
- Duplex Modes: Full-duplex and half-duplex operation selectable per port.
- Isolation: 2 kV optical isolation ensures reliable operation in high-noise environments.
- Power Efficiency: Consumes up to 750 mA at +5 V, suitable for industrial PCs.
- Limitations: Requires ISA slot; not compatible with PCI-only systems.
8. Standards & Compliance
- Electrical Standards:
- RS-422 (EIA-422) differential signaling
- RS-485 (EIA-485) differential signaling
- Bus Interface: ISA (Industry Standard Architecture), EISA compatible
- Isolation Rating: 2 kV optical isolation (IEC 61010-1 equivalent)
- Surge Protection: Up to 2 kV (C102HIS model)
- Operating Environment: 0°C to 55°C, suitable for industrial environments
- Regulatory Compliance: Designed to meet CE and FCC Class A industrial standards (typical for Moxa industrial boards)
- Software Standards: Compatible with standard serial communication APIs and Microsoft Win32 COMM API
9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Moxa provides a standard limited hardware warranty (typically 3 years) covering manufacturing defects and hardware failures under normal use.
Technical Support:
- Email: support@moxa.com.tw
- Website: [www.moxa.com](http://www.moxa.com)
- FTP Site: ftp.moxa.com (User ID: ftp, Password: your_email_address)
- Regional Support: Moxa Technologies Co., Ltd. (Taiwan) and Moxa Tech USA (California).
Maintenance:
- Periodically inspect connectors and cables for wear or corrosion.
- Ensure proper grounding and shielding in industrial environments.
- Firmware and driver updates available via Moxa’s FTP and web portals.
Software Tools:
- PComm: Windows-based communication library and utilities for diagnostics, monitoring, and programming.
- API-232: DOS-based communication library supporting C, Pascal, BASIC, Assembly, and Clipper.
- Utilities: Diagnostic, Monitor, and Data Scope tools for testing and debugging serial communication.
Driver Updates:
- Updated drivers for Windows NT/95, Linux, and other OSes are available from Moxa’s FTP site.
- Supports automatic configuration and COM port mapping under Windows.
Troubleshooting Highlights:
- If board not detected, verify I/O address and IRQ settings.
- Use JP1 jumper to recover CAP address (forces CAP = 0xA700).
- Check cable wiring for RS-422/485 standards.
- Ensure no resource conflicts with other ISA devices.
Summary
The Moxa C102HI is a robust, high-performance dual-port RS-422/RS-485 serial communication board engineered for industrial and embedded PC applications. It combines high-speed TI550C UARTs, 2 kV optical isolation, and flexible software configuration in a compact half-size ISA form factor. With support for multiple operating systems, comprehensive driver packages, and advanced diagnostic tools, the C102HI delivers reliable, noise-immune, and high-speed serial connectivity for demanding industrial environments.
Its software-configurable architecture, EEPROM-based configuration storage, and compatibility with standard COM port addressing make it an ideal solution for system integrators and developers requiring stable, long-distance serial communication in automation, control, and data acquisition systems.
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C102.pdf
Manual
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