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- Four Independent RS-232 Ports: Provides four fully functional RS-232 serial interfaces for connecting multiple serial devices simultaneously.
- PCI Express x1 Interface: Fully compliant with PCI Express x1 specifications, ensuring compatibility with any PCIe slot (x1, x4, x8, x16).
- High-Speed Data Transmission: Supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 921.6 Kbps for fast and stable data communication.
- Turbo Serial Engine™ Technology: Incorporates Moxa’s proprietary high-performance serial communication chip (MU860) with 128-byte FIFO for optimized throughput and reduced CPU load.
- Comprehensive Flow Control: Supports both hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) flow control for reliable data transfer.
- Full Modem Control Signals: Ensures compatibility with a wide range of serial peripherals and legacy equipment.
- Low Profile Form Factor: Compact 67.21 x 100 mm design suitable for small form factor PCs and embedded systems.
- 15 kV ESD Protection: On-board electrostatic discharge protection safeguards the board and connected devices from electrical surges.
- LED Indicators: On-board transmit (red) and receive (green) LEDs for easy monitoring and maintenance.
- Wide OS Support: Drivers available for Windows, Linux, Unix, DOS, and embedded operating systems.
- Flexible Cable Options: Includes DB44-to-DB9 or DB44-to-DB25 breakout cables for versatile connectivity.
- Long-Term Reliability: Backed by a 5-year manufacturer warranty and Moxa’s industrial-grade quality assurance.
- PCI Express x1 Interface: Fully compliant with PCI Express x1 specifications, ensuring compatibility with any PCIe slot (x1, x4, x8, x16).
- High-Speed Data Transmission: Supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 921.6 Kbps for fast and stable data communication.
- Turbo Serial Engine™ Technology: Incorporates Moxa’s proprietary high-performance serial communication chip (MU860) with 128-byte FIFO for optimized throughput and reduced CPU load.
- Comprehensive Flow Control: Supports both hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) flow control for reliable data transfer.
- Full Modem Control Signals: Ensures compatibility with a wide range of serial peripherals and legacy equipment.
- Low Profile Form Factor: Compact 67.21 x 100 mm design suitable for small form factor PCs and embedded systems.
- 15 kV ESD Protection: On-board electrostatic discharge protection safeguards the board and connected devices from electrical surges.
- LED Indicators: On-board transmit (red) and receive (green) LEDs for easy monitoring and maintenance.
- Wide OS Support: Drivers available for Windows, Linux, Unix, DOS, and embedded operating systems.
- Flexible Cable Options: Includes DB44-to-DB9 or DB44-to-DB25 breakout cables for versatile connectivity.
- Long-Term Reliability: Backed by a 5-year manufacturer warranty and Moxa’s industrial-grade quality assurance.
Comprehensive Product Summary: Moxa CP-104EL 4-Port RS-232 PCI Express Serial Board
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: CP-104EL
Model: CP-104EL
Series: PCI Express Serial Communication Boards
Article Number: CP-104EL
Manufacturer: Moxa Inc.
Product Type: 4-Port RS-232 PCI Express Serial Board (Low Profile)
Product Category: Serial Expansion and Extension Solutions
The Moxa CP-104EL is a high-performance, low-profile PCI Express serial communication board designed to provide four independent RS-232 serial ports for industrial and commercial applications. It is engineered for use in compact PCs, embedded systems, and automation environments where reliable serial connectivity and high data throughput are essential. The board is part of Moxa’s extensive line of serial expansion solutions and integrates advanced hardware design with broad operating system support.
### 2. Key Features
- Four Independent RS-232 Ports: Provides four fully functional RS-232 serial interfaces for connecting multiple serial devices simultaneously.
- PCI Express x1 Interface: Fully compliant with PCI Express x1 specifications, ensuring compatibility with any PCIe slot (x1, x4, x8, x16).
- High-Speed Data Transmission: Supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 921.6 Kbps for fast and stable data communication.
- Turbo Serial Engine™ Technology: Incorporates Moxa’s proprietary high-performance serial communication chip (MU860) with 128-byte FIFO for optimized throughput and reduced CPU load.
- Comprehensive Flow Control: Supports both hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) flow control for reliable data transfer.
- Full Modem Control Signals: Ensures compatibility with a wide range of serial peripherals and legacy equipment.
- Low Profile Form Factor: Compact 67.21 x 100 mm design suitable for small form factor PCs and embedded systems.
- 15 kV ESD Protection: On-board electrostatic discharge protection safeguards the board and connected devices from electrical surges.
- LED Indicators: On-board transmit (red) and receive (green) LEDs for easy monitoring and maintenance.
- Wide OS Support: Drivers available for Windows, Linux, Unix, DOS, and embedded operating systems.
- Flexible Cable Options: Includes DB44-to-DB9 or DB44-to-DB25 breakout cables for versatile connectivity.
- Long-Term Reliability: Backed by a 5-year manufacturer warranty and Moxa’s industrial-grade quality assurance.
### 3. Technical Specifications
Hardware Specifications
- Communication Controller: MU860 (16C550C compatible)
- Bus Interface: PCI Express x1
- Connector Type: DB44 female on board
- Number of Ports: 4 independent RS-232 ports
- Maximum Boards per PC: 4
Serial Interface
- Serial Standard: RS-232
- Baud Rate Range: 50 bps to 921.6 Kbps
- Data Bits: 5, 6, 7, 8
- Stop Bits: 1, 1.5, 2
- Parity Options: None, Even, Odd, Space, Mark
- Flow Control: RTS/CTS (hardware), XON/XOFF (software)
- RS-232 Signals: TxD, RxD, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR, DCD, GND
Physical Characteristics
- Dimensions: 67.21 x 100 mm (2.65 x 3.94 in)
- Form Factor: Low profile PCI Express card
- Weight: Approximately 65 g (typical, without cable)
- Connector Cable: 0.3 m DB44 male to 4 x DB9 male (DB25 optional)
Power Requirements
- Power Supply: 3.3 VDC (from PCIe bus)
- Power Consumption: 430 mA @ 3.3 V
Environmental Limits
- Operating Temperature: 0 to 55°C (32 to 131°F)
- Storage Temperature: -20 to 85°C (-4 to 185°F)
- Operating Humidity: 5% to 95% RH (non-condensing)
Serial Line Protection
- ESD Protection: 15 kV on-board protection
### 4. Functionality
The CP-104EL functions as a four-port serial expansion board that adds RS-232 connectivity to any system equipped with a PCI Express slot. It is ideal for connecting serial-based devices such as POS terminals, ATMs, barcode scanners, industrial controllers, and instrumentation equipment.
How It Works:
Once installed in a PCI Express slot, the CP-104EL enumerates as four independent COM ports within the host operating system. Each port operates independently, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple serial devices. The MU860 controller manages data buffering and flow control, ensuring efficient data transfer with minimal CPU overhead.
Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial Automation: Communication with PLCs, sensors, and control systems.
- Retail and POS Systems: Integration with barcode readers, receipt printers, and cash drawers.
- Banking and Financial Systems: ATM and kiosk serial device connectivity.
- Embedded Systems: Reliable serial communication for compact or fanless PCs.
- Test and Measurement: Interface for serial instruments and data acquisition systems.
Compatibility:
The CP-104EL is compatible with any system supporting PCI Express slots and can coexist with other Moxa serial boards. It supports up to four boards per PC, providing up to 16 serial ports in a single system.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Items (Package Checklist):
- CP-104EL PCI Express serial board
- DB9-M or DB25-M connection cable (0.3 m, DB44 male to 4 x DB9 or DB25 male)
- Standard bracket and low-profile bracket
- Documentation and Software CD (drivers and utilities)
- Quick Installation Guide (printed)
- Warranty Card
Optional Accessories (Sold Separately):
- CBL-M44M9x4-50: DB44 male to 4 x DB9 male, 50 cm cable
- CBL-M44M25x4-50: DB44 male to 4 x DB25 male, 50 cm cable
Connectors and Pin Assignments:
- DB9 Male Pinout:
1: DCD, 2: RxD, 3: TxD, 4: DTR, 5: GND, 6: DSR, 7: RTS, 8: CTS, 9: (N/A)
- DB25 Male Pinout:
2: TxD, 3: RxD, 4: RTS, 5: CTS, 6: DSR, 7: GND, 8: DCD, 20: DTR
LED Indicators:
- Red LED: Transmit activity
- Green LED: Receive activity
### 6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- Available PCI Express slot (x1 or higher)
- Supported operating system (Windows, Linux, Unix, DOS, or embedded OS)
- Administrative privileges for driver installation
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the host computer and remove the cover.
2. Insert the CP-104EL board into an available PCI Express slot.
3. Secure the board using the provided bracket (standard or low-profile).
4. Connect the DB44 breakout cable to the board’s connector.
5. Attach serial devices to the DB9 or DB25 connectors.
6. Power on the system and install the appropriate drivers from the included CD or Moxa’s website.
7. Verify COM port installation via the operating system’s device manager or terminal utility.
Configuration:
- COM port numbers can be assigned automatically or manually.
- Baud rate, parity, and flow control settings are configurable via software.
- Multiple boards can be installed; each board is automatically detected and enumerated.
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
Data Throughput:
The CP-104EL supports baud rates up to 921.6 Kbps, enabling high-speed data exchange suitable for demanding industrial and commercial applications.
FIFO Buffering:
Each port features a 128-byte FIFO buffer, reducing CPU load and ensuring smooth data flow even under heavy communication loads.
Flow Control and Reliability:
Hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) flow control mechanisms prevent data loss and ensure synchronization between devices.
Capacity and Scalability:
Up to four CP-104EL boards can be installed in a single system, providing a total of 16 RS-232 ports.
Efficiency:
The Turbo Serial Engine™ architecture optimizes data handling, minimizing latency and maximizing throughput.
Limitations:
- RS-232 only (no RS-422/485 support).
- Operating temperature limited to 0–55°C; not suitable for extreme environments without enclosure protection.
### 8. Standards & Compliance
Regulatory Approvals:
- FCC: Part 15 Class B (for electromagnetic compatibility)
- CE/EMS Compliance:
- EN55022, EN55024
- EN61000-3-2, EN61000-3-3
- EN61000-6-2, EN61000-6-4
- IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD)
- IEC 61000-4-3 (Radiated Immunity)
- IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT/Burst)
- IEC 61000-4-5 (Surge)
- IEC 61000-4-6 (Conducted Immunity)
- IEC 61000-4-8 (Magnetic Field Immunity)
- IEC 61000-4-11 (Voltage Dips and Interruptions)
Industry Standards:
- PCI Express Base Specification compliant
- RS-232 serial communication standard compliant
- RoHS compliant (lead-free manufacturing)
Operating System Driver Support:
- Windows: 2000, XP, 2003, Vista, 2008 (x86/x64)
- Windows Embedded: CE 5.0/6.0, XP Embedded, WEPOS
- DOS: Supported
- Linux: Kernel 2.4 and 2.6 (x86/x64)
- FreeBSD: Versions 4 and 5
- QNX: Version 6
- SCO OpenServer: Versions 5 and 6
- UnixWare: Version 7
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
- Duration: 5 years
- Coverage: Manufacturing defects and hardware failures under normal operating conditions
- Details: Refer to Moxa’s official warranty policy at [www.moxa.com/warranty](https://www.moxa.com/warranty)
Support & Maintenance:
- Comprehensive driver and utility support available online.
- Firmware and driver updates provided through Moxa’s support portal.
- Technical documentation, FAQs, and installation guides accessible via Moxa’s website.
Maintenance Recommendations:
- Periodically inspect connectors and cables for wear or damage.
- Ensure proper grounding to maintain ESD protection effectiveness.
- Keep firmware and drivers updated for optimal performance and compatibility.
Ordering Information:
- CP-104EL-DB9M: 4-port RS-232 PCI Express x1 low-profile serial board with DB9 male cable
- CP-104EL-DB25M: 4-port RS-232 PCI Express x1 low-profile serial board with DB25 male cable
Manufacturer Contact:
Moxa Inc.
Website: [www.moxa.com](https://www.moxa.com)
Email: info@moxa.com
### Summary
The Moxa CP-104EL is a robust, industrial-grade 4-port RS-232 PCI Express serial board engineered for high-speed, reliable serial communication in compact and embedded systems. Its low-profile design, advanced Turbo Serial Engine™ technology, and comprehensive OS support make it an ideal solution for industrial automation, POS, and embedded computing environments. With 15 kV ESD protection, 128-byte FIFO buffering, and a 5-year warranty, the CP-104EL delivers exceptional performance, durability, and long-term value for system integrators and industrial engineers seeking dependable serial connectivity.
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: CP-104EL
Model: CP-104EL
Series: PCI Express Serial Communication Boards
Article Number: CP-104EL
Manufacturer: Moxa Inc.
Product Type: 4-Port RS-232 PCI Express Serial Board (Low Profile)
Product Category: Serial Expansion and Extension Solutions
The Moxa CP-104EL is a high-performance, low-profile PCI Express serial communication board designed to provide four independent RS-232 serial ports for industrial and commercial applications. It is engineered for use in compact PCs, embedded systems, and automation environments where reliable serial connectivity and high data throughput are essential. The board is part of Moxa’s extensive line of serial expansion solutions and integrates advanced hardware design with broad operating system support.
### 2. Key Features
- Four Independent RS-232 Ports: Provides four fully functional RS-232 serial interfaces for connecting multiple serial devices simultaneously.
- PCI Express x1 Interface: Fully compliant with PCI Express x1 specifications, ensuring compatibility with any PCIe slot (x1, x4, x8, x16).
- High-Speed Data Transmission: Supports baud rates from 50 bps up to 921.6 Kbps for fast and stable data communication.
- Turbo Serial Engine™ Technology: Incorporates Moxa’s proprietary high-performance serial communication chip (MU860) with 128-byte FIFO for optimized throughput and reduced CPU load.
- Comprehensive Flow Control: Supports both hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) flow control for reliable data transfer.
- Full Modem Control Signals: Ensures compatibility with a wide range of serial peripherals and legacy equipment.
- Low Profile Form Factor: Compact 67.21 x 100 mm design suitable for small form factor PCs and embedded systems.
- 15 kV ESD Protection: On-board electrostatic discharge protection safeguards the board and connected devices from electrical surges.
- LED Indicators: On-board transmit (red) and receive (green) LEDs for easy monitoring and maintenance.
- Wide OS Support: Drivers available for Windows, Linux, Unix, DOS, and embedded operating systems.
- Flexible Cable Options: Includes DB44-to-DB9 or DB44-to-DB25 breakout cables for versatile connectivity.
- Long-Term Reliability: Backed by a 5-year manufacturer warranty and Moxa’s industrial-grade quality assurance.
### 3. Technical Specifications
Hardware Specifications
- Communication Controller: MU860 (16C550C compatible)
- Bus Interface: PCI Express x1
- Connector Type: DB44 female on board
- Number of Ports: 4 independent RS-232 ports
- Maximum Boards per PC: 4
Serial Interface
- Serial Standard: RS-232
- Baud Rate Range: 50 bps to 921.6 Kbps
- Data Bits: 5, 6, 7, 8
- Stop Bits: 1, 1.5, 2
- Parity Options: None, Even, Odd, Space, Mark
- Flow Control: RTS/CTS (hardware), XON/XOFF (software)
- RS-232 Signals: TxD, RxD, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR, DCD, GND
Physical Characteristics
- Dimensions: 67.21 x 100 mm (2.65 x 3.94 in)
- Form Factor: Low profile PCI Express card
- Weight: Approximately 65 g (typical, without cable)
- Connector Cable: 0.3 m DB44 male to 4 x DB9 male (DB25 optional)
Power Requirements
- Power Supply: 3.3 VDC (from PCIe bus)
- Power Consumption: 430 mA @ 3.3 V
Environmental Limits
- Operating Temperature: 0 to 55°C (32 to 131°F)
- Storage Temperature: -20 to 85°C (-4 to 185°F)
- Operating Humidity: 5% to 95% RH (non-condensing)
Serial Line Protection
- ESD Protection: 15 kV on-board protection
### 4. Functionality
The CP-104EL functions as a four-port serial expansion board that adds RS-232 connectivity to any system equipped with a PCI Express slot. It is ideal for connecting serial-based devices such as POS terminals, ATMs, barcode scanners, industrial controllers, and instrumentation equipment.
How It Works:
Once installed in a PCI Express slot, the CP-104EL enumerates as four independent COM ports within the host operating system. Each port operates independently, allowing simultaneous communication with multiple serial devices. The MU860 controller manages data buffering and flow control, ensuring efficient data transfer with minimal CPU overhead.
Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial Automation: Communication with PLCs, sensors, and control systems.
- Retail and POS Systems: Integration with barcode readers, receipt printers, and cash drawers.
- Banking and Financial Systems: ATM and kiosk serial device connectivity.
- Embedded Systems: Reliable serial communication for compact or fanless PCs.
- Test and Measurement: Interface for serial instruments and data acquisition systems.
Compatibility:
The CP-104EL is compatible with any system supporting PCI Express slots and can coexist with other Moxa serial boards. It supports up to four boards per PC, providing up to 16 serial ports in a single system.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Items (Package Checklist):
- CP-104EL PCI Express serial board
- DB9-M or DB25-M connection cable (0.3 m, DB44 male to 4 x DB9 or DB25 male)
- Standard bracket and low-profile bracket
- Documentation and Software CD (drivers and utilities)
- Quick Installation Guide (printed)
- Warranty Card
Optional Accessories (Sold Separately):
- CBL-M44M9x4-50: DB44 male to 4 x DB9 male, 50 cm cable
- CBL-M44M25x4-50: DB44 male to 4 x DB25 male, 50 cm cable
Connectors and Pin Assignments:
- DB9 Male Pinout:
1: DCD, 2: RxD, 3: TxD, 4: DTR, 5: GND, 6: DSR, 7: RTS, 8: CTS, 9: (N/A)
- DB25 Male Pinout:
2: TxD, 3: RxD, 4: RTS, 5: CTS, 6: DSR, 7: GND, 8: DCD, 20: DTR
LED Indicators:
- Red LED: Transmit activity
- Green LED: Receive activity
### 6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- Available PCI Express slot (x1 or higher)
- Supported operating system (Windows, Linux, Unix, DOS, or embedded OS)
- Administrative privileges for driver installation
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the host computer and remove the cover.
2. Insert the CP-104EL board into an available PCI Express slot.
3. Secure the board using the provided bracket (standard or low-profile).
4. Connect the DB44 breakout cable to the board’s connector.
5. Attach serial devices to the DB9 or DB25 connectors.
6. Power on the system and install the appropriate drivers from the included CD or Moxa’s website.
7. Verify COM port installation via the operating system’s device manager or terminal utility.
Configuration:
- COM port numbers can be assigned automatically or manually.
- Baud rate, parity, and flow control settings are configurable via software.
- Multiple boards can be installed; each board is automatically detected and enumerated.
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
Data Throughput:
The CP-104EL supports baud rates up to 921.6 Kbps, enabling high-speed data exchange suitable for demanding industrial and commercial applications.
FIFO Buffering:
Each port features a 128-byte FIFO buffer, reducing CPU load and ensuring smooth data flow even under heavy communication loads.
Flow Control and Reliability:
Hardware (RTS/CTS) and software (XON/XOFF) flow control mechanisms prevent data loss and ensure synchronization between devices.
Capacity and Scalability:
Up to four CP-104EL boards can be installed in a single system, providing a total of 16 RS-232 ports.
Efficiency:
The Turbo Serial Engine™ architecture optimizes data handling, minimizing latency and maximizing throughput.
Limitations:
- RS-232 only (no RS-422/485 support).
- Operating temperature limited to 0–55°C; not suitable for extreme environments without enclosure protection.
### 8. Standards & Compliance
Regulatory Approvals:
- FCC: Part 15 Class B (for electromagnetic compatibility)
- CE/EMS Compliance:
- EN55022, EN55024
- EN61000-3-2, EN61000-3-3
- EN61000-6-2, EN61000-6-4
- IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD)
- IEC 61000-4-3 (Radiated Immunity)
- IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT/Burst)
- IEC 61000-4-5 (Surge)
- IEC 61000-4-6 (Conducted Immunity)
- IEC 61000-4-8 (Magnetic Field Immunity)
- IEC 61000-4-11 (Voltage Dips and Interruptions)
Industry Standards:
- PCI Express Base Specification compliant
- RS-232 serial communication standard compliant
- RoHS compliant (lead-free manufacturing)
Operating System Driver Support:
- Windows: 2000, XP, 2003, Vista, 2008 (x86/x64)
- Windows Embedded: CE 5.0/6.0, XP Embedded, WEPOS
- DOS: Supported
- Linux: Kernel 2.4 and 2.6 (x86/x64)
- FreeBSD: Versions 4 and 5
- QNX: Version 6
- SCO OpenServer: Versions 5 and 6
- UnixWare: Version 7
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
- Duration: 5 years
- Coverage: Manufacturing defects and hardware failures under normal operating conditions
- Details: Refer to Moxa’s official warranty policy at [www.moxa.com/warranty](https://www.moxa.com/warranty)
Support & Maintenance:
- Comprehensive driver and utility support available online.
- Firmware and driver updates provided through Moxa’s support portal.
- Technical documentation, FAQs, and installation guides accessible via Moxa’s website.
Maintenance Recommendations:
- Periodically inspect connectors and cables for wear or damage.
- Ensure proper grounding to maintain ESD protection effectiveness.
- Keep firmware and drivers updated for optimal performance and compatibility.
Ordering Information:
- CP-104EL-DB9M: 4-port RS-232 PCI Express x1 low-profile serial board with DB9 male cable
- CP-104EL-DB25M: 4-port RS-232 PCI Express x1 low-profile serial board with DB25 male cable
Manufacturer Contact:
Moxa Inc.
Website: [www.moxa.com](https://www.moxa.com)
Email: info@moxa.com
### Summary
The Moxa CP-104EL is a robust, industrial-grade 4-port RS-232 PCI Express serial board engineered for high-speed, reliable serial communication in compact and embedded systems. Its low-profile design, advanced Turbo Serial Engine™ technology, and comprehensive OS support make it an ideal solution for industrial automation, POS, and embedded computing environments. With 15 kV ESD protection, 128-byte FIFO buffering, and a 5-year warranty, the CP-104EL delivers exceptional performance, durability, and long-term value for system integrators and industrial engineers seeking dependable serial connectivity.
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CP-104EL.pdf
Manual
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