Acromag introduced two new multi-function I/O modules featuring both digital I/O and counter/timer functions on a single PMC module. The new PMC424 provides 40 digital I/O channels for TTL and differential signals plus four 16-bit counter/timers. The PMC464 has 64 TTL digital I/O and four counter/timers. Digital I/O channels are bidirectional for flexibility to meet almost any input/output configuration. Counter/timers can be used for counting events, generating waveform control signals, measuring waveforms, and other process monitoring operations. With more channels on a single card that plugs into PMC slots on VMEbus or CompactPCI™ CPU boards, computer developers can use a single board to perform several I/O functions, which greatly reduces the cost of their systems.

Both models provide four 16-bit counters with TTL-compatible thresholds. For more flexibility, two 16-bit counters can be combined to form one 32-bit counter. Six operating modes support pulse width modulation; watchdog timer; event counter; frequency, pulse width, or period measurement; and one-shot or repetitive one-shot functions.

PMC424 models offer 24 differential and 16 TTL input/output channels. Input/output direction of the differential channels is selectable in 4-channel groups. Direction on TTL I/O is individually configurable for each channel. Inputs support change-of-state and high/low level transition interrupts.

The PMC464 has 64 TTL I/O channels. These are divided as 16 individually programmable input/output channels and 48 channels with direction configurable on an 8-channel port basis.

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. Information is also available on the Internet at www.acromag.com.