PC/104-Plus I/O Module With Quad Ethernet And Digital I/O From Diamond Systems

The four Ethernet ports on Mercator II utilize two 2-port Micrel KSZ8842 Mac + Phy PCI controller chips that are NE2000 compatible. The dual 2-port switch architecture of Mercator II enables the creation of distributed daisy-chain networks of systems, which are able to communicate up and down the chain independently. The 24 digital I/O lines are based on an 82C55 chip and feature programmable direction in 4- and 8-bit groups. All I/O lines contain user-configurable 10K ohm pull-up resistors for convenience. Digital I/O configuration and PCI slot selection for each Ethernet port are configurable.



Extended operating temperature range of -40ºC to +85ºC enables the board to operate in environments with extreme temperature swings, such as vehicles or outdoor installations. In addition, the board may be custom-configured with 0-ohm resistors in place of jumper blocks for increased ruggedness in high-vibration environments. Conformal coating is also available as an added cost option.



“Mercator II is the second generation PC/104-Plus Ethernet and DIO module from Diamond and demonstrates our continuing commitment and ability to provide high quality products and long term support to our customers.” says Jonathan Miller, President of Diamond Systems. “It provides double the number of Ethernet ports at only a slightly higher price in an industry standard form factor, making Mercator II an attractive choice for add-on Ethernet and digital I/O.”



Key Features and Functions:



-Dual PCI 2-port switch architecture

-4 PCI-based 10/100Mbps Ethernet ports

-24 digital I/O using 82C55 on ISA bus

-Ethernet and DIO available on pin headers

-Stack through ISA and PCI buses

-+5VDC input power

-Support for Windows Embedded Standard 7 and Linux 2.6

-ISA and PCI stackable I/O expansion

-Rugged design: -40oC to +85oC operating temperature

-PC/104-Plus form-factor: (3.55 x 3.775 in. / 90 x 96mm)



Pricing and Availability



The Mercator II PC/104-Plus Ethernet and digital I/O module is shipping in Q1 2013. Single unit pricing starts at US$240. All necessary I/O cables are also available.