Description
Product Parameters
- Processor: Motorola MC88100 RISC CPU
- Clock Speed: Typically 25 MHz or 33 MHz
- Cache Controller: Dual MC88200 Cache/Memory Management Units (CMMUs)
- Memory Capacity: Supports up to 64 MB of onboard DRAM (depending on daughterboard configuration)
- Bus Interface: VMEbus (A32/D32)
- Serial I/O: Four asynchronous serial ports (via 16C550 or equivalent)
- Timers: Integrated programmable tick timers and watchdog timer
- Board Format: Standard 6U VMEbus form factor
- Power Requirements: +5 VDC (standard VME backplane power)
The MOTOROLA MVME188A is a high-performance RISC-based single board computer utilizing the 88000 series architecture, designed for complex industrial control and real-time computing environments. This module stands out for its symmetric multiprocessing capabilities and high-speed local bus, which facilitates rapid data transfer between the CPU and onboard memory. Its robust design ensures reliability in legacy automation systems, providing the computational power necessary for demanding signal processing and multi-user applications within a VMEbus chassis.
Comparison with Similar Models
The MVME188A is part of the Motorola 88K family, but it differs significantly from other boards in the series:
- MVME188A vs. MVME187: The MVME187 is a single-processor entry in the 88K family. In contrast, the MVME188A features a more advanced memory design and architecture optimized for higher throughput and expansion, making it more suitable for multi-threaded industrial tasks.
- MVME188A vs. MVME197: The MVME197 represents a later generation using the MC88110 processor. While the MVME188A relies on the MC88100 with external CMMUs, the 197 is faster but may require different software compilers and drivers, making the 188A the preferred choice for maintaining specific legacy software environments.
- MVME188A vs. MVME167: The MVME167 uses the CISC-based 68040 processor. The MVME188A uses RISC architecture, which offers superior performance for specific mathematical and technical calculations but requires an operating system (like Real-time UNIX or VxWorks) specifically compiled for the 88000 instruction set.

