Brainboxes has released PCI Express cards that provide one and two port RS232 powered variants through either a spare serial advanced technology attachment or integrated drive electronics disk drive power connector from the PCs power supply. The cards are available in low profile and standard height options. The cards are used in point of sale applications because a single cable delivers both power and data communications.
According to the company, the single cable lowers cost by saving on the need to have an additional power outlet and power brick for the device.
The PCI Express range comprises one, two, three, four, and eight port variants in RS232 and one, two, and four port variants in RS422 and RS485 interfaces. The cards are compatible with 32 and 64bit editions of Windows 7, Server 2008, Vista, XP, Server 2003 and 2000. The cards are also available with the company's serial solutions software.
