Meilhaus Electronic ME-5001 User manual

Meilhaus Electronic Manual
ME-5001 1.1E
Plug-on Board for ME-5000 series
with up to 48 Digital I/Os
(alternatively: Frequency Measurement and Pulse Generator)

Imprint
ME-5001 Manual
Version 1.1E
Issued on: 29. April 2013
Meilhaus Electronic GmbH
Fischerstraße 2
D-82178 Puchheim/Munich
Germany
http://www.meilhaus.com
© Copyright 2013 Meilhaus Electronic GmbH
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any
form whether photocopied, printed, put on microfilm or be stored in any electronic media
without the expressed written consent of Meilhaus Electronic GmbH.
Important note:
The information contained in this manual has been reviewed with great care and is believed
to be complete and accurate. Meilhaus Electronic assumes no responsibility for its use, any
infringements of patents or other rights of third parties which may result from use of this
manual or the product. Meilhaus Electronic assumes no responsibility for any problems or
damage which may result from errors or omissions. Specifications and instructions are
subject to change without notice.
Borland Delphi is a trademark of Borland International Inc.
Turbo/Borland C is a trademark of Borland International Inc.
Visual C++ and Visual Basic are trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation.
VEE Pro and VEE OneLab are trademarks of Agilent Technologies.
ME-VEC and ME-FoXX are trademarks of Meilhaus Electronic.
Other company names and product names found in the text of this manual are also
trademarks of the companies involved.

Manual ME-5001 Rev. 1.1E
Meilhaus Electronic Page 3 Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1Introduction......................................................................................................5
1.1 Important Notes ..................................................................................... 5
1.1.1 Intended Use ................................................................................ 5
1.1.2 Improper Use................................................................................ 6
1.1.3 Unforeseeable Misuse.................................................................... 6
1.2 Scope of Supply.......................................................................................7
1.3 Features...................................................................................................8
1.4 System Requirements..............................................................................9
1.5 Software Support ................................................................................... 9
2Initial Operation ............................................................................................. 11
2.1 Software Installation .............................................................................11
2.2 Test Program ........................................................................................11
2.3 Fitting the Plug-on Board .....................................................................12
3 Hardware ........................................................................................................15
3.1 Block Diagram ......................................................................................15
3.2 ME-5001 cPCI/PCIe ...........................................................................16
3.3 Digital Input/Output ...........................................................................17
3.3.1 Digital Inputs ............................................................................ 18
3.3.2 Digital Outputs ......................................................................... 18
3.3.3 External Trigger ......................................................................... 18
3.4 Frequency Input/Output ..................................................................18
3.5 External Interrupt ..............................................................................19
3.6 Additional Functions.............................................................................19
3.6.1 Termination ............................................................................... 20
3.6.2 Logic Level Matching ................................................................. 20
4 Programming..................................................................................................21
4.1 Single Operation Mode......................................................................... 23
4.1.1 Digital Input/Output ........................................................... 23
4.1.2 Frequency Input/Output ......................................................... 24
4.1.2.1 Frequency Measurement ........................................ 25
4.1.2.2 Pulse Generator ....................................................... 26
4.2 Interrupt Operation ......................................................................... 27
4.2.1 Bit-pattern Change .................................................................. 27

Rev. 1.1E Manual ME-5001
Table of Contents Page 4 Meilhaus Electronic
Appendix ...............................................................................................................29
ASpecifications ........................................................................................29
B Pinout ...................................................................................................32
B1 25-pin D-Sub (ST1).....................................................................33
B2 Additional Sockets (ST2/ST3)......................................................34
CAccessories ............................................................................................35
DTechnical Questions..............................................................................36
D1 Hotline.........................................................................................36
D2 Service address..............................................................................36
D3 Driver Update ..............................................................................36
E Index.....................................................................................................37
5

Manual ME-5001 Rev. 1.1E
Meilhaus Electronic Page 5 Introduction
1Introduction
Valued customer,
Thank you for purchasing this device from Meilhaus Electronic. You ha-
ve chosen an innovative high technology product that left our premises
in a fully functional and new condition.
Take the time to carefully examine the contents of the package for any
loss or damage that may have occurred during shipping. If there are any
items missing or if an item is damaged, contact us immediately.
Before you install the board in your computer, we recommend to read
this manual carefully, especially the chapter describing board installation.
1.1 Important Notes
1.1.1 Intended Use
The plug-on boards of the ME-5000 series require a base board of the
ME-5000 series and will be plugged onto these and extend the functio-
nality of the base boards. Depending on the PC platform the plug-on
board needs an additional:
• … free PCI Express slot (PCIe) or
• … free CompactPCI slot (cPCI),
however without using the PCI slot connector.
Please follow the instructions of chapter 2.3 on page 12 of this document
and the manual of your computer for the procedure when fitting additio-
nal hardware componets.
Observe the following notes and specifications starting on page 29:
• Make sure that heat can be dissipated from the board well enough in-
side the PC housing.
• Unused inputs must always be connected to the reference ground of
their subdevice, in order to avoid crosstalk between the input
channels.
• When using the configuration „pulse generator“ (FO) unused output
pins should not be connected.

Rev. 1.1E Manual ME-5001
Introduction Page 6 Meilhaus Electronic
• Note that the computer must be switched on first before any voltage
is applied to the board through external circuitry.
• Connecting or disconnecting any of the the board's connectors must
always be done when all the components are powered down.
• Make sure that when touching the board, or when plugging in the
connecting cable, it is not possible for static discharges to pass
through the board.
• Ensure that the connecting cable is securely seated. The plug must be
fully inserted into the D-sub socket, and secured using both screws.
Only in this way can the board be expected to function properly.
1.1.2 Improper Use
Plug-on boards must never be operated outside the PC. Never connect
the devices to electrically live parts, and particularly not to any that carry
mains voltage.
Make sure that the external circuitry connected to the device cannot
come into contact with electrically live parts. Connecting or disconnec-
ting any of the the connectors must always be done when powered down.
1.1.3 Unforeseeable Misuse
The device is not suitable for use as a child's toy, for domestic purposes
or under adverse ambient conditions (such as in the open air). The user
must take appropriate precautions to avoid unforeseeable misuse.

Manual ME-5001 Rev. 1.1E
Meilhaus Electronic Page 7 Introduction
1.2 Scope of Supply
We do, of course, endeavour to supply you a complete product package.
Nevertheless, to make entirely sure that your supply is complete, you can
check the contents of your package with the help of the following list.
Your package should contain the following parts:
•48bit digital I/O board used as a plug-on board for the base boards
of the ME-5000 series
• Manual in PDF format on CD/DVD
• Driver software on CD/DVD
• 25-pin D-sub mating connector
Note:
For connecting the digital I/Os of subdevice 2 up to 5 one resp. two
optional mounting brackets are necessary. Use type ME-AK-D25F/S for
PCI Express slots resp. ME-AK-D25F/S(cPCI) for CompactPCI slots.

Rev. 1.1E Manual ME-5001
Introduction Page 8 Meilhaus Electronic
1.3 Features
The plug-on board of type ME-5001 is a 48 bit digital I/O board with
bit-pattern detection for the base boards of the ME-5000 series. You can
configure individual subdevices alternatively for frequency measurement
resp. pulse generator on demand (see chapter 4from page 21).
Overview:
*Alternative configuration can be activated via ME-iDC.
•Digital I/O ports: The ME-5001 has totally 48 bi-directional I/Os.
The direction can be defined for each of the six 8 bit ports
(subdevice 0..5) by software. After powering up, all the ports are
configured as inputs.
•Frequency counter: The concept of the "configurable subdevices"
allows subdevice 0 to be employed as a frequency counter. Eight inde-
pendent channels are available for measuring the frequency and duty
cycle of rectangular signals (max. 5.5 MHz).
•Pulse generator:The concept of the "configurable subdevices"
allows subdevice 1 to be employed as a rectangular wave generator.
Eight independent channels are available for the output of a periodic,
rectangular signal at up to 5.5 MHz with a variable duty cycle.
•Signal level 3.3 /5 V: The signal level of all the digital inputs/outputs
and of the control lines can be switched together between 3.3 V and
5 V, depending on the external circuitry. The changeover is made for
all the ports of the plug-on board at once using software.
• For optimum signal matching, you are able to activate, via software,
an active 110 Ωtermination at the digital inputs/outputs of the
subdevices 0..3.
DIO FIO* 3.3V/5V Ter mination
ME-5001
(Subdevice 0/1)
2 x 8 bit DIO 8 FI channels
8 FO channels
4 x 8 bit 4 x 8 bit
(Subdevice 2/3) 2 x 8 bit DIO -- 4 x 8 bit 4 x 8 bit
(Subdevice 4/5) 2 x 8 bit DIO -- -- --
Ta b l e 1: Overview of the ME-5001

Manual ME-5001 Rev. 1.1E
Meilhaus Electronic Page 9 Introduction
•Bit-pattern detection: The bit-pattern of a digital input or output
port can be monitored if required. Depending on the configuration,
an interrupt can be triggered in response to a change in the bit-pat-
tern.
Thanks to the DMA architecture, the data can be transferred very quickly
between the PC's working memory and the board. In streaming mode,
an input/output rate of up to 30 MS/s, in which all the ports must par-
ticipate, is possible. (See also table 2on page 22). The actual transmission
rate will depend on the operating mode and the configuration of your
computer.
Depending on requirements, you can select from the following operation
modes:
•Single: In this operating mode, a single value can be read or written
under software control (see chapter 4.1.1 on page 23).
•Interrupt: For interrupt handling in the "bit-pattern change" mode
(see chapter 4.2 on page 27).
Customer-specific versions of the firmware are available on request.
1.4 System Requirements
The ME-5001 requires a base board of the ME-5000 series and occupies
a free PCI Express or CompactPCI slot but without using the PCI slot
connector. This saves the resources of your PC. The board is supported
by the Meilhaus Intelligent Driver System (ME-iDS) from Windows
2000 upwards (Linux under development).
1.5 Software Support
The plug-on boards of the ME-5000 series are supported by the
Meilhaus Intelligent Driver System (ME-iDS). The ME-iDS is a unified
driver system usable across devices and operating systems. It supports
Windows 8/7/Vista/XP/2000 (Linux under development) and contains
a universal function library (API) for programming.
You will find a detailed description of the functions in the ME-iDS
manual, a copy of which is on the CD/DVD supplied.
Please also observe the notes in the appropriate README files.

Rev. 1.1E Manual ME-5001
Introduction Page 10 Meilhaus Electronic

Manual ME-5001 Rev. 1.1E
Meilhaus Electronic Page 11 Initial Operation
2 Initial Operation
Please read your computer manual instructions on how to install new
hardware components before installing the board.
2.1 Software Installation
• Installation under Windows
The following basic procedure should be used:
If you have received the driver software as an archive file please un-pack
the software before installing the board. First choose a directory on your
computer (e. g. C:\Temp\Meilhaus\ME-iDS).
Use the Meilhaus Intelligent Driver System (ME-iDS) for programming
your new data acquisition hardware. For installation and operation of the
driver system please follow the documentation in electronic form inclu-
ded with the software package.
• Installation under Linux
Note the installation instructions included with archive file of the appro-
priate driver.
Linux under development!
2.2 Test Program
•ME-PowerLab3: Run the program from the Windows Start menu.
This will allow you to test all the important functions of the hard-
ware.
• You will find simple test programs in the SDK of the ME-iDS, in the
"Test Executables32" or "Test Executables64" subfolders.

Rev. 1.1E Manual ME-5001
Initial Operation Page 12 Meilhaus Electronic
2.3 Fitting the Plug-on Board
The boards should be handled with care in order to make sure that the
device is not damaged by electrostatic discharge (ESD), mechanical stress
or unsuitable current surges. Precautions should also be taken to avoid an
electric shock. Ensure that standard ESD safty precautions are taken. At
least one hand should be grounded in order to dissipate any static charge.
Observe the following procedure:
1. If the base board is installed, you must first remove it in order
to be able to insert the plug-on board. Here you should
observe the procedure as described in the manual for your PC
system.
2. Make sure that electrostatic discharges cannot take place
through the plug-on board or the base board as you plug it in.
Follow the standard ESD safty precautions.
3. Push the plug-on board carefully, and with only a little force,
on to the male connector provided for it (see diagram 1, items
1, 2 and 3). Check that the board is fully plugged in.
4. Choose two adjacent slots for the installation. If necessary,
remove an additional mounting bracket for the slot of the
plug-on board.
5. Carefully plug the combination of the base and plug-on board
into the computer.
6. Screw the two slot brackets down firmly.
7. Close the PC system again.

Manual ME-5001 Rev. 1.1E
Meilhaus Electronic Page 13 Initial Operation
Diagram 1: Fitting the plug-on boards

Rev. 1.1E Manual ME-5001
Initial Operation Page 14 Meilhaus Electronic

Manual ME-5001 Rev. 1.1E
Meilhaus Electronic Page 15 Hardware
3 Hardware
3.1 Block Diagram
Diagram 2: Block diagram of the ME-5001
The pin assignment of the connectors can be found in the appendix (see
"Pinout" on page 32).
25-pin D-sub female (ST1)via ST2via ST3
Local address/data bus to the base board
Base Board
ME-5001
RT
Logic level selectable
(3.3 V/5 V)
Buffer
Buffer
Buffer
Buffer
RT
DIO_0..7 / FI_0..7
DIO_8..15 / FO_0..7
DIO_16..23
DIO_24..31
RT
RT
DIO_32..39
DIO_40..47
Subdevice 0
Subdevice 1
Subdevice 2
Subdevice 3
Subdevice 4
Subdevice 5
IRQ
Interrupt logic
Bit-pattern change
FO (impulse gen.)
DIO (single)
Bit-pattern change
DIO (single)
Bit-pattern change
DIO (single)
DIO (single)
Bit-pattern change
Bit-pattern change
DIO (single)
Bit-pattern change
FI (freq. measurement)
DIO (single)

Rev. 1.1E Manual ME-5001
Hardware Page 16 Meilhaus Electronic
In the following chapters you will learn more about the external wiring
of the individual subdevices. Chapter 4from page 21 describes the ope-
ration modes and the programming.
3.2 ME-5001 cPCI/PCIe
Diagram 3: ME-5001 cPCI/PCIe
ST1
ME-5001
REV.: 1.3
cPCIPCIe
ST2
ST3

Manual ME-5001 Rev. 1.1E
Meilhaus Electronic Page 17 Hardware
3.3 Digital Input/Output
The ME-5001 has totally six 8 bit digital I/O ports (subdevice 0..5). In
single operation mode, the subdevices can be configured independently
of one another, as input or output. The direction of the ports is defined
by software. After powering up, all the ports are configured as inputs.
Diagram 4: Wiring of digital inputs/outputs
Please read chapter 4.1.1 from page 23 for programming the different
operating modes.
DIO_0..7
DIO_8..15
DIO_16..23
DIO_24..31
GND_PC
R
T
Subdevice 1
8
In/Out
R
T
Subdevice 0
8
In/Out
3.3 V/5 V
R
T
Subdevice 3
DIO_32..39
DIO_40..47
8
Subdevice 4
8
Subdevice 5
8
In/Out
R
T
Subdevice 2
8
In/Out
Level switching
3.3 V
5 V
5V

Rev. 1.1E Manual ME-5001
Hardware Page 18 Meilhaus Electronic
3.3.1 Digital Inputs
When wiring the inputs, note that the voltage level must be observed (see
the specifications on page 29) and that a reference to the PC ground
(GND_PC) must be established (see diagram 4).
3.3.2 Digital Outputs
When wiring the outputs, note that the voltage level must be observed
(see the specifications on page 29) and that a reference to the PC ground
(GND_PC) must be established (see diagram 4).
IOut = IOL = IOH = 24 mA per pin.
3.3.3 External Trigger
On the ME-5001 no external trigger inputs are available. However you
can monitor the bit-pattern of a digital input port. As soon as the
specified event occurs, an interrupt can be issued and passed directly to
the PC. See chapter 4.2 on page 27.
3.4 Frequency Input/Output
The concept of the "configurable subdevices" of the ME-5000 series
gives you the option of using individual subdevices with an alternative
functionality. The associated configuration is carried out with the
ME-iDC configuration tool before your application is called.
The following channels are available:
•Frequency measurement (FI= "Frequency Input"):
8 independent inputs for measuring the frequency and duty cycle of
rectangular signals (max. 5.5 MHz).
•Pulse generator (FO= "Frequency Output"):
8 independent outputs for the output of a periodic rectangular signal
at up to 5.5 MHz with a variable duty cycle.
The associated pins are identified as FI_0..7 and FO_0..7 in the terminal
assignment on page 11. After powering up, the pins FO_0..7 are configu-
red as inputs i. e. in high impedance state. Not until the driver has been
loaded driver become conductive.

Manual ME-5001 Rev. 1.1E
Meilhaus Electronic Page 19 Hardware
Diagram 5: Wiring the frequency inputs/outputs
The specifications for the digital I/O ports apply to the wiring of the
FI/FO lines. A reference to the PC ground (PC_GND) must always be
established. The maximum output current is IOut = IOL = IOH = 24 mA.
The frequency counters and pulse generators are configured by software.
Please read chapter 4.2 on page 27 for programming the frequency in-
put/output.
3.5 External Interrupt
If required, you can also monitor the bit-pattern of the digital inputs.
The "bit-pattern change" mode is available on the ME-5001. As soon as
the specified event occurs, an interrupt is issued and passed directly to the
PC.
The digital inputs/outputs are programmed in the single operation
mode. The interrupt handling is carried out with the meIOIrq… func-
tions; see also chapter 4.2 on page 27.
3.6 Additional Functions
You can make the following settings for adapting to your application
regardless of the operating mode.
FI_x
GND_PC
TTL level
"Frequency measurement inputs"
FO_x
GND_PC
TTL level
"Pulse generator output"
RL
IOut = 24mA

Rev. 1.1E Manual ME-5001
Hardware Page 20 Meilhaus Electronic
3.6.1 Termination
For optimum signal matching, you can enable via software, an active
110 Ωtermination at the digital inputs/outputs of the subdevices 0..3.
The termination circuits are effectively protected against overload by the
combination of current limiting and thermal shutdown (with automatic
return to service).
3.6.2 Logic Level Matching
The signal level of subdevices 0..3 can be switched together between
3.3 V and 5 V, depending on the external circuitry. The changeover for
the pins DIO_0..31 is made in common by software.