Description
System Architecture & Operational Principle
The MOTOROLA MVME55006E-0161R is a 6U VMEbus single board computer (SBC) designed for industrial and embedded applications requiring reliable real-time processing. It serves as the computational core in VME-based systems, interfacing with field devices (sensors, actuators) and external networks (SCADA, DCS) via a combination of VME64 backplane communication and high-speed I/O ports.
Core Functional Blocks
The SBC is composed of four primary functional blocks, each optimized for industrial/embedded use:
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Processing Unit:
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CPU: 1 GHz PowerPC 7457 processor (32-bit RISC) with 512 KB L2 cache and 2 MB L3 cache for fast data processing.
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Memory: 512 MB ECC SDRAM (error-correcting code) for reliable data storage, plus 40 MB Flash memory (32 MB soldered + 8 MB socketed) for firmware and application storage.
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Bus Interface:
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VME64: Compliant with VME64 standards, supporting A16/A24/A32 addressing and D8/D16/D32 data widths for seamless connectivity with VME-based I/O and system controllers.
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PCI: Dual 64-bit PCI buses (33/66 MHz) with PMC sites, supporting up to 4 additional PMC modules for customized I/O (e.g., A/D conversion, communication cards).
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I/O Subsystem:
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Ethernet: 2x Gigabit Ethernet ports (RJ45) for high-speed network connectivity, supporting redundant or segmented networks.
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Serial: 2x RS-232 serial ports for legacy device integration (e.g., sensors, modems).
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Power & Cooling:
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Power Consumption: Operates on VME standard power supplies (+5V DC, ±12V DC), with typical power consumption of 15–20 W.
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Cooling: Forced-air cooling recommended for reliable operation in harsh environments (-40°C to +85°C).
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Operational Workflow
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Power-Up: The SBC draws power from the VME backplane and initializes the firmware (stored in Flash memory).
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Boot Process: The firmware configures the PowerPC processor, memory, and I/O interfaces, then boots the operating system (e.g., VxWorks, Linux).
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Task Execution: The PowerPC processor executes real-time control programs (e.g., signal processing, PID loops) and communicates with field devices via VME64 or Ethernet.
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Data Transfer: High-speed data transfer between the SBC and VME backplane, while the Ethernet ports handle network communication (e.g., uploading data to SCADA systems).
Core Technical Specifications
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Parameter
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Specification
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Processor
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1 GHz PowerPC 7457 (32-bit RISC)
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Cache
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512 KB L2 (on-chip), 2 MB L3 (on-chip)
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Memory
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512 MB ECC SDRAM, 40 MB Flash (32 MB soldered + 8 MB socketed)
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VMEbus Interface
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VME64-compliant, A16/A24/A32 addressing, D8/D16/D32 data widths
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PCI Buses
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Dual 64-bit (33/66 MHz) with PMC sites
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I/O Ports
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2x Gigabit Ethernet, 2x RS-232 serial
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Operating Temperature
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-40°C to +85°C (extended industrial range)
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Power Supply
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VME standard (+5V DC, ±12V DC)
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Form Factor
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6U VME (single slot)
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Certifications
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CE, UL, MIL-STD-810F (vibration/shock)
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Motorola MVME55006E-0161R
Customer Value & Operational Benefits
1. Reliable Real-Time Processing
The PowerPC 7457 processor and ECC SDRAM enable the MVME55006E-0161R to handle complex control algorithms (e.g., PID loops, motion control) and large datasets (e.g., from 100+ I/O channels). This is critical for applications like industrial automation (robotic control) and energy (turbine control), where real-time performance is essential to prevent downtime or equipment damage.
2. Rugged Durability for Harsh Environments
The -40°C to +85°C operating temperature range and forced-air cooling make the SBC suitable for:
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Aerospace: Avionics systems (e.g., flight control computers).
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Defense: Naval sonar processing, armored vehicle control.
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Industrial: Oil & gas refineries, power generation (turbine control).
The SBC’s rugged design resists shock (50 g peak acceleration) and vibration (8 g random vibration), ensuring reliable operation in industrial sites (e.g., power plants, factories).
3. Flexible Expansion for Custom Applications
The dual 64-bit PCI buses and PMC sites allow users to add custom functionality (e.g., A/D conversion modules for sensor data acquisition, communication cards for legacy device integration) without modifying the core SBC. This flexibility is ideal for prototype development and system upgrades, enabling engineers to tailor the SBC to exact application needs.
4. Legacy System Compatibility
The MVME55006E-0161R maintains pin-level and software continuity with older MVME series modules (e.g., MVME5100), enabling phased modernization projects without requiring a total system overhaul. Engineers can port proven real-time code or OS images with minimal modification, preserving certification and validation cycles.
Field Engineer’s Notes (From the Trenches)
When replacing an MVME55006E-0161R in a live VME chassis, always check the backplane P1/P2 connector pins for bend or corrosion. I’ve seen a system fail to boot because a single bent pin on the backplane prevented proper seating of the SBC. Also, verify the chassis power budget; the SBC draws ~20 W, and adding PMC modules can exceed the slot’s allocated power, causing intermittent resets. Use a digital multimeter to confirm +5V and ±12V rail voltages at the backplane connector before insertion.
Real-World Applications
1. Industrial Automation: Robotic Assembly Lines
A automotive manufacturer uses the MVME55006E-0161R as the core of its robotic assembly line control system. The SBC’s PowerPC processor executes PID loops to adjust robot arm movements, while the PMC sites add A/D conversion modules for sensor data acquisition (e.g., force feedback from grippers). The -40°C to +85°C operating range ensures reliable operation in the factory floor environment, where temperature fluctuations are common.
2. Aerospace: Flight Simulation Systems
A defense contractor uses the MVME55006E-0161R to power flight simulation systems for pilot training. The SBC’s VME64 interface connects to flight sensors (e.g., accelerometers, gyroscopes), while the Ethernet port streams data to the simulation software. The forced-air cooling ensures reliable operation during extended training sessions, where the system runs continuously for hours.
