Description
VMIVME-5530S: Product Overview
The GE VMIVME-5530S is a fiber optic slave repeater link module designed for VMEbus-based industrial automation systems. As a critical component of the VME ecosystem, it works in tandem with the VMIVME-5530M (master repeater) to extend VMEbus communication distance beyond the limitations of traditional copper cabling. By using fiber optic cables, the VMIVME-5530S enables reliable data transmission over long distances (up to several kilometers) while providing electrical isolation to eliminate ground loops and reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI)—essential for maintaining signal integrity in harsh industrial environments.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as the “slave node” in a VMEbus fiber optic repeater link, the VMIVME-5530S performs two primary functions:
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Signal Reception & Regeneration: Receives VMEbus signals from the master repeater (VMIVME-5530M) via fiber optic cables, regenerates the signals to compensate for attenuation, and transmits them to the local VMEbus system.
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Electrical Isolation: Provides complete electrical isolation between the remote VMEbus system (connected to the master repeater) and the local VMEbus system (connected to the slave repeater), preventing ground loops and reducing EMI in industrial environments.
Core Functionality:
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Paired Operation: The VMIVME-5530S must be used with the VMIVME-5530M (master repeater) to form a complete fiber optic repeater link. The master repeater initiates communication, while the slave repeater (VMIVME-5530S) responds to complete the link.
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Fiber Optic Link: Uses multimode fiber optic cable to transmit VMEbus signals over long distances (up to several kilometers), ensuring reliable communication in large industrial facilities (e.g., power plants, manufacturing plants).
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Plug-and-Play Operation: Requires no additional configuration; the link is automatically established when both repeaters are powered on and connected via fiber optic cables.
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Status Indication: Equipped with LED indicators to display link status (e.g., “Link Active” or “Link Down”), simplifying troubleshooting and maintenance.
GE VMIVME-5530S
Platform Benefits (VMEbus Series):
The VMIVME-5530S leverages GE’s VMEbus platform, which is renowned for:
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Reliability: Industrial-grade components and a rugged design ensure 24/7 operation in harsh environments (e.g., high temperature, vibration).
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Scalability: Supports expansion with additional repeater links to accommodate growing system demands (e.g., adding more VME chassis to a network).
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Integration: Seamlessly integrates with VMEbus-based controllers and other I/O modules, reducing setup time and effort.
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: VMIVME-5530S (Variant: VMIVME-5530S-000)
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Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
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Product Type: VMEbus Series Fiber Optic Slave Repeater Link Module
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Series: VMEbus
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Bus Standard: VMEbus Rev. C.1 (supports 8/16/32-bit data transfer)
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Repeater Type: Fiber optic slave repeater (master/slave pair with VMIVME-5530M)
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Transmission Medium: Multimode fiber optic cable (62.5/125 µm core)
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Data Transfer Rate: Up to 1 MB/s (typical)
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Isolation Voltage: 1500 V AC (channel-to-channel)
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Operating Temperature: 0°C to +55°C (32°F to 131°F)
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Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F)
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Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
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Dimensions: 160 mm × 100 mm × 20 mm (6.3 in × 3.9 in × 0.8 in) (standard VMEbus single-slot)
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Weight: 0.2 kg (0.44 lbs)
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Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
GE VMIVME-5530S
Core Features & Customer Value
1. Long-Distance Communication:
The VMIVME-5530S, when paired with the VMIVME-5530M, enables VMEbus systems to communicate over long distances (up to several kilometers) via fiber optic cables. This eliminates the need for expensive copper cabling and repeaters, making it ideal for large industrial facilities like power plants, where turbines and control rooms are often located far apart.
2. Electrical Isolation:
Complete electrical isolation between linked VME systems prevents ground loops and reduces EMI, ensuring reliable communication in industrial environments with high electromagnetic noise (e.g., near motors, generators, or power lines). This is critical for maintaining signal integrity and preventing data corruption.
3. Plug-and-Play Operation:
No additional configuration is required; the link is automatically established when both repeaters are powered on and connected via fiber optic cables. This reduces setup time and effort, allowing engineers to focus on system integration rather than troubleshooting.
4. Scalability:
Supports expansion with additional repeater links to accommodate growing system demands. For example, a power plant can add more VME chassis to its network by installing additional VMIVME-5530M/5530S pairs, without replacing existing hardware.
Typical Applications
The GE VMIVME-5530S is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Links VMEbus systems between turbines and control rooms in gas/steam power plants, enabling real-time monitoring and control of turbine operations.
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Manufacturing:
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Connects distant assembly lines and equipment in manufacturing plants, allowing centralized control and monitoring of production processes.
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Petrochemical Industry:
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Extends VMEbus communication distance in refineries and chemical plants, enabling reliable control of valves, pumps, and other equipment in hazardous environments.
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