User`s guide

Introduction

Overview

The PCLTA-21 card provides any PC equipped with a 32-bit PCI interface

and compatible Windows operating system access to a L

ONWORKS network.

The PCLTA-21 installation software provides a software-based control

panel and a software driver for Microsoft Windows 98, 2000, or XP

operating system. Installation software also is available on Echelon’s web

site at www.echelon.com/downloads. The control panel provides a

convenient means of setting and modifying installation parameters, as well

as displaying error messages. The adapter supports Windows 98, 2000, and

XP Plug n’ Play operation, simplifying installation and use.

The PCLTA-21 card operates at 10MHz and includes integral twisted pair

transceiver. The network connection is made via a removable screw

terminal block.

Firmware for the PCLTA-21 is downloaded from the host PC. This allows

the card to be updated as new versions of the software and firmware are

released, without modifying or physically accessing the PCLTA-21 card.

This feature extends the useful service life of the card, and minimizes the

cost and time associated with software and firmware updates. The card is

provided with 32Kbytes of off-chip RAM for use as network and application

buffers.

Audience

This manual is intended for developers and end users of LONWORKS systems

using the PCLTA-21 card.