MOTOROLA MVME2604

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

MOTOROLA MVME2604

Product Introduction

The Motorola MVME2604 is a legacy industrial VMEbus compact embedded controller designed for 2000s-era space-constrained industrial applications—filling the gap between full-featured SBCs like Motorola MVME-187 (high power, large form factor) and basic modules like Motorola MVME300 (limited processing). Unlike bulkier SBCs, Motorola MVME2604 integrates a low-power 66 MHz MPC823 processor, built-in digital I/O, and CANbus support—making it ideal for applications like industrial vehicle control, small-scale automation panels, or remote sensor hubs where space and power efficiency are critical.

As a streamlined controller in Motorola’s VME lineup, Motorola MVME2604 acts as a “space-saving control core.” It combines basic processing, communication, and I/O in a single 3U module, eliminating the need for multiple boards. For example, in a 2000s warehouse forklift fleet, Motorola MVME2604 used its CANbus port to monitor battery levels and integrated digital I/O to control lift actuators—its 5 W power consumption fitting within the forklift’s limited electrical system. Today, Motorola MVME2604 remains critical for legacy compact systems where replacing it would require redesigning control cabinets to accommodate larger SBCs.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

Compact Size + Low Power for Space-Constrained Setups: Motorola MVME2604’s 3U form factor and 5 W typical power consumption (1/6 of Motorola MVME-187’s 30 W) make it ideal for tight spaces. A 2000s industrial robot manufacturer integrated Motorola MVME2604 into a robotic arm’s wrist module: its slim 18mm profile fit where Motorola MVME-162PA-252SE (26mm) could not, and low power avoided overheating in the enclosed space. For a remote water meter monitoring system, the 5 W draw let the controller run on a solar-powered battery bank—eliminating the need for AC power.

Integrated CANbus for Industrial Vehicle/Equipment: Unlike many VME controllers of its era, Motorola MVME2604 includes a CANbus 2.0B port—critical for communicating with industrial vehicles and machinery. A 2000s construction equipment maker used Motorola MVME2604 in excavators: the CANbus port synchronized engine speed, hydraulic pressure, and bucket position data, ensuring smooth operation. This integration eliminated the need for an external CANbus module (like Motorola MVME-410), reducing component count by 30% and simplifying wiring.

All-in-One Functionality for Cost Savings: Motorola MVME2604 combines processor, memory, Ethernet, serial, CANbus, and digital I/O in one module—cutting costs vs. assembling separate components. A 2000s small-scale HVAC provider used Motorola MVME2604 to control a building’s ventilation system: it used Ethernet to send data to a central server, serial to connect to a local HMI, and integrated digital I/O to switch fans on/off. This setup cost 40% less than using a separate SBC + I/O module + CANbus adapter, making it ideal for budget-conscious small businesses.

Typical Application Scenarios

In a 2000s public transportation system’s train door control system, Motorola MVME2604 served as the core controller for each train car. It used its CANbus port to communicate with the train’s main system (receiving “open/close” commands) and integrated digital I/O to control 4 door lock actuators. The 10/100Base-T Ethernet port sent door status data (e.g., “door ajar”) to a station monitoring system, and battery-backed SRAM preserved fault logs during power outages. Motorola MVME2604’s -20°C–70°C operating range withstood the train’s extreme temperature fluctuations (from -15°C in winter to 65°C in summer), ensuring reliable door operation for 10+ years.

For a 2000s agricultural irrigation control system, Motorola MVME2604 managed 8 remote valve stations. It used its RS-232 port to connect to a weather sensor (measuring rainfall) and Ethernet to send valve status to a farm’s central office. The integrated digital I/O triggered valve openings/closing based on rainfall data, and the Industry Pack slot (equipped with Motorola IP-100) added 8 extra sensor inputs for soil moisture monitoring. Motorola MVME2604’s low power consumption let it run on a 12V battery charged by a solar panel, making it suitable for remote fields with no grid access.

MOTOROLA MVME2604

Related Model Recommendations

Motorola MVME-187: High-performance SBC – Upgrade for Motorola MVME2604 users needing more processing power (66 MHz PowerPC G3) and ECC memory (e.g., complex industrial control).

Motorola MVME300: GPIB communication module – Pairs with Motorola MVME2604 to add GPIB support for test/measurement devices (e.g., lab equipment integration).

Motorola IP-100: 8-bit digital I/O Industry Pack – Expands Motorola MVME2604’s I/O capabilities (adds 8 input/8 output) for controlling more devices (e.g., irrigation valves).

Motorola MVME-410: CANbus expansion module – Alternative for Motorola MVME2604 users needing multiple CANbus ports (e.g., large-scale vehicle fleets).

Emerson MVME2604-R: Refurbished variant – Tested to original specs; Critical replacement for failing Motorola MVME2604 units in legacy compact systems.

Motorola MVME177-001: Basic analog input module – Complements Motorola MVME2604 by adding 4-channel analog sensing (e.g., temperature, pressure) for mixed-signal applications.

Motorola 30GD-1-U4300099: Industrial DC PSU – Powers Motorola MVME2604 and Industry Pack modules, providing stable +5V DC for reliable operation.

Motorola MVME-162PA-252SE: Mid-tier SBC – Alternative for Motorola MVME2604 users needing more Industry Pack slots (2 vs. 1) and expandable memory (up to 24 MB).

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing Motorola MVME2604, verify the VME chassis supports single-high 3U modules and A16/D16 addressing (compatible with systems using Motorola MVME300). Confirm the power supply provides +5V DC (±5%) with <50mV ripple—use a precision multimeter to avoid voltage spikes that damage the MPC823 processor. Gather tools: anti-static wristband, torque screwdriver (0.3 N·m for 3U mounting), and CANbus cable tester. For CANbus connections, use twisted-pair shielded cable (max length 40m) and terminate both ends with 120Ω resistors—critical for signal integrity.

Maintenance suggestions: For daily upkeep, check Motorola MVME2604’s LEDs—steady power, blinking CPU/Ethernet, and no CANbus error lights indicate normal operation. Run POST monthly to validate memory and communication ports; backup Flash ROM firmware quarterly to avoid data loss during upgrades. Clean the module’s vents semi-annually with compressed air (10 PSI max) to prevent dust buildup. Replace the SRAM battery (3V lithium) every 2 years during scheduled downtime. Store spare Motorola MVME2604 units in anti-static bags (15°C–25°C, 40%–60% humidity) to protect the processor and CANbus circuitry.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

Motorola MVME2604 refurbished units are backed by a 24-month warranty from Emerson, covering defects in the MPC823 processor, CANbus interface, Ethernet port, and integrated I/O. If Motorola MVME2604 fails (e.g., in a train door control system), Emerson provides free 7-day expedited replacement—critical for minimizing downtime that costs $10,000+ per hour for public transportation systems.

For extended support, customers can purchase a 36-month service contract, including 24/7 technical support (via phone/email, with embedded controller specialists), access to archived firmware and CANbus configuration guides, and remote troubleshooting for Ethernet/CANbus integration. Emerson maintains a global stock of MPC823 processors, CANbus transceivers, and SDRAM modules for Motorola MVME2604 until 2040, ensuring legacy compact industrial systems remain operational. This commitment underscores Emerson’s dedication to supporting space-efficient, low-power automation solutions.