Description
The Motorola VME162PA-344SE is a high-performance single-board computer (SBC) based on the VMEbus architecture. Belonging to the venerable MVME162 family, this module is powered by the MC68040 microprocessor. It is specifically designed for industrial automation, real-time data acquisition, and embedded control systems that require high reliability and deterministic performance. The “PA” designation typically refers to the presence of IP (Industry Pack) mezzanine slots, allowing for high levels of I/O customization.
MOTOROLA VME162PA344SE
Technical Specifications & Parameters
The VME162PA-344SE is engineered to provide a balanced mix of processing power, memory capacity, and versatile connectivity within a single 6U VME slot.
| Parameter | Specification |
| Microprocessor | Motorola MC68040 |
| Clock Speed | 25 MHz or 33 MHz (Variant dependent) |
| Floating Point Unit | Integrated FPU within the MC68040 |
| Memory (DRAM) | 4 MB to 16 MB of Parity-Protected DRAM |
| SRAM | 128 KB of Battery-Backed Static RAM |
| Flash Memory | 1 MB to 4 MB (On-board programmable) |
| Mezzanine Slots | 4 Industry Pack (IP) Slots |
| Communication | Ethernet (AUI), 4 Serial Ports (RS-232/422), SCSI-2 Interface |
| Timers | Tick Timer, Watchdog Timer, Real-Time Clock (RTC) |
| VMEbus Interface | A32/D32 Master/Slave (VMEchip2) |
Key Hardware Features
- VMEchip2 Technology: This custom ASIC manages the VMEbus interface, providing a high-performance DMA controller and localized interrupt handling to reduce CPU overhead.
- Industry Pack (IP) Support: The board features four slots for Industry Pack modules, enabling users to add specific I/O functions like Analog-to-Digital converters, Digital I/O, or specialized communication controllers without using extra VME slots.
- Real-Time Optimized: The architecture is specifically tuned for real-time operating systems (RTOS) such as VxWorks, OS-9, and LynxOS, ensuring low-latency response to external interrupts.
- Environmental Ruggedization: Built to industrial standards, the module handles wide temperature variances and vibration levels typical in manufacturing and aerospace test environments.
MOTOROLA VME162PA344SE
Product Datasheet Summary
- Processor Performance: The MC68040 includes internal 8KB instruction and data caches, providing a significant performance leap over the earlier 68030-based boards.
- I/O Versatility: Through the integration of the MC68360 QUICC (Quad Integrated Communications Controller) in some sub-variants, the board manages serial protocols efficiently.
- SCSI Support: The integrated SCSI-2 interface allows for direct connection to high-speed storage devices or optical drives, which is rare for SBCs of this form factor.
- Boot Options: The board supports flexible boot-up sequences via EPROM or Flash, facilitating remote software updates in distributed systems.
Country of Origin
The Motorola VME162PA-344SE was designed and manufactured in the United States of America (USA). During its peak production, Motorola’s Computer Group (later acquired by Force Computers, then SMART Embedded Computing) operated its primary facilities in Arizona.
Application Areas
This controller is a legacy staple in complex system architectures:
- Defense & Aerospace: Used in flight simulators, telemetry stations, and ground-support equipment where long-term lifecycle support is mandatory.
- Industrial Automation: Controlling high-speed assembly lines and CNC machinery that require precise synchronization.
- Telecommunications: Managing signaling and switching logic in legacy telecommunication racks.
- Medical Imaging: Providing the computational backbone for early-generation MRI and CT scanner control systems.
Product Usage Instructions
- Handling and ESD:
- The board contains highly sensitive CMOS components. Ensure you are grounded via an ESD wrist strap before removing the board from its anti-static packaging.
- Configuration (Jumpers):
- Before installation, check the onboard jumpers for VMEbus System Controller settings. Only one board in a VME rack should be designated as the System Controller (usually Slot 1).
- Mezzanine Installation:
- If using Industry Pack (IP) modules, install them onto the VME162PA board before inserting the board into the VME chassis. Ensure the IP modules are screwed down firmly to prevent disconnection during vibration.
- Installation:
- Align the board with the 6U guide rails. Slide the board in until the P1 and P2 connectors meet the backplane. Use the ejector handles to firmly seat the board.
- Software Interface:
- Initial configuration is typically done via the 162Bug monitor software. Connect a terminal to Serial Port 1 (Console) at 9600 baud to access the firmware command line.
Recommended Related Motorola/Artesyn Models
For those maintaining or upgrading VMEbus systems, the following models are frequently utilized in conjunction with or as successors to the VME162:
- MVME147: An earlier 68030-based processor board, often found in systems being upgraded to the MVME162.
- MVME167: A higher-performance 68040 board that lacks the IP slots but offers more robust onboard I/O.
- MVME172: A successor to the 162 that utilizes the MC68060 processor for even higher computational throughput.
- MVME2100: A PowerPC-based VME board for those transitioning away from the 68K architecture while staying on VME.
- MVME5100: A high-end PowerPC (G4) processor board for modern VME applications requiring massive data processing.
