MOTOROLA MVME5101-0131

Description

Product Description

The MOTOROLA MVME5101-0131 is a high-performance, single-board computer (SBC) designed for the VMEbus (Versa Module Europa) platform. This module serves as the central processing unit and system controller for industrial computing and real-time control applications, often used within advanced automation systems, military/aerospace test equipment, and telecommunications infrastructure. While not a traditional PLC module, it functions as a powerful embedded computer that can run real-time operating systems (RTOS) and complex control software, making it the “brain” of a VME-based system. Its primary role is to execute application software, manage system resources, and control peripheral I/O cards via the high-speed VME backplane. The robust design of the MOTOROLA MVME5101-0131 is engineered for reliable, continuous operation in demanding environments. In industrial contexts, it could be the core of a custom, high-performance machine controller or data acquisition system. The processing power and expandability offered by this SBC made it a preferred choice for sophisticated control applications where standard PLCs were insufficient.

Product Parameters

• Platform: VMEbus (6U form factor).
• Module Type: Single-Board Computer (SBC) / System Controller.
• Processor: Features a high-performance PowerPC microprocessor (e.g., MPC7410 or MPC7455) with AltiVec technology.
• Memory: Integrated SDRAM memory (size varies, e.g., 128MB, 256MB), often expandable via onboard sockets.
• Onboard I/O:
  • Ethernet: Dual 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports.
  • Serial: Multiple RS-232/422/485 serial ports.
  • USB: USB 1.1/2.0 ports.
  • Parallel/IDE: Interfaces for storage or legacy peripherals.
• VMEbus Interface: VME64 master/slave interface with system controller functions.
• Expansion: PMC (PCI Mezzanine Card) slots for adding specialized I/O (e.g., analog, digital, motion control).
• Operating System Support: Compatible with various RTOS (VxWorks, QNX, Linux RT) and general-purpose OS.
• Power Supply: Powered from the VMEbus backplane (+5V, +/-12V).

Advantages and Features

• High Computational Power: The PowerPC processor, especially with AltiVec, provides significant processing capability for complex algorithms, data processing, and real-time control tasks beyond the reach of typical PLCs of its era.
• Rich Integrated I/O: A wide array of built-in communication ports (Ethernet, serial, USB) reduces the need for additional communication cards, simplifying system design.
• Flexible Expansion via PMC: The PMC slots allow for customization with a vast ecosystem of commercial I/O cards, enabling tailored solutions for specific measurement, control, or communication needs.
• Deterministic Performance with RTOS: When paired with a real-time operating system, the MOTOROLA MVME5101-0131 can achieve hard real-time performance, essential for time-critical control applications.
• Robust and Proven Architecture: The VME platform and Motorola’s design are known for high reliability and longevity in critical applications.

Application Cases in Application Fields

• Industrial Test and Measurement Rigs: Acts as the main controller for complex automated test equipment (ATE) in aerospace component testing or semiconductor validation.
• Simulation Systems: Used in real-time simulator hardware for training or engineering development.
• Telecommunications: Served as a controller in telecom switching and transmission equipment.
• Custom High-Performance Machine Control: The basis for specialized controllers in printing, packaging, or complex assembly machinery where standard PLCs lacked the necessary computing power or I/O flexibility.

Comparisons with Competing Products

• Vs. GE Fanuc Series 90-70 VME CPU: The Series 90-70 CPU is a dedicated PLC controller on the VME bus. The MOTOROLA MVME5101-0131 is a general-purpose computer board. The PLC CPU is optimized for deterministic ladder logic execution with dedicated I/O networks, while the Motorola SBC offers greater general computing power and OS flexibility for custom software.
• Vs. Siemens SIMATIC Box PC (e.g., PC 647): Siemens offers industrial PCs in different form factors. The MOTOROLA MVME5101-0131 is a component-level board for integration into a larger VME system, offering higher performance and tighter integration with specialized VME I/O cards than a standard industrial PC of the time.
• Vs. Modern Industrial PC with PCI/PCIe Slots: A modern industrial PC offers more current processing power and standard PCIe expansion. The MOTOROLA MVME5101-0131 represents an older, VME-based paradigm. Modern PCs are easier to source and support but may not directly replace a board designed for a legacy VME chassis without a complete system overhaul.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

1. Legacy System Commitment: The MOTOROLA MVME5101-0131 is for maintaining or developing on the legacy VME platform. New projects should consider modern industrial computing platforms (e.g., CompactPCI Serial, VPX, or advanced industrial PCs).
2. Critical Dependency on Software & OS: This board is hardware only. Success requires the correct operating system (and version), device drivers for any PMC cards, and the application software. Obtaining these for an older board can be a major challenge.
3. Firmware and BIOS: Ensure you have access to the correct firmware (PROM) images or BIOS for the board. A corrupted or missing firmware will render the board unbootable.
4. Power and Thermal Management: Verify the VME chassis power supply can handle the board’s load. These boards consume significant power and generate heat; ensure adequate chassis cooling.
5. Sourcing and Obsolescence: As a legacy component, source from reputable surplus electronics dealers who specialize in VME/SBC equipment and can provide basic functionality testing. Be prepared for potential compatibility issues with other VME cards in your chassis.

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