Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Model | cPCI-8211 |
| Manufacturer | ADLINK Technology |
| Product Family | NuIPC cPCI-8210 Series |
| Product Type | Fast Ethernet interface board |
| Form Factor | 3U CompactPCI, 100 × 160 mm |
| Slot Width | 1 slot |
| Backplane Interface | 32-bit / 33 MHz CompactPCI |
| Standard Compliance | PICMG 2.0; PCI 2.1; IEEE 802.3 / 802.3u |
| Ethernet Controller | Intel 82559 |
| Network Speed | 10 / 100 Mbps |
| Ethernet Standard | 10BASE-T / 100BASE-TX |
| Network Connector | One front-panel RJ-45 |
| Duplex Mode | Full duplex supported |
| Speed Selection | Automatic negotiation |
| Remote Boot | PXE support on 82559-equipped versions |
| Power Requirement | 5 VDC, 100 mA maximum |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 60°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20 to 80°C |
| Relative Humidity | 10–90%, non-condensing |
| Status Indicators | 10 Mbps / 100 Mbps, Link, Activity |
The specifications are documented in the ADLINK NuIPC cPCI-8210/8211/8212 user’s guide. The cPCI-8211R is the rear-I/O version and uses an R8211 rear transition module; it should not be confused with the standard front-I/O cPCI-8211.
CPCI-8211
Product Introduction
The ADLINK cPCI-8211 is a single-port Fast Ethernet adapter designed for legacy 3U CompactPCI embedded computing systems. Its Intel 82559 controller supports 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX networking, automatic speed negotiation, and full-duplex communication. A front-panel RJ-45 connector provides the physical network connection, while three status indicators help technicians check negotiated speed, link integrity, and network activity.
In the ALSTOM ALSPA Series 6 MFC3000 architecture, the cPCI-8211 is documented as the one-port Ethernet board. The controller’s onboard Ethernet interfaces and separate four-port Ethernet expansion board perform different network functions, so the cPCI-8211 should be evaluated against the exact rack configuration before replacement.
Application Scenarios & Field Pitfalls
Typical applications
- ALSTOM MFC3000 controllers: Provides the documented single-port Ethernet connection within supported ALSPA Series 6 configurations.
- Industrial CompactPCI computers: Adds 10/100 Mbps network connectivity to embedded control and monitoring systems.
- PXI-based test systems: Supports Ethernet communication in compatible PXI installations.
- Legacy remote-access systems: Supports PXE network boot on applicable Intel 82559-equipped configurations.
Field checks before replacement
- Confirm the board variant. The standard cPCI-8211 uses front-panel RJ-45 connectivity. The cPCI-8211R adds rear I/O and requires the R8211 transition board.
- Check the controller chip. Verify the Intel 82559 identification and board revision. Do not assume all visually similar CompactPCI Ethernet cards use the same driver.
- Verify the rack interface. Confirm 3U CompactPCI dimensions, 32-bit/33 MHz bus compatibility, and the required 5 V backplane supply.
- Check network speed and cabling. The board supports 10/100BASE-TX, not Gigabit Ethernet. Use suitable twisted-pair cabling and verify the negotiated link speed.
- Review legacy driver support. The original documentation lists DOS, Windows 95/98, Windows NT, and Linux support. Confirm the actual operating system and driver package before installation.
- Validate the MFC3000 network assignment. Preserve the original IP configuration and network connection. Do not connect the replacement to a different controller network without checking the system drawings.
Related Products
- cPCI-8211R – Rear-I/O version of the cPCI-8211; requires the R8211 rear transition module.
- R8211 – Rear transition module used with the cPCI-8211R.
- cPCI-8210 – Related CompactPCI controller combining Ethernet and Wide Ultra-2 SCSI functions; not a direct substitute.
- cPCI-8212 – Wide Ultra-2 SCSI interface board in the same product family; it does not provide the cPCI-8211 Ethernet function.
- cPCI-3E10 / cPCI-3E12 – ADLINK-designated replacement products for the discontinued cPCI-8211 family. Verify mechanical, driver, bus, and system compatibility before considering either as a replacement.
- CN4-1-BELL – Four-port Ethernet board used in the MFC3000 architecture for additional network connections; different function and port count.
Procurement and Replacement Notes
ADLINK lists the cPCI-8211 family as discontinued, with discontinuation scheduled for March 9, 2010. The manufacturer identifies cPCI-3E10 and cPCI-3E12 as recommended replacement products. This recommendation does not by itself establish plug-in compatibility with an existing MFC3000 rack.
For a replacement purchase, request:
- Full model and PCB revision photographs.
- Confirmation of Intel 82559 controller installation.
- Front-I/O or rear-I/O configuration.
- Confirmation that the card has passed Ethernet link and traffic testing.
- Driver and operating-system compatibility information.
For an MFC3000 installation, preserve the original network assignment and verify communication with the controller before returning the system to operation.
