🖥️ Product Overview – Motorola MVME117A
The Motorola MVME117A is a high-performance VMEbus single-board computer (SBC) designed for industrial automation, embedded control, and mission-critical applications. Renowned for its reliability and versatility, the MVME117A supports real-time processing, multi-channel communication, and robust I/O interfacing, making it ideal for environments such as factory automation, transportation systems, and energy management platforms.
This module integrates a powerful 68K-series microprocessor with on-board memory and peripheral interfaces, providing deterministic control and stable operation in harsh industrial conditions. Its modular VME architecture allows seamless integration into VME chassis with other modules for scalable system design. The MVME117A is widely used in applications where high reliability, long operational life, and low maintenance requirements are critical.
⚙️ Technical Specifications (Datasheet)
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Model | MVME117A |
| Processor | Motorola 68030 @ 25 MHz |
| Bus Type | VMEbus, 16-bit and 32-bit data transfer |
| On-board Memory | 2 MB RAM, 128 KB ROM (EEPROM for boot) |
| Memory Expansion | Supports VMEbus memory expansion modules |
| I/O Interfaces | Parallel and serial ports, programmable timers, interrupts |
| Serial Ports | 2 x RS-232/422 |
| Parallel Ports | 1 x 16-bit programmable parallel port |
| Watchdog Timer | On-board watchdog for system reliability |
| Operating System Support | VxWorks, RTEMS, UNIX variants |
| Power Supply | +5 VDC ±5%, +12 VDC optional |
| Power Consumption | 10 W typical |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +55°C (industrial grade –20°C to +70°C available) |
| Storage Temperature | –40°C to +85°C |
| Humidity | 5–95% non-condensing |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 233.35 × 160 × 20 mm (standard 6U VME form factor) |
| Weight | Approx. 0.8 kg |
| MTBF | >100,000 hours |
| Compliance | CE, UL, RoHS |
🔧 Key Features
- High Reliability Processor: Motorola 68030 CPU provides deterministic and real-time performance.
- VMEbus Compatibility: Seamless integration with 6U VME chassis for modular system design.
- Flexible I/O: Multiple serial, parallel, and programmable ports for versatile connectivity.
- On-board Boot ROM: Supports network boot or local EEPROM boot for flexible system initialization.
- Watchdog Timer: Protects against system crashes or software lockups.
- Industrial-Grade Design: Handles wide temperature ranges, vibration, and electrical noise.
- Long Service Life: Designed for mission-critical and long-term applications.
- OS Support: Compatible with embedded operating systems for real-time control.
🛠️ Installation and Maintenance Guidelines
Installation:
- Insert the MVME117A module into a compatible VME chassis ensuring proper alignment with backplane connectors.
- Connect power supply lines, serial, and parallel interfaces according to system requirements.
- Verify system boot via diagnostic LEDs or console output to confirm operational integrity.
- Maintain proper airflow within the chassis to prevent overheating.
Maintenance:
- Regularly inspect connector pins for corrosion or wear.
- Perform memory and diagnostic checks during preventive maintenance intervals.
- Update firmware and system software to maintain compatibility with industrial control applications.
- Replace modules showing intermittent errors, physical damage, or degraded performance.
🏭 Applications
- Factory automation and control systems
- Embedded control in transportation systems (rail, aviation)
- Power generation monitoring and SCADA integration
- Industrial robotics and process control
- Military and aerospace embedded computing
- Telecommunications switching systems
📰 Industrial News Insight
Embedded computing in industrial environments is increasingly moving toward modular, high-reliability VME solutions to ensure predictable real-time performance. Modules like the MVME117A are central to this trend, providing the backbone for mission-critical automation and control systems. The growth of Industry 4.0 has further emphasized the need for robust, long-lifecycle SBCs capable of handling both legacy systems and modern networked control architectures. Predictive maintenance and integrated system diagnostics are becoming standard, highlighting the importance of reliable computing modules that minimize downtime and enhance operational efficiency.
🔍 Recommended Similar Products
| Model | Description | Processor | Function | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MVME162 | Motorola 68040 VME SBC | 68040 | High-speed processing, VME interface | View Product |
| MVME147 | Motorola 68030 VME SBC | 68030 | Embedded control with serial I/O | View Product |
| MVME167 | High-performance VME SBC | 68060 | Real-time control & network integration | View Product |
| MVME177 | 68060 VME SBC | 68060 | Embedded applications & SCADA | View Product |
| MVME5500 | PowerPC VME SBC | PowerPC 7448 | High-speed industrial computing | View Product |
🔗 Learn more at:
👉 https://www.dcsplcsystem.com/
👉 https://www.dcsplcsystem.com/
💡 Summary:
The Motorola MVME117A is a robust, industrial-grade single-board computer offering high-performance real-time processing, versatile I/O, and VMEbus modularity. Its reliability, long lifecycle, and embedded operating system compatibility make it ideal for automation, control, and mission-critical embedded applications, supporting the modern industrial trend toward smart, connected, and high-reliability systems.

