Available 38 files for Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Select Files
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Rawrite.exe
Operating System
Diagnostic
Version
A
Size Driver
14KB
File Name
rawrite.exe
Observations
This is a Microsoft-base utility that is used to create disk images for use with our diagnostic disk image files.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
DR Multiuser DOS
Version
1.01
Size Driver
4KB
File Name
6168.zip
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Software Installation
Information
Manual PDF for Windows 3.1
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
17KB
File Name
2000096a.pdf
Observations
Driver for the Windows 3.1 Operating System
Hostess 2/4/8-Port
Hostess 550 2/4/8-Port
Software Installation Documentation
Scope
Use this reference card to install the Hostess® or Hostesss 550 device driver . This device
driver can support up to four of the following Comtrol Hostess controller boards:
• Hostess or Hostess 550 2-port controllers
• Hostess or Hostess 550 4-port with 100-pin or RJ45 connectors
• Hostess or Hostess 550 8-port with 100-pin or RJ11 connectors
To use this device driver, you must have Microsoft Windows 3.1 or Windows for Workgroups
installed on an ISA- or EISA-bus machine. The installation follows these general steps:
1. Install the device driver.
2. Configure and install the controller board.
3. Configure and attach the interface box (if applicable).
Note: For more information, see the documentation that came with your controller board and
interface box.
Installing the Device Driver
Follow these steps to install the device driver onto your hard disk:
1. Boot up the computer and start the Windows 3.1 operating system.
2. Insert the Comtrol Device Driver diskette into the appropriate diskette drive.
3. From the Program Manager window, select the File option.
4. From the File menu, select the Run option.
5. You are prompted to select a program to run.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Software Installation
Information
Manual PDF for Linux
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
113KB
File Name
6252d.pdf
Observations
The device driver is supported by the operating system Installation Reference Card for the
Linux System with the Hostess 550™ Series
Scope
Use this reference card to configure the Hostess 550
controller and the device driver available through your
Linux operating system. This device driver supports
up to four of the Comtrol® Hostess 550 controllers (2, 4,
8, and 16 port).
Using the Hostess 550 controller with Linux does not
require any kernel modifications or special compiling
procedures.
Installation Overview
The following flowchart shows the installation steps.
Note: For support or troubleshooting information, see
the documentation that came with your
controller.
Configuring 2-Port Controllers
Configure the Hostess 550 2-port controller by setting
the following DIP switches for each board:
• Base address (labeled ADDRESS or SW1)
• Interrupt vector number (labeled INTERRUPT or
SW2)
Make sure that you select an unused base address and
interrupt vector number. Install the controller after
you set the DIP switches. (See the discussion titled
“Installing the Controller” for this information.)
Configuring 4/8-Port Controllers With
100-Pin Connectors
Configure the Hostess 550 4 or 8-port controller by
setting the following DIP switches for each board:
• Base address (labeled ADDRESS or SW1)
• Interrupt vector number (labeled INTERRUPT or
SW2)
Make sure that you select an unused base address and
interrupt vector number. Install the controller after
you set the DIP switches. (See the discussion titled
“Installing the Controller” for this information.)
The following tables show the settings for common base
I/O addresses and available interrupts. For additional
address settings, see the documentation that came
with your controller.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Software Installation
Information
Manual PDF for OS-2
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
120KB
File Name
6075d.pdf
Observations
Device Driver for the OS/2 Operating System (6075)
Installation Reference Card
Hostess Series
Hostess 550 Series
Hostess/MC Series
Hostess 550/MC Series
Scope
Use this reference card to install the device driver and the
controller. This device driver supports up to four Hostess,
Hostess/MC, Hostess 550, or Hostess 550/MC Series controllers.
To use this device driver, you must have an OS/2 operating
system and an ISA/EISA or PS/2-based machine.
The following is an installation overview for the Hostess and
Hostess 550 Series controllers.
The following is an installation overview for the Hostess/MC and
Hostess 550/MC Series controllers.
Notes: For support or troubleshooting information, see the
documentation that came with your controller.
If you are installing a Hostess/MC or Hostess 550/MC, use
the Controller Installation section first.
Device Driver Features
The device driver is functionally compatible with the IBM
COM01.SYS or COM02.SYS device drivers. It has the following
features:
• Software interfacing to the device driver can be written in
any programming language supported by the OS/2 operating
system
• Fully interrupt driven
• Supports programs in both real and protected modes
• Supports FIFO mode on 16550 UARTs
• Processes multiple operations accessing a single port
Installing the Device Driver
Use the following steps to install the device driver:
1. Insert the device driver diskette.
2. Copy the HOSTDRV.SYS file to your root directory, or to
another directory specified in the DEVICE statement of the
CONFIG.SYS file.
3. Edit the CONFIG.SYS file (in your root directory), by adding a
DEVICE statement with the following format:
DEVICE=path \HOSTDRV.SYS param1 param2 param3 param4
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Software Installation
Information
Manual PDF for UNIX SVR4.2 (UnixWare 2.0.x)
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
22KB
File Name
2000099a.pdf
Observations
Driver for the Device Driver for the
SVR4 UNIX (UnixWare 2.0)Operating System
Software Installation Documentation
Hostess® and Hostess 550/554 (4/8-Port)
Hostess® 550 4/8/16-Port
Scope
Use this document to install the Hostess® device driver. This device driver can support up to
four of the following Comtrol Hostess controller boards:
• Hostess or Hostess 550 4-port with 100-pin or Hostess 554 4-port with RJ45 connectors
• Hostess or Hostess 550 8-port with 100-pin or RJ11 connectors
• Hostess 550 16-port
To use this device driver, you must have a UNIX System V Revision 4 operating system
installed on an ISA- or EISA-bus machine. The installation follows these general steps:
1. Remove existing Comtrol drivers. (Recommended.)
2. Install the device driver.
3. Configure and install the controller board using the hardware installation
documenatation.
4. Configure and attach the interface box (if applicable).
5. Enable the ports on the controller.
Note: For more information, see the hardware installation documentation for your controller
and interface box.
Removing the Device Driver
Follow these steps to remove an existing device driver:
1. Log in as the system administrator to root and invoke the pkgrm utility. For example:
pkgrm hts0
2. Remove the port monitor services.
3. You may also want to shut down the system at this time. If you have other device drivers
to remove, you may want to delay rebooting until you are finished removing the other
device drivers. Changes take place on the next kernel reboot.
Installing the Device Driver
To install or reinstall this device driver use the following procedure. For more detailed
information regarding the following procedure, see your operating system documentation.
1. Boot the system, login as the system administrator (root), and invoke the pkgadd utility.
For example:
pkgadd -d diskette1.
The primary drive is diskette1 and the secondary drive is diskette2.
2. Insert the device driver diskette in the primary drive.
3. Press Enter to continue when prompted to type [go] when you are ready or [q] to quit.
4. Press Enter to select the ALL option.
5. Press Y or N and Enter to respond to whether you are using a monochrome VGA
monitor. (The default is N.)
6. Enter the number of controller boards you plan to install.
7. Select the controller type. For the Hostess 554, select an equivalent Hostess 550
controller.
8. Select the interrupt (IRQ) number.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
RS-232/422 4/8-Port (DB25) interface box
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
70KB
File Name
6218.pdf
Observations
RS-232/422 4/8-Port (DB25)
Interface Reference Card
Hostess 4/8, Hostess 550 4/8, Hostess/MC 4/8
Hostess 550/MC 4/8, Hostess 186 4/8, Smart Hostess Series
Scope
This Reference Card discusses the interface box that
you purchased with your Comtrol™ controller. Use this
card if you want to configure ports for RS-422 mode.
Note: The interface box is set to RS-232 mode as the
default.
Installing the Interface Box
The interfaces box requires no configuration before
installation unless you plan on using RS-422 mode. Use
the following procedure to install the interface box.
1. Configure the interface box using Table 2 for ports
that you want to use RS-422 mode.
Note: Make sure that your PC is powered down before
connecting the interface box.
2. Plug the interface box cable into the controller’s
connector.
3. Manually, twist the plug’s thumbscrews into the
connector.
If you need pinout information about the cable
connector that attaches to the controller, see the
Hardware Reference Card or User’s Guide for your
controller.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
RS-232/Current Loop DB25 interface box
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
64KB
File Name
6222.pdf
Observations
Scope
This Reference Card discusses the interface box that you
purchased with your Comtrol controller. Use this card to
configure ports for RS-232 mode or current loop operation.
Note: The interface box is set to asynchronous RS-232
mode as the default.
Configuring the Interface Box
If you plan to use RS-232 mode, you can connect your
peripherals without configuring the interface box.
If you want to use the interface for current loop operation,
you must remove the back cover to configure the interface
box. Use the following figures and table to configure your
interface box for current loop operation.
Installing the Interface Box
Use the following procedure to install the interface unit:
1. Turn the system power off.
2. Plug the interface box cable into the controller’s connector.
3. Manually twist the plug’s thumbscrews into the connector,
being careful not to overtighten.
If you need pinout information for the cable connector that
attaches to the controller, see the documentation that
came with the controller.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
RS-422/485 8-Port (DB9) interface box
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
33KB
File Name
6224.pdf
Observations
RS-422/485 8-Port (DB9)
Interface Reference Card
Hostess 4/8, Hostess 550 4/8, Hostess 186 4/8, Smart Hostess 4/8
Scope
This reference card provides technical information for
the interface box that you purchased with your
Comtrol™ controller. The following communication
modes are available:
• RS-422 two-state
• RS-485
• RS-422 three-state
• RS-485 echo mode
The default setting for the interface box is RS-422
two-state, which can be configured for RS-485 by
changing the jumper settings inside the interface box.
Circuit changes are necessary in order to use RS-422
three-state and RS-485 echo mode. A request must be
made when the order is placed, so that Comtrol makes
the changes before the order ships. The jumpers are
also set, so configuring the interface box is
unnecessary.
Configuring the Interface Box
If you plan to use RS-422 two-state, RS-422 three-state,
or RS-485 echo mode on all ports, the jumper settings
do not need to be changed.
If you wish to use RS-485, remove the back cover from
the interface box.
The interface box, when set to the default, contains
four blocks of 3-pin jumpers (numbered from 3 to 11).
When Comtrol sets the interface box for RS-422
three-state or RS-485 echo mode, pins 1 and 2 and pins
12 and 13 are added to each block of jumpers (see
Table 2).
Each block of jumpers sets two ports:
• J5 (Ports 1 and 2)
• J6 (Ports 3 and 4)
• J7 (Ports 5 and 6)
• J8 (Ports 7 and 8)
Note: If you have a 4-port controller, only J5 and J6 are
used.
Table 2 shows the jumper settings for the available
communication modes. (The shaded areas represent
jumpered pins.)
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
RS-485 Cabling and Loopback Plugs
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
11KB
File Name
hcab5.pdf
Observations
Building Custom Cables for Comtrol Hostess550
Controllers (4- and 8-Port) RS-485
Compatibility
Use this document if you want to build customized
cables for the following Comtrol controllers:
• Hostess 550 (4- or 8-port models; 100-pin)
• Hostess 550/MC (4- or 8-port models)
Note: If you want to build cables for other Comtrol
controllers, order the appropriate cabling
documentation.
Building Cables
Usually you can buy the correct cables from
distributors and electronics stores for your controller.
In some cases, your peripheral equipment may need
custom cables.
Check your equipment to understand what kind of
cable to use, Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) or Data
Communications Equipment (DCE). All Comtrol serial
connectors are configured as DTE.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
EISA Configuration
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
4KB
File Name
eisacfg.zip
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Hardware Installation
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
76KB
File Name
2000030_a.pdf
Observations
Also contains all hardware-related information, including connectors, interfaces, and specifications. Hostess and Hostess 550
4/8-Port
Hardware Installation Card
Scope
This Hardware Installation Card discusses the following
topics for the Hostess and Hostess 550.
• Installation overview
• Identifying your controller
• Setting the base I/O address and IRQ switches
• Daisy-chaining IRQs
• Installing an upgrade kit
• Installing the controller
• Specifications
• Troubleshooting and placing a support call
The Comtrol web/ftp site contains additional information:
• Signal information for the 100-pin connector on the
controller
• Connector information for your interface.
• Building loopback plugs
• Additional device drivers
• Software installation documentation
Note: Call Technical Support if you require a Hostess
Series and Hostess 550 Series Programming Guide.
Installation Overview
1. Set the base I/O address and IRQ switches to unused
values for your machine.
2. Optionally, install the upgrade kit.
3. Install the controller board.
4. Configure and attach the interface box, if applicable.
Note: See the Interface Reference Card to configure
the interface (if applicable).
5. Attach peripherals to the interface box.
Note: You must provide the serial cables to connect the
peripheral devices to the controller.
6. Install the device driver.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Programing Guide
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
14.8MB
File Name
6231d.pdf
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Rawrite Documentation
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
2KB
File Name
rawrite3.doc
Observations
Documentation on using Rawrite.exe.
RaWrite 1.3
------------
Disclaimer of Warrenty
----------------------
Users of this software must accept this disclaimer of warranty: "This
software is supplied AS IS. Mark Becker disclaims all warranties, expressed
or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of merchantability
and of fitness for any purpose. Mark Becker assumes no liability for
damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of this
software."
Purpose
-------
Write a disk image file to a floppy disk.
Equipment/Software Requirements
-------------------------------
* PC/XT/AT or 100% compatible with at least 256K of RAM and a floppy disk
drive.
* MS-DOS version 3.21 or greater.
* A formatted diskette.
This program uses well-documented generic low-level DOS and BIOS functions.
It should run on nearly every PC in existance. PS/2's should be able to run
RaWrite but this has not been tested.
CAVEAT
------
This program will write ANY disk file to a floppy, overwriting any previous
information that may have been present. If you wish to re-use a diskette
that has been written to by RaWrite then that diskette will probably need to
be reformatted; all MS-DOS specific information will have been erased.
Usage
-----
C> RAWRITE
And follow the prompts. All arguments are case-insensitive.
If the source and destination drives are the same, RaWrite will ask the user
to swap diskettes as required. Rawrite allocates a large buffer in RAM to
reduce the number of disk swaps.
RaWrite may be aborted at any time by typing ^C or CTRL-Break.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Diagnostic
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
1.4MB
File Name
1500022a.i
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
RS-422 Cabling and Loopback Plugs
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
18KB
File Name
hcab3.pdf
Observations
Building Custom Cables for Comtrol Hostess550
Controllers (4- and 8-Port) RS-422
Compatibility
Use this document if you want to build customized
cables for the following Comtrol controllers:
• Hostess 550 (4- or 8-port models; 100-pin RJ45)
• Hostess 550/MC (4- or 8-port models)
Note: If you want to build cables for other Comtrol
controllers, order the appropriate cabling
documentation.
Building Cables
Usually you can buy the correct cables from
distributors and electronics stores for your controller.
In some cases, your peripheral equipment may need
custom cables.
Check your equipment to understand what kind of
cable to use, Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) or Data
Communications Equipment (DCE). All Comtrol serial
connectors are configured as DTE.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
RJ45 Jumper Settings for RS-232/422
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
321KB
File Name
6184_1.pdf
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
RS-232 Cabling and Loopback Plugs
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
22KB
File Name
hcab1.pdf
Observations
Building Custom Cables for Comtrol Hostess and
Hostess 550 Controllers (4- and 8-Port) RS-232
Compatibility
Use this document if you want to build customized
cables for the following Comtrol controllers:
• Hostess (4- or 8-port models; 100-pin, RJ45, or RJ11)
• Hostess 550 (4- or 8-port models; 100-pin, RJ45, or
RJ11)
• Hostess/MC or Hostess 550/MC (4- or 8-port models)
Note: If you want to build cables for other Comtrol
controllers, order the appropriate cabling
documentation.
Building Cables
Usually you can buy the correct cables from
distributors and electronics stores for your controller.
In some cases, your peripheral equipment may need
custom cables.
Check your equipment to understand what kind of
cable to use, Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) or Data
Communications Equipment (DCE). All Comtrol serial
connectors are configured as DTE.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Building Loopback Plugs
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
82KB
File Name
2000034_a.pdf
Observations
Hostess and Hostess 550 Series
Building Loopback Plugs
Hardware Tech Tip
Introduction
This Hardware Tech Tip discusses building loopback plugs
for use with the diagnostics for the following Hostess
cards:
• Hostess 4- and 8-port boards that use a separate
interface box
• Hostess 550 4- and 8-port boards that use a separate
interface box
• Hostess 550 16-port boards
Note: The Hardware Installation Cards contain
information about how to build loopback plugs for
the Hostess 554RJ and Hostess 554 Quad/Octacable
cards .
Building DB25 Male Loopback Plugs
Loopback plugs are used with
the diagnostics to test serial
ports.
Wire the following pins
together for an RS-232 plug.
• Pins 2 to 3
• Pins 4 to 5 to 22
• Pins 6 to 8 to 20
Wire the following pins
together for an RS-422
loopback plug.
• Pins 15 to 19
• Pins 17 to 25
Building DB9 Male Loopback Plugs
Loopback plugs are used with the
diagnostics to test serial ports.
Wire the following pins together for
an RS-232 loopback plug:
• Pins 1 to 4 to 6
• Pins 2 to 3
• Pins 7 to 8 to 9
Wire the following pins together for
an RS-422 loopback plug:
• Pins 4 to 8
• Pins 5 to 9
Building RJ45 Loopback Plugs
Loopback plugs are used with the
diagnostics to test serial ports.
Wire the following pins together.
• Pins 4 to 5
• Pins 1 to 8
• Pins 2 to 6 to 7
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Current Loop Cabling and Loopback Plugs
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
10KB
File Name
hcab6.pdf
Observations
Building Custom Cables for Comtrol Hostess and
Hostess 550 Controllers (4- and 8-Port) Current Loop
Compatibility
Use this document if you want to build customized
cables for the following Comtrol controllers:
• Hostess (4- or 8-port models; 100-pin)
• Hostess 550 (4- or 8-port models; 100-pin)
• Hostess/MC or Hostess 550/MC (4- or 8-port models)
Note: If you want to build cables for other Comtrol
controllers, order the appropriate cabling
documentation.
Building Cables
Usually you can buy the correct cables from
distributors and electronics stores for your controller.
In some cases, your peripheral equipment may need
custom cables.
Check your equipment to understand what kind of
cable to use, Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) or Data
Communications Equipment (DCE). All Comtrol serial
connectors are configured as DTE.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Software Installation
Information
Manual PDF for Windows 98
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
35KB
File Name
2000022_a.pdf
Observations
Hostess and Hostess 550/554
Windows 95/98 and Windows NT
Software Installation Card
Scope
Use this Software Installation Card to install the Hostess
or Hostess 550/554 device driver for one of the following
operating systems:
• Windows NT
• Windows 95/98
Note: Other drivers can be downloaded from Comtrol at:
ftp (ftp://ftp.comtrol.com)
web site (http://www.comtrol.com)
These device drivers can support up to four of the following
Comtrol cards:
• Hostess (4- and 8-port)
• Hostess 550 (4-, 8-, and 16-port)
• Hostess 554 (RJ and quad/octacable)
Installation Overview
The installation follows these general steps:
1. Set the I/O address and interrupt DIP switches for
each card.
Note: Make sure that you set the Mask Enable switch
to OFF during the hardware installation. See
the Hardware Installation Card that came
with the hardware to set the DIP switches.
2. Install the card.
3. Install the driver for each port on the card.
4. Configure and attach the interface box (if applicable).
Note: For more information, see the documentation that
came with your card and interface box. This
documentation is also available through the web/ftp
sites.
Windows NT - Installing the Driver
After installing the hardware, follow these steps to install
the driver:
1. Boot the system and start Windows NT.
2. Windows NT 4.0: Select Run from the Start Button.
Windows NT 3.51: From the Program Manager, choose
File, and select the Run option.
You are prompted to select a program to run.
3. If installing from a diskette, type in the following and
press OK or enter the appropriate path:
a:\WinNT\setup
4. Highlight the appropriate items in the dropdown
menus to configure the driver:
• Board type
• I/O address
• IRQ
• Starting COM Port number
• Board number
Note: Make sure that you select values that reflect the
hardware settings on the card.
To install a Hostess 554, select the Hostess 550 4-
port (for quadcable) or Hostess 550 8-port (for
octacable) board option.
5. See the Verifying Installation discussion to test the
board.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
RS-232 4/8-Port (DB9) interface box
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
24KB
File Name
6219.pdf
Observations
RS-232 4/8-Port (DB9)
Interface Reference Card
Hostess 4/8, Hostess 550 4/8, Hostess/MC4/8
Hostess 550/MC4/8, Hostess 186 4/8, Smart Hostess Series
Scope
This reference card discusses the interface that you
purchased with your Comtrol controller. This card
provides you with technical information for your
interface.
Installing the Interface
The interfaces requires no configuration before
installation. Use the following procedure to install the
interface.
Note: Make sure that your PC is powered down before
connecting the interface box.
1. Plug the interface cable into the controller’s
connector.
2. Manually, twist the plug’s thumbscrews into the
connector.
If you need pinout information about the cable
connector that attaches to the controller, see the
applicable Hardware Reference Card or User’s Guide
for your controller.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
100-Pin Connectors
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
19KB
File Name
2000036_a.pdf
Observations
Hostess and Hostess 550 100-Pin Connector
4/8-Port
Hardware Tech Tip
Introduction
This Hardware Tech Tip discusses the 100-pin connector
on the controller for the following Hostess cards:
• Hostess 4- and 8-port boards that use a separate
interface box
• Hostess 550 4- and 8-port boards that use a separate
interface box
You can use this information if you are building your own
interfaces.
Technical Support
• Model number
• Serial number
• Interface type
• I/O address and IRQ
• Operating system type and release
• Device driver version
• PC make, model, and speed
• List other devices in the PC and their addresses
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Current Loop interface box
Information
Manual PDF
Operating System
Manual
Version
A
Size Driver
102KB
File Name
6237.pdf
Observations
Current Loop
Interface Reference Card
Hostess 4/8, Hostess 550 4/8,
Hostess 186 4/8, Smart Hostess 8
Scope
This Reference Card discusses the interface box that
you purchased with your Comtrol™ controller. Use this
card to configure ports for current loop operation.
Note: The interface box is set to Active Transmit (Tx)/
Passive Receive (Rx) as the default.
Configuring the Interface Box
If you plan to use Active Tx/Passive Rx operation, you
can connect your peripherals without configuring the
interface box.
If you want to use the interface for any other current
loop operation, you must remove the back cover to
configure the interface box.
The following are definitions for Active and Passive
Tx/Rx:
• Active Tx - 20mA supplied by a port
• Active Rx - 20mA supplied by a port
• Passive Tx - 20mA supplied by a device to a port
(the transmitter is optically isolated)
• Passive Rx - 20mA supplied by a device to a port
(the receiver is optically isolated)
Warning: If you plan to run test software, the interface
box must be configured either as
Active Tx/Passive Rx or Passive Tx/Active
Rx.
Never install a loopback plug with a port set
for Active Tx/Active Rx.
Use the following figures to configure your interface
box for current loop operation.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
MS-DOS
Version
1.01
Size Driver
24KB
File Name
6118.zip
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
OS-2
Version
1.06
Size Driver
86KB
File Name
6075.exe
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
UNIX SVR3.2
Version
1.05
Size Driver
68KB
File Name
6042.z
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
UNIX SVR4.1 (UnixWare 1.x)
Version
1.0 BETA
Size Driver
292KB
File Name
6251.z
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
UNIX SVR4.2 (UnixWare 2.0.x)
Version
1.0 BETA
Size Driver
292KB
File Name
6251.z
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
UNIX SVR4.2 (UnixWare 2.0.x)
Version
2.10
Size Driver
278KB
File Name
6255.z
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
UNIX SVR4.2 (UnixWare 2.1.x)
Version
1.0 BETA
Size Driver
292KB
File Name
6251.z
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
UNIX SVR4.2 (UnixWare 2.1.x)
Version
2.10
Size Driver
278KB
File Name
6255.z
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
WFWG 3.11
Version
1.30
Size Driver
80KB
File Name
6187.zip
Observations
16 Port Version of the Windows 3.1 Driver
=========================================
NOTE: This ReadMe file only applies to the 16 port version of the
driver and is intended for developers only. If you have ordered
the "standard" Windows 3.1 Driver, the following information
does not apply.
Introduction
------------
As you probably know, there are only 9 serial (COM) port names available
under Microsoft Windows 3.1, named COM1 through COM9. This is unfortunate,
especially for manufacturers of 16 port serial controllers! However,
Comtrol has developed a device driver that allows the "upper" ports to
be used by mapping the "lower" device names to the upper ports.
Serial Port Explanation for Windows 3.1
---------------------------------------
Comtrol products are shipped with a controller that gets installed
an a slot in your computer and an interface box that attaches to the
controller. Obviously, a 16 port controller will have a 16 port interface
box. What is not so obvious is how the ports on the interface box get
device names attached to them. The first port on the interface box is
typically NOT going to be COM1. Most PCs will already have 1 or more
serial ports. Think of the first port on the interface box as the
next port available. For example, if your PC has a COM1, then the first
port on the interface box will be COM2. If your PC has COM1 and COM2, then
the first port on the interface box will be COM3.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
Windows 3.1
Version
1.30
Size Driver
80KB
File Name
6187.zip
Observations
16 Port Version of the Windows 3.1 Driver
=========================================
NOTE: This ReadMe file only applies to the 16 port version of the
driver and is intended for developers only. If you have ordered
the "standard" Windows 3.1 Driver, the following information
does not apply.
Introduction
------------
As you probably know, there are only 9 serial (COM) port names available
under Microsoft Windows 3.1, named COM1 through COM9. This is unfortunate,
especially for manufacturers of 16 port serial controllers! However,
Comtrol has developed a device driver that allows the "upper" ports to
be used by mapping the "lower" device names to the upper ports.
Serial Port Explanation for Windows 3.1
---------------------------------------
Comtrol products are shipped with a controller that gets installed
an a slot in your computer and an interface box that attaches to the
controller. Obviously, a 16 port controller will have a 16 port interface
box. What is not so obvious is how the ports on the interface box get
device names attached to them. The first port on the interface box is
typically NOT going to be COM1. Most PCs will already have 1 or more
serial ports. Think of the first port on the interface box as the
next port available. For example, if your PC has a COM1, then the first
port on the interface box will be COM2. If your PC has COM1 and COM2, then
the first port on the interface box will be COM3.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
Windows 95
Version
1.00
Size Driver
75KB
File Name
1800005a.exe
Observations
Installation Notes
Hostess(R) Device Driver for the Windows(TM) 95 Operating System
===============================================================
ABOUT HOSTESS BOARDS AND THE WINDOWS 95 OPERATING SYSTEM
INSTALLING THE DEVICE DRIVER
1. Double click on the "My Computer" icon.
2. Double click on the "Control Panel" icon.
3. Double click on the "Add New Hardware" Installation Wizard.
a. On the 1st Sheet, click on the
b. On the 2nd Sheet, select the No option for the following prompt:
"Do you want Windows to search for your new Hardware?
( ) Yes(Recommended)
(X) No"
c. On the 3rd Sheet, a list of installable hardware is shown.
Select the "Ports (COM & LPT).
Select "Comtrol Corporation" on the right and
"Hostess COM Port" on the left (if they are available),
otherwise; press the
HostPort.inf file.
Continue by selecting the
d. On the 4th sheet, Windows will show you the default computer
resources that it will be installed at, click the
Resources are configured later in the installation.
e. On the 5th sheet, click on the
f. Windows will ask you if you wish to shut down the system in
order to finish the installation. Click on the
4. Go back to Step 3 for each additional port on your Hostess board
that you wish to configure.
For example, if you have a Hostess 550 8 port board, you will
have to add new hardware a total of eight times.
5. Double click on the "System" icon. This brings up a number
of tabbed sheets.
6. Select the 2nd Sheet, "Device Manager." This brings up a list
of devices installed on the Computer.
7. Double click on the "Ports (COM & LPT)", this should expand
the selection to include all of the port device.
8. Click on the first new port created for the Hostess board and
then click on the
This brings up a number of Property Sheets associated with
the Hostess Port.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
Windows 98
Version
1.00
Size Driver
75KB
File Name
1800005a.exe
Observations
Installation Notes
Hostess(R) Device Driver for the Windows(TM) 95 Operating System
===============================================================
ABOUT HOSTESS BOARDS AND THE WINDOWS 95 OPERATING SYSTEM
INSTALLING THE DEVICE DRIVER
1. Double click on the "My Computer" icon.
2. Double click on the "Control Panel" icon.
3. Double click on the "Add New Hardware" Installation Wizard.
a. On the 1st Sheet, click on the
b. On the 2nd Sheet, select the No option for the following prompt:
"Do you want Windows to search for your new Hardware?
( ) Yes(Recommended)
(X) No"
c. On the 3rd Sheet, a list of installable hardware is shown.
Select the "Ports (COM & LPT).
Select "Comtrol Corporation" on the right and
"Hostess COM Port" on the left (if they are available),
otherwise; press the
HostPort.inf file.
Continue by selecting the
d. On the 4th sheet, Windows will show you the default computer
resources that it will be installed at, click the
Resources are configured later in the installation.
e. On the 5th sheet, click on the
f. Windows will ask you if you wish to shut down the system in
order to finish the installation. Click on the
4. Go back to Step 3 for each additional port on your Hostess board
that you wish to configure.
For example, if you have a Hostess 550 8 port board, you will
have to add new hardware a total of eight times.
5. Double click on the "System" icon. This brings up a number
of tabbed sheets.
6. Select the 2nd Sheet, "Device Manager." This brings up a list
of devices installed on the Computer.
7. Double click on the "Ports (COM & LPT)", this should expand
the selection to include all of the port device.
8. Click on the first new port created for the Hostess board and
then click on the
This brings up a number of Property Sheets associated with
the Hostess Port.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
Windows NT 3.51
Version
1.30
Size Driver
89KB
File Name
1800006a.exe
Observations
Installation Notes
Hostess(R) Serial Port Installer for the Windows(TM) NT Operating System
===============================================================
ABOUT HOSTESS BOARDS AND THE WINDOWS NT OPERATING SYSTEM
INSTALLING THE DEVICE DRIVER
If the older Comtrol Installer program was used, the Registry entries
will need to be taken out using the regedit.exe (WINNT 4.0) or
regedt32.exe (WINNT 3.51) program.
Remove any entries associated with the Hostess board in the following area:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Serial\Parameters
This new install program is capable of un-installing ports that it installs,
so this process is only require if the original Comtrol installer
program was used. The original Comtrol installer was called Hostess.exe
(6304.ZIP).
This new install program is called SETUP.EXE, to use it create
a sub-directory for these files on your harddrive and copy it
over and run the SETUP.EXE program.
A test terminal program(called WCOM32.EXE) is included to help you
test out or verify installation of the ports.
===============================================================
TECHNICAL INFORMATION ON HOSTESS BOARDS/WINDOWS NT
The Hostess 550 boards are equipped with 16C550 UART chips that provide
a larger hardware buffer (16 byte FIFO). The Hostess 450 boards contain
the traditional 16C450 UART that has a single byte hardware buffer.
The Hostess boards are equipped with an IRQ "id" and "mask" register,
which allow drivers to process data more efficiently. The "id"
register is a single register which a driver may read to determine
which ports have pending interrupts. This is useful when you have
a number of ports sharing the same interrupt, otherwise the driver
must read the status from each port to determine who needs servicing.
The "mask" register is a register which the driver may write to in order
to enable or disable each ports interrupts. The "id" and "mask" registers
are normally placed at offset 07H from the first ports base address.
The Hostess-16 has an additional IRQ id/mask register for the
high 8 ports at offset 47H.
The configuration information is placed in the Windows NT System
Registry. It is very similiar to the older "SYSTEM.INI" file used
to configure Windows 3.1, except the Registry is a binary file (you
can not edit it with a text editor) and has a hierarchical organization.
Company
Comtrol
Categories
Networks Cards
Model
Comtrol Hostess 4-8
Description
Device Driver
Operating System
Windows NT4
Version
1.30
Size Driver
89KB
File Name
1800006a.exe
Observations
Installation Notes
Hostess(R) Serial Port Installer for the Windows(TM) NT Operating System
===============================================================
ABOUT HOSTESS BOARDS AND THE WINDOWS NT OPERATING SYSTEM
INSTALLING THE DEVICE DRIVER
If the older Comtrol Installer program was used, the Registry entries
will need to be taken out using the regedit.exe (WINNT 4.0) or
regedt32.exe (WINNT 3.51) program.
Remove any entries associated with the Hostess board in the following area:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Serial\Parameters
This new install program is capable of un-installing ports that it installs,
so this process is only require if the original Comtrol installer
program was used. The original Comtrol installer was called Hostess.exe
(6304.ZIP).
This new install program is called SETUP.EXE, to use it create
a sub-directory for these files on your harddrive and copy it
over and run the SETUP.EXE program.
A test terminal program(called WCOM32.EXE) is included to help you
test out or verify installation of the ports.
===============================================================
TECHNICAL INFORMATION ON HOSTESS BOARDS/WINDOWS NT
The Hostess 550 boards are equipped with 16C550 UART chips that provide
a larger hardware buffer (16 byte FIFO). The Hostess 450 boards contain
the traditional 16C450 UART that has a single byte hardware buffer.
The Hostess boards are equipped with an IRQ "id" and "mask" register,
which allow drivers to process data more efficiently. The "id"
register is a single register which a driver may read to determine
which ports have pending interrupts. This is useful when you have
a number of ports sharing the same interrupt, otherwise the driver
must read the status from each port to determine who needs servicing.
The "mask" register is a register which the driver may write to in order
to enable or disable each ports interrupts. The "id" and "mask" registers
are normally placed at offset 07H from the first ports base address.
The Hostess-16 has an additional IRQ id/mask register for the
high 8 ports at offset 47H.
The configuration information is placed in the Windows NT System
Registry. It is very similiar to the older "SYSTEM.INI" file used
to configure Windows 3.1, except the Registry is a binary file (you
can not edit it with a text editor) and has a hierarchical organization.
Access to Official Website Comtrol
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