Appendix A Programming the watchdog

A.1 Programming the Watchdog Timer

The PCA-6187's watchdog timer can be used to monitor system software operation and take corrective action if the software fails to function after the programmed period. This section describes the operation of the watchdog timer and how to program it.

A.1.1 Watchdog timer overview

The watchdog timer is built-in the super I/O controller W83627HF. It provides the following functions for user programming:

•Can be enabled and disabled by user's program.

•Timer can be set from 1 to 255 seconds or 1 to 255 minutes.

•Generates an interrupt or resets signal if the software fails to reset the timer after time-out.

A.1.2 Reset/ Interrupt selection

The J2 jumper is used to select reset or interrupt (IRQ 11) in the event the watchdog timer is tripped. See Chapter 1 for detailed jumper settings.

Note:

The interrupt output of the watchdog timer is a low

 

level signal. It will be held low until the watchdog timer

 

is reset.

 

 

A.1.3 Programming the Watchdog Timer

The I/O port address of the watchdog timer is 2E(hex) and 2F(hex). 2E (hex) is the address port. 2F(hex) is the data port.

You must first assign the address of register by writing address value into address port 2E(hex), then write/read data to/from the assigned register through data port 2F (hex).

PCA-6187 User’s Manual

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Advantech PCA-6187 user manual Programming the Watchdog Timer, Watchdog timer overview, Reset/ Interrupt selection
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PCA-6187 specifications

The Advantech PCA-6187 is a high-performance industrial PC/104-Plus single-board computer designed to meet the rigorous demands of embedded applications. This robust and versatile board is particularly well-suited for applications in industrial automation, transportation, and telecommunications, where reliability and performance are paramount.

One of the main features of the PCA-6187 is its support for the Intel Pentium M and Celeron M processors, providing a potent combination of processing power and energy efficiency. This architecture allows for the execution of complex computation tasks while maintaining a low thermal profile, making it ideal for environments with limited cooling options. Furthermore, the PCA-6187 offers a wide operating temperature range, from -40°C to +85°C, ensuring reliable functionality in extreme conditions.

The board incorporates advanced memory capabilities, supporting up to 1GB of SDRAM with a 64-bit data bus. A flash disk interface is also available for high-speed storage solutions, making it easier to manage large amounts of data typical in industrial applications. Additionally, the PCA-6187 features several I/O options, including multiple COM ports, USB interfaces, and parallel ports, allowing for extensive connectivity options for various peripherals and devices.

One of the standout characteristics of the PCA-6187 is its PC/104-Plus form factor, which allows for a modular architecture. This design enables developers to easily expand the capabilities of the board by stacking additional PC/104 modules, facilitating the customization of hardware solutions tailored to specific application requirements. The PCA-6187 also includes watchdog timers to ensure system reliability and prevent system lock-ups, which is critical for mission-critical applications.

Furthermore, the PCA-6187 supports various operating systems, including Windows and Linux, providing developers with flexibility in software development. The integration of rich development resources and tools enhances the speed and efficiency of application deployment in diverse environments.

In conclusion, the Advantech PCA-6187 stands out as a powerful and flexible industrial single-board computer, perfectly suited for a wide array of embedded computing tasks. With its robust design, advanced processing capabilities, and extensive connectivity options, it provides an ideal platform for developers aiming to create reliable systems in demanding operational conditions. The PCA-6187 truly embodies the essence of industrial computing, balancing power and efficiency for a wide range of applications.
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