MOTOROLA VME-162PA-242E

• Bus Interface: VMEbus (VME64 compliant), 32-bit data path, 32-bit addressing
• I/O Interfaces:
  • Two serial communication ports (RS-232/422/485) using 9-pin D-sub connectors
  • Ethernet interface: 10BASE-T or 10/100BASE-TX via RJ-45 connector
  • SCSI interface (optional): For external storage connectivity
  • Parallel I/O (optional): For general-purpose digital input/output
• Expansion and Mezzanine Support:
  • On-board site for optional daughter cards or memory expansion
  • Compatible with Motorola MVME series add-on modules
• Power Requirements:
  • +5 VDC nominal
  • Typical power consumption: 3–5 W (depending on configuration and load)
• Operating Temperature:
  • Commercial: 0°C to +55°C
  • Extended (ruggedized): -40°C to +85°C
• Storage Temperature: -55°C to +100°C
• Environmental Tolerance:
  • Humidity: 5% to 95% relative humidity, non-condensing
  • Designed for high vibration and shock resistance in industrial and military applications

Functional Features

• Real-Time Processing: Optimized for deterministic performance in real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• On-Board Firmware:
  • Motorola’s VMEBOOT or compatible firmware for system initialization
  • Network boot support (TFTP, RARP)
  • Field-upgradable firmware via serial or network interface
• Operating System Support:
  • VxWorks, OS-9, Linux (embedded variants), and other RTOS platforms
  • Compatible with Motorola’s system development tools
• System Management:
  • Watchdog timer for automatic system recovery
  • Hardware reset and power-on self-test (POST)
  • LED indicators for power, CPU activity, and communication status
• Security and Reliability:
  • Write-protected boot memory to prevent unauthorized modification
  • ECC memory support for error detection and correction
  • Designed for continuous operation in unattended environments

Mechanical and Compliance Standards

• Cooling: Air-cooled design; suitable for conduction-cooled enclosures with appropriate adapter kits
• Mounting: Standard VME card cage installation with front panel or rear I/O options
• EMI/EMC Compliance: Meets FCC, CE, and industrial electromagnetic compatibility standards
• Safety Standards: Compliant with UL, CSA, and IEC safety regulations
• RoHS Compliance: Available in lead-free and environmentally compliant versions

Applications

• Industrial Automation: PLCs, motion controllers, and process monitoring systems
• Telecommunications: Network switches, base station controllers, and protocol processors
• Defense and Aerospace: Avionics computers, radar control units, and electronic warfare systems
• Transportation: Onboard train control, traffic signal management, and rail signaling
• Medical Equipment: Imaging systems and diagnostic devices requiring long-term stability
• Test and Measurement: Data acquisition systems, embedded test platforms, and laboratory controllers

Manufacturer and Support
The MVME162PA-242E was originally developed and manufactured by Motorola’s Embedded Communications Computing (ECC) division, which was later acquired by GE Fanuc Embedded Systems (now part of GE Automation & Controls). As a legacy product, it is no longer in active production but remains in use in many long-life-cycle industrial and military systems. Technical documentation, firmware, and support are available through GE and authorized industrial automation suppliers. The module is widely supported in legacy VME systems and continues to be available through specialized distributors and surplus markets for system maintenance and upgrades.