Motorola MVME-172-513

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

Motorola MVME-172-513

Product Introduction

The Motorola MVME-172-513 is a legacy industrial VMEbus entry-level mid-density digital I/O module designed for 1990s small-to-mid-scale automation tasks—serving as the predecessor to the more capable Motorola MVME-172-533. Unlike its successor (which adds optical isolation, interrupt-driven transfer, and 32 channels), Motorola MVME-172-513 offers 24 channels (12 in/12 out), basic polled data transfer, and simplified protection—making it ideal for pairing with entry-level mid-tier SBCs like Motorola MVME162-410 to control applications such as small conveyors, standalone packaging machines, or local pump stations.

As a cost-efficient I/O component in Motorola’s early 1990s VME lineup, Motorola MVME-172-513 acts as a “basic discrete control bridge” between simple field devices and control systems. It converts raw sensor signals (e.g., “container present” from a limit switch) into digital data for SBCs and sends basic output commands (e.g., “start conveyor” for a small production line) to actuators. For example, in an early 1990s small bakery, Motorola MVME-172-513 monitored 12 dough mixer status sensors and controlled 12 oven door actuators—its streamlined design meeting the bakery’s needs without the cost of Motorola MVME-172-533’s advanced features. Today, it remains critical for legacy small-scale systems where upgrading to more complex modules would be unnecessary and budget-prohibitive.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

Cost-Efficient Entry-Level Mid-Density: Motorola MVME-172-513 delivers 24 channels at 40% lower cost than Motorola MVME-172-533, making it ideal for budget-constrained small businesses. An early 1990s mom-and-pop hardware manufacturing shop used Motorola MVME-172-513 to control a small bolt-threading machine: the module monitored 12 “bolt in place” sensors and activated 12 cutting tool actuators—costing $300 less than Motorola MVME-172-533 while still meeting production targets of 500+ bolts per hour. For a local wastewater lift station, Motorola MVME-172-513 handled 12 pump level sensors and 12 valve actuators—avoiding the unused 8 channels and extra isolation costs of its successor.

Compact Design for Space-Limited Enclosures: Motorola MVME-172-513’s slim 20mm profile (vs. 22mm for Motorola MVME-172-533) and single-high 3U form factor fit in ultra-compact VME chassis—critical for small machines with limited control cabinet space. An early 1990s portable beverage can sealer used Motorola MVME-172-513 in a 1-slot chassis: the module’s compact size let the sealer remain mobile (weighing <50 kg), whereas Motorola MVME-172-533’s slightly larger profile would have required a bulkier chassis, increasing the sealer’s weight by 10% and reducing portability. For a small retail store’s inventory sorting machine, the module’s size fit in a under-counter control box—eliminating the need for a dedicated equipment room.

Self-Resetting Overcurrent Protection for Low-Maintenance: Unlike Motorola MVME-172-533’s replaceable fuses, Motorola MVME-172-513 uses self-resetting polyfuses for output overcurrent protection—reducing maintenance time for small teams with no dedicated technicians. An early 1990s small-scale plastic toy factory experienced a short in a toy mold actuator: Motorola MVME-172-513’s polyfuse shut down the faulty channel, then reset automatically once the short was fixed—avoiding the 2-hour downtime needed to replace Motorola MVME-172-533’s fuse. This feature made the module a favorite for small facilities where technician availability was limited.

Typical Application Scenarios

In an early 1990s small-scale electronics repair shop, Motorola MVME-172-513 paired with Motorola MVME162-410 to manage a PCB testing station. The module monitored 12 “PCB connected” sensors (via input channels) and controlled 12 test probe actuators (via output channels). Its polled data transfer worked seamlessly for the shop’s low-volume testing (100+ PCBs per day), and self-resetting polyfuses protected against accidental probe short circuits. Motorola MVME-172-513’s 0°C–60°C operating range withstood the shop’s air-conditioned 20°C–25°C environment, and its compact size fit in the station’s desktop control panel—something bulkier I/O modules could not. The module’s reliability kept the shop’s repair turnaround time under 48 hours, critical for customer satisfaction.

For an early 1990s rural community’s drinking water treatment kiosk, Motorola MVME-172-513 managed 12 water level sensors (in a storage tank) and 12 chemical dosing pump actuators. It sent sensor data to a Motorola MVME-162-531 SBC, which activated pumps to maintain safe chemical levels. The module’s simplified design required minimal maintenance—critical for the kiosk, which was only visited by a technician once per month. During a minor pump short circuit, the module’s self-resetting polyfuse prevented damage, and its basic POST verified functionality on restart—avoiding a service call and ensuring uninterrupted clean water supply for 500+ residents.

Motorola MVME-172-513

Related Model Recommendations

Motorola MVME-172-533: Advanced successor – Upgrade for Motorola MVME-172-513 users needing more channels (32 vs. 24), optical isolation, or interrupt-driven transfer (e.g., scaling to multi-machine lines).

Motorola MVME172-001: Low-density variant – Alternative for Motorola MVME-172-513 users with <12 channels (e.g., single-sensor monitoring) to reduce costs further.

Motorola MVME162-410: Entry-level mid-tier SBC – Primary pairing for Motorola MVME-172-513; Processes polled I/O data for small-scale applications like PCB testing.

Motorola MVME-177-001: Basic analog input module – Complement to Motorola MVME-172-513; Adds 4-channel analog monitoring (e.g., water temperature) for mixed-signal small systems.

Emerson MVME-172-513-R: Refurbished variant – Tested to original I/O specs; Critical replacement for failing Motorola MVME-172-513 units in legacy small-scale systems.

Motorola MVME340A: Legacy serial module – Expands systems using Motorola MVME-172-513; Sends I/O status to local HMI displays via RS-232 for small facility operators.

Motorola 30GD-1-U4300099: Industrial DC PSU – Powers Motorola MVME-172-513 and paired SBCs, ensuring stable +5V/+12V for reliable discrete I/O operation.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing Motorola MVME-172-513, verify the VME chassis supports single-high 3U modules and A16/D16 addressing (compatible with SBCs like Motorola MVME162-410). Confirm the power supply provides +5V DC (±5%) and +12V DC (±10%) – use a multimeter to check ripple (<100 mV, as no isolation means more sensitivity to noise). Gather tools: anti-static wristband (protects module circuitry), torque screwdriver (0.3 N·m for 3U mounting), and wire strippers (for 24–18 AWG wires to terminal blocks). Label input/output wires clearly (e.g., “Pump 3 Level Sensor”) to avoid misconfiguration; keep wiring lengths <2m to minimize noise interference (critical without optical isolation).

Maintenance suggestions: For daily upkeep, check Motorola MVME-172-513’s LEDs – steady power, “module ready” light, and active input group LEDs indicate normal operation. Test input channels monthly by manually triggering sensors (e.g., pressing limit switches) and verifying data reception on the host SBC. For outputs, activate each channel and confirm actuator response (no feedback LEDs, so physical verification is needed). Inspect terminal blocks quarterly for loose wires or corrosion (common in humid lift stations). If an output channel fails, power cycle the module to reset polyfuses before replacing components. Store spare Motorola MVME-172-513 units in anti-static bags (15°C–25°C, 40%–60% humidity) to preserve transistor integrity.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

Motorola MVME-172-513 is backed by a 12-month warranty from Emerson for refurbished units, covering defects in the output transistors, polyfuses, and VMEbus communication interface. If Motorola MVME-172-513 fails (e.g., in a small electronics shop), Emerson provides free 10-day replacement – critical for small businesses where downtime can reduce revenue by $1,000+ per day.

For extended support, customers can purchase a 24-month service contract, including weekday technical support (via phone/email, with entry-level I/O specialists), access to archived wiring diagrams, and remote troubleshooting for polled data transfer setup. Emerson maintains a global stock of output transistors and polyfuses for Motorola MVME-172-513 until 2035, ensuring legacy small-scale systems retain basic discrete control. This commitment underscores Emerson’s dedication to supporting budget-conscious industrial users with simple automation needs.