The DS-MPE-SER4OPT is a rugged, low cost 4-port opto-isolated PCIe MiniCard serial module that is ideal for serial I/O expansion in embedded and OEM applications where opto-isolation is needed for safety or for ground loop prevention.

The DS-MPE-SER4OPT offers 4 RS-232/RS-485 opto-isolated serial ports in a PCIe MiniCard form factor. Each port offers 16C550 compatibility and ultra-deep 256-byte TX/RX FIFOs. Maximum data rates are 1Mbps in RS-232 mode and 10Mbps in RS-485 mode. The board is available preconfigured for 4 RS-232 ports, 4 RS-485 ports, or a combination of 2 RS-232 and 2 RS-485 ports. I/O signals are provided on two miniature latching connectors, with 2 ports per connector.

Each pair of serial ports on the DS-MPE-SER4OPT offers up to 500V isolation from the system ground. Optoisolation increases reliability in applications with long cable runs, where a difference in ground potential can cause significant ground loop currents, damaging non-isolated boards and equipment. Isolation on this miniature board is achieved through a combination of highly integrated isolated power + data components, careful component placement and layout, and a safety-enhancing insulation film on the bottom side, which prevents accidental contact with components on the carrier board.

DS-MPE-OPT4x is designed for rugged environments with latching connectors and extended temperature capability (-40C to +85C). In addition, the board may be custom-configured with 0-ohm resistors in place of jumper blocks for increased ruggedness in high-vibration environments.

The DS-MPE-SER4OPT product comes with the 4-port PCIe MiniCard opto-isolated serial module, the CK-SER4M cable kit, and a hardware kit with jumpers and screws.