The WOODWARD PCU2000ETH V4.5.0, also cataloged as the PCU2000ETH V4.5.0 Ethernet Card, operates as a dedicated hardware component for high-speed network communication and serial protocol offloading within PC-based SCADA and HMI automation platforms.

Hardware Specifications

Protocol Conversion Latencies and Deterministic Ethernet Networking

The onboard 133 MHz AMD SC520 processor offloads network protocol stacks directly from the host PC CPU. Running dedicated OPC, DLL, or DAS communication drivers across the 10/100 Mbps Ethernet link and RS-485/RS-422 serial interface minimizes protocol conversion latencies. This dedicated onboard memory structure (16 MB SDRAM, 128 KB SRAM, and 4 MB Flash) guarantees real-time buffer management and deterministic data transfer between field controllers and SCADA/HMI nodes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the PCU2000ETH V4.5.0 support hot-swapping inside an active host PC?

A: No. The card installs directly into standard 3.3 V or 5 V Universal PCI expansion slots. Power down the host computer chassis before inserting or removing the PCI card to avoid damaging the bus interface.

Q: How is signal isolation managed on the onboard serial channel?

A: The single-channel RS-485/RS-422 interface features galvanic isolation designed to break ground loops and prevent common-mode voltage spikes from reaching the host PCI bus.

Field Installation Guidelines

1. Power off the host PC chassis and disconnect main AC power feeds prior to opening the expansion bay.
2. Seat the PCI card firmly into a compatible 3.3 V or 5 V Universal PCI bus slot until the retaining bracket aligns with the frame.
3. Fasten the metal retaining bracket screw to verify solid chassis grounding and structural stability.
4. Route Ethernet RJ-45 lines and twisted-shielded RS-485/RS-422 cables away from high-voltage AC power wiring to prevent noise coupling.
5. Ensure internal cabinet fan airflow maintains ambient temperatures below 60 deg C around the PCI card slot area.