The Digilent expansion module is a high-speed communication module powered by the Analog devices ADM582Echip. This provides RS-485 differential signalling between devices in environments with high electrical noise. By communicating with the device via UART, users can take advantage of the RS485 communication protocol with speeds up to 16Mbps. The interface is not intended for high-frequency operation. However, by using RJ45 connectors and twisted-pair Ethernet cable, signals can be sent reliably at 24MHz and distances of up to 4m. This Pmod interface is used to connect low frequency, low I/O pin count peripheral modules to host controller boards. Pmod connections are made using standard 100mil spaced, 25mil square, and pin-header style connectors.

The high-speed RS-485 communication module
Isolated RS-485/RS-422 interfaces for use in noisy environments
16Mbps maximum data rate
Connect up to 256 nodes on one bus
Differential half or full-duplex communication
Thermal shutdown and ±15kV ESD protection
6-pin Pmod connector with UART interface
Library and example code available in the resource centre

ANSI/ESD S20.20:2014
BS EN 61340-5-1:2007