Motorola MVME-400

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

Motorola MVME-620

Product Introduction

The **Motorola MVME-400** is a foundational 3U VMEbus Single-Board Computer (SBC) powered by the MC68030 processor, tailored for entry-level legacy industrial automation and embedded control applications. As the base model in Motorola’s MVME400 series, it combines reliable 68000-series processing performance with essential I/O and expansion capabilities, serving as a cost-effective core control unit in basic established automation systems.

Equipped with 2 MB DRAM for data processing, 512 KB EPROM for firmware storage, and 32 KB SRAM for cache, the **Motorola MVME-400** ensures stable execution of standard real-time control algorithms. Its single RS-232C port enables serial connectivity with peripheral devices, while the Centronics parallel port supports printer or basic high-speed I/O connections. The single Industry Pack (IP) port allows modular expansion for application-specific needs. With a wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C and compliance with VMEbus standards, the **Motorola MVME-400** seamlessly integrates into harsh industrial environments and legacy VME ecosystems.

Core Advantages & Technical Highlights

Reliable 68000-Series Foundation: The 20 MHz MC68030 processor with MMU delivers steady computational power optimized for entry-level legacy real-time control tasks. Its CISC architecture ensures compatibility with a vast library of 68000-series software, enabling smooth operation of basic control algorithms without the need for costly software overhauls—ideal for maintaining simple legacy automation setups.

Essential Legacy Connectivity: The single RS-232C port and Centronics parallel port provide seamless connectivity with common legacy industrial peripherals such as CRT terminals, printers, and basic serial-based sensors. This eliminates the expense of protocol converters, simplifying integration into established systems with minimal infrastructure changes.

Industrial-Grade Durability: Designed to operate in -40°C to +85°C environments, the **Motorola MVME-400** withstands extreme temperatures, vibration, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) typical of manufacturing plants, light industrial machinery, and remote monitoring stations. Its rugged mechanical design ensures long-term stable operation, minimizing unplanned downtime in critical basic automation systems.

Cost-Effective Expansion: One Industry Pack port allows addition of specialized I/O modules (e.g., analog I/O, digital I/O), providing targeted scalability to adapt to evolving application needs without replacing the core SBC. This modularity balances functionality and cost, extending the product’s lifecycle in budget-conscious industrial environments.

Seamless VMEbus Integration: The VMEchip1 controller supports 32-bit VMEbus data transfers and functions as both master and slave, enabling efficient communication with other VMEbus modules (e.g., I/O cards, memory modules). This ensures backward compatibility with legacy VME systems, protecting existing infrastructure investments in basic automation setups.

Typical Application Scenarios

Basic Legacy Industrial Control: In older packaging machinery with simple 68000-series control systems, the **Motorola MVME-400** serves as the main controller for conveyor belts and basic sorting mechanisms. Its MC68030 processor runs legacy sequential control software, while the RS-232C port connects to position sensors and basic HMI terminals. The Industry Pack port adds digital I/O for controlling solenoid valves, ensuring continued reliable operation of entry-level production equipment.

Light Industrial Retrofit: In retrofitting small-scale textile or food processing machines, the **Motorola MVME-400** replaces obsolete 8-bit controllers while maintaining compatibility with existing analog sensors and small motor drives. Its parallel port connects to legacy printers for production batch logs, and the RS-232C port interfaces with simple temperature controllers. The rugged design withstands the dusty, moderate-vibration environment of light industrial facilities.

Remote Monitoring Systems: In legacy environmental monitoring stations (e.g., weather stations, water quality sensors), the **Motorola MVME-400** processes data from basic sensors and transmits it to central systems via the RS-232C port. Its VMEbus interface integrates with simple data logging modules, and the watchdog timer ensures system stability in remote, unmanned locations. The wide temperature range adapts to outdoor or harsh on-site conditions.

Entry-Level Test Equipment: In older educational or low-volume production test rigs, the **Motorola MVME-400** controls basic data acquisition from simple sensors (e.g., pressure gauges, thermometers). The Industry Pack port adds basic signal conditioning modules, while the parallel port outputs test results to strip chart recorders. Its compatibility with legacy OS (e.g., OS-9) ensures continuity of simple test procedures developed over years.

Motorola MVME-620

Related Model Recommendations

Motorola MVME-410: Higher-performance variant of **Motorola MVME-400** with 25 MHz MC68040, expanded memory, and more interfaces, ideal for upgrading to more complex legacy systems.

Motorola MVME-701A: Serial communication module compatible with **Motorola MVME-400**, adding RS-422/485 ports for long-distance serial connectivity in legacy networks.

Motorola MVME-162-01: 3U VMEbus CPU module complementary to **Motorola MVME-400** for distributed control systems with mixed entry-level and mid-range processing nodes.

GE VMIVME-7650: Digital I/O Industry Pack module, used with **Motorola MVME-400** to add discrete input/output channels for basic legacy machinery control.

Motorola MVME-197LE: Memory expansion module for **Motorola MVME-400**, increasing DRAM capacity to 8 MB for running slightly larger legacy applications.

Motorola MVME-605: Next-generation PowerPC SBC for upgrading **Motorola MVME-400** systems, with migration tools for legacy 68000-series software.

Installation & Maintenance Guidelines

Installation Preparation: Before installing the **Motorola MVME-400**, ensure the VMEbus chassis is powered off and properly grounded. Align the module with the 3U slot guides, verifying that the P1/P2 backplane connectors are correctly positioned. Gently insert the module until fully seated, then fasten the front-panel screws to prevent vibration-induced disconnections. For Industry Pack modules, insert them into the IP port and secure with retaining clips. Route serial and parallel cables away from high-voltage lines to minimize EMI.

Maintenance Best Practices: Perform quarterly inspections to clean dust from the module’s connectors, heatsinks, and ventilation slots using compressed air. Regularly check the power supply voltages (5V ±5%, ±12V ±10%) to prevent component damage. Test the watchdog timer monthly by triggering a simulated fault and confirming the module resets properly. Back up the EPROM firmware and configuration data annually using compatible legacy programming tools. Use only genuine Motorola spare parts to maintain system compatibility and reliability with legacy VMEbus components.

Service & Warranty Commitment

The **Motorola MVME-400** is backed by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal industrial operation. Motorola’s technical support team provides specialized assistance for legacy entry-level systems via email and phone, with response times within 24 hours for critical issues. We offer remote diagnostic services for troubleshooting legacy software and hardware interactions, minimizing on-site service costs. For long-term legacy support, we provide EPROM reprogramming and component repair services to extend product lifecycle. Our commitment to quality ensures that the **Motorola MVME-400** continues to deliver consistent performance, protecting your investment in basic established industrial automation infrastructure.