The National Semiconductor (now Texas Instruments) PC165500VEF, often referred to as the PC16550, is a single-channel Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) with a 16-byte FIFO. It is a widely used device for serial communication, converting parallel data from a computer or microcontroller into a serial stream suitable for transmission over a communication channel, and vice versa.

Applications

• Serial communication ports in PCs and embedded systems
• Modems
• Serial printers
• Data acquisition systems
• Industrial control systems

Features

• Single-channel UART
• 16-byte FIFO for transmit and receive
• Programmable baud rate generator
• Supports 5, 6, 7, or 8 data bits, and 1, 1.5, or 2 stop bits
• Parity generation and checking (even, odd, none)
• Modem control signals (CTS, RTS, DSR, DTR, RI, DCD)
• Interrupt generation

Benefits

• Efficient serial communication: The 16-byte FIFO buffers allow for smoother data transfer, reducing CPU overhead by minimizing the number of interrupts required.
• Flexible baud rate selection: The programmable baud rate generator supports a wide range of communication speeds, adapting to various application requirements.
• Versatile data format support: Accommodates different data formats, ensuring compatibility with various serial communication protocols.
• Modem control: Enables full modem control capabilities, facilitating communication over telephone lines.
• Interrupt-driven operation: Allows for efficient interrupt handling, minimizing CPU intervention and maximizing system performance.

Additional Details

The PC165500VEF supports a wide range of baud rates, data formats, and parity options, making it a versatile solution for various serial communication needs. The FIFO buffers significantly improve data throughput by allowing the UART to handle multiple characters without interrupting the CPU. The modem control signals enable the UART to manage communication flow and detect connection status. Refer to the Texas Instruments datasheet for detailed specifications, including pinout diagrams, electrical characteristics, and programming guidelines. The PC165500VEF is often used with a crystal oscillator to generate the clock signal required for the baud rate generator.