New PMC module provides twelve counter/timers to save card slots by performing a wide variety of I/O functions

Acromag’s PMC480 counter/timer modules feature high channel density to conserve precious PMC slots on VMEbus and CompactPCI™ boards by processing more I/O functions from a single card.

Three models provide a variety of channel configurations. The PMC482 model features twelve 16-bit counters with a TTL interface. The PMC483 has a combination of four 16-bit TTL counters and four 32-bit RS422 counters. And the PMC484 module provides six 32-bit RS422 counters. For more flexibility, two 16-bit counters can be combined to form one 32-bit counter. Most of the configuration settings are handled by a single register which minimizes programming.

A broad selection of functions gives programmers plenty of freedom for system design. Available counter timer modes include event counting, frequency measurement, period/pulse-width measurement, quadrature position measurement, square wave/pulse train generation, time/period interrupter, 32-bit counter/timer, and pulse-width generation. Support for internal and external triggering simplifies synchronization to external events. Counters can use internal or external clocks.

For connectivity with real time software application programs, Acromag offers C libraries for VxWorks®, QNX®, 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.

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. A Windows®DLL driver software package is also available.

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 measurement and control products for more than 45 years. They offer a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, 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

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