Description
VMIVME-5740: Product Overview
The GE VMIVME-5740 is a VMEbus series SCSI hard disk drive module designed for industrial automation systems requiring reliable, high-speed storage. As part of GE’s VMEbus ecosystem, it leverages the VME64 standard to provide seamless integration with VMEbus-based controllers (e.g., GE Fanuc 90-30 series) and backplanes, making it ideal for applications like turbine control, manufacturing execution systems (MES), and power distribution.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as a “storage expansion hub” in VMEbus architectures, the VMIVME-5740 performs two primary functions:
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Data Storage: Provides high-capacity storage for critical industrial data (e.g., turbine performance logs, manufacturing process parameters) via Ultra320 SCSI-connected hard drives.
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Data Retrieval: Enables fast, reliable access to stored data for real-time analysis and reporting, supporting decision-making in industrial processes.
Core Functionality:
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Ultra320 SCSI Interface: Supports synchronous transfer rates up to 320 MB/s, ensuring fast data throughput for bandwidth-intensive applications (e.g., real-time turbine monitoring).
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SCA-2 Drive Support: Accommodates up to two SCA-2 (Single Connector Attachment) hard drives, simplifying installation and reducing cable clutter.
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Onboard Termination: Eliminates the need for external termination resistors, reducing setup time and potential points of failure.
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Configurable SCSI ID: Allows users to set unique SCSI IDs for each drive via onboard switches, ensuring compatibility with existing VMEbus systems.
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VMEbus Compatibility: Conforms to VMEbus Rev. C.1, supporting 8/16/32-bit data transfer and seamless integration with VME64 backplanes.
Platform Benefits (VMEbus Series):
The VMIVME-5740 benefits from 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 storage modules to accommodate growing data needs (e.g., adding more drives for a turbine control system).
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Legacy Integration: Compatible with existing VMEbus systems, reducing the cost and complexity of upgrading industrial control architectures.
VMIVME-5740
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: VMIVME-5740 (Variant: VMIVME-5740-42)
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Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
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Product Type: VMEbus Series SCSI Hard Disk Drive Module
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Form Factor: 6U Eurocard (160 mm × 233 mm)
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Bus Standard: VMEbus Rev. C.1 (supports 8/16/32-bit data transfer)
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Storage Capacity: Up to 147 GB (per SCA-2 drive)
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Interface: Ultra320 SCSI (320 MB/s synchronous transfer rate)
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Connectors: Two 80-pin internal SCSI connectors (for SCA-2 drives)
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Termination: Onboard SCSI bus active termination
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ID Selection: Configurable via onboard switches (0–7)
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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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Weight: 0.2 kg (0.44 lbs)
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Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. High-Speed Data Transfer:
The VMIVME-5740’s Ultra320 SCSI interface ensures fast data throughput, which is critical for real-time industrial applications like turbine control. For example, in a power plant, the module can quickly store and retrieve turbine performance data, enabling operators to make timely adjustments to maintain efficiency.
2. Reliable Storage:
Supports SCA-2 hard drives, which are designed for industrial environments and offer high reliability. The onboard active termination and configurable SCSI ID further enhance reliability by reducing signal degradation and conflicts.
3. Flexible Configuration:
Configurable SCSI ID and support for multiple drives allow users to customize the module to fit their specific needs. This flexibility reduces the need for additional hardware changes, saving time and money during installation.
4. Rugged Industrial Design:
The module’s operating temperature range (0°C to +55°C) and compact form factor make it suitable for harsh industrial environments. Its DIN rail mounting option simplifies installation in crowded control cabinets, reducing setup time and effort.

VMIVME-5740
Typical Applications
The GE VMIVME-5740 is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Stores turbine performance data (e.g., temperature, pressure, blade position) for real-time monitoring and analysis.
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Manufacturing:
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Provides storage for manufacturing process parameters (e.g., assembly line speed, product quality metrics) in MES.
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Petrochemical Industry:
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Stores data from refinery processes (e.g., distillation column temperatures, pump pressures) for compliance and optimization.
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