WinSystems WS16C48A Universal I/O Controller ASIC Chip

The WinSystems WS16C48A is a Universal I/O Controller ASIC chip that delivers 48 bidirectional digital I/O lines for embedded and industrial systems. Each line configures independently as input, output, or output with readback, with 12 mA sink current per line. The chip monitors up to 24 lines for rising and falling edge transitions, latching state changes and generating interrupts to the host processor. Software-programmable polarity and per-channel interrupt enable allow rapid event identification through dedicated interrupt registers. A six-bit Write Mask register provides byte-level write protection and read-only port configuration. The WS16C48A integrates into PC/104-compliant modules featuring dual 50-pin I/O connectors for standard rack compatibility.

– Technical Specifications

• Digital I/O: 48 bidirectional lines; configurable as input, output, or output with readback
• Output Current: 12 mA sink per line
• Event Monitoring: Up to 24 lines; detects rising and falling edges; software-selectable polarity
• Interrupts: Up to 24 channels with software enable per line
• Control Registers: Contiguous addressing; six-bit Write Mask for byte-level protection
• Power Supply: +5V DC; typical consumption 12 mA (excluding rack power, no output loads)
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to 85°C (industrial)

– Key Features

• Edge-triggered interrupt generation on 24 monitored lines captures transient events
• Change-of-state latching prevents event loss during interrupt service
• Jumper-selectable base I/O address (16 consecutive addresses on 16-byte boundary)
• Jumper-configurable interrupt routing to PC/104 bus
• Write-protection capability designates ports as read-only

– Typical Applications

• Industrial control and sensor interfacing requiring event-driven I/O
• Embedded systems with distributed digital signal monitoring
• PC/104 stack-based test and measurement platforms

– Compatibility & Integration

• PC/104-compliant form factor: 3.60″ × 3.80″ (90 mm × 96 mm)
• Supports 8-bit and 16-bit PC/104 interfaces
• Two 50-pin connectors mate with industry-standard I/O racks
• User-configurable I/O base address and interrupt line selection via jumpers