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- 32 Opto‑Isolated Digital Inputs:
Provides 32 independent digital input channels, each isolated via high‑speed opto‑couplers for superior noise resistance and electrical protection.
- High‑Speed Response:
Input response time of approximately 1 µs, enabling fast signal acquisition suitable for high‑speed control and monitoring applications.
- On‑Board Power Supply:
Integrated 12 VDC power source for driving the input opto‑couplers, simplifying system wiring and eliminating the need for external excitation voltage.
- High Isolation Voltage:
Isolation withstand voltage rated up to 5 kV, protecting the host system from transient surges and ground potential differences.
- TTL‑Level Input Compatibility:
Accepts TTL‑level input signals through 1.1 kΩ input resistance, allowing direct interfacing with logic‑level devices and controllers.
- Interrupt Support:
Supports up to two interrupt request lines (IRQ 2–7), enabling event‑driven input monitoring and efficient CPU utilization.
- Compact ISA Form Factor:
Standard ISA board dimensions of 160 mm × 122 mm, suitable for installation in industrial PCs and legacy control systems.
- Standard Connector Interface:
Equipped with a 37‑pin D‑SUB female connector for external wiring, compatible with CONTEC’s standard cable and terminal block accessories.
- Robust Industrial Design:
Designed for long‑term reliability in harsh industrial environments, with opto‑isolation, surge protection, and stable power regulation.
Provides 32 independent digital input channels, each isolated via high‑speed opto‑couplers for superior noise resistance and electrical protection.
- High‑Speed Response:
Input response time of approximately 1 µs, enabling fast signal acquisition suitable for high‑speed control and monitoring applications.
- On‑Board Power Supply:
Integrated 12 VDC power source for driving the input opto‑couplers, simplifying system wiring and eliminating the need for external excitation voltage.
- High Isolation Voltage:
Isolation withstand voltage rated up to 5 kV, protecting the host system from transient surges and ground potential differences.
- TTL‑Level Input Compatibility:
Accepts TTL‑level input signals through 1.1 kΩ input resistance, allowing direct interfacing with logic‑level devices and controllers.
- Interrupt Support:
Supports up to two interrupt request lines (IRQ 2–7), enabling event‑driven input monitoring and efficient CPU utilization.
- Compact ISA Form Factor:
Standard ISA board dimensions of 160 mm × 122 mm, suitable for installation in industrial PCs and legacy control systems.
- Standard Connector Interface:
Equipped with a 37‑pin D‑SUB female connector for external wiring, compatible with CONTEC’s standard cable and terminal block accessories.
- Robust Industrial Design:
Designed for long‑term reliability in harsh industrial environments, with opto‑isolation, surge protection, and stable power regulation.
Comprehensive Product Summary – PI‑32TB(PC)
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: Opto‑Isolated 32‑Channel Digital Input ISA Card with On‑Board Power Supply
Model: PI‑32TB(PC)
Article Number: PI‑32TB(PC)
Series: PI Series – Digital Input Interface Boards
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd. (Japan)
Product Category: Industrial Automation / Measurement and Control – Digital I/O Interface Boards
Bus Type: ISA (Industry Standard Architecture)
The CONTEC PI‑32TB(PC) is an opto‑isolated, high‑speed 32‑channel digital input interface card designed for use with ISA‑bus industrial PCs. It provides galvanic isolation between field input signals and the host computer through high‑speed photocouplers, ensuring robust noise immunity and protection against voltage surges. The board integrates an on‑board power supply, eliminating the need for an external power source to drive the opto‑coupler input circuits.
### 2. Key Features
- 32 Opto‑Isolated Digital Inputs:
Provides 32 independent digital input channels, each isolated via high‑speed opto‑couplers for superior noise resistance and electrical protection.
- High‑Speed Response:
Input response time of approximately 1 µs, enabling fast signal acquisition suitable for high‑speed control and monitoring applications.
- On‑Board Power Supply:
Integrated 12 VDC power source for driving the input opto‑couplers, simplifying system wiring and eliminating the need for external excitation voltage.
- High Isolation Voltage:
Isolation withstand voltage rated up to 5 kV, protecting the host system from transient surges and ground potential differences.
- TTL‑Level Input Compatibility:
Accepts TTL‑level input signals through 1.1 kΩ input resistance, allowing direct interfacing with logic‑level devices and controllers.
- Interrupt Support:
Supports up to two interrupt request lines (IRQ 2–7), enabling event‑driven input monitoring and efficient CPU utilization.
- Compact ISA Form Factor:
Standard ISA board dimensions of 160 mm × 122 mm, suitable for installation in industrial PCs and legacy control systems.
- Standard Connector Interface:
Equipped with a 37‑pin D‑SUB female connector for external wiring, compatible with CONTEC’s standard cable and terminal block accessories.
- Robust Industrial Design:
Designed for long‑term reliability in harsh industrial environments, with opto‑isolation, surge protection, and stable power regulation.
### 3. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| Bus Interface | ISA AT‑Bus |
| Input Channels | 32 opto‑isolated digital inputs |
| Input Type | TTL‑level (negative logic) |
| Input Resistance | 1.1 kΩ per channel |
| Input Voltage Range | TTL‑compatible (nominal 5 VDC) |
| Isolation Voltage | 5 kV (photocoupler isolation) |
| Response Time | 1 µs (typical) |
| Interrupts | 2 IRQ lines selectable from IRQ 2–7 |
| On‑Board Power Supply | 12 VDC internal supply for opto‑couplers |
| External Power Requirement | +5 VDC from ISA bus |
| Power Consumption | Approx. 5 VDC / 50 mA (logic) + internal 12 VDC / 250 mA (on‑board) |
| Dimensions (W × H) | 160 mm × 122 mm (6.3 in × 4.8 in) |
| Connector Type | 37‑pin D‑SUB female (DCL‑J37SAF‑20L9 [JAE] or equivalent) |
| Maximum Wiring Distance | 50 m (typical) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 – 50 °C |
| Storage Temperature | –10 – 60 °C |
| Humidity | 10 – 90 % RH (non‑condensing) |
| Mounting | Internal ISA slot |
| Weight | Approx. 200 g |
### 4. Functionality
The PI‑32TB(PC) functions as a digital input interface between field devices and an ISA‑bus computer. Each input channel is electrically isolated from the PC’s internal logic circuits by opto‑couplers. When an external TTL‑level signal is applied, the opto‑coupler transfers the signal to the internal logic, ensuring galvanic isolation and noise suppression.
Typical Use Cases:
- Monitoring of sensors, switches, and contact closures in industrial automation systems.
- Acquisition of digital status signals from PLCs, relays, or external controllers.
- High‑speed event detection and interrupt‑driven control in test and measurement setups.
- Integration into legacy ISA‑based control systems requiring reliable isolation and fast response.
Compatibility:
- Compatible with ISA‑bus industrial PCs and embedded controllers.
- Works with CONTEC’s API‑PAC(W32) driver library for Windows and Linux.
- Supports integration with LabVIEW via VI‑DAQ libraries.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Components:
- PI‑32TB(PC) main board
- User manual and setup documentation
- On‑board regulated 12 VDC power circuit
Optional Accessories:
- Cables:
- PCA37P / PCB37P (37‑pin D‑SUB cable, 1.5 m)
- PCA37PS / PCB37PS (shielded versions)
- Terminal Blocks:
- EPD‑37A, EPD‑37 (screw terminal blocks for 37‑pin D‑SUB)
- CM‑32(PC)E (DIN‑rail mount terminal block)
- Connector Sets:
- CN5‑D37M (37‑pin male connector kit)
These accessories simplify wiring between the board and external devices such as sensors, switches, and control panels.
### 6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- IBM‑PC/AT compatible computer with available ISA slot
- +5 VDC power supply from the ISA bus
- Supported operating systems: Windows 10/11, Linux (via API‑TOOL drivers)
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the PC and insert the PI‑32TB(PC) into an available ISA slot.
2. Secure the board using the bracket screw.
3. Connect external input devices to the 37‑pin D‑SUB connector using a CONTEC cable or terminal block.
4. Configure the I/O address and IRQ settings via DIP switches or jumpers (selectable IRQ 2–7).
5. Install the appropriate driver software (API‑PAC(W32) or Linux module).
6. Verify operation using the provided diagnostic utility or sample programs.
Mounting Options:
- Standard internal ISA slot mounting.
- Compatible with industrial PC chassis and rackmount enclosures.
Configuration:
- I/O address allocation: any 8‑byte boundary (general) or 16‑byte boundary (optional).
- Interrupt enable/disable and edge‑trigger configuration via software.
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
- Speed:
1 µs maximum response time per channel, suitable for high‑frequency digital signal acquisition.
- Capacity:
32 independent input channels, each optically isolated.
- Efficiency:
On‑board power supply reduces external wiring complexity and ensures stable operation even in electrically noisy environments.
- Noise Immunity:
Opto‑isolation up to 5 kV prevents ground loops and protects the PC from transient surges.
- Interrupt Handling:
Two hardware interrupt lines allow event‑driven processing, minimizing CPU load.
- Limitations:
- Designed for TTL‑level inputs only (not suitable for 12–24 V industrial signals).
- ISA bus interface limits use to legacy or industrial PCs with ISA slots.
- No output channels (input‑only configuration).
### 8. Standards & Compliance
- Bus Standard: ISA AT‑Bus compliant
- Electrical Isolation: 5 kV opto‑coupler isolation
- Safety & EMC: Designed to meet industrial noise immunity and surge protection standards
- Software Compliance:
- Windows API‑PAC(W32) driver library (Win32 API compatible)
- Linux API‑TOOL driver (open‑source module)
- LabVIEW VI‑DAQ library for National Instruments environments
- Environmental Compliance: RoHS‑compliant manufacturing
- Quality Assurance: Manufactured under ISO 9001‑certified processes
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Standard 1‑year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Extended service contracts available through CONTEC distributors.
Technical Support:
- Online documentation and driver downloads available at [www.contec.com](https://www.contec.com).
- Free API‑TOOL driver packages for Windows and Linux.
- Sample source code and LabVIEW VI libraries provided for rapid integration.
Maintenance:
- Periodic inspection of connector contacts and cable integrity recommended.
- Keep board free from dust and moisture; operate within specified temperature and humidity ranges.
- Firmware and driver updates available via CONTEC’s support portal.
Software Updates & Utilities:
- API‑PAC(W32): Windows DLL‑based API for direct I/O control.
- API‑TOOL for Linux: Shared library and kernel module for device access.
- VI‑DAQ: LabVIEW VI library for simplified graphical programming.
- Diagnostic Tools: Board test utilities for verifying input status and interrupt operation.
Related Products in the PI Series:
- PI‑32L(PCI)H: 32‑channel opto‑isolated digital input PCI card (12–24 VDC).
- PI‑32B(PCI)H: 32‑channel opto‑isolated input PCI card with on‑board 12 V power.
- PI‑64L(PCI)H: 64‑channel opto‑isolated input PCI card.
- PI‑128L(PCI): 128‑channel opto‑isolated input PCI card.
- PI‑32TB(PC): (This model) TTL‑level, high‑speed ISA version with on‑board power.
Applications:
- Factory automation and process control systems.
- Data acquisition and monitoring in test benches.
- Machine status monitoring and alarm input collection.
- Integration with legacy ISA‑based control computers.
- Educational and research laboratories requiring isolated TTL input interfaces.
### Summary
The CONTEC PI‑32TB(PC) is a robust, high‑speed, opto‑isolated 32‑channel digital input board for ISA‑bus systems. It combines fast TTL‑level input response (1 µs) with 5 kV isolation and an integrated 12 VDC power supply, ensuring reliable operation in electrically noisy industrial environments. Its dual interrupt capability, standard 37‑pin D‑SUB connector, and comprehensive driver support make it ideal for industrial automation, data acquisition, and control applications where signal integrity and system protection are critical.
With full support for Windows, Linux, and LabVIEW environments, the PI‑32TB(PC) provides a flexible, long‑life solution for engineers maintaining or upgrading ISA‑based control systems.
### 1. Product Overview
Product Name: Opto‑Isolated 32‑Channel Digital Input ISA Card with On‑Board Power Supply
Model: PI‑32TB(PC)
Article Number: PI‑32TB(PC)
Series: PI Series – Digital Input Interface Boards
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd. (Japan)
Product Category: Industrial Automation / Measurement and Control – Digital I/O Interface Boards
Bus Type: ISA (Industry Standard Architecture)
The CONTEC PI‑32TB(PC) is an opto‑isolated, high‑speed 32‑channel digital input interface card designed for use with ISA‑bus industrial PCs. It provides galvanic isolation between field input signals and the host computer through high‑speed photocouplers, ensuring robust noise immunity and protection against voltage surges. The board integrates an on‑board power supply, eliminating the need for an external power source to drive the opto‑coupler input circuits.
### 2. Key Features
- 32 Opto‑Isolated Digital Inputs:
Provides 32 independent digital input channels, each isolated via high‑speed opto‑couplers for superior noise resistance and electrical protection.
- High‑Speed Response:
Input response time of approximately 1 µs, enabling fast signal acquisition suitable for high‑speed control and monitoring applications.
- On‑Board Power Supply:
Integrated 12 VDC power source for driving the input opto‑couplers, simplifying system wiring and eliminating the need for external excitation voltage.
- High Isolation Voltage:
Isolation withstand voltage rated up to 5 kV, protecting the host system from transient surges and ground potential differences.
- TTL‑Level Input Compatibility:
Accepts TTL‑level input signals through 1.1 kΩ input resistance, allowing direct interfacing with logic‑level devices and controllers.
- Interrupt Support:
Supports up to two interrupt request lines (IRQ 2–7), enabling event‑driven input monitoring and efficient CPU utilization.
- Compact ISA Form Factor:
Standard ISA board dimensions of 160 mm × 122 mm, suitable for installation in industrial PCs and legacy control systems.
- Standard Connector Interface:
Equipped with a 37‑pin D‑SUB female connector for external wiring, compatible with CONTEC’s standard cable and terminal block accessories.
- Robust Industrial Design:
Designed for long‑term reliability in harsh industrial environments, with opto‑isolation, surge protection, and stable power regulation.
### 3. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| Bus Interface | ISA AT‑Bus |
| Input Channels | 32 opto‑isolated digital inputs |
| Input Type | TTL‑level (negative logic) |
| Input Resistance | 1.1 kΩ per channel |
| Input Voltage Range | TTL‑compatible (nominal 5 VDC) |
| Isolation Voltage | 5 kV (photocoupler isolation) |
| Response Time | 1 µs (typical) |
| Interrupts | 2 IRQ lines selectable from IRQ 2–7 |
| On‑Board Power Supply | 12 VDC internal supply for opto‑couplers |
| External Power Requirement | +5 VDC from ISA bus |
| Power Consumption | Approx. 5 VDC / 50 mA (logic) + internal 12 VDC / 250 mA (on‑board) |
| Dimensions (W × H) | 160 mm × 122 mm (6.3 in × 4.8 in) |
| Connector Type | 37‑pin D‑SUB female (DCL‑J37SAF‑20L9 [JAE] or equivalent) |
| Maximum Wiring Distance | 50 m (typical) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 – 50 °C |
| Storage Temperature | –10 – 60 °C |
| Humidity | 10 – 90 % RH (non‑condensing) |
| Mounting | Internal ISA slot |
| Weight | Approx. 200 g |
### 4. Functionality
The PI‑32TB(PC) functions as a digital input interface between field devices and an ISA‑bus computer. Each input channel is electrically isolated from the PC’s internal logic circuits by opto‑couplers. When an external TTL‑level signal is applied, the opto‑coupler transfers the signal to the internal logic, ensuring galvanic isolation and noise suppression.
Typical Use Cases:
- Monitoring of sensors, switches, and contact closures in industrial automation systems.
- Acquisition of digital status signals from PLCs, relays, or external controllers.
- High‑speed event detection and interrupt‑driven control in test and measurement setups.
- Integration into legacy ISA‑based control systems requiring reliable isolation and fast response.
Compatibility:
- Compatible with ISA‑bus industrial PCs and embedded controllers.
- Works with CONTEC’s API‑PAC(W32) driver library for Windows and Linux.
- Supports integration with LabVIEW via VI‑DAQ libraries.
### 5. Components & Accessories
Included Components:
- PI‑32TB(PC) main board
- User manual and setup documentation
- On‑board regulated 12 VDC power circuit
Optional Accessories:
- Cables:
- PCA37P / PCB37P (37‑pin D‑SUB cable, 1.5 m)
- PCA37PS / PCB37PS (shielded versions)
- Terminal Blocks:
- EPD‑37A, EPD‑37 (screw terminal blocks for 37‑pin D‑SUB)
- CM‑32(PC)E (DIN‑rail mount terminal block)
- Connector Sets:
- CN5‑D37M (37‑pin male connector kit)
These accessories simplify wiring between the board and external devices such as sensors, switches, and control panels.
### 6. Installation & Setup
System Requirements:
- IBM‑PC/AT compatible computer with available ISA slot
- +5 VDC power supply from the ISA bus
- Supported operating systems: Windows 10/11, Linux (via API‑TOOL drivers)
Installation Steps:
1. Power off the PC and insert the PI‑32TB(PC) into an available ISA slot.
2. Secure the board using the bracket screw.
3. Connect external input devices to the 37‑pin D‑SUB connector using a CONTEC cable or terminal block.
4. Configure the I/O address and IRQ settings via DIP switches or jumpers (selectable IRQ 2–7).
5. Install the appropriate driver software (API‑PAC(W32) or Linux module).
6. Verify operation using the provided diagnostic utility or sample programs.
Mounting Options:
- Standard internal ISA slot mounting.
- Compatible with industrial PC chassis and rackmount enclosures.
Configuration:
- I/O address allocation: any 8‑byte boundary (general) or 16‑byte boundary (optional).
- Interrupt enable/disable and edge‑trigger configuration via software.
### 7. Performance & Capabilities
- Speed:
1 µs maximum response time per channel, suitable for high‑frequency digital signal acquisition.
- Capacity:
32 independent input channels, each optically isolated.
- Efficiency:
On‑board power supply reduces external wiring complexity and ensures stable operation even in electrically noisy environments.
- Noise Immunity:
Opto‑isolation up to 5 kV prevents ground loops and protects the PC from transient surges.
- Interrupt Handling:
Two hardware interrupt lines allow event‑driven processing, minimizing CPU load.
- Limitations:
- Designed for TTL‑level inputs only (not suitable for 12–24 V industrial signals).
- ISA bus interface limits use to legacy or industrial PCs with ISA slots.
- No output channels (input‑only configuration).
### 8. Standards & Compliance
- Bus Standard: ISA AT‑Bus compliant
- Electrical Isolation: 5 kV opto‑coupler isolation
- Safety & EMC: Designed to meet industrial noise immunity and surge protection standards
- Software Compliance:
- Windows API‑PAC(W32) driver library (Win32 API compatible)
- Linux API‑TOOL driver (open‑source module)
- LabVIEW VI‑DAQ library for National Instruments environments
- Environmental Compliance: RoHS‑compliant manufacturing
- Quality Assurance: Manufactured under ISO 9001‑certified processes
### 9. Additional Information
Warranty:
Standard 1‑year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Extended service contracts available through CONTEC distributors.
Technical Support:
- Online documentation and driver downloads available at [www.contec.com](https://www.contec.com).
- Free API‑TOOL driver packages for Windows and Linux.
- Sample source code and LabVIEW VI libraries provided for rapid integration.
Maintenance:
- Periodic inspection of connector contacts and cable integrity recommended.
- Keep board free from dust and moisture; operate within specified temperature and humidity ranges.
- Firmware and driver updates available via CONTEC’s support portal.
Software Updates & Utilities:
- API‑PAC(W32): Windows DLL‑based API for direct I/O control.
- API‑TOOL for Linux: Shared library and kernel module for device access.
- VI‑DAQ: LabVIEW VI library for simplified graphical programming.
- Diagnostic Tools: Board test utilities for verifying input status and interrupt operation.
Related Products in the PI Series:
- PI‑32L(PCI)H: 32‑channel opto‑isolated digital input PCI card (12–24 VDC).
- PI‑32B(PCI)H: 32‑channel opto‑isolated input PCI card with on‑board 12 V power.
- PI‑64L(PCI)H: 64‑channel opto‑isolated input PCI card.
- PI‑128L(PCI): 128‑channel opto‑isolated input PCI card.
- PI‑32TB(PC): (This model) TTL‑level, high‑speed ISA version with on‑board power.
Applications:
- Factory automation and process control systems.
- Data acquisition and monitoring in test benches.
- Machine status monitoring and alarm input collection.
- Integration with legacy ISA‑based control computers.
- Educational and research laboratories requiring isolated TTL input interfaces.
### Summary
The CONTEC PI‑32TB(PC) is a robust, high‑speed, opto‑isolated 32‑channel digital input board for ISA‑bus systems. It combines fast TTL‑level input response (1 µs) with 5 kV isolation and an integrated 12 VDC power supply, ensuring reliable operation in electrically noisy industrial environments. Its dual interrupt capability, standard 37‑pin D‑SUB connector, and comprehensive driver support make it ideal for industrial automation, data acquisition, and control applications where signal integrity and system protection are critical.
With full support for Windows, Linux, and LabVIEW environments, the PI‑32TB(PC) provides a flexible, long‑life solution for engineers maintaining or upgrading ISA‑based control systems.
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ContecCatalog2011-2012-en-H Digital IO.pdf
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