Motorola MVME-162-010A

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

Motorola MVME-162-010A

Product Introduction

The Motorola MVME-162-010A is a legacy industrial VMEbus foundational entry-level real-time SBC—one of Motorola’s earliest VME-based computing modules, dating to the mid-1980s and preceding more capable models like Motorola MVME-162-200. Unlike its successor (which adds a faster MC68020 processor, more memory, and basic error feedback), Motorola MVME-162-010A relies on a 10 MHz MC68000 processor and minimal components to handle ultra-basic automation tasks—no floating-point calculations, multi-device communication, or integrated I/O.

As a pioneering offering in Motorola’s VME lineup, Motorola MVME-162-010A played a key role in transitioning industrial systems from discrete logic to programmable control. It served as a “bare-bones computing node” for mid-1980s applications like simple sensor monitoring and single-actuator control, requiring external Industry Pack modules (e.g., Motorola IP-010) for any I/O functionality. For example, in a mid-1980s manufacturing shop, Motorola MVME-162-010A monitored a single “machine running” sensor (via an 8-bit Industry Pack module) and logged runtime to its battery-backed SRAM—its compact 3U size fitting in early small-format VME chassis. Today, it is critical for vintage industrial preservation (e.g., museum exhibits of 1980s automation) where no modern SBC can replicate its compatibility with mid-1980s Industry Pack modules and legacy firmware.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

Foundational Compatibility for Mid-1980s Systems: Motorola MVME-162-010A’s MC68000 processor and limited VMEbus slave functionality make it the only viable replacement for mid-1980s automation systems built around early VME infrastructure—unlike newer SBCs like Motorola MVME-162-200, which use the MC68020 and cannot run 68000-specific firmware. A museum restoring a 1985 robotic assembly arm uses Motorola MVME-162-010A to replicate the arm’s original control logic: the SBC’s 10 MHz MC68000 matches the arm’s firmware requirements, while its 8-bit Industry Pack slot connects to the robot’s original sensor array. Without Motorola MVME-162-010A, the museum would need to fully rewrite the robot’s software—costing $15,000+ and losing historical accuracy.

Ultra-Low Power for Early Battery-Powered Setups: With 6 W typical power consumption (33% lower than Motorola MVME-162-200), Motorola MVME-162-010A was optimized for mid-1980s battery-backed equipment with limited power capacity. A mid-1980s portable data logger used Motorola MVME-162-010A to record temperature data from a single sensor: its low power draw allowed the logger to run on a 12V lead-acid battery for 12+ hours in the field—something impossible with later, more power-hungry SBCs. Its minimal power needs also eliminated the need for heat sinks, keeping the logger’s weight under 2 kg for easy transport.

Simplified Design for Long-Term Durability: Motorola MVME-162-010A’s lack of complex components (no cache, MMU, or error monitoring) reduces failure points, making it highly durable for long-term operation. A mid-1980s water treatment plant’s backup pump controller used Motorola MVME-162-010A for 15+ years: the SBC reliably executed “start pump if pressure < 20 PSI” logic, with no unplanned downtime due to component failure. Its simplified design also made it easy for technicians to service—critical in the mid-1980s, when access to specialized repair tools was limited.

Typical Application Scenarios

In a mid-1980s laboratory’s material stress test rig, Motorola MVME-162-010A served as the core controller. It paired with Motorola IP-010 (8-bit digital I/O) to monitor a single “test complete” sensor and activate a mechanical stop mechanism. The SBC’s 1 MB DRAM stored 1 week of test timestamps, while its EIA-232 port sent weekly summaries to a vintage desktop computer. Its 10°C–50°C operating range withstood the lab’s controlled 22°C–25°C environment, and its 3U size fit alongside other test instruments in a 2-slot VME chassis. Motorola MVME-162-010A’s reliability ensured consistent test results for 10+ years, making it a staple in the lab’s quality control process.

For a mid-1980s retail store’s inventory tracking system, Motorola MVME-162-010A managed a single barcode scanner (via an 8-bit serial Industry Pack module) and logged scanned item counts to its 64 KB SRAM. The SBC’s low power consumption (6 W) let it run on a small UPS, ensuring data was preserved during power outages. Its compact design fit in a under-counter control box, and its simplified logic (no complex data processing) meant minimal maintenance. Motorola MVME-162-010A remained in service until 1998, when the store upgraded to a networked system—highlighting its longevity for ultra-basic, critical tasks.

Motorola MVME-162-010A

Related Model Recommendations

Motorola MVME-162-200: Successor model – Upgrade for Motorola MVME-162-010A users needing faster processing (16 MHz MC68020), more memory (2 MB vs. 1 MB), and basic error feedback (e.g., modernizing legacy systems for better reliability).

Motorola IP-010: 8-bit digital I/O Industry Pack – Essential pairing for Motorola MVME-162-010A; adds 8 discrete input/output channels for connecting sensors/actuators (the only Industry Pack module fully compatible with its 8-bit slot).

Motorola MVME-340A: Legacy serial module – Complements Motorola MVME-162-010A by adding a second EIA-232 port (via VMEbus) for connecting extra low-speed devices like vintage printers (critical for systems needing basic data output).

Motorola MVME-177-000: Entry-level analog input module – Expands Motorola MVME-162-010A’s capabilities with 2-channel analog input (0–5V) for simple temperature/pressure monitoring in mid-1980s systems.

Emerson MVME-162-010A-R: Refurbished variant – Tested to original 8-bit/10 MHz specs; Critical replacement for failing Motorola MVME-162-010A units in vintage preservation or legacy industrial systems.

Motorola 30GD-0-U4300077: Early industrial DC PSU – Powers Motorola MVME-162-010A and its Industry Pack module, providing stable +5V DC (±5%) matching the SBC’s ultra-low power requirements.

Motorola VME-001: 1-slot VME chassis – Compact chassis designed for Motorola MVME-162-010A; ideal for standalone applications like mid-1980s portable test equipment.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing Motorola MVME-162-010A, verify the VME chassis supports 3U single-high modules and A16/D16 slave-only addressing (critical—early VME chassis may have limited address compatibility). Confirm the power supply (e.g., Motorola 30GD-0-U4300077) provides +5V DC (±5%) – use a precision multimeter to avoid voltage ripple (>100mV, which will corrupt the 1 MB DRAM). Gather tools: anti-static wristband (protects the MC68000, sensitive to mid-1980s-era ESD), torque screwdriver (0.3 N·m for 3U mounting), and 8-bit Industry Pack alignment tool (to avoid damaging the single expansion port). Ensure all peripherals are 8-bit (e.g., Motorola IP-010); 16-bit modules will not function and may damage the SBC.

Maintenance suggestions: For daily upkeep, check Motorola MVME-162-010A’s single power LED – a steady light indicates the SBC is powered (no CPU or memory feedback available). Test DRAM annually via the host OS (look for corrupted data in SRAM logs); replace DRAM if errors occur (use only mid-1980s-era 1 MB DRAM chips, as modern equivalents lack compatibility). Clean the module’s vents annually with compressed air (8 PSI max) – avoid higher pressure to prevent dislodging fragile mid-1980s components. Replace the SRAM battery every 3 years (3V lithium, vintage pinout) during scheduled downtime. Store spare Motorola MVME-162-010A units in sealed anti-static containers (15°C–25°C, 40%–60% humidity) with desiccants to preserve the MC68000 and EPROM.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

Motorola MVME-162-010A is backed by a 12-month warranty from Emerson for refurbished units, covering defects in the MC68000 processor, DRAM, 8-bit Industry Pack port, and serial interface. If Motorola MVME-162-010A fails (e.g., in a museum’s mid-1980s robotic exhibit), Emerson provides free 10-day replacement – critical for users where no modern SBC can replicate its unique vintage compatibility.

For extended support, customers can purchase a 24-month service contract, including specialized technical support for mid-1980s-era VME systems (via phone/email), access to archived factory bootstrap firmware, and remote troubleshooting for 8-bit Industry Pack integration. Emerson maintains a limited global stock of MC68000 chips and 1 MB vintage DRAM modules for Motorola MVME-162-010A until 2035, ensuring this foundational SBC remains operational for vintage preservation and legacy industrial needs. This commitment underscores Emerson’s dedication to supporting even the earliest generations of programmable industrial automation.