MOTOROLA MVME-050

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

MOTOROLA MVME-050

Product Introduction

The Motorola MVME-050 is a legacy foundational digital I/O module from Motorola’s iconic MVME series, engineered to deliver reliable discrete signal interfacing for entry-level VMEbus-based industrial systems. As a 3U VME device, it serves as a “building block” for small-scale automation—providing basic I/O functionality without the complexity of higher-end modules like the Motorola MVME162-01 or Motorola MVME-147SA1, making it ideal for simple on/off control tasks.

In automation architectures, the Motorola MVME-050 acts as a “discrete signal bridge”: its 8 digital inputs monitor low-power sensors (e.g., limit switches, photoelectric sensors), while 8 outputs control small actuators (e.g., indicator lights, mini relays). For example, in a small assembly line’s part-feeding system, the Motorola MVME-050 can detect part presence (inputs) and trigger feeder activation (outputs) when paired with a controller like the Motorola MVME-110-1. Today, the Motorola MVME-050 remains a cost-effective solution for maintaining legacy systems in sectors like small manufacturing, laboratory automation, and municipal auxiliary equipment—where replacing basic I/O infrastructure would incur unnecessary costs.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

Simplified Design for Easy Integration: The Motorola MVME-050’s hardware jumper configuration for I/O direction (input/output) eliminates software setup complexity, making it ideal for users with limited programming experience. For a local hardware store’s inventory shelf monitoring system, technicians can use jumpers to set 4 channels as inputs (to detect shelf empty sensors) and 4 as outputs (to activate “restock” LEDs)—no specialized software required. This simplicity cuts setup time by 50% compared to software-configurable modules.

Low Power Consumption for Compact Systems: The Motorola MVME-050 operates on a single +5 VDC supply and draws just 0.5 A typically—20% less power than the Motorola MVME162-01. This makes it suitable for space-constrained enclosures, such as portable test benches or small control panels. In a mobile food cart’s temperature alert system, the module’s low power draw pairs with a battery-backed controller (e.g., Motorola MVME-110-1) to monitor refrigeration sensors (inputs) and trigger alarm buzzers (outputs) without requiring external power sources.

Cost-Effective Entry-Level I/O: The Motorola MVME-050’s focused feature set (16 channels, basic TTL compatibility) reduces hardware costs by 30–40% compared to multi-function modules. For a small bakery’s oven door safety system, the module uses 2 inputs to monitor door latches and 2 outputs to disable oven heating if latches are open—avoiding overpaying for unused features like analog I/O or serial communication. This affordability makes it a go-to choice for small businesses with tight automation budgets.

Typical Application Scenarios

The Motorola MVME-050 excels in simple discrete control tasks. In a regional electronics repair shop’s tool calibration station, paired with a Motorola MVME-110-1 controller, the Motorola MVME-050 manages tool positioning: 6 inputs monitor calibration sensor triggers (e.g., “tool aligned” signals), and 6 outputs control tool stage motors (low-power, 12 VDC). The module’s open-collector outputs work with external pull-ups to match the motors’ voltage requirements, eliminating the need for signal converters.

In a university biology lab’s sample incubator system, the Motorola MVME-050 acts as a safety interface: 4 inputs monitor incubator door closure and temperature limit switches, and 4 outputs activate door locks and “overtemp” alarms. When paired with a Motorola MVME-121 controller, the module ensures the incubator only operates when doors are sealed—preventing temperature fluctuations that could ruin experiments. For the lab, the Motorola MVME-050 avoids the $5k cost of upgrading to a modern I/O module, as it reliably handles daily safety monitoring.

MOTOROLA MVME-050

Related Model Recommendations

Motorola MVME-110-1: Entry-Level Controller. Paired with Motorola MVME-050; provides processing power for simple I/O control (e.g., small assembly lines).

Motorola MVME162-01: High-Density I/O Module. Upgrade for Motorola MVME-050 when more channels (32 vs. 16) are needed (e.g., mid-scale manufacturing).

Motorola MVME-121: Mid-Entry Controller. Complements Motorola MVME-050; adds serial communication for connecting to HMIs (e.g., lab equipment monitoring).

Emerson RSTi-EP DIO8: Modern Replacement. Replaces Motorola MVME-050 in Ethernet migrations; offers 8 I/O channels with Gigabit Ethernet for remote monitoring.

Motorola FLN4234A: Ethernet Gateway. Bridges Motorola MVME-050 (via a VME controller) to cloud platforms; transmits I/O data for small-factory oversight.

Phoenix Contact 1kΩ Pull-Up Resistors: Accessory for Motorola MVME-050; enables open-collector outputs to control 12–24 VDC actuators (e.g., small relays).

Motorola MVME-051: Twin Model of Motorola MVME-050; identical I/O specs with minor firmware tweaks—ideal for redundant systems (e.g., safety-critical lab setups).

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing Motorola MVME-050, power off the VME chassis and verify compatibility with +5 VDC (0.8 A max; no ±12 VDC needed) to prevent electrical shock. Use an anti-static wristband and mat to protect the module’s I/O circuits from ESD damage. Gather tools: Phillips-head screwdriver (chassis mounting), 22–18 AWG wires (I/O connections), torque wrench (0.5–0.8 N·m for terminals), and a multimeter (to test TTL signal levels). Use hardware jumpers to pre-configure I/O directions (input/output) before installation—refer to the module’s datasheet for jumper pinout guidance. Avoid installing near high-EMI sources (e.g., small motors, power adapters) to prevent signal corruption.

Maintenance suggestions: For routine care, inspect Motorola MVME-050’s LEDs monthly—green “active” LEDs confirm I/O connectivity, while dim LEDs indicate loose wiring or faulty sensors. Clean the module quarterly with compressed air (low pressure) to remove dust from the VME connector and jumper pins. Every 12 months, verify jumper positions to ensure they match system requirements (e.g., no accidental reconfiguration during maintenance). If an I/O channel fails, swap the channel’s jumper to a spare position (e.g., reassign a faulty input to an unused output channel via jumpers) to minimize downtime; replace the module if multiple channels malfunction.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

We back Motorola MVME-050 with a 90-day warranty for all refurbished units, covering defects in digital I/O functionality, LED indicators, and jumper configuration. Each refurbished Motorola MVME-050 undergoes rigorous testing: 24-hour I/O cycling (10,000 toggles per channel), signal integrity verification (TTL voltage levels), and temperature cycling (0°C–60°C)—ensuring compliance with original Motorola industrial standards.

Our 24/7 technical support team provides guidance on Motorola MVME-050 installation, jumper configuration, and integration with legacy VME controllers (e.g., Motorola MVME-110-1). We offer customized maintenance plans: semi-annual remote I/O health checks (via paired controllers) and on-site jumper verification. Our spare parts inventory includes critical components (I/O drivers, jumpers, EEPROMs) for fast repairs, minimizing downtime for small-scale systems. For users modernizing to Ethernet, we provide free consultation to pair Motorola MVME-050 with Emerson’s RSTi-EP DIO modules, ensuring a seamless transition while retaining legacy sensors/actuators.