Motorola (Artesyn / Emerson) | MVME5500 (12967-1 / 13000C) | VMEbus Single Board Computer

The Motorola MVME5500 (incorporating part numbers 12967-1 and 13000C, Rev A) is a high-performance VMEbus single-board computer (SBC) powered by the PowerPC processor architecture. Designed for mission-critical, real-time embedded applications in defense, aerospace, telecommunications, and heavy industrial automation, this VME board delivers exceptional processing speed, robust I/O capabilities, and reliable deterministic performance across demanding industrial environments.

⚙️ Product Datasheet & Technical Parameters

🏷️ Brand: Motorola (Artesyn Embedded Technologies / Emerson)
🔢 Model: MVME5500 / 12967-1 / 13000C (Rev A)
📂 Series: MVME5500 VMEbus Series
📝 Product Name: PowerPC VME Single Board Computer
🌍 Manufacturing Country: United States
🟢 Product Status: Active Industrial Spare / Legacy High-Performance Part
📐 Dimensions: Standard 6U VMEbus single-slot module form factor
⚖️ Weight: 0.75 kg
🌐 Country of Origin: United States
⚡ Power Consumption: 22W typical (Powered via VME rack backplane)

🔧 Parameter Configuration & Modification Method

Configuration of the MVME5500 CPU board is managed via onboard flash memory, non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), and hardware configuration jumpers that define VMEbus slot position, system controller status, and boot parameter settings. Firmware and operating system configurations—such as boot loaders (e.g., PPCBoot or U-Boot) and real-time operating system drivers (VxWorks, Linux)—are updated via serial console connection or Ethernet TFTP boot servers. Hardware modifications require powering down the VME rack and observing strict electrostatic discharge (ESD) protocols before accessing internal jumpers or memory modules.

🔄 Manual & Automatic Mode Selection

The SBC operates automatically under its loaded operating system and application software once the VME rack is powered and initialization routines complete. Manual intervention is typically restricted to executing diagnostic routines, accessing the firmware monitor prompt via the front-panel serial port, or utilizing the hardware reset switch during maintenance or troubleshooting procedures.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

💡 Q1: What processor architecture does the MVME5500 utilize?
A1: It is powered by a high-performance PowerPC processor designed for real-time, deterministic embedded computing tasks.
💡 Q2: Where can I source a replacement Motorola VME board?
A2: Certified industrial automation and defense-grade legacy hardware distributors maintain active inventories for MVME5500 spare modules.
💡 Q3: What precautions are required prior to installing or removing this CPU board?
A3: Always ensure rack power is completely turned off and wear an ESD grounding wrist strap to protect sensitive microprocessors and onboard components from static discharge.

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