Index

Operating
Instructions

Portable Analyzer Chassis WARNING!

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
PRODUCT TO RAIN,
MOISTURE, OR
MECHANICAL ABUSE.
ELECTRIC SHOCK
LinearX Systems Inc HAZARD, OR DAMAGE
TO THE PRODUCT
7556 SW Bridgeport Rd MAY RESULT.
Portland, OR 97224 USA CAUTION !
RISK OF ELECTRIC
Made in USA SHOCK, DO NOT
OPEN CHASSIS.

RS-232 DCE
SERIAL PORT
9600-57600
Baud Rates POWER

BAUD SYSTEM AC
100-120 VAC
IMPORTANT !
LOCK CHECK POWER FOR PROPER AC LINE 200-240 VAC
VOLTAGE SELECTION 50 Watts Max
USE SWITCH ON
SIDE OF CHASSIS 50/60 Hz

Portable Analyzer Chassis

LinearX Systems Inc - 9500 SW Tualatin-Sherwood Rd - Tualatin, OR 97062-8586 USA

TEL:(503) 612-9565 FAX:(503) 612-9344 WEB: www.linearx.com EMAIL: info@linearx.com

36 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual i

 Index
License Agreement and Limited Warranty
■ Acceptance
Carefully read all of the following terms and conditions of this agreement before opening and using the contents of this package. The opening of this package
indicates your acceptance of the terms and conditions of this license agreement. If you are not willing to accept the terms and conditions of this agreement,
then you should return the entire product, with the package seal unbroken, to the place of purchase for a full refund of the purchase price.

■ Copyright Ownership L RS-232 Serial Port Setup 4

Both the program and the documentation are protected under applicable copyright laws. LinearX is the holder of this copyright. Your right to use the program
and the documentation are limited to the terms and conditions described herein. Use of the software unless pursuant to the terms and conditions of this
license, or as otherwise authorized by law, is an infringement of the copyright. LED 11 S
line voltage selector switch 3
■ Limited Non-Exclusive License line voltages 3 Screen Saver 27
You may: (a) use the enclosed program on a single computer, (b) physically transfer the program from one computer to another provided that the program is
used on only one computer at a time, and that you remove any copies of the program from the computer from which the program is being transferred, (c) make link 20 Serial port 4
copies of the program solely for backup or archival purposes. You must reproduce and include the copyright notice and label any backup copy.
Link Status 22 serial port 19
You may not: (a) distribute copies of the program or the documentation to others, (b) lease, rent, grant sublicenses, or other rights to the program, (c) provide
LMS Calibration 23 serial port driver 19
use of the program in a computer service business, network, time-sharing multiple CPU or multiple users arrangement without the prior written consent of
LinearX, (d) translate or otherwise alter the program or related documentation without the prior written consent of LinearX. LMS DOS Interface 19 Serial Port Functions 12
LMS Port 22 serial port interface 4
■ Terms Serial Port Select 20
Your license to use the program and the documentation will automatically terminate if you fail to comply with the terms of this agreement. Your license
terminates in the event that you receive a license for an updated version of the product that replaces this product. If a license expiration date is printed on your M software 20
documentation, or provided through other means such as a time limited electronic or software key, your license expires on the day as shown in the documen-
tation, or on the day that the electronic or software key expires. If this license is terminated you agree to destroy all copies of the program and documentation. sound cards 26
motherboard 19 sounds 14
■ Limited Warranty mouse 20
LinearX warrants to the original licensee that the disk(s), and or electronic key(s) on which the program is recorded will be free from defects in materials and system check 13
workmanship under normal use for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of purchase as evidenced by a copy of your receipt. If failure of the product MSD program 27 System Status 22
components has resulted from accident, abuse, or misapplication of the product, then LinearX or third party licensors shall have no responsibility to replace the
disk(s) or key(s) under this limited warranty. LinearX warrants hardware products for 1 year from the original date of purchase. Multi-Tasking 27
This limited warranty and right of replacement is in lieu of, and you hereby waive, any and all other warranties, both expressed and implied, including but not
T
limited to warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. The liability of LinearX or third party licensors pursuant to this limited warranty shall N
be limited to the replacement of the defective disk(s) or key(s), and in no event shall LinearX or third party licensors be liable for incidental, indirect, punitive, tab bracket 6
or consequential damages, including but not limited to loss of use, loss of profits, loss of data or data being rendered inaccurate, or losses sustained by third
parties even if LinearX or third party licensors have been advised of the possibility of such damages. This warranty gives you specific legal rights which may
Network cards 26 transducer 14
vary from state to state. Some states do not allow the limitation or exclusion of liability for consequential damages, so the above limitation may not apply to you. Noise Analysis 27
In addition to the foregoing, you should recognize that all complex software systems and their documentation contain errors and omissions. LinearX, its null modem cable 4 U
distributors, and dealers shall not be responsible under any circumstances for providing information on or corrections to errors and omissions discovered at any
time in the product, whether or not they are aware of the errors or omissions. LinearX does not recommend the use of this product in applications in which
errors or omissions could result in loss of life, injury, or other significant loss. O UART Chips 20, 27
This license agreement shall be governed by the laws of the state of Oregon and shall inure to the benefit of LinearX, its successors, administrators, heirs and
assigns or third party licensors.
On-Line Help 32 V
overrun error 27
■ United States Federal Government Restrictions ower Switch 11 VAC 3
If this software is acquired by or on behalf of the U.S. Federal government or its agencies, this provision applies. Use, duplication, or disclosure of this software
is subject to restrictions set forth in the appropriate FAR 52.227-19 and DFAR 252.227-7013 documents, as applicable. The software is "commercial computer
software" and is licensed only with "Restricted Rights". Other Federal restrictions may also apply. P W

PC-Card Installation 5 Window's software 25

This manual was produced on a Pentium/60 PC with Windows 3.1 using Aldus PageMaker 5.0, Adobe Illustrator 4.0, pcRTA Windows Interface 25
and Hijaak 2.02 for screen captures. Digitally printed directly to a Xerox Docutech 6135. Piezo Buzzer Functions 14
Power Source 23
Power System Check Functions 13

LinearX Systems Inc
9500 SW Tualatin-Sherwood Rd
Tualatin, OR 97062-8586 USA
TEL:(503) 612-9565
R
replace the fuse 3
Rev 22
FAX:(503) 612-9344 EMAIL:info@linearx.com WEB:www.linearx.com

Copyright 1999, LinearX Systems Inc. All rights reserved. All other Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
ii PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 35
Index

Table of Contents
Index Chapter 1: Installation and Setup
1.1 AC Line Voltage Setup ................................................. 3
1.2 RS-232 Serial Port Setup ................................................. 4
Symbols D 1.3 PC-Card Installation .......................................................... 5
16450 20 DB-25 4
16550 27 DB-9 4
DC Power Jack 11
A DCE device 4
Chapter 2: Control Panel Functions
AC Line Voltage Setup 3 Deactivate Link 21
2.1 External Power Functions ..................................................... 9
AC power cable 3 dialog box 32
2.2 Serial Port Functions ............................................................ 10
AC Power Inlet 11 DOS 19
2.3 Power System Check Functions ........................................... 11
AutoBaud 20 2.4 Piezo Beeper Functions ....................................................... 12
E
automatic baud rate detection 4
Automatic Link 21 edge card socket 6
electrical outlets 3
B External Power Functions 11 Chapter 3: Software Link Interfaces
Battery Status 22 External Voltage 31
Battery Voltage 31 3.1 LMS DOS Interface ................................................................ 15
F 3.2 Windows Interface .................................................... 21
Baud Rate 29
Baud Rate Select 20 foreign power 3
baud rates 4 fuse 3
beeps 14
bracket 6 H Chapter 4: Specifications
buffer 27
Help button 32 4.1 Mechanical Data .......................................................... 31
Bus Voltage 22
I 4.2 Electrical Data ........................................................... 32
C
I/O address 19
Calibration 28
I/O mapped 19
card guide 6
IEC power cable 3
CMOS setup 19
internal power system 13
communications link 19
IRQ mapped 25
Control Panel icon 26 Index .............................................................................................................. 33
CPU speed 27 J
jumpers 4, 19

34 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual iii

 Index

Index
Index

iv PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 33

Chapter 4 Chapter 1
Specifications Installation & Setup

4.2 General Electrical Data Installation & Setup Chapter

■ AC External Power: 100-120 / 200-240 VAC, 0.5 amps max.

■ Power Consumption: 50W max (4 full size cards).

■ Internal Power Supply: +12V, -12V, +5V, -5V.

1
■ Serial Port Interface: 9600-57600 baud, parity checked.
Portable Analyzer Chassis WARNING!

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS

PRODUCT TO RAIN,
MOISTURE, OR
MECHANICAL ABUSE.

■ COM protocol: 1 start bit, 8 bits even parity, 1 stop bit.

ELECTRIC SHOCK
LinearX Systems Inc HAZARD, OR DAMAGE
TO THE PRODUCT
7556 SW Bridgeport Rd MAY RESULT.
Portland, OR 97224 USA CAUTION !
RISK OF ELECTRIC
Made in USA SHOCK, DO NOT
OPEN CHASSIS.

RS-232 DCE

■ 3-LED status indicators plus piezo transducer for audible status. SERIAL PORT
9600-57600
Baud Rates POWER

BAUD SYSTEM AC
100-120 VAC
IMPORTANT !
LOCK CHECK POWER FOR PROPER AC LINE 200-240 VAC
VOLTAGE SELECTION 50 Watts Max
USE SWITCH ON
SIDE OF CHASSIS 50/60 Hz

115
230
Note: All specifications subject to change without notice.

32 PAC4- Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 1

Chapter 1 Chapter 4
Installation & Setup Specifications

4.1 Mechanical Data

■ Weight: 10 lbs.
■ Width: 8 Inches, Heigth: 5.7 Inches, Length: 14.3 Inches.
■ Carrying Handle on Top.
■ AC Power Conn: IEC male inlet.
■ Serial Port Conn: DB9 Pin Female.
■ Includes 7ft IEC/UL power cord.
■ Includes 6ft Serial port cable.
■ Capacity: 4 full length 8-bit ISA bus cards.

8.00
14.30

5.75

115
230
2 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4- Operation Manual 31
Chapter 4 Chapter 1
Specifications Installation & Setup

1.1 AC Line Voltage Setup

The PAC4 can be selected to operate from line voltages at 100-120VAC or
200-240VAC. The line voltage selector switch is located on the side of the
chassis as shown below. Note: The unit is shipped with the default setting of
100-120 VAC. If your line voltage is 200-240 VAC, you must change this
switch before operating the unit.

The AC power cable shipped with the unit is a standard IEC power cable for
use with USA style UL grounded power outlets. If you will be operating the
unit on foreign power, you will need to obtain an appropriate IEC power
cable that has a compatible plug for your style electrical outlets. These can
be obtained from local electrical supply stores, appliance stores, computer
stores, and many other retail stores.

Note: If you should happen to connect the unit to 230 VAC with the selector
switch in the 115VAC position, an internal fuse will blow. No damage to the
unit should result, but you will need to remove the top cover to replace the
fuse.

LINE VOLTAGE SELECTOR

115
230
ATTENTION !
UNIT CONFIGURED FOR 100-120VAC
IF YOUR LINE VOLTAGE IS 200-240VAC
YOU MUST CHANGE THE VOLTAGE
SWITCH BEFORE OPERATING UNIT!
SELECTION SWITCH IS LOCATED
UNDER CHASSIS.

30 PAC4- Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 3

Chapter 1 Chapter 4
Installation & Setup Specifications

1.2 RS-232 Serial Port Setup Specifications Chapter

The PAC4 communicates to the computer via a serial (COM) port link.

4
Serial port connectors are provided in two common formats: the original
DB-25 pin connector, and the IBM-AT style DB-9 pin connector.

The PAC4 uses the 9 pin format on the chassis, and provides a cable with
adapters for either 9 or 25 pin connection to the computer. The PAC4 is
a true DCE device, and therefore a straight through cable is employed, and
not a null modem cable.

The serial port interface is designed to operate at baud rates from 9,600 to
57,600. An automatic baud rate detection method is used by the PAC4 to
automatically set the correct baud rate. No jumpers or other switch settings
are required by the user.

To connect the cable to the computer, locate an unused serial port

connector on the back of the computer chassis. This will either be a 25 or
9 pin male. If you have several serial ports on your computer, you should
note to which port the PAC4 is connected. You will need this information
when operating the software programs in order to link the PAC4 on the
appropriate port.

Portable Analyzer Chassis WARNING!

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS

PRODUCT TO RAIN,
MOISTURE, OR
MECHANICAL ABUSE.
ELECTRIC SHOCK
LinearX Systems Inc HAZARD, OR DAMAGE
TO THE PRODUCT
7556 SW Bridgeport Rd MAY RESULT.
Portland, OR 97224 USA CAUTION !
RISK OF ELECTRIC
Made in USA SHOCK, DO NOT
OPEN CHASSIS.

RS-232 DCE
SERIAL PORT
9600-57600
Baud Rates POWER

BAUD SYSTEM AC
100-120 VAC
IMPORTANT !
LOCK CHECK POWER FOR PROPER AC LINE 200-240 VAC
VOLTAGE SELECTION 50 Watts Max
USE SWITCH ON
SIDE OF CHASSIS 50/60 Hz

SERIAL PORT INTERFACE

4 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4- Operation Manual 29

Chapter 3 Chapter 1
Software Link Interfaces Installation & Setup

1.3 PC-Card Installation

On-Line Help
The Help button in the lower portion of the dialog box can also be used
to provide instant help on any of the PAC3/4 functions. Most of this
information is provided in the help file.
To install or remove PC analyzer cards, the cover must be removed. The cover
is the top portion of the chassis where the handle is located.
To remove the cover, 4 screws must be removed on each side of the cover. A
Phillips screw driver is required. This is shown below.

After the cover has been removed, choose one of the four possible card
locations, and remove the blank tab bracket. To install the analyzer PC card,
align the card at both ends above the slot. Note that there are card guides
located on the PAC4 chassis at the rear edge of the card.

REMOVE 4 SCREWS ON EACH SIDE

115
230
28 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 5
Chapter 1 Chapter 3
Installation & Setup Software Link Interfaces

Lower the card into the PAC4 chassis while maintaining proper alignment System Status
with the card guide and the tab bracket slot. As the card reaches the This group box contains a number of readouts which display the current
bottom, the gold finger edge should be aligned with the edge card socket, system status within the PAC unit. This data is updated each time the link is
and pressed in. Replace the bracket screw to secure the card. activated, or when the dialog box is re-displayed.

The cover can then be reinstalled by replacing the 4 screws on each side -Link Status displays verification of whether or not the PAC link is active.
of the chassis.
-Baud displays verification of the baud rate detected in the PAC unit.

-Rev displays the revision code of the PAC internal computer.

-pcRTA Port displays the port address of the pcRTA card, or other analyzer as
applicable installed in the PAC unit, if one is found. This field will show 0 if
no card is installed in the PAC unit.

+12V Bus Voltage displays the actual measured supply voltage inside the PAC
unit.

-12V Bus Voltage displays the actual measured supply voltage inside the PAC
PC CARD unit.

+5V Bus Voltage displays the actual measured supply voltage inside the PAC
unit.

-5V Bus Voltage displays the actual measured supply voltage inside the PAC
CARD GUIDE unit.

Battery Voltage displays the actual measured battery voltage inside the PAC3
unit. This will read 0 for the PAC4.

External Voltage displays the actual measured DC voltage inside the PAC
unit, produced from the external power source.

Power Source
This group box contains two readouts which display the origin of the operat-
ing power. It shows if the unit is running off the internal battery, or if the unit
is running off external power (AC line or 12VDC auto). This will always read
EXTERNAL for the PAC4.

6 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 27

Chapter 3 Chapter 2
Software Link Interfaces Control Panel Functions

Control Panel Functions Chapter

Baud Rate Select
This group box contains buttons for selecting the speed of communica-
tion over the serial port to the PAC unit. This group box is only enabled
when the PAC link is NOT active. The selection cannot be changed
while the link is active, and can only be changed when the link is OFF.
The PAC unit has a built in feature of AutoBaud detection, and will
automatically lock on to the chosen baud rate. No jumper or switch
changes in the PAC unit are required.
2
Activate Link / Automatic Link
This group box contains buttons for activating/deactivating the link
between the computer and PAC. The large Activate Link button is used
to manually open and close the communication link from this interface
dialog box. When the link is active, the text in the button will change to
Deactivate Link. When the button is pressed with the link active, the
link will be closed. Therefore, this button is used to manually toggle the
link ON and OFF.
Portable Analyzer Chassis WARNING!

The Automatic Link check box provides the means to allow the software DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
PRODUCT TO RAIN,
MOISTURE, OR
MECHANICAL ABUSE.

to establish the link automatically each time the software is started. LinearX Systems Inc
7556 SW Bridgeport Rd
ELECTRIC SHOCK
HAZARD, OR DAMAGE
TO THE PRODUCT
MAY RESULT.

Using this feature eliminates the need of using this dialog box each time Portland, OR 97224 USA
Made in USA
CAUTION !
RISK OF ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT
OPEN CHASSIS.

to open the link. The software automatically closes the link upon exit. RS-232 DCE
In order to use this feature, you must have the PAC unit connected and SERIAL PORT
9600-57600
Baud Rates POWER
with power ON before starting the software.
BAUD SYSTEM AC
100-120 VAC
IMPORTANT !
200-240 VAC
When the link is activated or deactivated, the PAC3 unit will produce a LOCK CHECK POWER FOR PROPER AC LINE
VOLTAGE SELECTION
USE SWITCH ON
SIDE OF CHASSIS
50 Watts Max
50/60 Hz

confirmation beep to acknowledge the status change.

Battery Status
This group box contains a number of readouts which display the current
status of the battery inside the PAC3 unit. For the PAC4, this value will
always read 0.0.

26 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 7

Chapter 2 Chapter 3
Control Panel Functions Software Link Interfaces

Selecting the PAC Baud Rate

Probably the best way to approach this parameter is to select the top baud
rate of 57,600 as an initial value, and see if errors occur. If errors occur at
this speed, than try the next lower speed and repeat the testing. If errors
persist, continue reducing the baud rate. If errors are still present at 9600
baud, then it is very possible that something is wrong with the IRQ setup for
the COM port, and/or that a conflict exists with some other card in the
computer. This problem will have to be investigated and corrected before
the serial port will operate correctly.

It is best to always use the highest baud rate of 57,600 unless other circum-
stances do not permit this. Generally the only problem with using high baud
rates occurs when long cables are used between the computer and PAC
unit. For typical applications where the serial port cable is 10ft or less, using
57,600 should be no problem. If longer cables are needed, and errors occur
during general operation, it may be necessary to choose a lower baud rate.

8 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 25

Chapter 3 Chapter 2
Software Link Interfaces Control Panel Functions

2.1 External Power Functions

This can be too much processing for the CPU to handle, and an overrun The PAC4 can be powered from AC voltages ranging from 100-240VAC at
may occur. If you are taking a long term measurement, it is best to 50/60Hz. The AC inlet provides a standard IEC cable interface. If you
disable the screen saver from popping in during the course of the require a different type of power cable than the one provided, these can be
measurement. obtained from you local electronics or computer supply store.

Serial Port Connection
The next step is to connect the serial port cable to your computer. You
will need a free serial port. Your mouse may be already using a port
such as COM1, so you will need to use one of the other three serial
(COM) ports 2, 3, or 4. Depending on whether your computer’s
connector is a DB25 pin male or a DB9 pin male, you may or may not
need to use an adapter on the line.
AC Power Inlet
This is a standard IEC power jack, and allows for connection of typical IEC
power cables for use in any country. This circuit is internally fused by a
0.625A 2mmx5mm fuse within the chassis. Crowbar protection is provided
as well for over voltage line conditions, or improper line voltage selection.
Power Switch
This is a push button switch that turns On-Off the AC power source.

Turn on the power to the PAC unit, and after a few seconds the unit will AC LED Power Indicator
beep to let you know it is ready for operation. Start the analyzer This red LED indicates when the PAC4 is being powered from the AC
software, and then go to the Utilities Menu and select the PAC3 Inter- sources.
face item. The following paragraphs describe the operation and features
contained in the interface dialog box.

Note- After you have setup and activated the link for the first time, you
MUST run the Calibration routine to establish the correct operating
parameters for the analyzer, even if you have previously done this already
when the analyzer was mounted in your computer. Moving the analyzer
to the PAC unit is equivalent to moving the analyzer to a different
computer, where the bus clocks may not be the same.
Portable Analyzer Chassis WARNING!

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS

PRODUCT TO RAIN,
MOISTURE, OR
MECHANICAL ABUSE.
ELECTRIC SHOCK
LinearX Systems Inc HAZARD, OR DAMAGE

Serial Port Select 7556 SW Bridgeport Rd

Portland, OR 97224 USA
TO THE PRODUCT
MAY RESULT.
CAUTION !
RISK OF ELECTRIC

This group box contains buttons for selecting the serial port to which Made in USA SHOCK, DO NOT
OPEN CHASSIS.

the PAC unit is connected. This group box is only enabled when the RS-232 DCE
SERIAL PORT

PAC link is NOT active. The selection cannot be changed while the link 9600-57600
Baud Rates POWER

is active, and can only be changed when the link is OFF. (Note- If you
choose a wrong COM port where another device such as the mouse is BAUD
LOCK
SYSTEM
CHECK
AC
POWER
IMPORTANT !
FOR PROPER AC LINE
100-120 VAC
200-240 VAC AC Power Inlet
VOLTAGE SELECTION 50 Watts Max
already connected, when you press the Activate Link button the mouse USE SWITCH ON
SIDE OF CHASSIS 50/60 Hz

may malfunction, requiring a reboot to restore mouse operation.)

AC Power Power Switch
LED Indicator

24 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 9

Chapter 2 Chapter 3
Control Panel Functions Software Link Interfaces

2.2 Serial Port Functions

The PAC4 communicates to the computer via a serial (COM) port link. Serial
port connectors are provided in two common formats: the original DB-25 pin
connector, and the IBM-AT style DB-9 pin connector.
The serial port interface is
designed to operate at baud
rates from 9,600 to 57,600.
An automatic baud rate de-
tection method is used by
the PAC4 to automatically
set the correct baud rate.
No jumpers or other switch
Portable Analyzer Chassis
settings are required by the
WARNING!
UART Chips and your Computer Speed
The PAC interface is designed to operate at high baud rates, and the data
volume for the pcRTA and RTAjr analyzers is very large. Because of this, it is
possible for overrun errors to occur depending on the speed of your
computer, and the type of UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver Trans-
mitter) chip contained in your serial port hardware. There are two types of
UART chips: the 16450(8250), and the 16550. The 16450 type part is older,
and only has a 2 byte buffer. The 16550 is newer and has a 16 byte buffer.
If your computer cannot read the bytes coming in from the PAC before the
UART buffer fills up, than an overrun error occurs. With the 16550 UART,
the larger 16 byte buffer allows more time for the CPU in the computer to
read the bytes before an overrun occurs. With the older 16450 UART, the

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS

PRODUCT TO RAIN,
MOISTURE, OR
user. CPU must keep up with the serial port data speed or an overrun error will
LinearX Systems Inc
MECHANICAL ABUSE.
ELECTRIC SHOCK
HAZARD, OR DAMAGE
TO THE PRODUCT
occur almost immediately.
7556 SW Bridgeport Rd
To connect the cable to the
MAY RESULT.
Portland, OR 97224 USA CAUTION !
RISK OF ELECTRIC
Made in USA SHOCK, DO NOT

computer, locate an unused

OPEN CHASSIS.
Whether or not an overrun error occurs, depends on a lot of different
RS-232 DCE
SERIAL PORT
9600-57600
serial port connector on the factors. One of the primary factors is your computer’s CPU speed. A
Baud Rates POWER
back of the computer chas- computer with a 386 CPU will overrun much easier than a 486 or a
100-120 VAC
sis. This will either be a 25 or Pentium. Also, the speed of other elements in your system (such as the
BAUD SYSTEM AC
9 pin male. If you have sev- video card) can also play a major roll in how much time your CPU must
IMPORTANT !
LOCK CHECK POWER 200-240 VAC
FOR PROPER AC LINE
50 Watts Max
VOLTAGE SELECTION
USE SWITCH ON
50/60 Hz
eral serial ports on your com- spend on other duties. Be aware of these factors, and if you wish to check
SIDE OF CHASSIS

Baud Lock LED Indicator DB9 Female Serial Port Connector puter, you should note to
which port the PAC4 is con-
nected. You will need this information when operating the software programs
in order to link the PAC4 on the appropriate port.
DB9 Serial Port Connector
The PAC4 uses the 9 pin format on the chassis, and provides a cable with
adapters for either 9 or 25 pin connection to the computer. The PAC4 is a true
DCE device, and therefore a straight through cable is employed, and not a null
modem cable.
Baud Lock LED Indicator
This yellow LED indicates the status of the serial port link. When the LED is
Off, the PAC4 is not linked to the computer. When the LED is On, the
PAC4 has detected and set the correct baud rate, and the serial port link is
active. A flashing LED indicates that the PAC4 has detected the computer
connection, but that no auto baud sequence has yet been received.
which kind of UART is installed in your serial port, use the MSD program in
the Windows subdirectory.
Window’s Multi-Tasking and Screen Saver Issues
There are many tasks which the Windows system is expected to carry out in
a more or less simultaneous fashion. As well, there can be multiple applica-
tions open at one time in the system. All of these factors affect the amount
of time Windows can spend servicing any one application. If you are
running a measurement in the analyzer, minimize it, and open another
application, the CPU may not be able to handle all of the tasks fast enough,
and an overrun will occur.
Another consideration is screen savers. If you are running a long term or
continuous measurement, such as in the case of Noise Analysis, the screen
saver may pop in to blank the screen with some other moving image. While
the screen saver is working, the CPU must also be handling the incoming
data from the analyzer in the PAC unit.

10 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 23

Chapter 3 Chapter 2
Software Link Interfaces Control Panel Functions

2.3 Power System Check Functions

Window's Serial Port Setup The PAC4 performs an automatic system check when first turned on. This
To check and/or edit the serial port configuration, go to the MAIN check verifies proper operation of the internal power supplies and voltage
group box, and double click on the Control Panel icon. Now, double regulators. The system also performs this check automatically every 60
click on the PORTS icon. Each of the 4 possible COM ports are shown seconds, and updates the status of the LED and Piezo transducer.
for configuration. You may or may not have all 4 ports installed or
available in your computer. Choose an unused port for operation with Power Check Status LED
the PAC, and click on that port. Then press the SETTINGS button. This green LED provides indication of the internal power system within the
PAC4. If the system check passes, then the LED is turned On. If the system
The parameters shown under SETTINGS for Baud Rate, Parity, etc. are check fails, the LED is Off. Under this condition the PAC4 unit will not be
not important. These values are used by Windows for printing, but the able to operate.
PAC routines control these parameters directly and will be adjusted as
needed automatically. Press on the ADVANCED button. Two param-
eters are now shown: I/O Port Address and IRQ line. Select DEFAULT
for the base address, and Windows will choose the correct address for
the given port. For the IRQ, you MUST set this correctly, and this
selection must match the IRQ jumper setting of the COM port card.
For COM1 IRQ=4 is normal, and for COM2 IRQ=3 is normal. There are
not rigid industry standards for the IRQ settings for COM3 and COM4
use. Whatever IRQ you set here for the port must match the COM port
hardware IRQ jumper setting.

Also, if you have other cards in your computer which use interrupts
(IRQ’s), these should not be selected at the same IRQ as the COM port.
Portable Analyzer Chassis WARNING!

Network cards, sound cards, etc. may all use IRQ’s as well, and if you DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
PRODUCT TO RAIN,
MOISTURE, OR

choose the same IRQ for more than one device, a conflict will result LinearX Systems Inc
MECHANICAL ABUSE.
ELECTRIC SHOCK
HAZARD, OR DAMAGE
TO THE PRODUCT
7556 SW Bridgeport Rd
causing corrupted communication. You may need to determine first
MAY RESULT.
Portland, OR 97224 USA CAUTION !
RISK OF ELECTRIC
Made in USA SHOCK, DO NOT

where the com port IRQ in your computer is currently set by inspecting OPEN CHASSIS.

RS-232 DCE
the jumpers on the motherboard or I/O card. If you have other cards SERIAL PORT
9600-57600
installed as well, you may need to do the same for them. It is very Baud Rates POWER

important that no IRQ conflicts exist with the COM port! 100-120 VAC
BAUD SYSTEM AC IMPORTANT !
LOCK CHECK POWER FOR PROPER AC LINE 200-240 VAC
VOLTAGE SELECTION 50 Watts Max
USE SWITCH ON
50/60 Hz
When you have made your selections, press the OK button. If you have SIDE OF CHASSIS

made changes, Windows will ask you if you wish to restart at this time. Power Check
Restarting Windows is necessary before the changes will take effect. Status LED

22 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 11

Chapter 2
Control Panel Functions
2.4 Piezo Buzzer Functions
The PAC4 contains an internal audio signalling device in the form of a
small piezo transducer. This transducer is used to inform the user of
various system conditions by providing a number of different beeps and
sounds. The following list identifies the beeps and their meaning:
Beep Indicator Functions
BeepOk : A rapid 1-2-3 sequence of three increasing frequencies.
( good power check or AutoBaud lock completed )
BeepBad : A slower sequence of four Hi-Lo-Hi-Lo frequencies.
( Internal power supply failure )
BeepLoHi : A slower sequence of two Lo-Hi frequencies.
( Unknown data command received from computer )
BeepLong : A long (1 sec) beep at one frequency.
( RX receive error or TX transmit timeout error )
BeepBye : A rapid 1-2-3 sequence of three decreasing frequencies.
( connection link terminated or lost )
12 PAC4 - Operation Manual
Chapter 3
Software Link Interfaces
3.2 Windows Interface
The pcRTA and RTAjr Window's software provides a PAC3/PAC4 interface
located on the Utilities menu. The PAC interface allows you to setup and
establish the communications link between the analyzer software, and an
analyzer card located in the PAC4 unit. The PAC unit communicates over a
serial port with your computer which eliminates the requirement of mount-
ing the analyzer card in your computer.
Window’s Control Panel and Serial Port Configuration
Window’s provides IRQ mapped drivers for communication with serial
ports. The correct settings must be established for the serial port to be used.
If you have never used this serial port before for other purposes, it may or
may not be setup correctly. It is a good idea to verify the settings before
attempting to use the PAC unit. The IRQ selection must be correct for the
port to function properly.
Note: The PAC3 interface is used for both the PAC3 and PAC4. The battery
information does not apply since the PAC4 does not have a battery system.
PAC4 - Operation Manual 21
Chapter 3 Chapter 3
Software Link Interfaces Software Link Interfaces

Software Link Interfaces Chapter

20 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 13

Chapter 3 Chapter 3
Software Link Interfaces Software Link Interfaces

-5V Bus Voltage displays the actual measured supply voltage inside the PAC
unit.

Battery Voltage this value will always read 0.0 for the PAC4.

External Voltage displays the actual measured DC voltage inside the PAC
unit, produced from the external power source. This will be between 14-
20VDC.

Power Source
This field contains two readouts which display the origin of the operating
power. This will always read EXTERNAL for the PAC4.

Running the LMS Calibration

It should not be necessary to rerun the Internal/external calibration routines
when the PAC unit is first setup, unless this is the first time you have ever
used your LMS analyzer, or if you are using it with a different computer.
The calibration information is stored in the LMS.ENV file on the computer.
However, you can always use the calibration routines to test the analyzer
and link to verify that everything is working correctly.

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Chapter 3
Software Link Interfaces
The Automatic Link parameter provides the means to allow the software
to establish the link automatically each time the software is started.
Using this feature eliminates the need of using this menu each time to
open the link. The software automatically closes the link upon exit. In
order to use this feature, you must have the PAC unit connected and
with power ON before starting the software.
When the link is activated or deactivated, the PAC unit will produce a
confirmation beep to acknowledge the status change.
Battery Status
This group of fields contain a number of readouts which display the
current status of the battery inside the PAC3 unit. This information is
not used for the PAC4 since there is no battery.
System Status
This group of fields contain a number of readouts which display the
current system status within the PAC unit. This data is updated each
time the link is activated, or when the dialog box is re-displayed.
-Link Status displays verification of whether or not the PAC link is active.
-Baud displays verification of the baud rate detected in the PAC unit.
-Rev displays the revision code of the PAC internal computer.
-LMS Port displays the port address of the LMS card installed in the PAC
unit, if one is found. This field will show 0 if no LMS card is installed in
the unit.
+12V Bus Voltage displays the actual measured supply voltage inside the
PAC unit.
-12V Bus Voltage displays the actual measured supply voltage inside the
PAC unit.
+5V Bus Voltage displays the actual measured supply voltage inside the
PAC unit.
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Chapter 3
Software Link Interfaces
3.1 LMS DOS Interface
The DOS version of the LMS system control program provides a PAC3/
PAC4 interface located on the System menu. The PAC3/PAC4 interface
allows you to setup and establish the communications link between the LMS
software, and a LMS analyzer card located in the PAC4 unit. The PAC4 unit
communicates over a serial port with your computer which eliminates the
requirement of mounting the analyzer card in your computer.
LMS provides its own special serial port driver, which is not IRQ mapped.
This driver is I/O mapped, which means that only the COM port address is
important, and not the IRQ setting. If you have never used this serial port
before for other purposes, it may or may not be setup correctly. It is a good
idea to verify the settings before attempting to use the PAC4 unit. The I/O
address selection must be correct for the port to function properly.
Selecting the correct I/O address for the port is generally a matter of moving
jumpers on the motherboard or an I/O card in the computer. Some com-
puters may provide this function in their CMOS setup routines. The correct
COM port addresses for each of the four possible COM port numbers are:
COM1: 03F8, COM2: 02F8, COM3: 03E8, COM4: 02E8.
Note: The PAC3 interface is used for both the PAC3 and PAC4. The battery
information does not apply since the PAC4 does not have a battery system.
PAC4 - Operation Manual 15
Chapter 3 Chapter 3
Software Link Interfaces Software Link Interfaces

UART Chips, Computer Speed, and LMS / PAC4 communications

The PAC4 interface is designed to operate at high baud rates. However
the data volume required for operation of the LMS analyzer is relatively
low, and can be handled quite easily even with 16450 UARTs as well as
slower computers. For this reason it is very uncommon for overrun
errors to occur, and in almost all circumstances this will not be a
problem.

Serial Port Connection

You will need a free serial port. Your mouse may be already using a
port such as COM1, so you will need to use one of the other three
serial (COM) ports 2, 3, or 4. Depending on whether your computer’s
connector is a DB25 pin male or a DB9 pin male, you may or may not
need to use an adapter on the line.

Turn on the power to the PAC4 unit, and after a few seconds the unit
will beep to let you know it is ready for operation. Start the LMS
software, and then go to the System Menu and select the PAC3 Interface
item. The following paragraphs describe the operation and features
contained in the PAC3 interface work area.
Serial Port Select
The parameters shown under the PAC Interface title are for selecting the
serial port to which the PAC unit is connected. These parameters may
only be changed while the link is not active. Selection cannot be
changed while the link is active, and can only be changed when the link
is OFF. The COM selection is made by pressing one of the number
keys 1,2,3, or 4.
Baud Rate Select
The next parameter group shown below is for selecting the speed of
communication over the serial port to the PAC unit. These parameters
are only enabled when the PAC link is NOT active. The selection
cannot be changed while the link is active, and can only be changed
when the link is OFF. The PAC unit has a built in feature of AutoBaud
detection, and will automatically lock on to the baud rate chosen here.
No jumper or switch changes in the PAC unit are required.
Selecting the PAC Baud Rate
Probably the best way to approach this parameter is to select the top baud
rate of 57,600 as an initial value, and see if errors occur. If errors occur at
this speed, than try the next lower speed and repeat the testing. If errors
persist, continue reducing the baud rate.
It is best to always use the highest baud rate of 57,600 unless other circum-
stances do not permit this. Generally the only problem with using high baud
rates occurs when long cables are used between the computer and PAC
unit. For typical applications where the serial port cable is 10ft or less, using
57,600 should be no problem. If longer cables are needed, and errors occur
during general operation, then it may be necessary to choose a lower baud
rate.
Activate Link / Automatic Link
In the center of the work area, a command is shown for activating the link
between the computer and PAC. Pressing the [ENTER] key is used to
manually open and close the communication link from this interface dialog
box. When the link is active, the text will change to Deactivate Link. When
[ENTER] is pressed with the link active, the link will be closed. Therefore,
this key is used to manually toggle the link ON and OFF.

16 PAC4 - Operation Manual PAC4 - Operation Manual 17