NOLAND ENGINEERING  "XP15" NMEA 0183 Expander

The XP15 Expander is an advanced version of its predecessors (XP14 and XP32) with an additional output, a bicolor status LED and more short circuit protection on the outputs. It enables NMEA 0183 talkers to drive multiple listeners where necessary. It provides a single opto-isolated input and four independent differential (RS-422) outputs plus a fifth RS-232 output for driving single-ended listeners, such as PC’s. Although intended for 4800 baud operation, it will also operate at 9600 baud.

Many marine instruments, although compliant with the NMEA 0183 specification, do not provide sufficient drive capability for multiple listeners. To overcome this, the XP15 has five outputs, each of which can drive multiple listeners if needed. All outputs are isolated from each other, so that shorting one will not affect the others. If too many listeners are connected or if any of the outputs are shorted, the LED will turn “red” indicating an “overload” has occurred.

The XP15 can operate on any DC voltage from 9-30 Vdc. A bicolor LED on the unit flashes green when input data is detected, but will turn red if a supply current overload occurs. A pair of test terminals (test+/test-) can also be used to determine supply current by connecting them to an external voltmeter.

When connecting NMEA listeners to the XP15 outputs, observe the following:

Only connect the RS-422 outputs to RS-422 or opto-isolated listeners. If any output (OUT-) is connected to a single-ended (grounded) listener, the red LED will turn on indicating an output overload. In such cases, listeners with their (-) input grounded such as PC’s, should connect the RS-232 output, TXD to the listener’s “Data In.” (See accompanying figure.)

Noland XP15 NMEA Expander Specifications

• Supply Voltage 9-30 Vdc

• Supply Current 500ma. max.

• Input Isolation 5000 V. min.

• Input Impendence 1K ohms min.

• Output voltage (RS-422) 4.0V typ. into 500 ohms

• Data Rate 9600 baud max

• Overload Indicator >50ma

• Size 3.75" x 2.75" x 1"

• Weight 4 oz.

• Warranty 2 year replacement from Manufacturer.