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ECH(PCI)SF-F2B

Star Fabric PCI expansion 2 slot full size box
1285,00 EUR

including VAT 1,529.15 EUR

  • Manufacturer Contec
  • Category: Bus Extensions
  • The CONTEC ECH(PCI)SF-F2B is a StarFabric-compliant PCI bus expansion chassis designed to extend the PCI bus of a host PC via high-speed serial communication. It provides two full-length PCI slots in a compact, industrial-grade external enclosure. The chassis connects to a host computer through an optional StarFabric expansion adapter (EAD(LPCI)SF or EAD(CB)SF) using Category 5e shielded twisted-pair cables, supporting up to 12 m of separation between the PC and the expansion unit.
- StarFabric-Compliant High-Speed Serial Transfer:
Supports 2.5 Gbps serial communication between host and chassis, enabling stable, long-distance PCI bus extension up to 12 m using Cat 5e STP cables.

- Two Full-Length PCI Slots:
Provides two user-available PCI slots (5 V, 32-bit, 33 MHz) for long-size PCI add-on boards, compliant with PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.2.


- External AC Power Supply:
Includes a 60 W external AC adapter (100–240 VAC input) with automatic power interlocking to synchronize chassis power with the host PC.

- Compact Industrial Design:
Constructed from durable steel with a black finish, measuring 71 (W) × 144 (H) × 360 (D) mm and weighing approximately 1.6 kg. Designed for desktop use in industrial or laboratory environments.

- Integrated Cooling System:
Equipped with a built-in cooling fan to maintain stable thermal performance during continuous operation.

- Plug-and-Play PCI Bus Expansion:
The chassis is automatically recognized by the host system as a PCI-to-PCI bridge, allowing seamless integration without modification of existing PCI software or drivers.

- Power Interlocking Function:
The chassis power automatically turns on/off in synchronization with the host PC’s power state. Manual override is available via a front-panel power switch.

- Noise-Resistant Connectivity:
Uses shielded Category 5e cables to minimize electromagnetic interference, ensuring reliable operation in electrically noisy industrial environments.

- Flexible Adapter Compatibility:
Compatible with multiple host-side expansion adapters:
- EAD(LPCI)SF: for Low Profile or Standard PCI slots
- EAD(CB)SF: for CardBus (PCMCIA) slots

- Safety and Reliability:
Designed for 0–50 °C operating temperature and 20–80 % RH humidity (non-condensing). Includes overcurrent protection and conforms to RoHS environmental standards.

Country of origin: Japan

Customs tariff number: 8473 3080 000

1. Product Overview

Product Name: StarFabric PCI Expansion 2-Slot Full-Size Box
Model: ECH(PCI)SF-F2B
Series: StarFabric-Compliant PCI Bus Expansion Chassis
Article Number: ECH(PCI)SF-F2B
Manufacturer: CONTEC CO., LTD. (Osaka, Japan)

The CONTEC ECH(PCI)SF-F2B is a StarFabric-compliant PCI bus expansion chassis designed to extend the PCI bus of a host PC via high-speed serial communication. It provides two full-length PCI slots in a compact, industrial-grade external enclosure. The chassis connects to a host computer through an optional StarFabric expansion adapter (EAD(LPCI)SF or EAD(CB)SF) using Category 5e shielded twisted-pair cables, supporting up to 12 m of separation between the PC and the expansion unit. This model is part of CONTEC’s industrial automation and measurement control product line, optimized for environments requiring remote PCI bus expansion with high reliability and noise immunity.




2. Key Features

- StarFabric-Compliant High-Speed Serial Transfer:
Supports 2.5 Gbps serial communication between host and chassis, enabling stable, long-distance PCI bus extension up to 12 m using Cat 5e STP cables.

- Two Full-Length PCI Slots:
Provides two user-available PCI slots (5 V, 32-bit, 33 MHz) for long-size PCI add-on boards, compliant with PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.2.

- External AC Power Supply:
Includes a 60 W external AC adapter (100–240 VAC input) with automatic power interlocking to synchronize chassis power with the host PC.

- Compact Industrial Design:
Constructed from durable steel with a black finish, measuring 71 (W) × 144 (H) × 360 (D) mm and weighing approximately 1.6 kg. Designed for desktop use in industrial or laboratory environments.

- Integrated Cooling System:
Equipped with a built-in cooling fan to maintain stable thermal performance during continuous operation.

- Plug-and-Play PCI Bus Expansion:
The chassis is automatically recognized by the host system as a PCI-to-PCI bridge, allowing seamless integration without modification of existing PCI software or drivers.

- Power Interlocking Function:
The chassis power automatically turns on/off in synchronization with the host PC’s power state. Manual override is available via a front-panel power switch.

- Noise-Resistant Connectivity:
Uses shielded Category 5e cables to minimize electromagnetic interference, ensuring reliable operation in electrically noisy industrial environments.

- Flexible Adapter Compatibility:
Compatible with multiple host-side expansion adapters:
- EAD(LPCI)SF: for Low Profile or Standard PCI slots
- EAD(CB)SF: for CardBus (PCMCIA) slots

- Safety and Reliability:
Designed for 0–50 °C operating temperature and 20–80 % RH humidity (non-condensing). Includes overcurrent protection and conforms to RoHS environmental standards.




3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|------------------|
| Bus Standard | PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.2 (+5 V type) |
| Bus Width / Clock | 32-bit, 33 MHz (max.) |
| Address Space | 32-bit memory and I/O addressing |
| Interrupt Levels | INTA–INTD |
| User Slots | 2 × PCI slots (long-size) |
| Acceptable Board Size | 313.8 (L) × 107 (H) mm |
| Power Supply Type | External AC adapter (included) |
| Output Current Limits | +5 V 7 A (max.), +3.3 V 3 A (max.), +12 V 1.5 A (max.), −12 V 0.3 A (max.) |
| Total Power Capacity | 60 W (max.) |
| AC Input Voltage | 100–240 VAC, 47–63 Hz |
| AC Input Current | 2 A @ 90 VAC |
| Operating Temperature | 0–50 °C |
| Operating Humidity | 20–80 % RH (non-condensing) |
| Storage Temperature | 0–60 °C |
| Storage Humidity | 10–90 % RH (non-condensing) |
| Dimensions (Chassis) | 71 (W) × 144 (H) × 360 (D) mm (without rubber feet) |
| Weight (Chassis) | Approx. 1.6 kg |
| AC Adapter Dimensions | 85 (W) × 50 (H) × 155 (L) mm |
| AC Adapter Weight | Approx. 0.9 kg |
| AC Adapter Cable Length | 1.2 m (adapter) + 1.8 m (AC cable) |
| Cooling | Built-in fan |
| Color / Material | Black steel enclosure |
| Compliance | RoHS-compliant |




4. Functionality

The ECH(PCI)SF-F2B functions as an external PCI bus extension unit. It connects to a host PC through a StarFabric expansion adapter, which converts the PCI bus signals into high-speed serial data transmitted over Category 5e cables. The chassis then reconstructs the PCI bus internally, providing two standard PCI slots for peripheral boards.

Operation Principle:
1. The host PC’s expansion adapter (EAD(LPCI)SF or EAD(CB)SF) interfaces with the system’s PCI or CardBus slot.
2. The adapter transmits PCI bus data via two differential serial links (TX/RX) over Cat 5e STP cables to the ECH(PCI)SF-F2B.
3. The chassis’ internal StarFabric switch fabric reconstructs the PCI bus, allowing installed PCI boards to operate as if directly connected to the host.
4. Power interlocking ensures synchronized startup and shutdown with the host PC.

Typical Applications:
- Industrial measurement and control systems requiring remote I/O expansion.
- Test and instrumentation setups where PCI boards must be located away from the host PC.
- Embedded or panel PC systems with limited internal expansion capacity.
- Environments requiring electrical isolation or noise reduction between host and peripheral devices.

Compatibility:
- Supports standard 5 V, 32-bit PCI boards compliant with PCI Rev. 2.2.
- Compatible with Windows XP and Windows 2000 (dedicated driver required for StarFabric bridge recognition).
- Works with CONTEC’s EAD(LPCI)SF and EAD(CB)SF adapters; not compatible with EAD(CB)BE or non-StarFabric adapters.




5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- ECH(PCI)SF-F2B expansion chassis (1 unit)
- AC adapter (60 W, 100–240 VAC input)
- Power cable (1 unit)
- Slot covers (2 pcs)
- Board fixing screws (2 pcs)
- User’s manual

Optional Accessories:
- Expansion Adapters:
- EAD(LPCI)SF (for PCI/Low Profile PCI slots)
- EAD(CB)SF (for CardBus slots)
- Connection Cables:
- Standard: 2 × 12 m Category 5e STP cables (included with adapter)
- Optional lengths: 3 m (TP‑03), 5 m (TP‑05), 10 m (TP‑10) UTP cables (*STP recommended for noisy environments*)

Connectors:
- RJ‑45 × 2 (for TX/RX StarFabric links)
- DC input jack (for AC adapter)
- PCI slot connectors × 2 (inside chassis)




6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- Host PC with available PCI, Low Profile PCI, or CardBus slot.
- Compatible StarFabric expansion adapter (EAD(LPCI)SF or EAD(CB)SF).
- Windows XP or Windows 2000 operating system (driver installation required).

Installation Steps:
1. Preparation:
Ensure both PC and chassis are powered off. Connect the expansion adapter to the host PC.
2. Install PCI Boards:
Remove the chassis cover, insert PCI boards into available slots, and secure with screws.
3. Connect Cables:
Attach the TX/RX RJ‑45 connectors between the adapter and chassis (ensure correct orientation).
4. Connect Power:
Plug the AC adapter into the chassis first, then into a wall outlet. Secure the thumb screw.
5. Power Interlocking Setup:
Verify jumper JP1 on the internal BUS‑PAC(PCI)SF board:
- Pins 2–3 (shorted): Power interlocking ON (factory default)
- Pins 1–2 (shorted): Power interlocking OFF (manual mode)
6. System Startup:
Power on the host PC; the chassis powers on automatically. Confirm that the POWER LED and LINK LEDs (TX/RX) are lit.
7. Driver Installation:
Windows detects the StarFabric bridge as a PCI‑to‑PCI bridge. Install the provided INF file if prompted.
8. Verification:
In Device Manager, confirm two “PCI standard PCI‑to‑PCI bridge” entries under “System devices.”

Mounting & Clearance:
Operate the chassis vertically with at least 20 mm clearance around ventilation openings for proper cooling.




7. Performance & Capabilities

- Bus Performance:
33 MHz (max.) PCI bus clock, 32‑bit data width, supporting standard PCI signaling.
- Transfer Rate:
StarFabric serial link 2.5 Gbps (full‑duplex).
- Distance Capability:
Up to 12 m between host and chassis using Cat 5e STP cables.
- Power Efficiency:
60 W maximum power draw; automatic power synchronization minimizes idle consumption.
- Thermal Management:
Internal fan maintains stable operation within 0–50 °C.
- Limitations:
- Not suitable for video display boards or additional PCI‑to‑PCI bridge boards.
- Certain high‑speed bus‑mastering boards may experience reduced throughput due to bridge latency.
- Cannot daisy‑chain multiple expansion chassis; each requires a dedicated adapter.




8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Compliance: PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.2 (+5 V type)
- Electrical Safety: Designed for 100–240 VAC input, 47–63 Hz, with overcurrent protection.
- Environmental Compliance: RoHS‑compliant (lead‑free construction).
- Operating Environment: 0–50 °C, 20–80 % RH (non‑condensing).
- EMI/EMC: Optimized for industrial noise immunity; use of shielded cables recommended.
- Mechanical Standards: Industrial desktop form factor, steel enclosure with forced‑air cooling.
- Regulatory Notes:
- Power interlocking requires host PCI slots conforming to PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.2.
- Windows XP/2000 driver required for StarFabric bridge recognition.
- Not compatible with EAD(CB)BE or non‑StarFabric adapters.




9. Additional Information

Warranty:
Three‑year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Excludes normal wear, misuse, or damage due to improper handling. Proof of purchase and RMA authorization required for service.

Maintenance:
- Power supply and cooling fan are consumable components with an expected service life of approximately 5 years (at 25 °C, 60 % RH).
- Periodic inspection recommended to ensure ventilation openings remain unobstructed.
- Replace fan or power supply if abnormal noise, overheating, or instability occurs.

Support & Resources:
- Technical documentation, drivers, and updates available at:
- Japanese: [http://www.contec.co.jp](http://www.contec.co.jp)
- English: [http://www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
- Chinese: [http://www.contec.com.cn](http://www.contec.com.cn)
- Customer support provides product manuals, driver downloads, and sample programs.

Service Procedure:
For repair or replacement, contact the authorized CONTEC distributor to obtain an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization). Return the product freight prepaid with proof of purchase.

Safety Precautions:
- Do not operate in environments with flammable gases, corrosive vapors, or excessive dust.
- Always power off and disconnect cables before installing or removing PCI boards.
- Use only the supplied AC adapter.
- Maintain vertical orientation and adequate ventilation.
- Avoid exposure to vibration, shock, or direct sunlight.

Disposal:
Dispose of the product in accordance with local electronic equipment recycling regulations.




Summary

The CONTEC ECH(PCI)SF‑F2B is a robust, high‑performance StarFabric PCI expansion chassis engineered for industrial and laboratory applications requiring remote PCI bus extension. With two full‑length PCI slots, a 60 W external power supply, and high‑speed 2.5 Gbps serial connectivity, it enables flexible system expansion without compromising signal integrity or reliability. Its compact, fan‑cooled steel enclosure ensures stable operation in demanding environments, while automatic power interlocking and plug‑and‑play PCI bridge functionality simplify integration. Fully compliant with PCI Rev. 2.2 and RoHS standards, the ECH(PCI)SF‑F2B delivers dependable, long‑distance PCI expansion for measurement, control, and automation systems.