Path Way® Model 4441 4-Channel DB9 RS232 Serial Port Sharer with Automatic Channel Sequencing
Overview
The PathWay® Model 4441 is a four channel, port sharing device. It allows a single destination port, the Common port, to automatically connect through to any of four source channels, A, B, C, or D based on data activity. Each of these respective four DB9 RS232 serial interface source channels contend for connection. Channels A, B, C, or D are sequentially scanned or monitored for data activity. Once data is detected on a single channel, the remaining three channels are locked out until the data traffic stops and is absent for a preset timeout period. At that point, the Model 4441 4-channel data sharer resumes monitoring of all four channels for data activity. There are status LED's that indicate the unit is scanning, or whether the unit has established a dedicated connection to a single channel.
Automatically connect four RS232 devices to one host port based on data activity. The PathWay® Model 4441 4-Channel DB9 RS232 Port Sharer intelligently monitors four serial channels and automatically connects the active channel to a common host port. With automatic channel sequencing, selectable timeout, LED status indication, and front-panel channel control, the Model 4441 simplifies sharing a single RS232 interface among multiple asynchronous devices.
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Automatic "Channel Sequencing" allows 4 data channels to access one port!
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Automatic Port Contention expands accessibility of four channels to host computer.
FEATURES OF THE MODEL 4441 RS232 SERIAL PORT SWITCH:
- A "CONTENTION-TYPE" port sharer.
- Allows four asynchronous data channels, A/B/C/D, to contend for access to one Common port.
- Front panel LED's display channel scanning status and power status.
- Signals supported: TD, RD, and SG.
- Selectable timeout period.
- Front panel control allows disabling of any erroneous streaming data channel.
- For a "BROADCAST-TYPE", see Model 8982, Cat.No.302077.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
- PORT AND CHANNEL CONNECTORS: (5) DB9 Female connectors labeled A, B, C, D and Common.
- FRONT PANEL CONTROL: (1) Manual pushbutton allows local channel selection control.
- DISPLAY: (5) Front panel LED's display sharer scanning and power status.
- POWER: UL Approved 120VAC, 60Hz wall mount power module supplies 12 VDC to the unit.
- DIMENSIONS: Desktop, 8.0" W x 8.0" D x 2.5" H. (20.3 x 20.3 x 6.4 cm)
- WEIGHT: Approximately 3.5 lbs (1.6 kg)
MODEL 4441 4-CHANNEL PORT SHARER OPERATION:
- The devices connected to channels A, B, C and D of the Model 4441 sharing unit contend for connection to the Common port device. Once activity is initiated on a source port A, B, C, or D, that channel is serviced. Connection is maintained while data activity is detected between pin 3, TD, of the DB9 source channel and pin 2, RD, of the DB9 destination / Common port. The signals supported by the Model 4441 are TD, RD, and SG.
- While connected and data activity is present, the scanning is suspended. The channel is released, and scanning is resumed only after data activity has been absent for a programmed timeout period, or if the channel is disabled via the front panel pushbutton switch.
- The timeout period is selectable via a dipswitch located on the top circuit board inside the unit. The program switch is accessible by removing the four screws that fasten the top cover to unit. The Model 4441 is factory set for a one-minute timeout period. To change the period, please refer to the Operation Manual.
- If a connected device is streaming erroneous data, the user can use the front panel pushbutton switch to disable the channel and remove it from the scanning/monitoring function. Disabling the channel will allow the unit to continue to function as a port sharer among the remaining channels and connected devices.
PathWay® Model 4441 4-CHANNEL DB9 RS232 SERIAL DATA PORT SHARER APPLICATION:
- "Automatic "Channel Sequencing"
- "Automatic Port Contention"
The diagram illustrates four asynchronous data channels A, B, C, and D to contend for access to one Host Computer connected to the DB9 COMMON port. Channels A, B, C, and D are sequentially scanned and monitored based on data activity. (Automatic Channel Sequencing Circuitry)

Ordering Information
- Catalog Number: 304441
- Model Number: 4441
- Base Price: See website or contact us for current pricing and availability.
- Optional Wide-Range power supply: Catalog Number 517277 IEC C14 Inlet, 100-240VAC, 12 VDC
Documentation & Support
- Specification Sheet (PDF) Download Available.
- Product Manual available upon request.
- For custom fiber optic network switch requirements contact our sales support team 401-943-1164 or email eslab@electrostandards.com
- We welcome international inquiries and ship worldwide.
Shipping and Returns 
- Shipped via UPS ground (unless otherwise requested).
- Freight Charges prepaid and added to invoice. We can estimate freight charges for you.
- Return policy: contact us within 30 days of shipment for an RMA number. Items returned without RMA not accepted. Please refer to our full return policy in our Terms and Conditions found on our website.
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