Serial I/O modules feature software-controlled configuration
The Emerald-MM-8EL-XT (EMM-8EL-XT), a family of serial I/O modules offering four or eight serial ports, has been released by Diamond Systems. Based on PCIe octal UART with 256-byte TX/RX FIFOs and auto RS-485 transmit control, the ports feature software-controlled configuration and optional opto-isolation.
Configuration options include RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 protocols, along with programmable 120Ω line termination. With an isolated power + signal chip and additional isolators for control signals, each port is independently isolated. Featuring intelligent power management, the modules limit inrush current on power-up and enable power-down of unused serial ports for power savings.
To enhance reliability in vehicle or long cable applications, opto-isolated models feature independent 2500V isolation circuits and ±15KV ESD protection. For increased isolation and ruggedness, each serial port is available on an independent latching connector.
Eight digital/analog I/O lines, which are programmable from the on-board microcontroller, are offered by the EMM-8EL-XT family. Each can be configured for digital input or output, while seven can also be configured for 12-bit A/D input with selectable 0-2.048V or 0-3.3V input ranges.
As the modules contain no configuration jumpers, all configuration and control is done with an onboard microcontroller. Stored in the microcontroller's flash memory, the configuration settings are automatically loaded on power-up. Through the featured comprehensive software suite, configuring the EMM-8EL-XT family is made fast and simple. To enable convenient configuration of the board and control of the I/O features in a laboratory or system assembly environment, a graphical control panel, a console application, and drivers for Windows and Linux are provided.
With a wide operating temperature of -40 to +85°C, the modules meet a variety of rugged and on-vehicle embedded serial I/O application needs.