Motorola MVME-340B

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

Motorola MVME-340B

Product Introduction

The Motorola MVME-340B is a legacy industrial VMEbus entry-level asynchronous serial communication module designed for cost-sensitive, low-speed serial tasks—serving as the foundational model for faster modules like Motorola MVME341A. Unlike its successor (which adds synchronous speed and DMA), Motorola MVME-340B focuses on core asynchronous connectivity: 2 RS-232C/RS-422 ports, 9600 bps max speed, and basic data handling to support small-scale industrial systems.

As a key component in Motorola’s early VME communication lineup, Motorola MVME-340B acts as a “budget-friendly serial link” for host SBCs like Motorola MVME-147-011 or Motorola MVME-166-11A. Its ability to connect low-speed devices (e.g., legacy HMIs, simple printers, basic sensors) makes it ideal for entry-level automation setups—for example, a small packaging plant using Motorola MVME-340B to log production counts to a serial printer and monitor 1 “machine ready” sensor. Its compact 3U form factor and low power consumption also suit space-constrained environments like laboratory test equipment or standalone manufacturing cells—where replacing it would require costly rewiring of legacy serial devices.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

Cost-Effective Entry-Level Serial Connectivity: Motorola MVME-340B delivers reliable asynchronous communication at a lower cost than Motorola MVME341A, making it suitable for budget-constrained users. A small water treatment plant uses Motorola MVME-340B to connect a single RS-232C pH sensor (9600 bps) to Motorola MVME-147-011—avoiding the $800+ premium for Motorola MVME341A’s unused synchronous features. The module’s simplified design also reduces maintenance complexity, as technicians only need to configure basic parameters (baud rate, parity) instead of advanced protocols.

Dual RS-232C/RS-422 Support for Legacy Devices: Motorola MVME-340B’s 2 ports are configurable via jumpers for RS-232C (short-distance) or RS-422 (long-distance) — covering the needs of most entry-level industrial systems. A rural utility uses Motorola MVME-340B to connect an RS-232C local HMI (10 m) and an RS-422 remote water level sensor (800 m) to Motorola MVME-610—eliminating the need for external converters and reducing failure points. Unlike generic serial modules, Motorola MVME-340B’s industrial-grade components withstand electrical interference in utility cabinets, ensuring stable communication.

Low Power + Compact Design for Space-Constrained Setups: With 2 W typical power consumption and a slim 18mm profile, Motorola MVME-340B fits in small VME chassis (e.g., 3-slot units) used in laboratory test rigs. A university research lab uses Motorola MVME-340B to connect 2 RS-232C data loggers to Motorola MVME-166-11A—its low power draw allowing the rig to run on battery backup during power outages. The module’s lightweight (280 g) also simplifies integration into portable test equipment, where weight and space are critical.

Typical Application Scenarios

In a small-scale electronics assembly line, Motorola MVME-340B is paired with Motorola MVME-147-011 to control a single pick-and-place machine. It uses 1 RS-232C port to connect a barcode scanner (9600 bps) that verifies component IDs, and 1 RS-422 port to send “start/stop” commands to the machine (500 m away). The module’s software flow control prevents data loss when the scanner sends high-volume ID data, while its 0°C–55°C operating range withstands the plant’s ambient temperature fluctuations. Motorola MVME-340B’s polled mode is sufficient for the line’s 1-second cycle time, avoiding the need for DMA.

For a standalone industrial oven controller, Motorola MVME-340B connects Motorola MVME-166-11A to an RS-232C temperature controller (9600 bps) and an RS-232C thermal printer. The module transmits oven temperature data (every 5 seconds) to the controller for regulation and logs batch temperatures to the printer for compliance. Its simple diagnostic LEDs let technicians quickly identify communication issues (e.g., a blinking “transmit” light indicates data flow), reducing troubleshooting time by 30% vs. modules with no status indicators.

Motorola MVME-340B

Related Model Recommendations

Motorola MVME341A: High-speed successor – Upgrade for Motorola MVME-340B users needing synchronous mode (SDLC/HDLC), 2 Mbps speed, or DMA support (e.g., scaling to multi-device networks).

Motorola MVME334B: 2-port multi-protocol module – Complement for Motorola MVME-340B when adding RS-485 support (multi-drop up to 32 devices) for larger sensor networks.

Motorola MVME-147-011: Entry-level SBC – Ideal host for Motorola MVME-340B; provides processing for basic serial tasks (e.g., sensor data logging) in small systems.

Emerson MVME-340B-R: Refurbished variant – Tested to original serial specs; cost-effective replacement for failing Motorola MVME-340B units in legacy entry-level systems.

Motorola 30GD-2-U4300117: Industrial DC PSU – Powers Motorola MVME-340B and its host SBC, ensuring stable +5V DC for serial transceiver performance.

Motorola MVME-177-003: Analog input module – Adds high-precision sensor data (e.g., pressure) to Motorola MVME-340B’s serial-based control system for mixed-signal tasks.

Motorola MVME945B-001: Ethernet module – Pair with Motorola MVME-340B (via host SBC) to convert serial data to IP, enabling remote monitoring of legacy devices.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing Motorola MVME-340B, verify the VME chassis has a 3U slot and the host SBC supports A16/D16 addressing (polled mode only). Confirm the power supply provides +5V DC (±5%) – use a multimeter to avoid voltage ripple that corrupts serial data. Gather tools: anti-static wristband (protects transceivers), torque screwdriver (0.3 N·m for mounting), jumper tool (for port configuration), and shielded cable (24 AWG for RS-422, 22 AWG for RS-232C). Set jumpers for port mode (RS-232C/RS-422) before installation – refer to the user manual to avoid wiring errors.

Maintenance suggestions: For daily upkeep, check Motorola MVME-340B’s port LEDs – steady power and blinking transmit/receive lights indicate normal operation. Test communication weekly by sending a 1KB test packet to each device; verify parity error counts = 0. Clean the module’s vents monthly with compressed air (15 PSI max) to prevent overheating. If a port fails, check jumper settings (ensure RS-232C/RS-422 matches the device) and cable continuity; replace the module if jumpers and cables are functional. Store spare Motorola MVME-340B units in anti-static bags (15°C–25°C, 40%–60% humidity) to preserve serial components.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

Motorola MVME-340B is backed by a 12-month warranty from Emerson for refurbished units, covering defects in serial transceivers, interrupt controllers, and power circuits. If Motorola MVME-340B fails (e.g., port communication loss in a small assembly line), Emerson provides free 10-day replacement – critical for users where downtime disrupts small-scale production.

For extended support, customers can purchase a 24-month service contract, including weekday technical support (via phone/email), access to archived drivers (e.g., OS-9 v2.x), and remote troubleshooting for serial configuration issues. Emerson maintains a global stock of RS-232C/RS-422 transceivers for Motorola MVME-340B until 2035, ensuring legacy entry-level serial systems remain operational. This commitment helps users avoid costly upgrades to more advanced modules when basic asynchronous communication is sufficient.