AR-B1375/AR-B1376 User s Guide

2.7 SERIAL PORT

The ACEs (Asynchronous Communication Elements ACE1 to ACE4) are used to convert parallel data to a serial format on the transmit side and convert serial data to parallel on the receiver side. The serial format, in order of transmission and reception, is a start bit, followed by five to eight data bits, a parity bit (if programmed) and one, one and half (five-bit format only) or two stop bits. The ACEs are capable of handling divisors of 1 to 65535, and produce a 16x clock for driving the internal transmitter logic.

Provisions are also included to use this 16x clock to drive the receiver logic. Also included in the ACE a completed MODEM control capability, and a processor interrupt system that may be software tailored to the computing time required handle the communications link.

The following table is summary of each ACE accessible register

DLAB

Port Address

Register

0

base + 0

Receiver buffer (read)

 

 

Transmitter holding register (write)

0

base + 1

Interrupt enable

X

base + 2

Interrupt identification (read only)

X

base + 3

Line control

X

base + 4

MODEM control

X

base + 5

Line status

X

base + 6

MODEM status

X

base + 7

Scratched register

1

base + 0

Divisor latch (least significant byte)

1

base + 1

Divisor latch (most significant byte)

Table 2-6 ACE Accessible Registers

(1) Receiver Buffer Register (RBR)

Bit 0-7: Received data byte (Read Only)

(2) Transmitter Holding Register (THR)

Bit 0-7: Transmitter holding data byte (Write Only)

(3) Interrupt Enable Register (IER)

Bit 0: Enable Received Data Available Interrupt (ERBFI)

Bit 1: Enable Transmitter Holding Empty Interrupt (ETBEI)

Bit 2: Enable Receiver Line Status Interrupt (ELSI)

Bit 3: Enable MODEM Status Interrupt (EDSSI)

Bit 4: Must be 0

Bit 5: Must be 0

Bit 6: Must be 0

Bit 7: Must be 0

(4)Interrupt Identification Register (IIR)

Bit 0: “0” if Interrupt Pending

Bit 1: Interrupt ID Bit 0

Bit 2: Interrupt ID Bit 1

Bit 3: Must be 0

Bit 4: Must be 0

Bit 5: Must be 0

Bit 6: Must be 0

Bit 7: Must be 0

2-6

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Toshiba 386SX Serial Port, Receiver Buffer Register RBR, Transmitter Holding Register THR, Interrupt Enable Register IER

386SX, AR-B1376, AR-B1375 specifications

The Toshiba AR-B1375 and AR-B1376 are notable embedded computing solutions that incorporate the 386SX microprocessor architecture. Designed for various applications, these models focus on reliability, performance, and versatility, making them appealing choices for system integrators and developers.

At the core of the AR-B1375 and AR-B1376 is the Intel 386SX microprocessor. This landmark processor marked a significant advancement in computing technology, introducing a 32-bit architecture while maintaining compatibility with 16-bit applications. The 386SX is known for its efficient processing capabilities, offering both multitasking support and enhanced memory management. It operates at clock speeds ranging typically from 16 MHz to 25 MHz, contributing to its effectiveness in running industrial applications.

One of the key features of the AR-B1375 and AR-B1376 systems is their modular architecture, which allows for easy customization and expansion. This modularity means users can tailor the hardware according to specific requirements, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as automation, telecommunications, and embedded systems.

Both models support various I/O options, ensuring seamless integration with peripherals and external devices. They typically come equipped with serial and parallel ports, as well as support for modern interfaces like USB. The systems also feature onboard expansion slots, enabling the addition of further functionality, such as additional memory or specialized processing units.

In terms of memory, the AR-B1375 and AR-B1376 support a range of RAM configurations, allowing users to scale their systems based on the application demands. The inclusion of EPROM and EEPROM options also facilitates easy updates and programmability, which is crucial for embedded systems that often require firmware adjustments over time.

Moreover, these models are known for their robust thermal management features, which are essential in industrial environments where conditions can be harsh. This capability ensures stable performance and longevity, reducing the risk of system failures due to overheating or environmental factors.

To summarize, the Toshiba AR-B1375 and AR-B1376, coupled with the 386SX microprocessor, offer a blend of performance, flexibility, and reliability. Their modular design, extensive I/O support, and memory scalability make them ideal for a variety of embedded computing applications, placing them as commendable options in the world of industrial computing solutions. These systems not only exemplify Toshiba's commitment to innovation but also contribute significantly to the functionality of embedded technologies in a rapidly evolving industry.