General
Number of ports	4
Serial standards	RS-232, RS-422, RS-485
Maximum baud rate	921,6 kbps
FIFO	128 Byte
MTBF	603.671 Std.

The Moxa CP-114EL-I is an industrial 4-port PCI Express serial card designed for use in automation systems, POS systems, and bank ATMs. It enables serial communication via RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 protocols and is specifically designed for environments requiring electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), as it provides galvanic isolation of 2 kV. The card is manufactured in a low-profile form factor, making it suitable for compact PC systems. Integrated Tx/Rx LEDs per port allow for visual monitoring of data transmission.

Applications

The CP-114EL-I is suitable for industrial applications requiring a reliable serial interface, such as in manufacturing automation, retail, or transportation. Support for multiple serial standards (RS-232, RS-422, RS-485) enables connection to various peripheral devices such as sensors, printers, or industrial controllers. Galvanic isolation protects the card and host computer from voltage spikes and potential differences, which is especially important in electrically harsh environments.

Functions and Features in Detail

The card features four serial ports, each supporting a maximum baud rate of 921.6 kbps. Transmission parameters are flexibly configurable: data bits can be set to 5, 6, 7, or 8, stop bits to 1, 1.5, or 2, and parity types include None, Even, Odd, Space, and Mark. Integrated flow control supports both hardware flow control (RTS/CTS) and software flow control (XON/XOFF), ensuring data integrity at high transmission rates. The 128-byte FIFO buffer reduces processor load and enables more efficient data processing.

Technology Explained Simply

The communication controllers are 16C550C-compatible, representing a widely used and reliable interface technology. The card uses the PCI Express 1.0 (x1) bus, ensuring a stable and fast connection to the host system. Galvanic isolation of 2 kV protects electronic components from electrical disturbances caused by differing ground potentials or inductive voltage surges. Signal assignment is clearly defined for all three standards (RS-232, RS-422, RS-485), with RS-485 supporting both 2-wire and 4-wire configurations.

Compatibility and Accessories

The CP-114EL-I is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows (DOS, Windows 95–10, Server 2003–2019, Embedded CE 5.0/6.0, XP Embedded), Linux (Kernel 2.4.x to 5.x), and UNIX (QNX 6, Solaris 10, UnixWare 7, SCO OpenServer 5/6). The maximum number of cards installable per PC is eight, enabling scalability in larger systems. Available accessories include separate cables such as CBL-M44M9x4-50 (DB44 to 4 x DB9-M, 50 cm) and CBL-M44M25x4-50 (DB44 to 4 x DB25-M, 50 cm), as well as adapter cables like CBL-F9M9-20 and CBL-F9M9-150 for DB9 connections.

Installation and Mounting

Installation is performed by inserting the card into a PCI Express x1 slot of the host computer. The card is designed in a low-profile format, enabling installation in compact enclosures. Driver support is available for the listed operating systems, with a quick installation guide included in the delivery scope. Integrated LEDs facilitate diagnostics by visually indicating data traffic per port.

Operational Advantages

The card offers high reliability with an MTBF of 603,671 hours (according to Telcordia TR/SR standard). Support for multiple serial protocols and galvanic isolation increases flexibility and safety in industrial use. Broad operating system compatibility and the ability to install up to eight cards per system make the CP-114EL-I a scalable solution for complex automation applications. Operating temperature ranges from 0 to 55 °C, and storage temperature ranges from -20 to 85 °C, ensuring use in various environments. Certifications according to EN 55032/35, CISPR 32, FCC Part 15B Class B, and IEC 61000-4-2/3/4/5/6/8 confirm electromagnetic compatibility and safety of the card. Environmental certifications RoHS, CRoHS, and WEEE highlight the product’s environmental compatibility.

The card is delivered with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty, emphasizing the product’s quality and durability.