The RS-232 Serial Data Adapter consists of a small PC board that connects to the rear edge of the RFC-1 with a jumper connector. A longer case and new rack panel are included to enclose the assembly and provide access to the RS-232 data connector.
The RS-232 adapter can be used for local printing or, with the addition of a modem, remote printing. Several sites can share the same remote printer. The RS-232 adapter can also be used with a modem to allow remote control and telemetry using either a terminal or personal computer. Facilities control software can be scripted quickly using a communications package like Procomm Plus or Telix. (Click here for more information.) Using the RFC-1/B in the serial mode does not prevent the use of the voice/DTMF mode.
A special RS-232 driver is used that optically isolates the RS-232 adapter from the rest of the RFC-1 system. This provides added protection against lightning for both the RFC-1 and outboard equipment.
RFC-1/B software version 4.00 or later is required to operate the RS-232 Serial Data Adapter. A software upgrade kit is available from Sine Systems as model SU-5. The upgrade includes a new microprocessor, a new speech chip and programming and installation instructions.
