Description
Detailed Parameter Table
| Parameter Name | Parameter Value |
| Product Model | Motorola MVME172-263/260 |
| Manufacturer | Motorola (now part of Emerson’s industrial automation portfolio) |
| Product Category | VMEbus Single Board Computer (SBC) – MVME172 Series (legacy industrial grade) |
| CPU Configuration | Motorola 68040 microprocessor (33 MHz clock speed); integrated floating-point unit (FPU) for numerical computing |
| Memory Capacity | 16 MB base DRAM (expandable to 64 MB via on-board DIMM slots); 512 KB Flash ROM (for firmware/boot code); 8 KB SRAM (battery-backed for data retention) |
| Bus Standard | VMEbus (PICMG VME 1.4 compliant) – 32-bit address/data bus; supports VMEbus master/slave modes |
| Physical Dimensions | Standard 6U VME form factor (233.4 mm × 160 mm × 16 mm; L×W×H) – fits standard VME chassis slots |
| Power Requirements | +5 VDC (3.5 A typical, 5 A maximum); +12 VDC (0.5 A typical); -12 VDC (0.3 A typical); no external cooling fan required (passive heat dissipation) |
| Communication Interfaces | 2x RS-232 serial ports (DTE/DCE selectable); 1x Centronics-compatible parallel port; 1x SCSI-2 interface (for external storage); 1x Ethernet 10Base-T port (RJ45, IEEE 802.3 compliant) |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0°C – 60°C (32°F – 140°F) (industrial-grade; suitable for harsh environment operation) |
| Product Status | Obsolete (discontinued by manufacturer; supported via aftermarket/refurbished services) |
| Compliance Standards | VMEbus 1.4; IEEE 802.3 (Ethernet); FCC Class A (EMI); CE Mark; RoHS (environmental compliance) |
| On-Board Peripherals | Real-time clock (RTC) with battery backup; watchdog timer (programmable 1s–10min timeout) for system fault recovery |
MVME172-263/260
Product Introduction
The Motorola MVME172-263/260 is a legacy industrial-grade VMEbus Single Board Computer (SBC) from Motorola’s renowned MVME172 Series, designed specifically for mission-critical industrial automation and embedded control applications. As a 6U VME form factor device, it integrates a high-performance Motorola 68040 processor with a dedicated floating-point unit, making it ideal for tasks requiring precise numerical computing—such as real-time control algorithms and data acquisition processing.
A defining feature of the Motorola MVME172-263/260 is its seamless compatibility with the VMEbus standard, a staple in industrial computing for decades. This compatibility allows it to integrate effortlessly into existing VME-based systems, connecting to peripherals like data acquisition cards, I/O modules, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) without the need for adapters. The board’s expandable memory (up to 64 MB DRAM) and battery-backed SRAM ensure it can handle large datasets and retain critical operational data during power outages—key requirements for industrial environments where downtime or data loss is costly.
Whether deployed in manufacturing control, energy monitoring, or transportation systems, the Motorola MVME172-263/260 delivers reliable performance. Its passive heat dissipation design eliminates fan-related failures, while the integrated watchdog timer adds an extra layer of system resilience, automatically resetting the board if a software fault occurs. These features solidify its role as a trusted component in legacy industrial setups that demand long-term stability.
Core Advantages and Technical Highlights
Robust 68040 Processor with FPU for Precision Computing
The Motorola MVME172-263/260’s 33 MHz Motorola 68040 CPU, paired with an integrated FPU, excels at numerical tasks critical to industrial control—such as PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) loop calculations for process regulation or sensor data filtering. Unlike FPU-less processors, the 68040 reduces computational latency, ensuring real-time responsiveness in applications like automotive assembly line robotics or power plant turbine control. This capability eliminates the need for external math coprocessors, simplifying system design and reducing component count.
Expandable Memory and Battery-Backed Data Retention
With 16 MB base DRAM (expandable to 64 MB) and 8 KB battery-backed SRAM, the Motorola MVME172-263/260 balances performance and data safety. The expandable DRAM accommodates large control programs or high-volume data logging (e.g., in oil refinery pressure/temperature monitoring), while the battery-backed SRAM preserves critical parameters (like calibration settings or fault logs) during power interruptions. This is particularly valuable in remote industrial sites where power stability is inconsistent, as it avoids time-consuming system reconfiguration after outages.
VMEbus Compatibility and Legacy System Integration
As a VMEbus-compliant SBC, the Motorola MVME172-263/260 seamlessly connects to thousands of existing VME peripherals—from Motorola MVME I/O modules to third-party data acquisition cards. Its 32-bit VMEbus support enables high-speed data transfer (up to 40 MB/s) between the board and other system components, minimizing bottlenecks in multi-module setups. For end-users with legacy VME-based systems, this compatibility eliminates the need for a full system overhaul; instead, the Motorola MVME172-263/260 can replace aging SBCs while retaining existing peripherals, reducing upgrade costs by 30–50% compared to migrating to a new platform.
Industrial-Grade Reliability (Passive Cooling + Watchdog Timer)
The Motorola MVME172-263/260 is built for harsh industrial conditions. Its passive heat dissipation design uses a heatsink to manage CPU temperatures, avoiding fan failures that plague active-cooling SBCs in dusty or humid environments (e.g., food processing plants or mining facilities). The programmable watchdog timer adds another layer of reliability: if the board’s software freezes (due to electromagnetic interference or code errors), the timer automatically resets the system within 1–10 minutes, reducing unplanned downtime from hours to minutes.
Typical Application Scenarios
The Motorola MVME172-263/260 thrives in legacy industrial environments where VMEbus infrastructure is prevalent and reliability is non-negotiable. In manufacturing automation (e.g., semiconductor wafer fabrication), it serves as the central control unit for precision equipment: its 68040 FPU calculates optimal process parameters (like temperature and pressure) in real time, while the Ethernet port transmits production data to a central MES (Manufacturing Execution System). The battery-backed SRAM retains recipe settings during power cycles, ensuring consistent wafer quality without reconfiguration.
In power generation (e.g., coal-fired power plants), the Motorola MVME172-263/260 monitors and controls boiler feedwater systems. Connected to pressure sensors and valve actuators via VME I/O modules, it runs closed-loop control algorithms to maintain water flow rates—critical for preventing boiler damage. The passive cooling design withstands the high temperatures of plant control rooms, while the watchdog timer ensures the system recovers quickly from electrical interference caused by nearby generators.
For transportation systems (e.g., freight train braking control), the Motorola MVME172-263/260 processes data from wheel speed sensors and brake pressure transducers. Its VMEbus connectivity links to on-board diagnostic modules, while the RS-232 ports communicate with the train’s operator display. The battery-backed SRAM stores fault codes during power outages, enabling maintenance teams to diagnose issues quickly—reducing train downtime and improving operational efficiency.
MVME172-263/260
Related Model Recommendations
Motorola MVME172-213/210: Same MVME172 Series; entry-level variant with 68030 CPU (25 MHz) and 8 MB base DRAM. Serves as a cost-effective alternative to Motorola MVME172-263/260 for less computationally intensive tasks (e.g., basic I/O control).
Motorola MVME177-410: MVME177 Series upgrade; 68060 CPU (66 MHz) with 32 MB base DRAM. Offers 2x faster processing than Motorola MVME172-263/260 for data-heavy applications (e.g., advanced process control).
Emerson MVME5500: Post-acquisition replacement; PowerPC CPU (1 GHz) with VMEbus compatibility. Modernizes systems using Motorola MVME172-263/260 by adding Ethernet/IP and cybersecurity features, while retaining VME peripherals.
Motorola MVME162-520: VMEbus I/O module; 16-channel analog input card. Paired with Motorola MVME172-263/260 to expand sensor connectivity (e.g., temperature/pressure monitoring in manufacturing).
Motorola MVME712M: VMEbus communication module; dual Ethernet ports. Enhances Motorola MVME172-263/260’s networking capabilities for multi-site data sharing (e.g., power plant SCADA systems).
Emerson RSTi-EP VME Adapter: Converts VME signals to Ethernet. Enables Motorola MVME172-263/260 to connect to modern Ethernet-based I/O (e.g., Emerson RSTi-EP modules) without replacing the SBC.
Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions
Installation Preparation
Before installing Motorola MVME172-263/260, power off the VME chassis and disconnect it from the main supply to avoid electrical shock. Verify the chassis supports 6U VME modules and that the power supply can deliver +5 VDC (5 A max), +12 VDC (0.5 A), and -12 VDC (0.3 A). Use an anti-static wristband and mat to prevent ESD damage to the board’s 68040 CPU and memory chips. Gather tools: Phillips-head screwdriver (for chassis screws) and VMEbus termination plug (if the module is the last in the chassis slot). Avoid installing near heat sources (e.g., power supplies) or in environments exceeding 60°C.
Commissioning and Maintenance
For commissioning, power on the chassis and check the board’s LED indicators: a steady green “POWER” LED confirms proper voltage; a blinking “WATCHDOG” LED indicates the timer is active. Use Motorola’s MVMEbug firmware utility (via RS-232) to configure DRAM size and Ethernet settings. Test connectivity by transferring data between the Motorola MVME172-263/260 and a VME I/O module (e.g., MVME162-520) to verify master/slave communication.
For maintenance: Clean the board quarterly with compressed air to remove dust from the heatsink (prevents overheating). Replace the battery-backed SRAM battery (CR2032) every 2–3 years to avoid data loss. Back up the Flash ROM firmware annually using MVMEbug. If the watchdog timer triggers repeatedly, check for EMI sources (e.g., nearby motors) or faulty peripherals—use a VMEbus tester to isolate the issue. When replacing components (e.g., DRAM DIMMs), ensure they match the board’s specifications (3.3 V, 72-pin SIMMs) to avoid compatibility errors.
Service and Guarantee Commitment
Though Motorola MVME172-263/260 is obsolete, we offer a 90-day warranty on all refurbished units—covering defects in materials/workmanship. Each refurbished board undergoes 48-hour burn-in testing (at 60°C) to validate performance, matching the original industrial-grade standards.
Our technical support team (24/7 availability) provides guidance on installation, firmware updates, and VMEbus troubleshooting for Motorola MVME172-263/260. We also offer customized maintenance plans: quarterly on-site inspections to clean the board and test connectivity, plus spare parts stock (e.g., DRAM DIMMs, SRAM batteries) to minimize downtime.
For users upgrading from Motorola MVME172-263/260, we provide free migration consultations—helping select compatible modern solutions (e.g., Emerson MVME5500) and ensuring seamless integration with existing VME peripherals. Our commitment to legacy support ensures your system remains reliable while you plan for long-term modernization.
