1. Product Overview

Product Name: PCI Expansion 4 Slot Full Size Black Chassis
Model: ECH-PCI-CE-F4B
Series: ECH(PCI)BE-F4B – Bus Extension Type PCI Expansion Chassis
Article Number: ECH-PCI-CE-F4B
Manufacturer: CONTEC CO., LTD. (Japan)
Product Category: Industrial Automation / Measurement and Control – Bus Expansion System

The CONTEC ECH-PCI-CE-F4B is a full-size, four-slot PCI bus expansion chassis designed to extend the PCI bus of a host PC. It provides additional PCI slots externally through a dedicated expansion adapter and cable connection, enabling users to install multiple PCI boards without modifying the host system. The chassis is part of CONTEC’s Bus Extension Type Expansion Adapter & Chassis lineup, optimized for environments where measurement and control operations are conducted near the host PC.

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2. Key Features

- Four Full-Size PCI Slots: Supports up to four long-size PCI add-on boards (5V/32-bit, 33MHz).
- Bus Extension Architecture: Expands the host PC’s PCI bus externally using a dedicated expansion adapter (EAD series).
- Compact Industrial Design: Constructed from durable steel with a black finish, combining portability and space efficiency.
- External Power Supply: Operates via an included 60W AC adapter (100–240VAC input), eliminating the need for an internal PSU.
- Automatic Power Synchronization: The chassis power turns on and off in sync with the host PC’s power state.
- Integrated Cooling System: Equipped with a built-in cooling fan to maintain stable thermal performance during continuous operation.
- High Compatibility: Compliant with PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.3 (+5V type), supporting 32-bit addressing for both memory and I/O.
- Flexible Host Interface Options: Compatible with multiple expansion adapters—PCI, Low Profile PCI, PCI Express, and CardBus types.
- Industrial Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in industrial automation, measurement, and control systems.
- RoHS Compliant: Environmentally friendly design meeting Restriction of Hazardous Substances standards.

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3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|------------------|
| Bus Standard | PCI Local Bus Specification Rev. 2.3 (+5V type) |
| Bus Width / Clock | 32-bit, 33MHz (maximum) |
| Address Space | 32-bit memory and I/O addressing |
| Interrupt Levels | INTA–INTD |
| Number of Slots | 4 user-available PCI slots |
| Supported Board Size | Long-size PCI boards, 313.8(L) × 107(H) mm |
| Power Supply Type | External AC adapter (included) |
| Power Output (Max.) | +5VDC: 7A, +3.3VDC: 3A, +12VDC: 1.5A, -12VDC: 0.3A |
| Total Power Capacity | 60W maximum |
| AC Input Voltage | 100–240VAC, 47–63Hz |
| Chassis Dimensions | 112.0(W) × 360.0(D) × 144.0(H) mm |
| Chassis Weight | Approx. 2.0 kg |
| AC Adapter Weight | Approx. 0.9 kg |
| Operating Temperature | 0–50°C |
| Operating Humidity | 20–80% RH (no condensation) |
| Storage Temperature | 0–60°C |
| Storage Humidity | 10–90% RH (no condensation) |
| Cooling | Built-in fan |
| Color / Finish | Black, industrial-grade steel |
| Compliance | RoHS compliant |

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4. Functionality

The ECH-PCI-CE-F4B functions as an external PCI bus extension unit. It connects to a host PC through a dedicated expansion adapter (EAD series) and a 1-meter high-speed connection cable. The adapter installed in the host PC communicates directly with the chassis, extending the PCI bus signals to the external enclosure.

Operation Principle:
- The host PC’s PCI bus is extended via a PCI-to-PCI bridge integrated within the chassis.
- The chassis provides four additional PCI slots that behave as standard PCI slots recognized by the host BIOS and operating system.
- Power synchronization ensures that the chassis powers on automatically when the host PC is turned on.

Typical Use Cases:
- Industrial measurement and control systems requiring multiple PCI I/O boards.
- Data acquisition, motion control, and communication interface expansion.
- Laboratory and test automation setups where additional PCI slots are needed.
- Embedded or compact PCs lacking sufficient internal PCI expansion capacity.

Compatibility:
- Compatible with CONTEC expansion adapters:
- EAD(PCI)BE – PCI bus slot adapter
- EAD(LPCI)BE – Low Profile PCI slot adapter
- EAD-BE-LPE – PCI Express slot adapter
- EAD(CB)BE – CardBus slot adapter (for notebook PCs)
- Supported operating systems (via adapter drivers): Windows XP, 2000, Me, 98SE, 98.

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- ECH(PCI)BE-F4B Expansion Chassis (1 unit)
- AC Adapter (60W, 100–240VAC input)
- Power Cable (1.8m, 2P grounded)
- Slot Covers (4 pieces)
- Board Fixing Screws (4 pieces)
- User’s Manual

Optional Accessories:
- Expansion Adapters (EAD series, sold separately)
- Dedicated 1m connection cable (CB-BF96 or CB-CB68/96, depending on adapter type)
- Replacement cooling fan and power supply (available as maintenance parts)

Connectors:
- 96-pin expansion interface connector (rear panel)
- AC adapter input connector with locking thumb screw
- Power LED indicator on front panel

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6. Installation & Setup

Requirements:
- Host PC with an available PCI, Low Profile PCI, PCI Express, or CardBus slot (depending on adapter).
- Compatible expansion adapter (EAD series).
- Stable AC power source (100–240VAC).

Installation Steps:
1. Preparation: Power off the host PC and disconnect all power cables.
2. Install PCI Boards: Remove the chassis cover, insert PCI boards into available slots, and secure them with screws.
3. Connect Expansion Cable: Attach the 96-pin connector from the expansion adapter to the chassis interface port until it clicks.
4. Connect Power: Attach the AC adapter to the chassis, secure with the thumb screw, and plug into a wall outlet.
5. Install Expansion Adapter: Insert the EAD adapter into the host PC’s slot and secure it.
6. Power On: Turn on the host PC; the chassis will power on automatically.
7. Driver Setup: Windows will detect the PCI-to-PCI bridge and install standard drivers automatically.

Mounting Orientation:
- The chassis must be used in a vertical position for proper cooling airflow.
- Maintain at least 20mm clearance around ventilation openings.

Safety Notes:
- Do not connect or disconnect cables while powered.
- Avoid using the chassis in environments with corrosive gases, excessive dust, or vibration.
- Ensure total current consumption of installed boards does not exceed rated output.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

- Bus Performance: 33MHz maximum PCI bus clock, 32-bit data width.
- Expansion Capacity: Four full-size PCI slots for 5V/32-bit boards.
- Power Efficiency: External 60W adapter provides stable regulated DC output for all slots.
- Thermal Management: Integrated fan ensures continuous airflow; recommended ambient temperature 0–50°C.
- Reliability: Designed for 24/7 industrial operation; power supply and fan rated for approximately 5 years of service life under standard office conditions (25°C, 60% RH).
- Limitations:
- Not compatible with video display boards, additional PCI bus expansion boards, or boards marked “Cannot be used with PCI-to-PCI Bridge.”
- Some PCI-compliant boards may not function due to specific hardware limitations.
- Only one expansion chassis can be connected per adapter; daisy-chaining is not supported.

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8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Standard: PCI Local Bus Specification Revision 2.3 (+5V type).
- Electrical Safety: Designed for industrial-grade operation with overcurrent protection.
- Environmental Compliance: RoHS compliant (lead-free construction).
- Operating Environment:
- Temperature: 0–50°C
- Humidity: 20–80% RH (no condensation)
- No corrosive gases or excessive dust.
- Regulatory Notes:
- CE marking applicable when used with certified adapters.
- Meets industrial EMC and safety guidelines for measurement and control equipment.

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- Limited three-year warranty from the date of purchase.
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
- Excludes damage from misuse, modification, or environmental exposure.

Support & Service:
- Technical documentation, drivers, and updates available at:
- [https://www.contec.com](https://www.contec.com)
- Regional support portals:
- Japan: [https://www.contec.co.jp](https://www.contec.co.jp)
- China: [https://www.contec.com.cn](https://www.contec.com.cn)
- Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) required for warranty service.

Maintenance:
- Periodically inspect ventilation slits and fan operation.
- Replace fan and power supply after approximately five years of continuous use.
- Clean exterior surfaces with a dry cloth; avoid solvents or liquids.

Product Lifecycle & Replacement Parts:
- Replacement components (fans, filters, power modules) available under CONTEC part numbers:
- FAN1238, FAN0925, FAN0820 (fan units)
- POW300, POW301, POW100 (power modules)
- FLT120, FLT121 (air filters)

Storage & Disposal:
- Store in original packaging at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Dispose of according to local electronic waste regulations.

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Summary

The CONTEC ECH-PCI-CE-F4B (ECH(PCI)BE-F4B) is a robust, full-size four-slot PCI expansion chassis engineered for industrial and laboratory environments requiring additional PCI connectivity. It extends the host PC’s PCI bus externally through a high-speed adapter connection, maintaining full PCI compliance and performance. With its compact steel enclosure, integrated cooling, and synchronized power control, it provides a reliable and flexible solution for expanding system capabilities without compromising stability or space efficiency.

Ideal for automation, measurement, and control applications, the ECH-PCI-CE-F4B exemplifies CONTEC’s commitment to modular, high-quality industrial computing solutions.