Motorola MVME167-03B

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

Motorola MVME-167-32B

Product Introduction

The Motorola MVME167-03B is a cost-optimized mid-range industrial VMEbus single-board computer (SBC) developed by Motorola—a pioneer in legacy industrial computing—and now part of Emerson’s reliable product ecosystem. As a value-focused model in the MVME167 series, it is engineered to deliver balanced performance and essential expandability for small-to-mid-scale real-time industrial control, data acquisition, and edge monitoring applications, serving as an economical alternative to the higher-spec MVME167-04B for scenarios with moderate processing demands.

At its core, the Motorola MVME167-03B features a 133 MHz PowerPC 603e processor and 32 MB expandable SDRAM, providing sufficient computing power for tasks like monitoring 30-50 sensors, executing basic PID control loops, and lightweight data logging. Its streamlined communication interfaces—including 10 Base-T Ethernet, 2x RS-232 serial ports, and 2-lane Serial RapidIO—ensure connectivity to critical field devices and upper-level systems, while the low-profile PMC slot enables targeted expansion for specific I/O needs. In automation architectures, the Motorola MVME167-03B acts as a compact processing hub: it collects data from entry-level modules like the MVME-717 digital input module and MVME-121 mixed I/O module, processes it to drive control actions, and sends commands to actuators via the MVME-712/M digital output module. Its moderate environmental tolerance and low power consumption make it ideal for indoor industrial settings such as small manufacturing lines, HVAC control systems, and regional water treatment facilities.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

Cost-Optimized Performance for Mid-Scale Tasks: The Motorola MVME167-03B strikes a balance between performance and cost by adopting a 133 MHz PowerPC 603e processor and 32 MB SDRAM (expandable to 64 MB)—sufficient for moderate industrial workloads without the premium of higher-spec models like the MVME167-04B (166 MHz/64 MB). For example, in a small packaging plant, it can process data from 40 photoelectric sensors (tracking package presence), run 5 PID loops to adjust conveyor speeds, and log daily production data to a CompactFlash card—all with <15 ms latency. This makes it a budget-friendly choice for users who need more power than entry-level SBCs (e.g., MVME-147-023) but don’t require the expanded memory or high-speed Ethernet of the MVME167-04B.

Streamlined Connectivity for Essential Use Cases: Unlike the MVME167-04B with 10/100 Base-TX Ethernet and 4-lane Serial RapidIO, the Motorola MVME167-03B features 10 Base-T Ethernet and 2-lane Serial RapidIO—optimized for scenarios where high-bandwidth data transfer is not critical. The 10 Base-T Ethernet reliably connects to local SCADA/HMI systems (common in small factories), while the 2-lane Serial RapidIO enables fast communication with nearby VMEbus modules (e.g., MVME-910-3 Ethernet module) at up to 2.5 Gbps total bandwidth. The 2x RS-232 ports also cover legacy device needs, such as connecting to older HMIs or barcode scanners. This streamlined design reduces unnecessary costs while maintaining connectivity for essential industrial workflows.

Low Power Consumption for Compact Deployments: With a typical power consumption of 9 W (vs. 12 W for the MVME167-04B), the Motorola MVME167-03B is ideal for compact control cabinets or battery-backed systems where power efficiency is critical. For instance, in a mobile water quality monitoring station (powered by solar panels and batteries), the low power draw extends battery life by 20-30% compared to higher-power SBCs, ensuring continuous operation during overcast days. Its lightweight design (200 g) also makes it suitable for mounting in space-constrained enclosures, such as those in HVAC rooftop units or small-scale industrial robots.

Basic but Reliable Diagnostic Tools: The Motorola MVME167-03B includes essential reliability features tailored to cost-sensitive applications: a configurable watchdog timer (5-30 seconds) that resets the SBC if software crashes, and 2 MB Flash ROM that stores boot code and a lightweight OS—preventing system failure if the IDE storage fails. While it lacks the advanced BIST for Ethernet found in the MVME167-04B, its basic BIST for processor and memory still catches critical hardware issues. In a regional food processing plant, these tools ensure the SBC maintains control of refrigeration units (preventing food spoilage) even during minor software glitches, without the added cost of advanced diagnostics.

Typical Application Scenarios

The Motorola MVME167-03B excels in cost-sensitive, mid-scale industrial applications—including small manufacturing lines, HVAC building automation, and regional water treatment facilities. In a small automotive component factory (producing windshield wipers), the Motorola MVME167-03B controls 3 assembly stations. It uses its 2x RS-232 ports to connect to legacy torque wrenches (monitoring fastener tightness) and 10 Base-T Ethernet to send production data to a local HMI. Its PMC slot is populated with a basic analog I/O card to monitor temperature in 8 curing ovens, ensuring components meet quality standards. The SBC’s 32 MB SDRAM easily handles concurrent data processing from the stations, while its low power consumption fits within the factory’s compact control cabinet power budget.

In HVAC building automation (for a 10-story office building), the Motorola MVME167-03B manages 15 rooftop air handling units (AHUs). It collects data from 45 temperature/humidity sensors (via a MVME-121 I/O module) and uses 10 Base-T Ethernet to communicate with a building management system (BMS). The SBC runs basic control logic to adjust AHU fan speeds and damper positions, optimizing energy use while maintaining occupant comfort. Its 0°C to 60°C operating range withstands rooftop temperature fluctuations, and its low power draw (9 W) reduces the building’s overall energy consumption compared to using higher-power SBCs. For facility managers, the Motorola MVME167-03B provides a cost-effective way to upgrade from legacy HVAC controllers without overinvesting in unnecessary performance.

In a regional water treatment plant (serving 50,000 residents), the Motorola MVME167-03B monitors and controls 20 chemical dosing pumps and 15 flow meters. It uses its Serial RapidIO port to connect to a MVME-761-001 analog I/O module (collecting flow rate and pH data) and 10 Base-T Ethernet to send status updates to a local SCADA system. The SBC’s 2 MB Flash ROM stores a lightweight OS and dosing control algorithms, ensuring operation even if the IDE hard drive fails. Its 40 g shock resistance handles occasional vibrations from nearby pumps, while its low power consumption allows it to run on the plant’s backup generator during power outages—critical for maintaining water treatment and avoiding service disruptions.

Motorola MVME-167-32B

Related Model Recommendations

Motorola MVME167-04B: A higher-spec variant of the Motorola MVME167-03B, with a 166 MHz processor, 64 MB SDRAM, and 10/100 Base-TX Ethernet. It is an upgrade for users needing more processing power (e.g., monitoring 50+ sensors) or high-speed network connectivity.

Motorola MVME-147-023: An entry-level VMEbus SBC that complements the Motorola MVME167-03B in distributed systems. The MVME-147-023 handles basic I/O control (e.g., conveyor belts), while the MVME167-03B manages central data logging and BMS communication.

Motorola MVME-230: A low-profile PMC analog I/O module designed for the Motorola MVME167-03B. It adds 8 analog input/4 analog output channels, expanding the SBC’s ability to monitor process variables (e.g., temperature, pressure) in cost-sensitive applications.

Motorola MVME-717: A digital input module that pairs with the Motorola MVME167-03B. The MVME-717 collects data from 32 limit switches/sensors, which the MVME167-03B processes to execute control logic (e.g., stopping a machine if a part is misaligned).

Motorola MVME-050: An industrial power supply module that powers the Motorola MVME167-03B. Its stable +5V/±12V outputs ensure the SBC’s processor and memory operate without fluctuations, critical for real-time HVAC or water treatment control.

Motorola MVME-910-2: A 10 Base-T Ethernet module that works with the Motorola MVME167-03B. It adds a second Ethernet port for redundant connectivity to BMS/SCADA systems, ensuring the SBC remains connected if the primary port fails.

Motorola MVME-712/M: A digital output module compatible with the Motorola MVME167-03B. The MVME167-03B sends commands to the MVME-712/M, which activates low-to-medium current actuators (e.g., solenoid valves, small motors) in small manufacturing lines.

Motorola MVME-110-1: An industrial memory module that expands the Motorola MVME167-03B’s SDRAM. It adds 1-4 MB of DRAM, useful for users needing to run slightly more complex control logic without upgrading to the MVME167-04B.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing the Motorola MVME167-03B, verify the VMEbus chassis supports 3U modules and provides stable +5V/±12V power (use a multimeter to check voltage tolerance within ±5%). Gather tools: anti-static wristband (to protect the processor and memory), Phillips screwdriver (for chassis mounting), 10 Base-T Ethernet cable tester (to validate network links), and a laptop (for OS configuration). If using a low-profile PMC card, ensure it is compatible with the SBC’s slot—align the card with the guides, press gently until seated, and secure with the locking screw. Power off the chassis, clean the VME backplane connector with a dry brush to remove dust, then slide the Motorola MVME167-03B into the backplane until fully seated. Secure with screws (torque to 0.4 N·m) to avoid loose connections.

Maintenance suggestions: For daily upkeep of the Motorola MVME167-03B, inspect the LED indicators weekly—steady green power LED, solid Ethernet link LED, and green BIST LED indicate normal operation. A red BIST LED signals a processor/memory fault; run the basic BIST utility via the OS to diagnose the issue. Clean the SBC’s air vents monthly with compressed air (low pressure, 25-30 PSI) to prevent overheating—dust buildup can raise processor temperature by 8-12°C. Every 4 months, back up the Flash ROM and CompactFlash data to a secure server—critical for recovering the system if storage fails. If the SBC hangs, check the watchdog timer log (via the OS) to identify software crashes; update the lightweight OS or application firmware if issues persist. Store spare Motorola MVME167-03B units in anti-static bags in a climate-controlled environment (15°C to 25°C, 40% to 60% humidity) to preserve hardware life.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

The Motorola MVME167-03B is backed by an 18-month factory warranty (extendable to 36 months via premium service contracts), covering defects in materials and workmanship—including processor failures, memory errors, and serial port malfunctions. If a defect is identified during the warranty period, we provide free replacement or repair (with a 72-hour turnaround for in-stock units) to minimize operational downtime, as SBC failures can disrupt small-scale industrial processes.

Our technical support team offers 24/7 assistance via email and online portals, staffed by engineers specialized in MVME series value-line SBCs. They can help with Motorola MVME167-03B configuration (e.g., PMC low-profile card setup, watchdog timer adjustment), lightweight OS installation (e.g., VxWorks 5.4), and troubleshooting (e.g., 10 Base-T Ethernet connectivity issues, basic BIST failures). For legacy users, we maintain a stock of critical components (e.g., 133 MHz PowerPC 603e processors, 32 MB SDRAM modules) to support long-term maintenance. We also offer remote commissioning services—our technicians remotely test the Motorola MVME167-03B’s performance, verify connectivity, and train your team on maintenance best practices, reducing on-site service costs. Our commitment to the Motorola MVME167-03B extends beyond the sale—we strive to provide reliable support for cost-sensitive industrial systems, helping you optimize efficiency within budget.