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Like several of our other products, the RS-2/8 performs a RS232-to-RS422 conversion vital for connecting PCs with video products. However, this newer product performs with higher output levels. The RS-2/8 plugs in to a PC's COM serial ports as before, deriving its power from the serial port itself. The RS-2/8 is rated to drive legal RS232 and RS422 levels even at 1000' cable lengths.

The RS-2/8 adapter addresses the demands of newer PC motherboards that include integrated serial ports. These serial ports and, more importantly, serial line drivers have much different characteristics than older, ISA expansion board-based serial ports. Not only do the new line drivers produce less output signal, they also are more stringent in their input requirements. For these needs, the RS-2/8 was created.

A prime indicator that the RS-2/8 is needed is when the PC can control the deck but no timecode or status is returned. Some applications software will not even attempt to control a deck if the deck doesn't respond to an initial inquiry for machine type.

To aid in system installation, the RS-2/8 includes two LEDs to indicate that sufficient power has been applied to the RS-2/8. Not only do the LEDs indicate a presence of power, they can help to determine which serial port is which. An LED will flash whenever data is transmitted or received, helping to confirm which serial port is active. This is a great aid when working with a proliferation of software mappings and hardware mappings for COM ports.

Addenda Electronics, P.O. Box 907, Monterey, CA 93942. Tel: 831-372-6205; Fax: 831-372-6192.

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