Motorola MVME162-213 – Compact VME Single-Board Computer

• Interfaces:
  • Serial Ports: Two asynchronous RS-232/422/485 ports with configurable baud rates (up to 115.2 kbps) .
  • SCSI: Optional Ultra-Wide SCSI interface supporting 80 MB/s transfer rates for storage devices .
  • Ethernet: Optional 10BASE-T Ethernet transceiver with DMA for network connectivity .
  • Industry Pack (IP) Slots: Two 32-bit IP slots for custom I/O modules (e.g., analog/digital I/O, CAN bus) .
• VMEbus Interface: Full compliance with VMEbus D64 specification, supporting 32/64-bit data transfers and multi-master arbitration .
• Power: 5 VDC (1.8 A max) and 3.3 VDC (0.5 A max) via VMEbus backplane .
• Physical:
  • Form Factor: Single-height 6U VMEbus board (6.6″ x 4.8″) .
  • Temperature: Operational range of 0°C to 55°C (32°F to 131°F) with forced-air cooling .

Functional Features

1. Deterministic Real-Time Performance
   • MC68LC040 architecture minimizes latency variations, critical for industrial control applications .
   • Hardware timers (six 32-bit timers) enable precise event scheduling and watchdog functionality .
2. Flexible I/O Expansion
   • Industry Pack slots allow integration of custom peripherals (e.g., motion control, vision systems) without altering the base board .
   • Serial ports support RS-485 multi-drop networks for distributed sensor/actuator systems .
3. Rugged Industrial Design
   • EMI/EMC shielding and shock/vibration resistance for operation in harsh factory environments .
   • Battery-backed SRAM ensures data retention during power outages .
4. VMEbus Integration
   • VMEbus D64 compliance supports high-speed data exchange with other VME modules (e.g., I/O, storage) .
   • DMA controller accelerates data transfers between VMEbus and local memory .
5. Software Compatibility
   • Drivers for real-time operating systems (RTOS) like VxWorks, QNX, and embedded Linux .
   • Built-in diagnostic firmware for hardware self-test and error reporting .

Application Scenarios

1. Industrial Automation
   • Machine Control: Coordinates robotic arms, conveyors, and CNC machines in automotive assembly lines via RS-485 and SCSI interfaces .
   • SCADA Systems: Collects sensor data from distributed field devices (e.g., temperature, pressure) for centralized monitoring .
2. Transportation & Logistics
   • Railway Systems: Manages signaling and diagnostics in locomotive control systems using VMEbus and serial communication .
   • Warehouse Automation: Controls AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) and sorting systems via Ethernet and Industry Pack modules .
3. Medical Equipment
   • Diagnostic Tools: Supports legacy medical devices (e.g., MRI scanners) through RS-232 and SCSI interfaces .
   • Lab Automation: Orchestrates analytical instruments in clinical laboratories with deterministic timing .
4. Defense & Aerospace
   • Avionics: Integrates with flight control systems for real-time data processing in military aircraft .
   • Tactical Communication: Enables secure data transmission in field deployments via Ethernet and RS-485 .

System Integration

• Hardware Setup:
  • VMEbus Backplane: Connects to I/O modules (e.g., Motorola MVME327A SCSI controller) and power supplies .
  • Industry Pack Modules: Custom IP cards (e.g., MVME712M transition board) extend functionality without additional slots .
• Software Configuration:
  • RTOS Integration: Configures interrupt priorities and memory partitions using tools like Wind River Workbench .
  • Firmware Updates: Flash memory allows remote firmware upgrades via Ethernet .

Key Advantages

• Legacy Compatibility: Bridges older VMEbus systems with modern industrial protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP) .
• Space Efficiency: Single-board design consolidates processing, I/O, and communication in a compact form factor .
• Longevity: Mature architecture with sustained third-party support for refurbished units and maintenance .

Limitations & Considerations

• Obsolete Status: No longer manufactured; availability relies on surplus markets or refurbished units .
• Performance Constraints: MC68LC040’s 25 MHz clock speed may be insufficient for high-bandwidth applications (e.g., video processing) .
• Cooling Requirements: Forced-air cooling is mandatory in enclosed industrial environments .