National Instruments PCIe-8433/2 Serial Interface Device

The National Instruments PCIe-8433/2 (Part number: 781745-01) is a 2-Port Serial Interface Device. This PCI Express based model is designed to support two different protocols, RS-422 and RS-485. This model comes equipped with a male, DB-9 connector. The PCIe-8433/2 not only offers 60 VDC (CAT I) continuous, Port-to-Port isolation, but it also provides 60 VDC (CAT I) Port-to-Host isolation on a continuous basis. This Serial Interface Device is additionally verified to withstand up to 2000 Vrms surge voltages.

With this model, the user does not require additional power arrangements as it draws the required power from the PCI Express channel. In most cases, the device will require 140 mA of current from +12 VDC rail and 610 mA from +3.3 VDC. However, the maximum rated current which can be drawn above the mentioned two voltage levels is 240 mA and 660 mA. This device has the physical dimensions of 4.38 × 6.6 in. Thus, the user can easily have it plugged into any unoccupied PCIe slot in a computer.

The NI PCIe-8433/2 offers a transfer rate that is much better than other products available on the market since it supports DMA transfers. This Serial Interface Device is also compatible with multi-processer and multithreading PCs. This model features 128 B size FIFOs for accurate transmission and reception of information. Moreover, it is also compatible with RS485, Modbus based serial PLCs.

Another brilliant feature in this device is its ability to operate in 2-wire and 4-wire transceiver modes. Thus, the user can select whether to use half-duplex or full-duplex mode for communication between the serial device and interface.