Description
The Motorola MVME162-10 is a single-board computer (SBC) designed for industrial automation applications within the VMEbus architecture. VMEbus (Versa Module Eurocard bus) was a prominent standard in the 1980s and 1990s for industrial control systems. While no longer in production, the MVME162-10 offered features suitable for various industrial automation tasks at the time. Here’s a breakdown of the MVME162-10’s functionalities and potential specifications:
Function:
- The MVME162-10 served as the core processing unit within a VMEbus system. It provided the essential processing power and interfaces needed to run control programs, acquire data from sensors and actuators, and communicate with other devices in the industrial automation setup.
**Potential Key Features (based on available information):
- Processor: Likely equipped with a Motorola 68040 microprocessor running at 25 MHz. This 32-bit processor offered increased processing power compared to earlier 16-bit models.
- Memory: Supported capacities likely ranged from 1 MB to 4 MB of DRAM for program and data storage.
- I/O Capabilities: Provided various input/output (I/O) functionalities for connecting to industrial automation devices:
- Onboard I/O options might have included serial ports, parallel ports, and timer/counter functions.
- Additional functionalities were likely achieved through expansion slots compatible with VMEbus I/O modules, offering a wider range of capabilities like:
- Analog and digital I/O modules for sensor and actuator interfacing.
- Communication interface modules for connecting to networks like Ethernet or fieldbuses.
Applications:
The Motorola MVME162-10 was likely used in various industrial automation applications that required moderate processing power and I/O capabilities, such as:
- Machine control systems for simpler tasks.
- Data acquisition systems collecting sensor data at moderate speeds.
- Industrial process control systems for less complex processes.
Finding Information:
While Motorola no longer produces the MVME162-10, you can find information about it through the following resources:
- Limited Online Resources: Data sheets and user manuals might be available through web searches, but be cautious about the information’s accuracy and source. Consider archive websites like http://archive.org/ for potentially archived resources.
- Online Marketplaces: Several online marketplaces list the MVME162-10 for sale (previously found in our search results). These listings sometimes include part numbers or brief descriptions that can be a starting point for further searches. Be aware that these might be used products.
Alternatives and Considerations:
The MVME162-10 represents older technology. Here are some points to consider, especially for new industrial automation projects:
- Limited Availability: Finding replacement parts or compatible peripherals for the MVME162-10 might be difficult or expensive.
- Outdated Technology: The processing power, memory capabilities, and available I/O options of the MVME162-10 might be insufficient for demanding modern industrial automation applications.
- Limited Software Support: Finding compatible and supported operating systems for the MVME162-10 can be challenging.
Upgrading to a more modern SBC platform based on current processor architectures like ARM or x86 is recommended for new industrial automation projects. VMEbus-compatible options exist, but migrating to a completely new system based on modern standards like CompactPCI or PC/104 might be a better choice in most cases, offering improved performance, wider availability, and better long-term support.
Additional Notes:
- The specific memory capacity of your MVME162-10 model might vary. Look for any identification labels or markings on the board to determine the exact model variant.
- If you’re unsure about the MVME162-10’s compatibility with your existing VMEbus system or require its specific features for your application, consulting with a qualified industrial automation specialist is recommended.
