Acromag introduces new multipurpose PMC I/O Module that performs four I/O functions to save card slots.

New PMC730 module conserves precious PMC slots on VMEbus and CompactPCI™ boards by performing analog input, analog output, digital I/O and counter/timer functions on a single card.

Acromag’s new PMC730 is a multifunction PCI mezzanine card (PMC) that combines the capabilities of four separate I/O modules on a single card that plugs into PMC slots on VMEbus or CompactPCI™ CPU boards. Since the PMC730 module performs analog input, analog output, digital I/O and counter/timer functions from a single slot, embedded computer designers can use fewer boards to handle more I/O functions which greatly reduces the cost of their systems. Typical uses include data acquisition, process control, and test & measurement. The standard model is priced at $1600 with extended temperature models ($1700) also available for operation from –40 to 85°C.

Analog input functions are handled by 16 differential or 32 single-ended input channels with four selectable unipolar and bipolar input ranges up to 10V DC. A 16-bit A/D converter with 512 sample RAM scans inputs in just 10µS per channel for 100KHz throughput.

For analog output functions, eight channels are provided with a ±10V signal range. Each channel has a 16-bit D/A converter to deliver 80.8KHz processing speed with a 12.375µS settling time. A 1024 sample FIFO buffer enables waveform generation functions.

Digital I/O tasks are accommodated with 16 TTL transceivers. The input/output direction is selectable on an 8-channel basis. Interrupt support and programmable debounce are included.

And, a 32-bit counter/timer is provided for a broad range of functions. Common applications include watchdog timer, event counting, pulse measurement, period measurement, and output waveform generation (pulse width modulation, continuous/single pulse, continuous waveform).

For easy integration of the PMC modules with Windows® 95/98/ME and NT/2000 applications, Acromag developed an ActiveX® (OLE) controls software package. ActiveX controls are object-based software components that function as drivers to interface the IP modules with compatible software development programs such as Microsoft® Visual C++™, and Visual Basic. ActiveX controls can also link I/O data to Human Machine Interface (HMI) process control applications, Microsoft Office® products such as Excel® and Access®, as well as many other desktop applications used to display and record data.

For connectivity with real time software application programs, Acromag offers C libraries for VxWorks® and other operating systems. The libraries provide generic routines (source code included) to handle reads, writes, interrupts, and other functions. Demonstration programs enable the developer to quickly exercise the I/O modules before attaching the routines to the application program. This diagnostic tool can save hours of troubleshooting and debugging.

The PMC mezzanine’s modular format enables multiple functions and high-density I/O on a single board to lower costs and save card slots. With its rugged design, open architecture, and high performance, the PMC concept is ideal for a wide variety of I/O applications. Typical uses include data acquisition, process control, test & measurement, motion control, and network data communication.

Acromag, a multimillion dollar international corporation, has been manufacturing and developing instrumentation and control products for more than 40 years. They offer a complete line of industrial I/O products including VMEbus I/O boards, signal conditioners, wiring accessories, and software.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales or Marketing Communications at (248) 624-1541, (800) 881-0268, FAX (248) 624-9234, or write Acromag, Inc. at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA.

Data Sheet (pdf 239KB)

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May 1, 2002

Contact:Sales - Inside Sales
(e-mail: sales@acromag.com)

Editorial-Robert Greenfield, Marketing Communications Manager
(e-mail: rgreenfield@acromag.com)