Overview
The new RelComm, Inc. integrated Code Operated Switch (i-COS) is a platform to provide service to multiple serial ports, typically under the control and direction of a single Master port, and four or more subordinate/Slave ports.
The i-COS is an integrated logic solution for the replacement of the current COS/4 assembly, and provides replacement for the obsolete UART components, with the additional requirement to replace all materials with lead-free RoHS compliant devices.
With the i-COS, the communication link can also be made by any of the subordinate devices selecting the channel while the switch is in Switch Time (unlocked mode).
The i-COS design is based on the COS-ASIC component, an FPGA, which is used to provide most of the required logic.
New Key Features
In addition to the features carried over from the previous COS, new features provided with the i-COS includes:
- On-board programmable PROM to provide function updates and maintenance via Active Serial and JTAG connections;
- Integrated transceiver Loopback for faster fault isolation;
- “Watchdog” monitor for ASIC supervision;
- Port Display provides the operator with several visual indications of Switch operations and status, including Power Good, Hex code port selection, port Lockout and communication error conditions;
- Front panel indicators provide status of Data, Switch Time, Lockout, Control Handshake.
- Power-on initialization includes Port Selection default and
- Option for an internal modem
The standard user-selectable features remain: word length, baud rate, stop bits, DCE/DTE, Xon/Xoff mode, graphics mode, arming character, transparent mode, inactivity timeout, default power-up and lockout.