Product Core Brief
- Model: MVME55006E-0161R
- Brand: Motorola (Emerson / Artesyn / Abaco)
- Series: MVME5500 VME Processor Module
- Core Function: Delivers high-performance, data-intensive computing for VMEbus-based industrial and embedded control systems.
- Product Type: VME Single Board Computer (SBC)
- Key Specs: MPC7457 @ 1 GHz | 2MB L3 Cache | Dual 64-bit PCI | 512MB SDRAM
- Condition: New Original (New Surplus)
Product Introduction
The is a high-performance VME single board computer designed for demanding OEM applications in defense, aerospace, and industrial automation. It is engineered to provide a balanced, high-throughput architecture that maximizes the capabilities of the PowerPC 7457 processor.
At its core, the features a 1 GHz MPC7457 processor with a massive 2 MB of L3 cache and an AltiVec coprocessor for algorithm-intensive tasks. The system controller supports a 133 MHz host bus and SDRAM, perfectly matched to the CPU. To prevent I/O bottlenecks, it provides dual independent 64-bit PCI buses, each with its own PMC site, ensuring that high-speed peripherals never starve the processor. This makes it an ideal upgrade path for systems requiring enhanced performance while maintaining backward compatibility with existing VME infrastructure.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Module Type | VME Single Board Computer |
| Processor | Motorola PowerPC MPC7457 @ 1 GHz |
| Cache | 512 KB L2, 2 MB L3 |
| Coprocessor | AltiVec (for data-intensive applications) |
| Memory | 512 MB SDRAM (Up to 512 MB) |
| Storage | 2 GB Flash (Onboard) |
| Expansion | Dual 64-bit, 33/66 MHz PCI with PMC Sites |
| Onboard I/O | Gigabit Ethernet, 10/100 Ethernet, Dual Serial |
| Bus Interface | VME64 (6U Form Factor) |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +85°C |
| Power Consumption | 25 W |
Quality Control Process (Engineer’s Perspective)
We don’t just box these and ship them. Here is our actual bench test workflow.
- Incoming Verification: We verify the serial number against Motorola/Emerson traceability records. A visual inspection checks for bent pins on the VME64 P1/P2 connectors, ensures the PMC slot guides are intact, and verifies the board is free from physical damage or corrosion.
- Live Functional Test: We mount the unit in a live VME64 test chassis. We verify the MPC7457 boots correctly, initializes the 512 MB SDRAM and 2 GB Flash, and recognizes both PMC slots and onboard Ethernet/Serial ports.
- Bus Performance Test: We run memory and PCI bandwidth benchmarks to confirm the dual 64-bit PCI architecture and 133 MHz SDRAM bus are operating at spec without errors or CPU starvation.
- Peripheral & Storage Test: We test both Ethernet interfaces (Gigabit and 10/100), serial ports, and verify Flash read/write integrity.
- Final QC & Packaging: The module is sealed in an anti-static bag with silica gel. A QC sticker showing the test date and technician initials is applied to the exterior.
Replacement Pitfall Guide
Field replacements on VME systems are unforgiving. Watch out for these traps.
- Firmware/Boot Image Mismatch: ❗ Critical. A new may have a different firmware revision or boot monitor than your existing system. The VME system may fail to boot or recognize the module. Always verify firmware compatibility and be prepared to flash the correct boot image.
- PMC Card Compatibility & Placement: ❗ Critical. The MVME5500 has two PMC slots, but if a PMC module is plugged into PMC slot 1, the memory mezzanine card cannot be used because the PMC module covers the mezzanine connector. Verify your expansion configuration before installation.
- Memory Mezzanine Conflict: As noted above, ensure you are not attempting to use both a PMC in slot 1 and a memory mezzanine card simultaneously. This is a physical and electrical conflict on this board.
- VME64 vs. VME32 Backplane: While VME64 is backward compatible, verify your backplane supports the 5-row P1/P2 connectors. Forcing a VME64 card into a 3-row VME32 slot will damage the connector.
- ESD Damage: The MPC7457 processor and PCI bridges are highly sensitive to electrostatic discharge. Always wear a grounded wrist strap when handling the bare PCB. I’ve seen modules fail bench testing because they were handled on a dry winter day without protection.
Compatibility Matrix & Benchmarks
Compatibility
- Motorola → MVME55006E-0163R : Direct Replacement — Verify firmware and PMC/mezzanine configuration. The -0163R is a closely related variant in the same series.
- Motorola MVME5100 → : Upgrade Path — MVME5500 offers superior CPU (7457 vs 7410/750), more L3 cache, and Gigabit Ethernet; verify backplane and PMC compatibility.
Benchmarks
- CPU Clock: 1 GHz ( with AltiVec)
- Memory Bus: 133 MHz SDRAM
- PCI Bus: Dual 64-bit, 33/66 MHz
