PCM20E series of Network Interface Modules
The PCM20E conforms to release 2.1 of the PC Card standard Type II (5.0 mm thick) cards. The ARCNET transceiver circuitry is located in a detachable MAU (medium access unit) that plugs into the PCM20E adapter. MAUs exist for various cabling media such as coaxial cable and twisted-pair cable and are all-interchangeable with one another. A 15-pin connector with a short cable attaches the MAU to the adapter.
The PCM20E incorporates the COM20020 with enhanced features over earlier generation ARCNET chips. New features include command chaining, sequential access to internal RAM, duplicate node ID detection and variable data rates. Data rates from 156 kbps to 5 Mbps are possible.
There are several versions of the PCM20E, each of which is designated by a particular transceiver. The PCM20E-CXB can support either coaxial star or bus networks.
The PCM20E-TB5 supports twisted-pair bus. The PCM20E-485X supports non-backplane mode AC EIA-485.
In order to achieve the highest data rate of 5 Mbps, the PCM20E/5 version must be specified. Operation at 5 Mbps is not possible with all transceiver options.
The PCM20E is shipped with a 3-½ " (9cm) disk containing our DOS, Windows 3.x, and Windows 95 enabler software. Once loaded, programs written for the PCX20 will transparently operate with the PCM20.
The PCM20E is ideal for use as a portable network analyzer when running PacketView. Since COM20020 supports promiscuous (receive all packets) mode, all traffic on the network can be received by a portable computer using this protocol analyzer software.
Contemporary Controls, 2431 Curtiss Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Tel: 630-963-7070; Fax: 630-963-0109.