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Scientific Solutions BaseBoard / PCI

BaseBoard / PCI with 4 units
Picture shows BaseBoard / PCI configured with four Desktop units

On-Line Documentation

(Version: 06140501)

Contents:

Product Description
Product Checklist
Product Features and Options

Installing the BaseBoard / PCI card in your computer
    The 16/64 jumper of the BaseBoard / PCI card
    Specific notes for using Existing DOS Programs
    Specific notes for Windows Programs
    Scientific Solutions' LabPac32 Port Assignments

DeskTop Unit - The Outside:
    DeskTop Unit Front Panel Connections: 1, 2, 3, 4
    DeskTop Unit Front Panel Light Indicators (LEDs): Unit number, Unit Power, PC Power
    DeskTop Unit Back Panel Switch:  Unit Number, Mode, Interrupt Enable   
    DeskTop Unit Back Panel Connections:  IN, OUT
    DeskTop Unit Back Panel Power Connection
   
 DeskTop Unit - The Inside:
    How to Open the DeskTop Unit
    DeskTop Unit Internal Connectors
    Digital I/O Handshake Configuration

Connecting the BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit

Opto-Isolation Modules - Description
Opto-Isolation Modules - Installation

Opto-Isolation OUT Circuit
Opto-Isolation OUT Interface Considerations
Opto-Isolation OUT 50 pin Connector pin out

Opto-Isolation IN Circuit
Opto-Isolation IN Interface Considerations
Opto-Isolation IN 50 pin Connector

Screw Termination Units

BaseBoard Technical Specifications
Agency Approvals
Service Information
Warranty Information

Product Description:

The Scientific Solutions BaseBoard / PCI adds up to 384 Digital I/O signals to your computer. The Digital signals are programmable as either Input, Output or Bi-directional and are typically used for process control or monitoring environments.

The Scientific Solutions BaseBoard / PCI consists of a small PCI card (Approximately 2” x 3”, 70mm x 100mm) that installs in your computer. This card has a single connector that is used to connect the card to an external BaseBoard Digital I/O DeskTop Unit. The DeskTop Unit is approximately 2" tall by 11” wide by 7” deep (51mm x 279mm x 178mm) and provides easy connection to the Digital I/O signals.

A single DeskTop Unit provides 96 Digital I/O connections. Up to four DeskTop units can be connected to a single BaseBoard / PCI card. Each additional unit adds another 96 Digital I/O signals.

One PCI card + one external unit = 96 Digital I/O
One PCI card + two external units = 192 Digital I/O
One PCI card + three external units = 258 Digital I/O
One PCI card + four external units = 384 Digital I/O

As you can see, a system consisting of one PCI card and four DeskTop units provides 384 Digital I/O signals! Multiple PCI cards can be installed in a single computer.  As an example, with four BaseBoard / PCI cards installed in a computer each fully configured with four external units would provide 1536 Digital I/O signals.

The BaseBoard / PCI is 100% software compatible with the original BaseBoard / ISA product. Also, the BaseBoard DeskTop unit provides the same connector and pin out as the BaseBoard / ISA. This permits users of the BaseBoard / ISA to upgrade to the BaseBoard / PCI with little or no change to their current wiring or software.

The BaseBoard Digital I/O lines are accessible from the DeskTop unit and are arranged in four groups of 24 lines. Each group has its own connector which provides for direct connection of the Digital I/O to the outside world.

The BaseBoard / PCI can accommodate the same signal conditioning modules as used with the BaseBoard / ISA. These modules plug directly onto the Digital I/O connectors. The Base Board allows you to customize your own multifunction board by adding up to 4 modules of your choice. An unlimited array of modules can be created by the user including relay control, SCR, voltage control, etc.

Scientific Solutions offers two module options:
The same Opto-Isolation modules used in the BaseBoard / ISA card work in the BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit.

Product Checklist:

The Scientific Solutions Base Board product consists of the following items:


DeskTop Power Supply
Be sure and return your product registration card. 
Registration is required for any repairs or support!

The BaseBoard/PCI can accommodate from 1 to 4 DeskTop BaseBoard Digital  I/O Units.  A minimum configuration consists of one PCI card and one DeskTop Unit.

If any of these items are missing or damaged, or if problems are encountered with this product, please notify Scientific Solutions.

Refer to the diskette for sample programs and additional programming information.

The Scientific Solutions Base Board was the first Digital I/O card available for the IBM PC.  It was first introduced in 1981.  The design essentially remained unchanged until recently when it was redesigned and updated to surface mount technology.  The newer version of the card remains 100% hardware/software compatible with the original design.

The BaseBoard / PCI was designed to be 100% compatible with the original ISA product - allowing customers to use their existing software applications, cabling and opto-isolation modules without requiring any changes to their software or existing support hardware.

Product Features & Options

The Base Board I/O lines are arranged in 4 sections of 24 lines each. Each section may be subdivided into 3 groups of 8 lines each or 2 groups of 12 lines each. Each group of lines can be programmed for either input or output.

Features

Options

Installing the BaseBoard / PCI in your Computer:

Installation of the BaseBoard / PCI in your computer is straight forward:
(1). Make sure the 16/64 jumper on the BaseBoard / PCI card is configured correct for your application.
(See the next section for information about the 16/64 jumper)
(2). Open your computer
(3). Choose a PCI slot that you want to use for the BaseBoard / PCI card
(4). Remove the screw holding the slot cover
(5). Install the BaseBoard / PCI into the PCI slot
(6). Use the screw you removed from the slot cover to secure the BaseBoard / PCI to the computer
(7). Close your computer

The 16/64 Jumper of the BaseBoard PCI card:

The BaseBoard PCI card installed in your computer has a jumper on it that can be set for either 16 or 64.
This jumper specifies the number of I/O locations that are required by the BaseBoard.

Selection 16:
This selection is for the BaseBoard to use 16 I/O locations.
Use this selection when you have just one external BaseBoard DeskTop unit connected to a single BaseBoard PCI card.  
Then you can set the address to anything you want as long as the last 4 bits of the address are all zero.  
This means the address will look like:
xyz0h
(where xyz are any hex numbers)
Examples include 0210h, 0220h, 0710h, 5310h, etc.
This may be important if you are trying to run some software that expects the BaseBoard to be at a specific address.

Selection 64:
This selection is for the BaseBoard to use 64 I/O locations.
Use this selection when you have more than one external BaseBoard DeskTop unit connected to a single BaseBoard PCI card.
Then you can set the address to anything you want as long as the last 6 bits are all zero.
This means the address will look like:
xy00h
xy40h
xy80h
xyC0h
(where xyz are any hex numbers)
Examples include 0200h, 0240h, 0280h, 02C0h, 0340h, etc...

Specific Notes for using Existing DOS Programs:

If you have existing DOS applications originally written for the BaseBoard / ISA card, and you want to use these programs (without changing them) on your BaseBoard / PCI card there are a couple of items that need to be considered:

(1). The DOS software may want to use a "particular" I/O address for the BaseBoard hardware
(2). The DOS software may be using interrupts

These issues are addressed in the following discussion.

DOS Notes: Using PCICFG to Select a Particular I/O Address:

With the BaseBoard / ISA, the I/O address is selected using a switch and is normally set a 0210h.  However, PCI cards are "Plug and Play" and have their I/O address automatically "assigned" by the computer.  More than likely, the I/O address assigned by the computer will NOT be the I/O address your DOS software is using.   In order to use your existing DOS software, you need to change the I/O address of the BaseBoard / PCI card to the address required by the software.  The PCICFG.EXE program is provided with the BaseBoard / PCI and is used to force the BaseBoard / PCI card to use a particular I/O address.  That is, the PCICFG "overrides" the computer assigned address and "forces" the address you really want.  Instead of "Plug and Play" it is "Have it your way"

This allows you to use your existing DOS software - without modification - with the PCI version of the BaseBoard!
You should put the PCICFG command line in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file, but first you need to know the format of the command.

As previously mentioned, the BaseBoard / ISA card is shipped with an I/O address of 0210h.  Of course, this can be changed by the user using the switch on the BaseBoard / ISA.  You need to know what I/O address your DOS software requires in order to use the PCICFG program to configure the BaseBoard / PCI.  If you do not know what your DOS software requires - you need to find this out.  If you have a BaseBoard / ISA card that works with your DOS software, then take a look at its Address Select Switch and use the BaseBoard / ISA manual to determine what address is being selected.

The format of the PCICFG program is

PCICFG  5353  BB00  BoardNumber   Address

Where:
5353  :  This number should always be 5353

BB00 :  This number should always be BB00 (Letters 'BB' and numbers '00')

BoardNumber : Is the particular PCI card you want to change the address of.
This is so you can have multiple BaseBoard / PCI cards installed in the computer.  The first card, gets the BoardNumber = 1, the second card =2 and so on.
If you only have one BaseBoard / PCI card installed in the computer then BoardNumber would be 1.
In the computer, PCI slots are generally numbered, with the PCI slot that is closer to the power supply being slot #1.  The BaseBoard PCI cards are assigned "BoardNumbers" based upon their relative position in the computer compared to other BaseBoard PCI cards.  BaseBoard PCI cards do not have to be put in any particular PCI slot.  The BaseBoard PCI card that is installed in the lowest PCI slot number will be called BoardNumber = 1.  The next BaseBoard PCI card (installed in a higher PCI slot number) is called #2, etc.

Address :  Is the I/O Address you want the card to use.
This I/O address needs to be specified in hexadecimal format.  Note that the format of this address is dictated by how the 16/64 jumper is  set on the BaseBoard / PCI card installed in the computer.

Example 1:
Suppose you have only one BaseBoard / PCI card installed in your computer, and your DOS software wants an I/O address of 0210h.

PCICFG  5353  BB00  1  0210

(note: for a desired address of 0210h, the 16/64 jumper MUST be set to the 16 position).
In response to the above command, you will get one of three possible messages on the screen:
Note that there may be other information displayed on the screen (like copyright notice, versions, etc) in addition these messages:


(1). First possible message:
                    Device Not Found

The above message indicates that the PCICFG program could not even locate the BaseBoard / PCI card.  This may be because the BaseBoard / PCI is not installed in the computer or you mis-typed either the 5353 or BB00 numbers.

(2). Second Possible Message:
                    Board 1
                    The PCI Configuration did not work
                    Address Requested: 210  Address Obtained: 200
                    Address: 200  IRQ:11

In the above message, although you asked for I/O address 210h, the card actually was assigned 200h.  This may be because the address you requested is already being used by something else in the system or that you have the BaseBoard PCI card in the computer with the jumper set for 64.  Note that the example is using some specific values, the values you obtain may be different.  The important point is that this type of message indicates that you did NOT obtain the desired address.

(3). Third Possible Message:
                    Board 1
                    Address: 0210h   IRQ: 11

The above message is good, as it indicates that the BaseBoard / PCI was found and that you obtained the address that you requested.

Example 2:
Suppose you have two BaseBoard / PCI cards installed and you want one to be a 0210h and the other to be at 0340h.
Then you would have two PCICFG.EXE statements, one for each PCI card as follows:

PCICFG  5353  BB00  1  0210
PCICFG  5353  BB00  2  0340

After each statement you will get a message displayed on the screen.  The message will always display information about ALL of the BaseBoard / PCI cards installed in your system.
Here are some example messages that you may obtained.  In these examples, we are assuming that the configuration was successful.

                    PCICFG  5353  BB00  1  0210

                    Board 1
                    Address: 210h   IRQ: 11

                    Board 2
                    Address: 6100h   IRQ: 11

                    PCICFG  5353  BB00  2  0340

                    Board 1
                    Address: 210h   IRQ: 11

                    Board 2
                    Address: 340h   IRQ: 11

In the above "example messages" you see that after the first PCICFG command, card #1 was properly assigned 210h and that card #2 was at 6100h (this must have been the address automatically assigned by the computer).  Then after the second command is executed, card #1 is still at 210h (it should be, since we are not changing it) and card #2 is now at 340h as we requested.

In using the PCICFG.EXE program, you need to be sure of three things:
(1). That you are using the address that your DOS software wants.

(2). That you are not using an address that something else in your computer is using.
Since the PCICFG "overrides" the "Plug-and-Play" address assigned by the computer, it is up to you to be sure the address you are "forcing" is not already being used by something else in your computer.

(3). Make sure that the 16/64 jumper of the BaseBoard PCI card is configured correctly for your application.

DOS Notes: One Address, Two Address, Three Address, Four..

The BaseBoard / PCI product consists of a small PCI card that is installed inside the computer and an external DeskTop Unit.  A single BaseBoard / PCI card can actually accommodate up to four external BaseBoard Digital I/O DeskTop units. Each DeskTop unit is equivalent to a single BaseBoard / ISA card, that is each unit provides 96 Digital I/O.  This means with one small PCI card, you can potentially replace the capabilities of four large ISA cards!

On the Back of the DeskTop unit is a switch that is used to select the DeskTop Unit number. When only one Unit is attached to the PCI card, it should be switched as Unit #1. A second unit, should be Unit #2. The third should be Unit #3. And if you have a fourth unit, it should be configured as Unit #4 using this switch. The Unit selection should ALWAYS be sequential starting with #1, and the Units should be "wired" in the same order as the switch selection; specifically:
A diagram on the back of the DeskTop Unit displays how to correctly set the switch to choose a particular Unit number.  The IN and OUT connections are also identified on the back of the unit.  Cables for wire connection between units are included with the units.

The card address specified in the PCICFG program (the 0210h in the previous examples) is the starting address of DeskTop Unit #1.  The other units address are offset from this starting address as follows: Each BaseBoard Digital I/O DeskTop unit requires 16 I/O locations, and when multiple units are chained together to a single BaseBoard / PCI card, then the starting I/O address of the additional units will be 16d (10h) from the previous unit.

As an example, if 210h is used as the starting address in the PCICFG program, then:
        Unit #1 address is 210-21Fh
        Unit #2 address is 220-22Fh
        Unit #3 address is 230-23Fh
        Unit #4 address is 240-24Fh

What this means is that if you have a computer with multiple BaseBoard / ISA cards and if the I/O addresses are sequential, then you can replace the multiple cards with a single BaseBoard / PCI card and use multiple DeskTop units.

If your DOS software uses multiple BaseBoard / ISA cards and the addresses are NOT sequential, then you need to use a BaseBoard / PCI card & one DeskTop Unit to replace the functionality of EACH of the BaseBoard / ISA cards in your system.

DOS Notes: How to Add the PCICFG Program to Your Computer:

The PCICFG program is generally put in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file for convenience. When it runs, it displays a message on the screen indicating if the board was found and if it was assigned an address. The program can be run at any time, and running it multiple times does not cause any problem. If you are running your DOS programs under a DOS session of Win9x, then you should also have the PCICFG line in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.

You can use PCICFG under DOS and DOS sessions of Windows 3.1, 95, 98 and Me.
You do not need to load the BaseBoard / PCI Windows Device Drivers to use your DOS program or the PCICFG program.  The Device Drivers are for software applications that were written to use the drivers (true 32-bit windows programs) and DOS programs written years ago have no knowledge of how to interface to the Device Drivers - this is the reason the PCICFG program exists!

You cannot use PCICFG under Command sessions of Windows NT, 2000, XP
Win NT, 2000 and XP  DO NOT allow DOS programs to access hardware and so your DOS programs will not work.  If you require to work under these operating systems, then you will need to re-write your application software and use the BaseBoard Win-32 kernel mode device drivers (available for BaseBoard / ISA and BaseBoard / PCI) to create a true 32-bit windows program (either a text based console application or a full graphical application).

DOS Notes: DOS software that is using Interrupts:

The BaseBoard / PCI card was created as a direct replacement for those applications that are currently using the ISA card. In most cases, software written for the ISA card will run on the PCI card without any modification. The exception to this are programs that use interrupts

Most programs written for the BaseBoard / ISA do not use interrupts. How do you know if your existing software is using interrupts? You can determine this by looking at how the BaseBoard / ISA card is configured for your particular DOS software.

BaseBoard/ISA Rev E and Earlier:
This version of the BaseBoard / ISA has a 14 pin interrupt header called J1 that is used to select interrupts. If there are no wires soldered across this header, then interrupts are not being used.

BaseBoard/ISA Rev F2
This version of the BaseBoard / ISA has a 12 pin jumper called J1 that is used to select interrupts. If there is not a jumper installed on J1, then interrupts are not being used.

Refer to the BaseBoard / ISA User's Guide for more details.

If your DOS program is using interrupts, it does not mean that the BaseBoard / PCI will not work. It means that you may have to adjust your computers BIOS setup to select a particular PCI interrupt for the BaseBoard / PCI card that matches the interrupt that your software wants to use.  Some computer BIOS setup utilities allow you to assign a particular interrupt to a particular PCI slot.  If this is the case, then you should select the interrupt for the BaseBoard / PCI that your software requires.  If your computer does not allow such a selection, then you would have to modify your software to use the BaseBoard / PCI interrupt assigned by your computer's Plug-and-Play BIOS.  There is no good method to try and "force" a particular interrupt (like we force a particular address using the PCICFG program).  This is because the PCI specification leaves the assignment and wiring of interrupt signals of PCI slots up to the motherboard manufacturers - and there does not seem to be any standard at all regarding how this is done.

On the Back of the DeskTop unit is a switch that is used to Enable/Disable interrupts. The factory default setting is "Disabled" and should be kept this way unless your software needs to use interrupts.

Note about the PCICFG message and the IRQ information:
The PCICFG program assigns an address to the card.  The message it displays also indicates an interrupt level.  The BaseBoard / PCI card is assigned an interrupt level by the Plug-and-Play BIOS and the PCICFG message is displaying the interrupt level that is assigned.  This does not mean that the BaseBoard / PCI is using interrupts.  It only means that if interrupts are used (that is, if the switch is change from disable to enable AND the software is written to use interrupts) the interrupt assigned by the BIOS will be used.  When the switch is set to DISABLE, interrupts are NOT being used.  The switch should only be in the Enable mode if the software using the BaseBoard / PCI is written to use interrupts and can use the interrupt assigned by the BIOS.  Since PCI interrupts can be shared by other cards (ISA interrupts cannot), your software should also know how to properly share interrupts.

DOS Notes: Mode Selection:

On the Back of the DeskTop unit is a switch that is used to select between "BaseBoard Mode" and "Alternate Mode". This has to do with software programming of the BaseBoard/PCI.

BaseBoard Mode:
The hardware register set is the same as the BaseBoard / ISA card.

Alternate Mode:
The hardware register set is the same as the LabMaster DMA, LabTender, DADIO and some third party Digital I/O cards from other manufacturers.  If your DOS software was not written for the BaseBoard (maybe it was for a different Scientific Solutions board or for a board from another manufacturer such as Keithley, NI, etc), then you can try selecting the Alternate Mode and see if this helps.

The factory default setting is "BaseBoard Mode" and should be kept this way unless your software is written for another Digital I/O card

BaseBoard Register Map:

The register map of the BaseBoard / PCI is the same as the BaseBoard / ISA card.  Each DeskTop Unit is equivalent to a BaseBoard / ISA and occupy 16 consecutive I/O locations, four locations for each of the four parallel port sections.

You can calculate the ADDR+ offset from the Starting Address as follows:

ADDR+  =  [(Unit -1) * 16] + [(Connector -1) * 4] + Register

Where:
Unit = Unit number as indicated by the lights on the front of the DeskTop Unit (1, 2, 3 or 4)
Connector = The connector on the front of the DeskTop Unit that you are using (1, 2, 3 or 4)
Register = 8255 Register you want to access, where

Register
 BaseBoard Mode
Register Value
 Alternate  Mode
Register Value
Control
 0
 3
DataPort C
 1
 2
DataPort B
 2
 1
DataPort A
 3
 0
Where the "Mode" is determined by a switch on the back of the DeskTop Unit
If using LabPac32 drivers, then "Mode" Must Be Set for BaseBoard

Example:
You want to program the Control Register for Connector 2 of the Third Unit when using BaseBoard Mode.
Unit =3
Connector = 2
Register = Control = 0 (BaseBoard Mode)

ADDR+  = [(Unit -1) * 16] + [(Connector -1 * 4] + Register
ADDR+  = [( 3    -1) * 16] + [(     2          -1 * 4] + 0
ADDR+  = 32 + 4 + 0
ADDR+  = 36

So to program this Control Register, its address is 36 decimal  (24 hex) from the starting "Base" Address of the PCI card.

The following is a list of the functions and their locations relative to the starting location for the first DeskTop Unit.
R/W
 Addr +
 BaseBoard Mode
 Alternate Mode
W
 0
 Section 1 - Control Register
 Section1 - Port A Data
R/W
 1
 Section 1 - Port C Data
 Section1 - Port B Data
R/W
 2
 Section 1 - Port B Data
 Section 1 - Port C Data
R/W
 3
 Section 1 - Port A Data
 Section 1 - Control Register
W
 4
 Section 2 - Control Register
 Section 2 - Port A Data
R/W
 5
 Section 2 - Port C Data
 Section 2 - Port B Data
R/W
 6
 Section 2 - Port B Data
 Section 2 - Port C Data
R/W
 7
 Section 2 - Port A Data
 Section 2 - Control Register
W
 8
 Section 3 - Control Register
 Section 3 - Port A Data
R/W
 9
 Section 3 - Port C Data
 Section 3 - Port B Data
R/W
 10 (A)
 Section 3 - Port B Data
 Section 3 - Port C Data
R/W
 11 (B)
 Section 3 - Port A Data
 Section 3 - Control Register
W
 12 (C)
 Section 4 - Control Register
 Section 4 - Port A Data
R/W
 13 (D)
 Section 4 - Port C Data
 Section 4 - Port B Data
R/W
 14 (E)
 Section 4 - Port B Data
 Section 4 - Port C Data
R/W
 15 (F)
 Section 4 - Port A Data
 Section 4 - Control Register


Specific Notes for Windows Programs:

The diskette that came with your BaseBoard / PCI product has drivers for various versions of windows.  On the diskette are readme files for the various versions.  Refer to the readme files for specific instructions.

To create windows software for the BaseBoard / PCI, you should install the device driver and use the LabPac32 function library.  LabPac32 is Scientific Solutions 32-bit windows library that can be used from a variety of programming environments including C/C++, Visual C, VisualBasic, LabView, HPVEE, etc.

Use the following link to obtain more information about LabPac32:

http://www.scientific-solutions.com/labpac32.html



Scientific Solutions LabPac32 Port Assignments:

When using the LabPac32 function library, the digital I/O calls require that you provide a Port Number.

You can calculate the LabPac32 Port Numbers as follows:

LabPac32 PORT = [(Unit -1) * 12] + [(Connector -1) * 3] + DataPort

Where DataPort is the 8255 Ports using A=0, B=1, C=3

Example:
If you have multiple units in the system and you want to send/receive data from the B DataPort of Connector 2 of the third unit:

Unit =3
(the light of the front of the unit shows the unit number)

Connector =2
(the connector is labeled on the front of the unit)

DataPort = B = 1
(each connector has three 8-bit DataPorts A, B and C)

LabPac32Port = [(Unit -1) * 12] + [(Connector -1) * 3] + DataPort
LabPac32Port = [(  3   -1) * 12] + [(       2        -1) * 3] + 1
LabPac32Port =  24 + 3 + 1
LabPac32Port = 28 decimal  (1C hex)

NOTE: When using the LabPac32 calls, be sure the DeskTop unit is in the BaseBoard Mode as configured with a switch on the back of the unit.

The following table shows the Port Numbers for the LabPac calls:

DeskTop
Unit
 		Connector
 		8255 Data
Port
 		LabPac32
Port
1
 		1
 		A
 		0
1
 		1
 		B
 		1
1
 		1
 		C
 		2
1
 		2
 		A
 		3
1
 		2
 		B
 		4
1
 		2
 		C
 		5
1
 		3
 		A
 		6
1
 		3
 		B
 		7
1
 		3
 		C
 		8
1
 		4
 		A
 		9
1
 		4
 		B
 		10
1
 		4
 		C
 		11
2
 		1
 		A
 		12
2
 		1
 		B
 		13
2
 		1
 		C
 		14
2
 		2
 		A
 		15
2
 2
 B
 16
2
 2
 C
 17
2
 3
 A
 18
2
 3
 B
 19
2
 3
 C
 20
2
 4
 A
 21
2
 4
 B
 22
2
 4
 C
 23
3
 1
 A
 24
3
 1
 B
 25
3
 1
 C
 26
3
 2
 A
 27
3
 2
 B
 28
3
 2
 C
 29
3
 3
 A
 30
3
 3
 B
 31
3
 3
 C
 32
3
 4
 A
 33
3
 4
 B
 34
3
 4
 C
 35
4
 1
 A
 36
4
 1
 B
 37
4
 1
 C
 38
4
 2
 A
 39
4
 2
 B
 40
4
 2
 C
 41
4
 3
 A
 42
4
 3
 B
 43
4
 3
 C
 44
4
 4
 A
 45
4
 4
 B
 46
4
 4
 C
 47



BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit - The Outside:

The BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit is approximately 2" tall by 11” wide by 7” deep (51mm x 279mm x 178mm) and provides easy connection to the Digital I/O signals.

DeskTop Unit Front:

DeskTop Unit Front

DeskTop Unit - Front Panel Connections 1, 2, 3, 4:

The front of the DeskTop Unit has four connectors labeled 1, 2, 3 and 4.   These connectors can either be 40pin or 50pin.  When the unit is shipped from the factory, these are 40pin connectors and the pin out of these connectors are the same as the P1, P2, P3 and P4 connectors on the BaseBoard / ISA  (this pin out is described later in this document when we discuss the inside of the DeskTop Unit).   Inside the DeskTop Unit is a ribbon cable connecting the front panel 40pin connector to a corresponding 40pin header on an internal circuit board.

If you install an Opto-Isolation module in the DeskTop unit, then the connector in the front panel would change from a 40pin to a 50pin connector.  How this is done is outlined later in this document.

DeskTop Unit - Front Panel LEDs: Unit Number,  Unit Power, PC Power

DeskTop Back Panel LEDs
Above photo shows correct lights for Unit #1 when powered on and connected to the computer that is also powered on

Unit Number Lights:
These lights indicate the Unit Selection Switch Settings on the back of the unit.  Multiple DeskTop Units can be connected to a single BaseBoard / PCI card in the computer.  Each unit must be switched to a unique number from 1 to 4.  These lights provide an indication of the unit number so the user can distinguish between multiple units.  These lights will only be illuminated when the Unit has power (i.e. it has an external power supply connected) AND the Unit is connected to a computer that is also powered on.  Some BaseBoard / PCI units use a seven segment numerical display instead of the four LEDs.

Unit Power Light:
This light indicates that the DeskTop Unit has power plugged into the connection on the back.  The DeskTop unit requires external power to operate.  When the DeskTop Unit has power, this LED will be illuminated.

PC Power Light:
This light indicates that the PC containing the PCI card is attached to the DeskTop unit and that the computer is powered "ON".

DeskTop Unit Back:

DeskTop Unit Back

DeskTop Unit - Back Panel Switch

On the back of the DeskTop Unit, there is a switch located at the lower right hand corner.  
DeskTop Unit Switch

This switch is used to configure the following features:

  1. Select the Unit Number (1, 2, 3 or 4)
  2. Select the address mode, either "BaseBoard" or "Alternate" Mode
  3. Enable / Disable Interrupts.
On the back of the DeskTop Unit is a diagram showing the switch settings for the various configurations, which is explained in the following discussion:

Select the Unit Number:

Since each BaseBoard / PCI card installed in the computer can have from 1 to 4 DeskTop Units attached, we need to "assign a number" to each unit.  The two left most positions of the switch are used to select the DeskTop Unit number.

When only one Unit is attached to the PCI card, it should be switched as Unit #1.

If you have multiple units attached to a single PCI card, then the second unit should be Unit #2; The third should be Unit #3; And if you have a fourth unit, it should be configured as Unit #4 using this switch.

The Unit selection should ALWAYS be sequential starting with #1 (which is attached to the PCI card) and the units should be properly connected using the included cables and the IN/OUT connections on the back of the units.  Refer to a following section in this document that discusses the IN/OUT connections.

Select the Address Mode:

On the Back of the DeskTop unit is a switch that is used to select between "BaseBoard Mode" and "Alternate Mode". This has to do with software programming of the BaseBoard / PCI.

BaseBoard Mode:
The hardware register set is the same as the BaseBoard / ISA card.

Alternate Mode:
The hardware register set is the same as the LabMaster DMA, LabTender, DADIO and some third party Digital I/O cards from other manufacturers.  If your DOS software was not written for the BaseBoard (maybe it was for a different Scientific Solutions board or for a board from another manufacturer such as Keithley, NI, etc), then you can try selecting the Alternate Mode and see if this helps.

The factory default setting is "BaseBoard Mode" and should be kept this way unless your software is written for another Digital I/O card

Disable/Enable Interrupts:

Most applications do not use interrupts for the Digital I/O functions.  However, there may be the need to use the strobed I/O mode or handshaking mode with interrupts.  A switch setting on the back of the DeskTop Unit is used to Enable/Disable Interrupts.  The units are shipped with interrupts Disabled.  In order to use interrupts, your application software needs to be written to use interrupts and you will need to change this setting to Enable.

Switch setting summary:

Where:
SW1
 SW2
 SW3
 SW4
FUNCTION
DN
 DN
 x
 x
 Switch DN DN X X
 UNIT #1 SELECTED
(DEFAULT)
DN
 UP
 x
 x
 Switch DN UP X X
 UNIT #2 SELECTED
UP
 DN
 x
 x
 Switch UP DN X X
 UNIT #3 SELECTED
UP
 UP
 x
 x
 Switch UP UP X X
 UNIT #4 SELECTED
x
 x
 DN
 x
 Switch X X DN X
 BASEBOARD MODE
(DEFAULT)
x
 x
 UP
 x
 Switch X X UP X
 ALTERNATE MODE
x
 x
 x
 DN
 Switch X X X DN
 DISABLE INTERRUPT
(DEFAULT)
x
 x
 x
 UP
 Switch X X X UP
 ENABLE INTERRUPT


DeskTop Unit - Back Panel Connections: IN and OUT

The back of the DeskTop Unit has connectors labeled IN and OUT.  The BaseBoard / PCI card connects to the IN connection of the DeskTop Unit.  If you have multiple DeskTop Units, then the BaseBoard / PCI card connects to the IN connection of Unit #1.

DeskTop Connections: IN and OUT


On the back of the DeskTop unit is a switch that is used to select the DeskTop Unit number. When only one Unit is attached to the PCI card, it should be switched as Unit #1. A second unit, should be Unit #2. The third should be Unit #3. And if you have a fourth unit, it should be configured as Unit #4 using this switch. The Unit selection should ALWAYS be sequential starting with #1, and the Units should be "wired" in the same order as the switch selection; specifically:
A diagram on the back of the DeskTop Unit displays how to correctly set the switch to choose a particular Unit number.  The IN and OUT connections are also identified on the back of the unit.  Cables for wire connection between units are included with the units.

DeskTop Unit - Back Panel Power Connection:

On the back of the DeskTop Unit is a connector for an external power supply.  The DeskTop unit comes with the power supply.  The power supply is a worldwide universal switching type that takes in 90-260v AC,  50/60 Hz and provides 5V DC / 3.0 Amps to the DeskTop Unit.  In order for the DeskTop Unit to operate, you need to attach this external power supply.


DeskTop Unit Power Supply DeskTop Power Connector
DeskTop Power Supply
(Power supply may vary from the picture shown)		 DeskTop Power Connector

BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit - The Inside:

The DeskTop Unit can be opened by the user if required.  As shipped from the factory, the DeskTop unit has four 40pin connections on the front panel.  Also, the DeskTop Unit is configured for "non-inverting" Digital I/O handshaking (this is explained later in this document).  If this configuration matches your needs, then there is no need to open up the DeskTop Unit.

However, you will need to open up the DeskTop Unit for the following reasons:
  1. You want to install an Opto-Isolation module
  2. You want to change the Digital I/O handshake polarity (this is rare, as most users do not change this setting)
  3. You want to use one of the other types of connections provided by the DeskTop Unit (50pin for relay racks, 40pin for DB37 connections - these connections are explained later in this section).

How to Open the DeskTop Unit:

  1. Use a flat bladed screw driver (supplied with the unit) to pry off the 4 plastic clips on the top of the unit. Be careful not to break the clips. They should snap out with a slight twist with the screw driver in the grove. Do not loose these clips, as you will need them when you put the unit back together.
  2. Use the screw driver to remove the four screws now accessible from the top. Although the screws are "philips head" the flat bladed screw driver works ok. Do not loose these screws, as you will need them when you reassemble the unit.
  3. Remove the top lid. Note that the lid is tongue-and-grove, and that it only really goes on one way. When you replace the cover, you will need to put it on with the correct orientation (tongue in grove). As you lift the cover the front and rear panels may also lift a little. They are only held in place by the top and bottom cover of the unit.

Open DeskTop picture 1

open DeskTop picture 2 open DeskTop picture 3 open DeskTop picture 4
open DeskTop picture 5 open DeskTop picture 6
open DeskTop picture 7

With the cover off, you have complete access to the internals of the unit.  If necessary, you can lift out the front or rear panel and move it to the side.  The wires are generally sufficiently long to allow you to do this to gain better access to the circuit board connections.

DeskTop Inside View #1

In the above photo you can see the four 40pin ribbon cables connecting from the front panel of the unit to internal connectors P1, P2, P3 and P4.

DeskTop Unit Internal Connectors:

The internal circuit board has four sections - corresponding to the four connectors on the front of the box. Each section has three connectors.  The location and orientation of the connectors are as follows (viewing the internal DeskTop circuit board from the front):

Digital I/O Section #1
P137 (40pin header)
P150 (50pin header)
P1 (40pin header)
 Digital I/O Section #4
P437 (40pin header)
P450 (50pin header)
P4 (40pin header)
Digital I/O Section #2
P237 (40pin header)
P250 (50pin header)
P2 (40pin header)
 Digital I/O Section #3
P337 (40pin header)
P350 (50pin header)
P3 (40pin header)

As shipped from Scientific Solutions, the front panel connections are made as follows:
Front Panel Connector 1 to Inside Header P1
Front Panel Connector 2 to Inside Header P2
Front Panel Connector 3 to Inside Header P3
Front Panel Connector 4 to Inside Header P4

Each of the digital I/O lines may be connected directly to the outside world. The BaseBoard has TTL threshold logic.  When used as direct unbuffered outputs, be sure that the sink/source current of the BaseBoard in not exceeded (as specified in the Technical Specification section of this document).  When used as an input, each line may be driven by any TTL logic signal.

NOTE: For the following pin out tables:
The orientation of the pin out tables are the same as the header connectors as viewed from the front of the DeskTop Unit.

Header Connectors P1, P2, P3, P4:

These connectors are the same as the 40pin connectors on the ISA version of the BaseBoard. They each have the pin out as follows:

A0
 A1
 A2
 A3
 A4
 A5
 A6
 A7
 C5
 C7
 C1
 C3
 G
 G
 G
 NC
 NC
 +5
 NC
 G
21
 22
 23
 24
 25
 26
 27
 28
 29
 30
 31
 32
 33
 34
 35
 36
 37
 38
 39
 40
1
 2
 3
 4
 5
 6
 7
 8
 9
 10
 11
 12
 13
 14
 15
 16
 17
 18
 19
 20
G
 NC
 +5
 NC
 NC
 G
 G
 G
 C4
 C6
 C0
 C2
 B0
 B1
 B2
 B3
 B4
 B5
 B6
 B7

Header Connectors P150, P250, P350, P450:

These connectors are 50pin headers and use the industry standard pin out for connection to solid-state relay racks. The pin out is as follows:

G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
 G
2
 4
 6
 8
 10
 12
 14
 16
 18
 20
 22
 24
 26
 28
 30
 32
 34
 36
 38
 40
 42
 44
 46
 48
 50
1
 3
 5
 7
 9
 11
 13
 15
 17
 19
 21
 23
 25
 27
 29
 31
 33
 35
 37
 39
 41
 43
 45
 47
 49
C7
 C6
 C5
 C4
 C3
 C2
 C1
 C0
 B7
 B6
 B5
 B4
 B3
 B2
 B1
 B0
 A7
 A6
 A5
 A4
 A3
 A2
 A1
 A0
 +5

If you want a 50pin header on the front panel, you will have to replace the DeskTop unit's internal 40pin ribbon cable with a 50pin ribbon cable.  Each of these ribbon cables have socket connectors on one end that plug into the internal header connectors and panel mount connectors on the other end for attachment to the DeskTop front panel.  The DeskTop Unit ships with 40pin cables installed to the internal P1, P2, P3 and P4 locations.  You will need a 50pin ribbon cable to connect to either of the P150, P250, P350 or P450 locations.  Refer to the section in this manual about the Inside of the DeskTop Unit for additional clarification.
50 pin ribbon cable

Header Connectors P137, P237, P337, P437:

These connectors are 40pin headers with the pin out used to connect the Digital I/O signals to DB37 connectors. This pin out is popular with some installations that have used other manufacturers digital I/O products.  To mount a DB37 connector to the DeskTop unit requires a different front panel that can be supplied by Scientific Solutions on a special order basis.

G
 C7
 C6
 C5
 C4
 C3
 C2
 C1
 C0
 A7
 A6
 A5
 A4 A3 A2 A1
 A0
 NC
 NC
 NC
21
 22
 23
 24
 25
 26
 27
 28
 29
 30
 31
 32
 33
 34
 35
 36
 37
 38
 39
 40
1
 2
 3
 4
 5
 6
 7
 8
 9
 10
 11
 12
 13
 14
 15
 16
 17
 18
 19
 20
NC
 NC
 B7
 B6
 B5
 B4
 B3
 B2
 B1
 B0
 G
 NC
 G
 NC
 G
 NC
 G
 +5
 G
 +5

Digital I/O Handshake Configuration

The BaseBoard’s Digital I/O can be used in a two-wire handshaking mode - referred to as Strobed I/O mode.  In this mode, Port A and Port B are used as digital data I/O, while each uses two signals from Port C for handshaking.  In strobed input mode, one handshaking signal (STB) is driven by an external device to strobe data into the Digital In buffer and the second signal is provided to the external device to acknowledge that the input buffer is full (IBF).

Normally, external devices require a high true (Non-Inverting) IBF signal to acknowledge that the input buffer is full.  Some devices, however, may require a low true (Inverted) signal.

Jumpers JP2, JP3, JP4 and JP5 in the DeskTop Unit control the polarity of the IBF handshaking acknowledge signals for both Port A and Port B used in strobed input mode for the four Digital I/O sections.

The jumpers are labeled INV (for Inverting) and NOR (for Normal, or NON-Inverting).

The DeskTop units as shipped from the factory are jumpered for Non-Inverting handshake.  You should only change these jumpers to Inverting hand shake if this is a requirement of your software.  Otherwise, leave them in the Non-Inverting mode.


Connecting the BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit:

After you install the BaseBoard / PCI card in your computer, you can attach the BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit.

The BaseBoard / PCI card comes with a 6ft. (2 m) cable that is used to connect it to the DeskTop Unit.  Each additional DeskTop Unit has a 3 ft. (1m) cable that is used to inter-connect the DeskTop Units.

Connect BaseBoard / PCI card to a DeskTop Unit:

  1. Make sure the DeskTop Unit has the back panel switch set for Unit #1
  2. Attach one end of the 6ft (2m) cable to the BaseBoard / PCI card in the computer.  Attach the other end of this cable to the BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit   'IN'  connector.
  3. Plug the Power Supply into your wall outlet, and plug the other end of the Power Supply into the DeskTop Unit +5v connector.  With the power supply connected, the DeskTop Unit's Power LED should be illuminated.
  4. When your computer is powered, two additional DeskTop Unit LEDs should be illuminated - one for the PC Power, and the other being the Unit Number identification for Unit #1.

DeskTop Unit Cable IN

 DeskTop Power Supply
 AC Power Connection
 DeskTop Power Oonnection

Connecting the DeskTop Unit #2:

  1. After the BaseBoard / PCI card is attached to the first DeskTop Unit, then you can add the second DeskTop Unit.
  2. Set the next DeskTop Unit switch for Unit #2
  3. Attach one end of the 3ft (1m) cable to the DeskTop Unit #1  'OUT'  connector
  4. Attach the other end of the 3ft (1m) cable to the DeskTop Unit #2  'IN' connector
  5. Plug the Power Supply for Unit #2 into the wall outlet, and plug the other end of the Power Supply into Unit #2's power connector.  With the power supply connected, DeskTop Unit #2's Power LED should be illuminated.
  6. When your computer is powered, Unit #2's PC Power and Unit Number identification for Unit #2 should also be illuminated.

Connecting the DeskTop Unit #3:

  1. After the BaseBoard / PCI card is attached to the first DeskTop Unit, and the first unit is attached to the second unit, then you can add the third DeskTop Unit.
  2. Set the next DeskTop Unit switch for Unit #3
  3. Attach one end of the 3ft (1m) cable to the DeskTop Unit #2  'OUT'  connector
  4. Attach the other end of the 3ft (1m) cable to the DeskTop Unit #3  'IN' connector
  5. Plug the Power Supply for Unit #3 into the wall outlet, and plug the other end of the Power Supply into Unit #3's power connector.  With the power supply connected, DeskTop Unit #3's Power LED should be illuminated.
  6. When your computer is powered, Unit #3's PC Power and Unit Number identification for Unit #2 should also be illuminated.

Connecting the DeskTop Unit #4:

  1. After the BaseBoard / PCI card is attached to the first DeskTop Unit, and the first unit is attached to the second unit, and the second unit is attached to the third unit, then you can add the fourth and final DeskTop Unit.
  2. Set the next DeskTop Unit switch for Unit #4
  3. Attach one end of the 3ft (1m) cable to the DeskTop Unit #3  'OUT'  connector
  4. Attach the other end of the 3ft (1m) cable to the DeskTop Unit #4  'IN' connector
  5. Plug the Power Supply for Unit #4 into the wall outlet, and plug the other end of the Power Supply into Unit #3's power connector.  With the power supply connected, DeskTop Unit #4's Power LED should be illuminated.
  6. When your computer is powered, Unit #4's PC Power and Unit Number identification for Unit #4 should also be illuminated.
 Four Units - Front View
The above photo shows four DeskTop Units with Unit #1 on the bottom and Unit #4 on top as indicated by the Unit # LEDs.  These four units provide a total of 1536 Digital I/O signals

Cabling Four DeskTop Units
The above photo shows the back view of the same four DeskTop Units.  Notice that Unit #1 is connected to the BaseBoard / PCI card (which is normally inside your computer) and that the OUT to IN cable arrangement of the additional units.  Unit #4 (the top unit) has no cable connection to OUT.

Opto Isolation Modules Description

The DeskTop units internal connections P1, P2, P3 and P4 are 40 pin connectors for either a 40 pin ribbon cable to a front panel connector permitting direct access to the outside world or for the attachment of an optional add-on module such as the Opto-Isolation In  or Opto-Isolation Out Modules.

The Scientific Solutions’ Opto Isolation Modules attach to the BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit to give opto-isolated inputs or outputs.

The Opto Isolation boards provide 24 parallel Digital Input or Output lines that are optically isolated to provide up to 2500 Volts of isolation.  This isolation protects your PC while it is monitoring other devices.

The Opto Isolation boards plug directly on the 40 pin connector (P1, P2, P3 or P4) in the DeskTop unit.  The Opto Isolation boards provide a 50 pin connector for interfacing to the outside world.  Each Digital signal from the 40pin DeskTop header connector is  represented by two pins on the 50 pin connector.  The organization of the pins on these 50 pin connectors is different for the Opto-Isolation In and Opto-Isolation Out Modules.

You can mount as many as four modules in a single DeskTop unit, and you can have any combination of Opto-Isolation In or Opto-Isolation Out.

When you install an Opto-Isolation Module inside the DeskTop unit, you also have to add a 50pin ribbon cable to bring the Opto-Isolation 50pin signals from the module to the front panel of the unit.

Scientific Solutions offers 50 position screw terminals for connection to the Opto-Isolation signals.  The screw termination units are compact and provide a convenient method for connecting discrete wires to the Base Board’s Opto-Isolated Digital Input/Output signals.  Refer to the Screw Termination Unit description contained in this document.

Opto-Isolation Features:

Opto-Isolation Installation:

The Scientific Solutions’ Opto-Isolation  Module is very easy to install and requires the use of a medium-sized, flat-blade screwdriver.  Since the Opto-Isolation Module directly attaches to the internal connections of the Scientific Solutions’ BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit, the unit has to be opened for installation of the module.  With the unit opened, the Opto-Isolation Module is attached.  Then you can re-assemble the DeskTop unit (with the Opto-Isolation Module).

You should refer to the instructions in this document about opening the DeskTop Unit for for the proper procedure for opening the DeskTop unit.

The Opto-Isolation Module contains the following connectors:
Note:
  1. Before installing an Opto-Isolation Module, the front panel of the DeskTop unit has a 40 pin connector to connect the Digital I/O signals to the outside world.
  2. After installing an Opto-Isolation Module, a 50 pin connector is used to connect the Digital I/O signals to the outside world.


50 pin header connector

Opto-Isolation Module

40 pin socket connector

Installing Opto-Isolation Modules:

Note:  To install the Opto-Isolation module into the DeskTop unit requires that you have a 50pin ribbon cable to replace the pre-installed 40pin ribbon cable.  Scientific Solutions can provide this 50pin ribbon cable (Part Number 0361018).

50pin Cable (folded view)50pin cable (straight view)

The Opto-Isolation modules plug into the 40 pin P1, P2, P3 or P4 connectors.
The following steps outline the installation procedure for a module:
  1. Remove the cover of the DeskTop Unit as detailed in a previous section of this document
  2. Remove the 40pin cable from the appropriate P1, P2, P3 or P4 connector of the DeskTop internal circuit board.
  3. Remove the 40pin connector from the 1, 2, 3 or 4 position of the front panel location that you will be using.  The 40pin connector has an adapter to allow it to attach to the front panel.  Remove the screws that attach the adapter to the front panel and leave the adapter attached to the 40pin connector.
  4. Install the 50pin ribbon cable to the front panel 1, 2, 3 or 4 position (replacing the 40pin you just removed).  Be sure the red stripe of the ribbon cable is oriented correctly (to the left of the front panel)
  5. Install the Opto-Isolation module,  plugging the 40pin receptacle of the module into the 40pin header of the appropriate P1, P2 P3 or P4 connector.
  6. Attach the 50pin ribbon cable to the module.  Be sure the red stripe of the ribbon cable is oriented to PIN-1
  7. Install the other end of the 50pin ribbon cable to the front panel  If installed correctly, the PIN1 of the ribbon cable (red stripe) should be oriented with the "PIN1" text on the front of the panel.
  8. Save the 40pin cable you removed in case you want to re-install it later, or as a spare.
  9. Replace the cover of the DeskTop Unit
Note:  The Opto-Isolation Modules have threaded spacers in each corner.  If the DeskTop Unit is not going to be oriented upside right and horizontal, i.e. if it is going to be mounted on its side or upside down - or if the DeskTop Unit is going to be used in an environment where it will be subjected to vibration, you may want to secure the Opto-Isolation module to the internal DeskTop circuit board.  The internal circuit board has holes that match up to the threaded spacers.  In order to attach the Opto module to the internal circuit board, the entire internal circuit board needs to be removed from the DeskTop enclosure.  Please contact Scientific Solutions if you need desire to do this and need assistance.

Here are some pictures to clarify the Opto Module installation instructions:

Install Opto picture 1
 Install opto picture 2
 Install opto picture 3
(1). Remove the cover of the DeskTop Unit as previous detailed in this document
 (2). The back panel can be lifted out and moved to the side to gain easier access to the DeskTop internal connections
 (3). Remove the existing 40pin connector from the P1, P2, P3 or P4 header (Depending on the section obtaining the module)
Install opto picture 4
Opto 50pin Ribbon Cable
(4). With the 40pin cable removed, you have access to the header connectors.  The Opto modules have a 40pin socket connector that will connect to the 40pin header connectors P1, P2, P3 or P4.
 (5). Remove the 40pin cable from the front panel.  Note that the 40pin connectors have an adapter attached to them.  Leave the adapter on the connector, and remove the screws that hold the adapter to the front panel.
 (6). You will need a 50pin ribbon cable to replace the 40pin you just removed.  The 50pin ribbon cable is not supplied with the DeskTop Unit and should be obtained from Scientific Solutions when you purchase your Opto Module.

Install opto picture 7 Install opto picture 8
(7). Install the 50pin ribbon cable to the front panel.  Be sure the red stripe (pin 1) of the cable is oriented correctly (towards the left had side of the front panel).  (8). Orient the Opto Module to install the 40pin socket connector of the Opto onto the 40pin header connector (P1, P2, P3 or P4) of the DeskTop unit. (9). With the pins lined up properly, press down on the Opto module to make a good connection of the 40pin connectors.
Install opto picture 9 Install opto picture 10
(10). Connect the 50pin socket connector of the ribbon cable to the 50pin header connector on the Opto module. (11). Replace the back panel


Opto-Isolation Out Circuit

The Scientific Solutions’ Opto-Isolation Out Module used with the BaseBoard provides optical isolation between your computer and the device the module is connected to.
Opto Out Schematic
In the above diagram, the section within the dotted lines shows the circuit on the Opto-Isolation Out Module. A single BaseBoard Digital output is converted to an optically isolated signal pair: RT and OUT. The signal pairs for each Digital Output are located on the module’s 50 pin header.

A BaseBoard Digital output of logic ‘0’ turns ON the output transistor of the OPTO circuit and lets current flow thru from RT to OUT.

A BaseBoard Digital output of logic ‘1’ turns OFF the output transistor of the OPTO circuit and no current flows between RT and OUT.

Ground differences between the Base Board and the RT/OUT will have no effect, i.e. they are isolated.

Interfacing to the Opto Isolation Out Module

There are many ways to interface to the Opto-Isolation Out Module.

Opto-Out: Isolating current to an LED:
Logic ‘0’ from Base Board turns ON the LED
Logic ‘1’ from Base Board turns OFF the LED

Opto-Out Example, LED

The +5v is on the Opto Module.  The +5v_ISO is provided by the user


Opto-Out Typical User Added Interface:
Logic ‘0’ from Base Board produces logic ‘1’ from 74LS14
Logic ‘1’ from Base Board produces logic ‘0’ from 74LS14

The 74LS14 ‘Schmitt’ trigger output will sharpen the edges of the Opto-Isolator which has slow rise and fall times.  This interface provides an inverted digital output.

Opto Out Example, 74LS14
The +5v is on the Opto Module.  The +5v_ISO is provided by the user

Opto-Isolation OUT 50 pin Header Connector Pin Out:

NC
 C4
OUT
 A1
OUT
 A2
OUT
 A0
OUT
 A4
OUT
 A3
OUT
 C6
OUT
 A5
OUT
 C5
OUT
 A7
OUT
 C7
OUT
 A6
OUT
 C3
OUT
 C0
OUT
 C1
OUT
 B1
OUT
 B0
OUT
 C2
OUT
 B3
OUT
 B2
OUT
 B5
OUT
 B6
OUT
 B4
OUT
 B7
OUT
2
 4
 6
 8
 10
 12
 14
 16
 18
 20
 22
 24
 26
 28
 30
 32
 34
 36
 38
 40
 42
 44
 46
 48
 50
1
 3
 5
 7
 9
 11
 13
 15
 17
 19
 21
 23
 25
 27
 29
 31
 33
 35
 37
 39
 41
 43
 45
 47
 49
NC
 C4
RT
 A1
RT
 A2
RT
 A0
RT
 A4
RT
 A3
RT
 C6
RT
 A5
RT
 C5
RT
 A7
RT
 C7
RT
 A6
RT
 C3
RT
 C0
RT
 C1
RT
 B1
RT
 B0
RT
 C2
RT
 B3
RT
 B2
RT
 B5
RT
 B6
RT
 B4
RT
 B7
RT


Opto Isolation In Circuit

The Scientific Solutions’ Opto-Isolation In Module used with the Base Board provides optical isolation between your PC and the device the module is connected to.
Opto-Out Schematic
In the above diagram, the section within the dotted lines shows the circuit on the Opto-Isolation In Module. A signal pair, RT and IN, is converted to a single Base Board Digital input. The signal pairs for each Digital Input are located on the module’s 50 pin header.

If current flows into the ‘IN’ pin and out the ‘RT’ pin , the OPTO transistor is ON and you will have a logic ‘1’ at the Base Board Digital input port.

If current does not flow from the ‘IN’ to ‘RT’ pin, then the OPTO transistor is OFF and you will have a logic ‘0’ at the Base Board Digital input port.


Ground differences between the Base Board and the RT/IN will have no effect, i.e. they are isolated.

Interfacing to the Opto Isolation In Module


There are many ways to interface to the Opto-Isolating In Module.

Opto-In Typical User Added Interface:
Logic ‘0’ from an external device produces a logic ‘0’ to the Base Board

Logic ‘1’ from an external device produces a logic ‘1’ to the Base Board

Opto In Example Circuit

This example uses a 330 ohm resistor to provide an input current of about 10ma which is the minimum required to provide a valid logic level at the output of the opto-isolator.

Opto-Isolation IN  50 pin Header Connector Pin Out:

NC
 A0
RT
 A2
RT
 A1
RT
 A3
RT
 A4
RT
 A5
RT
 C5
RT
 C7
RT
 C6
RT
 A6
RT
 A7
RT
 C4
RT
 C1
RT
 B1
RT
 C3
RT
 B0
RT
 C2
RT
 C0
RT
 B5
RT
 B2
RT
 B6
RT
 B3
RT
 B7
RT 		B4
RT
2
 4
 6
 8
 10
 12
 14
 16
 18
 20
 22
 24
 26
 28
 30
 32
 34
 36
 38
 40
 42
 44
 46
 48
 50
1
 3
 5
 7
 9
 11
 13
 15
 17
 19
 21
 23
 25
 27
 29
 31
 33
 35
 37
 39
 41
 43
 45
 47
 49
NC
 A0
IN
 A2
IN 		A1
IN
 A3
IN 		A4
IN 		A5
IN 		C5
IN 		C7
IN 		C6
IN 		A6
IN 		A7
IN 		C4
IN 		C1
IN 		B1
IN 		C3
IN 		B0
IN 		C2
IN 		C0
IN
 B5
IN 		B2
IN 		B6
IN 		B3
IN 		B7
IN 		B4
IN

Screw Termination Units:

Scientific Solutions offers screw terminals for direct connection to the BaseBoard / PCI DeskTop Unit Digital I/O connectors 1, 2, 3 and 4.  The screw termination units are compact and provide a convenient method for connecting discrete wires to the BaseBoard’s Digital Input/Output signals.  Each section of the Base Board can have its own individual screw terminal.  Both 40pin (for use without Opto modules) and 50pin (for use with Opto modules) are available.

Digital I/O P1, P2, P3 or P4:  40 pin Screw Terminal (Option)

When you have the DeskTop front panel 1, 2, 3 or 4 connectors wired to the internal P1, P2, P3, or P4 - then you will have 40pin connectors on the front of the DeskTop Unit (this is how the unit is typically provided by Scientific Solutions).  You can connect to a 40 position screw terminal to the front panel connector.  The digital I/O signals are then connected to the screw terminals and are transmitted to the BaseBoard via a ribbon cable.  The ribbon cable is connected between the screw terminal and the DeskTop front panel 40pin digital I/O connector.  The striped edge of the ribbon cable connects to Pin 1.
40 position screw terminal


Digital I/O P150, P250, P350 or P450: 50 pin Screw Terminal (Option)

When you have the DeskTop front panel 1, 2, 3 or 4 connectors wired to the internal P150, P250, P350, or P450 - then you will have 50pin connectors on the front of the DeskTop Unit.  You can connect a 50 position screw terminal to the front panel connector.  The digital I/O signals are then connected to the screw terminals and are transmitted to the BaseBoard via a ribbon cable.  The ribbon cable is connected between the screw terminal and the DeskTop front panel 50pin digital I/O connector.  The striped edge of the ribbon cable connects to Pin 1.

50 pin Screw Terminal for Digital I/O


Opto Isolation Out 50 pin Screw Terminal (Option)

When you have an Opto-Isolation OUT module installed in the DeskTop Unit, then you will have 50pin connectors on the front of the DeskTop Unit.  You can connect a 50 position screw terminal to the front panel connector. The Opto-Isolated Digital I/O signals are then connected to the screw terminals and are transmitted to the Opto-Isolation Module via a ribbon cable.  The ribbon cable is connected between the screw terminal and the DeskTop front panel 50pin Opto-Isolation connector.  The striped edge of the ribbon cable connects to Pin 1.
Opto Out Screw Terminal


Opto-Isolation In 50 pin Screw Terminal Option

When you have an Opto-Isolation IN module installed in the DeskTop Unit, then you will have 50pin connectors on the front of the DeskTop Unit.  You can connect a 50 position screw terminal to the front panel connector(s). The Opto-Isolated Digital I/O signals are then connected to the screw terminals and are transmitted to the Opto-Isolation Module via a ribbon cable.  The ribbon cable is connected between the screw terminal and the DeskTop front panel 50pin Opto-Isolation connector.  The striped edge of the ribbon cable connects to Pin 1.
Opto IN Screw Terminal


Technical Specifications

Digital Input/Output Characteristics
Number of bits
 96 bits of Digital I/O per DeskTop Unit
(maximum of 384 bits per PCI card)
Programmable Modes
  • Mode0 - Basic I/O
  • Mode 1 - Strobed I/O
  • Mode 2 - Strobed Bi-Directional
Data Transfer
 Programmed I/O
Logic Thresholds
 TTL
Current Source 15ma
Current Sink 64 ma

Opto-Isolation In Characteristics
Isolator Type 4N25
Input Voltage 30 Volts
Input Current 80 Milliamps
Input Reverse Voltage 3 Volts maximum
Input Isolation 2500 Volts maximum
Switching Times
Rise 3 microseconds maximum
Fall 3 microseconds maximum

Opto-Isolation Out Characteristics
Isolator Type TIL128
Collector Base Voltage 70 Volts maximum
Collector Emitter Voltage 30 Volts maximum
Emitter Collector Voltage 7 Volts maximum
Output Current 80 milliamps maximum
Isolation 2500 Volts maximum
Switching Times
Rise 300 microseconds maximum
Fall 5 microseconds maximum

System Resources


Bus Interface Single 32-bit or 64-bit PCI slot
IRQ Channels PCI BIOS Plug-and-Play auto-select
Address PCI BIOS Plug-and-Play auto-select
Bus Load 1 TTL load/bus line maximum
DeskTop Power Supply
 5v DC regulated, 3A

Environmental Specifications
Operating Temperature 0º to 70º Celsius
Storage Temperature -25º to +85º Celsius
Relative Humidity To 95% non-condensing
Agency Approvals FCC Class A, CE-Mark

Manual Revision History:

(1). 12/23/2002...001
First Release

(2). 03/24/2003...001
Add information about 16/64 jumper
Update PCICFG.EXE information
Add DeskTop Power Supply to technical specifications



Agency Approvals

FCC-B  FCC NOTICE-WARNING
This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause interference to radio or television reception.  It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference when operated in a residential installation.

If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1.    This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2.    This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

CE-Mark Declaration of Conformity
This product meets the essential health and safety requirements and is in conformity with the  relevant EC directives herein listed using the relevant section of the following EC standards or normative documents:
Application of Council Directives:
    89/336/EEC,  92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC Article 5
Standards for which conformity is declared:
    EN55022,  EN50082-1  (IEC 801-2, 801-3, 801-4)
Manufacturer: Scientific Solutions Inc., - USA
Type of Equipment: BaseBoard / PCI for computer
The CE marking has been affixed on the device according to Article 5 and 13 of the council directive 93/68/EEC.

Service Information

Your product should provide you with trouble free performance. However, if you have any questions about the installation or operation, or you encounter any problems, the following information will be helpful.

Scientific Solutions - Technical Support (Requires Product Registration)

    Phone:        (440) 357-1400
    Fax:            (440) 357-1416
    E-mail:        support@LabMaster.com
    Internet:      http://www.LabMaster.com

Should your product require factory service, the following guidelines must be followed and will help you get the fastest service.

1.    Save your sales receipt.  The product you purchased is covered under the limited warranty from the date of purchase, but you must submit proof of purchase for in-warranty repair.

2.    Contact Scientific Solutions.   You must obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number prior to sending the unit to Scientific Solutions. This number must be displayed on the packing box.

3.    Return all the components with your RMA. Complete troubleshooting is impossible if all components are not included.   For protection against damage in transit, repack the system in its original packing.

4.    Damaged and abused products will be repaired out of warranty only. Unauthorized attempts to repair, dropping, submitting to electrical surges, etc. will void the warranty.

5.    Ship the unit to Scientific Solutions freight prepaid. After in-warranty service, the unit will be returned freight prepaid by a carrier designated by Scientific Solutions. Use of any other method will be freight collect or imposed shipping charge.  Out-of-warranty service, will be returned freight collect or imposed shipping charge.

6.    Cosmetic damage will not be repaired in warranty.

NOTE:  Policies may change without notice.

Limited Warranty

Definitions:
Scientific Solutions means Scientific Solutions Inc.,  USA  (www.LabMaster.com)

Warranty:
With respect to the product(s) delivered with this Limited Warranty, Scientific Solutions warrants to the original purchaser that:

i)    The product manufactured by Scientific Solutions will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for two (2) years from the date of delivery to such original purchaser
ii)    Any software/firmware is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind by Scientific Solutions
iii)    Any items not originally supplied by Scientific Solutions are without warranty of any kind.  Use of components and accessories that do not conform to product specifications may void the warranty.

THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES ARE THE ONLY WARRANTIES PROVIDED BY SCIENTIFIC SOLUTIONS IN CONNECTION WITH THE PRODUCTS COVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY AND ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED.  SCIENTIFIC SOLUTIONS HEREBY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

If any product delivered with this Limited Warranty is nonconforming or defective during the applicable warranty period, Scientific Solutions will, at its option, either repair or replace such nonconforming or defective product, or return the purchase price to purchaser.  Any software delivered with this Limited Warranty has been thoroughly tested and is thought to be functional when released.  In the event that a serious functional problem is discovered in any software delivered with this Limited Warranty, Scientific Solutions may endeavor to correct such problem.  Scientific Solutions shall have no obligation hereunder if any product delivered with this Limited Warranty has been misused, carelessly handled, defaced (including unauthorized repairs made or attempted by others), modified or altered.  Prior arrangement must be made with Scientific Solutions before returning any product.  The product must be returned with proof of purchase in its original packaging (or other adequate packaging) to Scientific Solutions.  Claims must be made in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph within the applicable warranty period or they will be barred.

If Scientific Solutions determines that any product which has been returned to Scientific Solutions in accordance with the provisions of the preceding paragraph is not under warranty, it will be repaired using Scientific Solutions' standard rates for parts and labor.  Scientific Solutions will use its best efforts to repair the product after receipt thereof.  Scientific Solutions shall not be responsible, however, for delays caused by shipping or non-availability of replacement components or other similar or dissimilar causes, events or conditions beyond its reasonable control.

THE FOREGOING STATES THE PURCHASER'S EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR ANY BREACH OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY AND FOR ANY CLAIM, WHETHER SOUNDING IN CONTRACT, TORT OR NEGLIGENCE, FOR LOSS OR INJURY CAUSED BY THE SALE OF ANY PRODUCT.  WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, SCIENTIFIC SOLUTIONS SHALL IN NO EVENT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY LOSS OF BUSINESS OR PROFITS, DOWNTIME OR DELAY, LABOR, REPAIR, OR MATERIAL COSTS, INJURY TO PERSON OR PROPERTY OR ANY SIMILAR OR DISSIMILAR CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS OR DAMAGE INCURRED BY PURCHASER, EVEN IF SCIENTIFIC SOLUTIONS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH LOSSES OR DAMAGES.  SCIENTIFIC SOLUTIONS SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE MAXIMUM LIABILITY TO THE PURCHASERS SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT.

Keep your original sales receipt for the product with this warranty statement.

Support:  Scientific Solutions will provide support to the dealer or end user for this product.  This support expires 30 days after shipment of this package from Scientific Solutions.  Additional support and updates may be purchased from Scientific Solutions.

General:  This license constitutes the entire agreement between you and Scientific Solutions.  It cannot be ratified except in writing signed by an officer of Scientific Solutions.

Product Registration Required for Repair or Support.