MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE

Description

Product Overview: MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE

The MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE is a high-performance single-board computer designed and manufactured by Motorola (later part of Emerson Network Power, then Artesyn Embedded Technologies) for the VMEbus architecture. This board is part of the Motorola VME172 series, which was widely used in industrial control, defense, aerospace, and telecommunications applications requiring robust and reliable computing platforms. The MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE integrates a powerful processor, memory subsystems, and various I/O capabilities on a single VME form factor board, providing a complete computing solution for embedded applications. For system integrators and maintenance professionals working with VMEbus-based systems, the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE represents a proven and reliable computing platform for demanding real-time applications.

Product Parameters and Technical Specifications

The MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of industrial and military embedded applications. Key parameters include:

• Type: VMEbus Single-Board Computer
• Manufacturer: Motorola / Emerson Network Power
• Series: VME172 Family
• Model: MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE
• Processor: Typically features a Motorola MC68040 or MC68LC040 microprocessor
• Processor Speed: Operating frequency in the range of 25-40 MHz depending on specific configuration
• Memory: Includes onboard RAM (typically 4-16 MB) and flash memory for firmware storage
• VMEbus Compatibility: Full compliance with VMEbus specifications for seamless integration into VME chassis
• I/O Interfaces: Multiple serial ports, parallel ports, and Ethernet connectivity
• Form Factor: Standard 6U VME form factor for mounting in VME chassis
• Operating Temperature: Designed for extended temperature ranges for industrial and military applications
• Real-Time Capabilities: Optimized for real-time operating systems such as VxWorks, OS-9, and others

Advantages and Key Features

The MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE offers several distinct advantages that make it a preferred choice for embedded computing applications:

• Proven Architecture: The MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE is based on the industry-standard 68040 processor architecture, which has a long history of reliable performance in demanding applications and extensive software support.
• VMEbus Standard: By utilizing the open VMEbus standard, the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE can be combined with hundreds of compatible I/O modules from various manufacturers, providing tremendous system design flexibility.
• Rugged Construction: Built to withstand harsh environments, the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE features robust construction and components selected for extended temperature operation and resistance to shock and vibration.
• Comprehensive I/O: With multiple integrated I/O interfaces, the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE reduces the need for additional cards in many applications, saving valuable chassis slots and simplifying system design.
• Long-Term Availability: Motorola’s commitment to the embedded market ensured that the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE remained available for extended periods, supporting long product lifecycles typical in industrial and defense applications.
• Software Support: Extensive support for real-time operating systems and development tools makes the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE a developer-friendly platform for complex embedded applications.

Application Fields and Use Cases

The primary application domain for the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE spans across industries requiring robust embedded computing. Specific use cases include:

• Industrial Control: Used in factory automation and process control systems where the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE serves as the central processor for coordinating machine operations, data acquisition, and operator interface functions.
• Defense and Aerospace: Employed in military systems including radar processing, command and control, and avionics test equipment where the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE provides the computing power needed for mission-critical applications.
• Telecommunications: Integrated into telecom infrastructure equipment where the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE handles call processing, network management, and signal processing functions.
• Medical Imaging: Utilized in diagnostic medical equipment such as CT scanners and MRI systems where the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE processes image data and controls system operations.
• Transportation: Deployed in railway signaling and control systems where the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE provides reliable computing for safety-critical applications.

Comparison with Competing Products

When compared to similar VMEbus single-board computers from competitors like Force Computers or PEP Modular Computers, the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE holds its own with specific strengths:

• Motorola Heritage: As a product from Motorola, a company with deep expertise in both microprocessors and embedded systems, the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE benefits from exceptional design and manufacturing quality.
• 68040 Performance: The 68040 processor in the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE offered excellent performance for its era, particularly for integer operations common in control applications.
• Ecosystem Support: The widespread adoption of Motorola VME boards meant that the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE was supported by an extensive ecosystem of software tools, I/O modules, and integration services.
• Legacy Compatibility: For systems originally designed around Motorola processors, the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE provides a compatible upgrade or replacement path that preserves existing software investments.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

When selecting and installing the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE, consider the following:

• Application Requirements: Evaluate the processing power, memory, and I/O requirements of your application to ensure the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE provides adequate capabilities with room for future needs.
• Software Compatibility: Verify that your operating system and application software are compatible with the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE processor and onboard devices, particularly if migrating from a different platform.
• Firmware Configuration: Check the firmware version on the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE to ensure it supports the required boot options and hardware configuration for your application.
• VME Chassis Compatibility: Ensure that your VME chassis provides adequate power, cooling, and backplane support for the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE along with other modules in the system.
• Environmental Considerations: Verify that the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE operating temperature range matches your installation environment, especially for outdoor or unconditioned locations.
• ESD Precautions: Like all sensitive electronic components, the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE must be handled using proper Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection during installation and maintenance.
• Source Verification: Due to the age and specialized nature of these boards, source the MOTOROLA VME172PA-652SE from reputable suppliers who can verify functionality and provide appropriate warranty coverage.

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