Description
Hard Numbers: Technical Specifications
- Processor: Intel Pentium M (Banias/Dothan core), 1.1 GHz to 1.8 GHz (1.8 GHz features 2MB L2 Cache)
- Memory: Up to 1.5 GB DDR SDRAM (PC266/333, via 200-pin SODIMM or optional 512MB soldered)
- Bus Interface: VMEbus (VME64x compliant, supports 2eVME and 2eSST)
- Ethernet: 1x 10/100BaseTX (Intel 82551ER) + 1x 10/100/1000BaseTX (Intel 82546EB)
- Graphics: Integrated Intel Extreme Graphics 2 with VGA (front) and DVI (rear) outputs
- Storage: Up to 2GB bootable CompactFlash (Secondary IDE), Ultra ATA/100, and SATA support via P2
- Serial Ports: 4x 16550 compatible (1x RS-232 front, 3x rear via P2)
- USB: 4x USB 2.0 ports (2x front panel, 2x rear I/O)
- Expansion: 1x PCI-X PMC Site (66 MHz)
- Watchdog Timer: Yes, Software programmable
- Chipset: Intel 855GME + 6300ESB I/O Controller Hub
- Operating Temp: 0°C to +55°C (Commercial) / -40°C to +70°C (RC ruggedized variant)
- Power Draw: Typical ~25W, Max ~30W-50W depending on CPU and load

VMIVME-7807
The Real-World Problem It Solves
As industrial networks evolved, the 10/100Mbps Ethernet ports on older SBCs became a bottleneck for high-speed data logging and HMI updates. The solves this by upgrading to Gigabit Ethernet, allowing massive control system archives to be offloaded to central servers in seconds rather than minutes. It also replaces aging processors with a Pentium M, delivering a significant performance-per-watt improvement, which is critical in sealed, fanless VME enclosures. Furthermore, its support for VME64x (2eVME and 2eSST) drastically increases backplane bandwidth for high-speed communication with other VME modules.
Where you’ll typically find it:
- In legacy GE turbine control cabinets requiring a drop-in CPU upgrade with faster networking.
- Nuclear power plant safety systems and wind tunnel data acquisition rigs needing deterministic, high-throughput computing.
- Industrial automation lines utilizing QNX, VxWorks, or Linux RTOS.
Hardware Architecture & Under-the-Hood Logic
This board integrates a full Pentium M PC into a 6U VME form factor using the Intel 855GME chipset and 6300ESB I/O Controller Hub, utilizing Advanced Hub Architecture (AHA) for increased system bandwidth.
- System Initialization: The AMI BIOS probes the DDR SODIMM (or onboard chips) for memory and initializes the IDE/SATA or CompactFlash interfaces for the connected boot device.
- Bus Arbitration: A dedicated VME bridge chip manages the VME64x protocol, supporting 2eVME and 2eSST (Source Synchronous Transfer) protocols for significantly increased backplane bandwidth compared to traditional A32/D32 transfers.
- I/O Offloading: The inclusion of a Gigabit Ethernet controller (Intel 82546EB) allows the board to handle high-volume network traffic without saturating the CPU, freeing up cycles for critical control loop execution.

VMIVME-7807
Field Service Pitfalls: What Rookies Get Wrong
Incompatible Memory Swaps
Rookies try to upgrade the RAM using standard desktop DDR DIMMs. The requires laptop-style 200-pin DDR SODIMMs (PC266 or PC333). Attempting to seat a desktop DIMM will physically damage the slot and prevent the board from posting.
- Field Rule: Always verify the exact memory form factor and speed. The board also supports optional 512MB of soldered-on memory for vibration-prone environments; if soldered memory is present, the SODIMM acts as an extension up to a 1.5GB maximum.
Ignoring 2eSST Clocking on the Backplane
Because this board supports 2eSST (2e Source Synchronous Transfer), rookiess install it in an old VME crate with a slow or non-compliant system clock. This causes the board to fail to enumerate on the backplane or experience random data corruption during high-speed DMA transfers.
- Quick Fix: Check the VME crate’s jumper settings for 2eSST compatibility. You may need to lower the VME bus speed in the AMI BIOS or upgrade the crate’s backplane to fully utilize the 2eSST capabilities.
Overlooking Chipset-Specific BIOS Settings
The Intel 855GME chipset has specific legacy USB and AGP graphics configurations. Rookies load a generic VME BIOS, causing the USB ports to fail during runtime or the graphics to hang during OS boot.
- Field Rule: Always use the official GE Fanuc / VMIC BIOS update utility specifically tailored for the . Do not mix BIOS files between different VMIC platforms (e.g., the 7750 series).
Commercial Availability & Pricing Note
Please note: The listed price is for reference only and is not binding. Final pricing and terms are subject to negotiation based on current market conditions and availability.

