UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware UserManual
Version 2.2, August 2022

www.moxa.com/product© 2022 Moxa Inc. All rights reserved.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual
The software described in this manual is furnished under a license agreement and may be used only in accordancewith the terms of that agreement.

Copyright Notice© 2022 Moxa Inc. All rights reserved.

Trademarks
The MOXA logo is a registered trademark of Moxa Inc.
All other trademarks or registered marks in this manual belong to their respective manufacturers.

Disclaimer••••Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment
on the part of Moxa.
Moxa provides this document as is, without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including,but not limited to, its particular purpose. Moxa reserves the right to make improvements and/orchanges to this manual, or to the products and/or the programs described in this manual, at any time.
Information provided in this manual is intended to be accurate and reliable. However, Moxa assumes noresponsibility for its use, or for any infringements on the rights of third parties that may result from itsuse.
This product might include unintentional technical or typographical errors. Changes are periodicallymade to the information herein to correct such errors, and these changes are incorporated into new
editions of the publication.

Technical Support Contact Informationwww.moxa.com/support

Table of Contents
1.

2.

3.

A.

Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 4
Overview........................................................................................................................................ 4
Model Descriptions ........................................................................................................................... 4
Package Checklist ............................................................................................................................ 4
Product Features.............................................................................................................................. 4
Specifications .................................................................................................................................. 5
Hardware Block Diagram ................................................................................................................... 5
Hardware Introduction .................................................................................................................... 6Appearance..................................................................................................................................... 6Dimensions [units: mm (in)] ....................................................................................................... 7
LED Indicators................................................................................................................................. 7
Default Programmable Button Operations ............................................................................................. 8
Diagnosing Device and Subsystem Failures.................................................................................... 8
Reset to Factory Default .................................................................................................................... 9Real-Time Clock............................................................................................................................... 9
Placement Options .......................................................................................................................... 10
DIN-Rail Mounting.................................................................................................................... 10
Wall Mounting (Optional) ........................................................................................................... 11
Hardware Connection Description .................................................................................................. 12
Wiring Requirements ....................................................................................................................... 12
Connecting the Power ............................................................................................................... 13
Grounding the Unit ................................................................................................................... 13
Connecting to the Console Port.......................................................................................................... 14
Connecting to the Network ............................................................................................................... 14
Connecting to a Serial Device............................................................................................................ 14Inserting the SD and SIM Card .......................................................................................................... 15USB Port ....................................................................................................................................... 15
Installing the Cellular Module ............................................................................................................ 16
Regulatory Approval Statements ................................................................................................... 22

1. Introduction

The UC-8100-ME-T Series computing platform is designed for embedded data acquisition applications. The
computer comes with two RS- 232/422/485 serial ports and dual 10/100 Mbps Ethernet LAN ports, as well
as a Mini PCIe socket to support cellular modules. These versatile communication capabilities let users
efficiently adapt the UC-8100-ME-T to a variety of complex communications solutions.

Overview
The UC-8100-ME-T is built around an Armv7 Cortex-A8 RISC processor that has been optimized for use inenergy monitoring systems but is widely applicable to a variety of industrial solutions. With flexible
interfacing options, this compact embedded computer is a reliable and secure gateway for data acquisitionand data processing at field sites as well as a useful communication platform for many other large-scale
deployments.

Model Descriptions
The UC-8100-ME-T Series includes the following models:•UC-8112-ME-T-LX: RISC-based platform with 1 GHz CPU, 512 MB RAM, Mini PCIe socket for cellularconnectivity, 2 Ethernet ports, 2 serial ports, 8 GB eMMC flash, USB port, SD-card socket, and DebianArm•

UC-8112-ME-T-LX1: RISC-based platform with 1 GHz CPU, 1 GB RAM, Mini PCIe socket for cellularconnectivity, 2 Ethernet ports, 2 serial ports, 8 GB eMMC flash, USB port, SD-card socket, and Debian
ArmPackage Checklist
Before installing the UC-8100-ME-T, verify that the package contains the following items:•UC-8100-ME-T embedded computer•Power jack•

Quick installation guide (printed)•Warranty card

NOTE
Notify your sales representative if any of the above items are missing or damaged.

Product Features•

Armv7 Cortex-A8 1000 MHz processor•Dual auto-sensing 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports•

SD socket for storage expansion and OS installation•Programmable LEDs and a programmable button for easy installation and maintenance•

Mini PCIe socket for cellular module•-40°C to 70°C wide temperature range with LTE enabled

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual4Specifications
NOTE
The latest specifications for Moxa’s products can be found at https://www.moxa.com.

Hardware Block Diagram

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual52. Hardware Introduction

The UC-8100-ME-T embedded computers are compact and rugged making them suitable for industrial
applications. The LED indicators help in monitoring performance and troubleshooting issues. The multiple
ports provided on the computer can be used to connect to a variety of devices. The UC-8100-ME-T comeswith a reliable and stable hardware platform that lets you devote the bulk of your time to application
development. In this chapter, we provide basic information about the embedded computer’s hardware andits various components.

Appearance
Front View

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual

Top View

Bottom View

6Dimensions [units: mm (in)]LED Indicators
Refer to the following table for information about each LED.
LED NameColor

USBGreenSD

Green

Power

SD Card is not detected.

Power is on and the computer is working normally.
Power is off.

Yellow

Green
Yellow
Red
Off

Programmable
Diagnostic LEDs

OffGreenOff
Wireless Signal
Strength

USB device is connected and working normally.
USB device is not connected.
SD Card inserted and working normally.

OffGreen

LAN1/2 (On RJ45connector)

Function
Steady On
Off
Steady On

GreenYellow
Red

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual

Steady On
100 Mbps Ethernet link
Blinking
Data transmission in progress.
Steady On
10 Mbps Ethernet link
Blinking
Data transmission in progress.
Ethernet is not connected.
The number of glowing LEDs indicates the signal strength
3 (Green + Yellow + Red): Excellent
2 (Yellow + Red): Good
1 (Red): Poor
Wireless module is not detected.

These 3 LEDs are programmable. Refer to the “Default
Programmable Button Operations” section for details.

7Default Programmable Button Operations
The function button (FN) located on the top panel is used to diagnose device failure or to perform firmwarerestoration. After pressing the button, release it at the appropriate time to enter the required mode to either
troubleshoot issues in your computer or restore your computer to the default configuration. Refer to thefollowing illustration for detailed instructions:

The LED indicators behave differently when diagnosing a device failure compared to performing a firmware
restoration. See the following table for details:
StatusExecuting diagnostics program
Resetting to default configuration

Red LED
Blinking
Blinking

Yellow LEDOff
BlinkingGreen LEDOnOn

Diagnosing Device and Subsystem Failures
The red LED will start blinking once you press the function button (FN). Keep the button pressed until thegreen LED is lit for the first time and then release the button to enter diagnostic mode to check whichperipherals are available on the UC-8100-ME-T-LX. When the diagnostic program is running, the red LEDwill blink.
StatusDiagnostics program is executing

Red LEDBlinking

Yellow LEDOffGreen LEDOn

The following two tables describe the diagnostics results related to hardware defects and system operation.

Hardware Defects
If you observe any of these hardware issues, contact Moxa Support for further instructions.
StatusUART1 device issue
UART2 device issue
LAN 1 device issue
LAN 2 device issue
Button device issue
TPM device issue
LED device issue

Red LED
OnOn
On
On
On
On
On

Yellow LED
On
On
Off
Off
Blinking
Blinking
OffGreen LED
Off
Blinking
Off
Blinking
Off
Blinking
OffSystem Operation
If you observe any of the following issues, check the item indicated by the LEDs.
StatusCPU usage (over 90%)
RAM usage (over 90%)
Disk usage (over 90%)
File system corrupted

Red LED
Blinking
OffOffBlinking

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User ManualYellow LEDOnOnOnOn

Green LED
OffOffBlinkingBlinking8

Reset to Factory Default
Press and hold the function button (FN) continuously for at least 5 seconds to load the factory default
configuration. After the factory default configuration has been loaded, the system will reboot automatically.
The Power LED will blink on and off for the first 5 seconds and then maintain a steady glow once thesystem has rebooted.
We recommend that you only use this function if the software is not working properly, and you want to loadfactory default settings. The Reset to Default functionality is not designed to hard reboot the UC-8100-MET.

ATTENTION
Reset to Default will erase all the data stored on the boot storage
Please back up your files before resetting the system to the factory default configuration. All the datastored in the UC-8100-ME-T‘s boot storage will be erased when it is reset to the factory default
configuration.

Real-Time Clock
The UC-8100-ME-T’s real-time clock is powered by a lithium battery. We strongly recommend that you donot replace the lithium battery without help from a qualified Moxa support engineer. If you need to change
the battery, contact the Moxa RMA service team.

WARNING
There is a risk of explosion if the battery is replaced with an incorrect battery type.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual

9Placement Options
There are two sliders on the back of the unit for DIN rail and wall mounting.

DIN-Rail Mounting
1.

The DIN-rail mounting kit is mounted by default, as shown in the figure below.

NOTE
Test the screw head and shank size by inserting the screw into one of the keyhole shaped apertures of thewall-mounting plates before attaching the plate to the wall.

2.

Pull down the bottom slider of the DIN-rail bracket located at the back of the unit

3.

Insert the top of the DIN rail into the slot just below the upper hook of the DIN-rail bracket.

4.

Latch the unit firmly on to the DIN rail as shown in the illustrations below.

5.

Push the slider back into place.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual

10Wall Mounting (Optional)
1.

Remove the four screws on the side-panel silver cover of the device

2.

Place the wall-mount brackets on the silver cover and fasten the screws as shown below. Use only thescrews provided in the wall-mounting kit package.

ATTENTION
The wall-mounting kit is not included in the package and must be purchased separately.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual113. Hardware Connection Description

This section describes how to connect the UC-8100-ME-T to a network and connect various devices to theUC-8100-ME-T.

Wiring Requirements
In this section, we describe how to connect various devices to the embedded computer. You must pay
attention to the following common safety precautions, before proceeding with the installation of any
electronic device:•Use separate paths to route wiring for power and devices. If power wiring and device wiring paths mustcross, make sure the wires are perpendicular at the intersection point.

NOTE
Do not run the wires for signal or communication and power wiring in the same wire conduit. To avoid
interference, wires with different signal characteristics should be routed separately.
•You can use the type of signal transmitted through a wire to determine which wires should be kept
separate. The rule of thumb is that wiring that shares similar electrical characteristics can be bundledtogether.

•Keep input wiring and output wiring separate.

•We strongly advise that you label wiring to all devices in the system for easy identification.

ATTENTION
Safety First!
Be sure to disconnect the power cord before installing and/or wiring the computer.
Electrical Current Caution!
Calculate the maximum possible current in each power wire and common wire. Observe all electrical codes
dictating the maximum current allowable for each wire size.
If the current goes above the maximum ratings, the wiring could overheat, causing serious damage toyour equipment.
Temperature Caution!
Be careful when handling the unit. When the unit is plugged in, the internal components generate heat,and consequently the outer casing may be hot to touch by hand.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual12Connecting the Power
Terminal Block
The UC-8100-ME-T has a 3-pin terminal block for a 12 to 36 VDC power input.
The figure shows how the power input interface connects to external power sources. If thepower is properly supplied, the Power LED will light up. The Power LED will glow a solidgreen color when the operating system is ready (it may take 30 to 60 seconds for theoperating system to boot up).

ATTENTION
This product is intended to be supplied by a Listed Power Supply Unit that is rated to deliver 12 to 36 VDC
at a minimum of 500 mA @ 12 VDCC.

Grounding the Unit
Grounding and wire routing help limit the effects of noise due to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Run
the ground connection from the ground screw to the grounding surface prior to connecting devices to thecomputer.

ATTENTION
This product is intended to be mounted to a well-grounded mounting surface, such as a metal panel.

SG: The Shielded Ground (sometimes called Protected Ground) contact is the bottom
contact of the 3-pin power terminal block connector when viewed from the angle
shown here. Connect the SG wire to an appropriate grounded metal surface.

ATTENTION
A shielded power cord is required to meet FCC emission limits and also to prevent interference with nearby
radio and television reception. It is essential that only the supplied power cord be used.
You are cautioned that changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible forcompliance could void your authority to operate the equipment.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual13Connecting to the Console Port
The UC-8100-ME-T is provided with a 4-pin pin-header RS-232 console port, which is a located on the toppanel. This port is designed for connecting serial console terminals, which you can use to view the boot up
messages, and to troubleshoot when the system does not boot up.
Serial Console Port & Pinouts
Pin1
2
3
4

Serial Console Cable

SignalTxD
RadaNCGND

Connecting to the Network
Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to one of the UC-8100-ME-T’s 10/100M Ethernet ports (8-pin RJ45)
and the other end of the cable to the Ethernet network. If the cable is properly connected, the UC-8100-MET will indicate a valid connection to the Ethernet in the following ways:
The LED indicator in the lower right corner glows a solid green
color when the cable is properly connected to a 100 Mbps Ethernet
network. The LED will flash on and off when Ethernet packets arebeing transmitted or received.
The LED indicator in the upper right corner glows a solid orange
color when the cable is properly connected to a 10 Mbps Ethernet
network. The LED will flash on and off when Ethernet packets arebeing transmitted or received.

Pin12
34
5678Signal
ETx+
ETxERx+––ERx––Connecting to a Serial Device
Use certified serial cables to connect the UC-8100-ME-T to serial devices. The serial ports of the UC-8100ME-T use the 5-pin terminal block. The ports can be configured by software for RS-232, RS-422, or 2-wire
RS-485. The pin assignments are shown in the following table:
Terminal Block

RS-232/422/485 Pinouts
Pin12345RS-232
TXD
RXD
RTS
CTS
GND

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual

RS-422TXD+
TXDRXD+RXDGND

RS-485––D+
DGND

14

Inserting the SD and SIM Card
The UC-8100-ME-T comes with an SD-card socket for storage expansion, and a SIM-card socket that can beused to install a SIM card for cellular communication. The SD card/SIM card sockets are located on thelower part of the front panel. To install the cards, remove the screw and the protection cover to access thesockets, and then plug the SD card and the SIM card into the sockets directly. Remember to push in on theSD card or SIM card first if you want to remove them.
The SD card will be mounted at: /mnt/sd

ATTENTIONThe UC-8100-ME-T does not support SD-card hot swap or PnP (Plug and Play) functionality. You must
disconnect the power source to the computer before you insert or remove the SD card.

USB Port
The UC-8100-ME-T is provided with 1 USB 2.0 full speed port (OHCI), type A connector, which supports a
keyboard or mouse, as well as an external flash disk for storing data.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual

15Installing the Cellular Module
The UC-8100-ME-T is provided with a PCIe socket for installing a cellular module. To install the cellularmodule, do the following:
1.

Remove the four screws on the DIN-rail
mounting kit.

2.

Remove the two screws on the rear panel.

3.

Remove the four screws on the silver cover on
the right panel and take off the cover.

4.

Remove the screw on metal cover.

5.

Remove the three screws on the top panel.

6.

Remove the two screws on the bottom panel.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual

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7.

Check the contents of the cellular module package. The package should contain the items shown below:

8.

Remove the metal cover of the computer and locate the cellular module socket.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual

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9.

Remove the screw next to the socket and replace it with the bronze screw (in the package) as shown
below:

10. Attach one thermal pad to the cellular module cover and the other thermal pad to the module pad.

11. Attach the cellular module to the module pad.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual1812. Mount the module cover on the cellular module and use screws on both sides to secure the cover.

13. Insert the module into the socket and secure it using a screw from the package.

14. Connect antenna cables to the cellular module. There are three antenna connectors on the cellularmodule: W1 and W3 are for cellular antennas and W2 is for GPS antenna.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual1915. Insert the antenna connectors through the antenna cable holes on the front panel of the cover as shown
below:

16. Secure the antenna connectors to the cover using a locking washer and nut as shown below:

17. Arrange the antenna cables and use a cable tie to attach the cables to the bronze screw. You may cut
the cable tie if it is too long.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual2018. Plug the antenna onto the connector.

19. Replace the cover of the computer and fasten the screws to secure the cover.

UC-8100-ME-T Series Hardware User Manual21

A. Regulatory Approval Statements

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesiredoperation.
Class A: FCC Warning! This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. Thisequipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used inaccordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case theusers will be required to correct the interference at their own expense.

European Community

WARNING
This is a class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in whichcase the user may be required to take adequate measures.

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