Motorola MVME5500-0161 Single-Board Computer

The Motorola MVME5500-0161 stands as the flagship VMEbus Single-Board Computer in Motorola’s industrial computing lineup, engineered for high-performance, data-intensive applications in demanding environments. Powered by the 1GHz MPC7457 PowerPC G4 processor with integrated AltiVec coprocessor, the Motorola MVME5500-0161 delivers exceptional computational capabilities, making it ideal for complex signal processing and real-time control tasks.

Designed with a balanced system architecture, the Motorola MVME5500-0161 features a powerful Marvell system controller supporting 133MHz host and memory buses, ensuring optimal data flow between the processor, 512MB SDRAM, and dual 64-bit PCI buses. As a critical component in industrial automation, defense, and aerospace systems, the Motorola MVME5500-0161 provides seamless integration with existing VMEbus infrastructure while offering enhanced performance for technology refresh initiatives.

Detailed Parameter Table

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

High-performance processing: The Motorola MVME5500-0161 leverages the MPC7457 PowerPC G4 processor’s 1GHz clock speed and AltiVec coprocessor to deliver parallel processing capabilities, accelerating vector operations and multimedia tasks by up to 4x compared to previous generations. This enables efficient handling of data-intensive applications like radar signal processing and industrial machine vision.

Balanced I/O architecture: The Motorola MVME5500-0161 incorporates dual independent 64-bit PCI buses operating at 33/66MHz, each with dedicated PMC sites supporting both 33MHz and 66MHz cards. The Universe II VME interface and PMCspan connector are isolated on a dedicated 33MHz PCI segment, ensuring uncompromised performance of both PMC sites at full 66MHz speed—critical for high-throughput applications.

Rugged environmental design: Certified to operate in extreme conditions, the Motorola MVME5500-0161 withstands temperatures from -40°C to +71°C, 95% non-condensing humidity, and altitudes up to 45,000ft. Its IP65 protection rating ensures resistance to dust and water ingress, making the Motorola MVME5500-0161 suitable for harsh industrial and outdoor deployment scenarios.

Flexible connectivity: Equipped with Gigabit Ethernet and 10/100BaseTX interfaces, the Motorola MVME5500-0161 enables high-speed data transfer to supervisory systems and remote devices. Two serial ports provide additional connectivity for legacy equipment, while the PMC expansion capability allows customization with specialized I/O modules for specific application requirements.

Typical Application Scenarios

In defense and aerospace applications, the Motorola MVME5500-0161 serves as the processing core for radar systems, avionics test platforms, and unmanned vehicle control systems. Its rugged design withstands the vibration, temperature extremes, and electromagnetic interference common in these environments, while the AltiVec coprocessor accelerates target detection algorithms and sensor fusion tasks.

Within industrial automation, the Motorola MVME5500-0161 powers high-precision manufacturing equipment, including semiconductor fabrication tools and industrial robots. Its real-time processing capabilities ensure sub-millisecond control loop response, while dual Ethernet interfaces enable simultaneous connection to plant-wide SCADA systems and local I/O networks. In transportation systems, the Motorola MVME5500-0161 manages train signaling and traffic control systems, leveraging its reliability to maintain operational continuity in mission-critical infrastructure.

Installation Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing the Motorola MVME5500-0161, ensure the VME chassis is powered off and properly grounded to prevent electrostatic discharge. Verify the chassis supports 6U VME form factor and provides adequate cooling (minimum 10CFM airflow). Align the module’s edge connectors with the chassis backplane, gently insert until fully seated, and secure with front-panel screws. Connect Ethernet and serial cables, ensuring proper shielding for industrial environments.

Maintenance suggestions: Periodically inspect the Motorola MVME5500-0161 for dust accumulation and ensure ventilation paths remain unobstructed. Monitor operating temperatures to prevent exceedance of the -40°C to +71°C range. Update firmware through the VxWorks or Linux command line interface using Motorola’s official update utility. For communication issues, verify PCI bus termination and check PMC module seating; for processing errors, run memory diagnostics via the onboard test utility.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

The Motorola MVME5500-0161 is backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Our global technical support team provides 24/7 assistance for installation guidance, firmware updates, and troubleshooting via email and online portals. We maintain a comprehensive inventory of spare parts in strategic locations worldwide to ensure rapid replacement of the Motorola MVME5500-0161 and related components, minimizing downtime for critical applications.

For extended support needs, customizable service level agreements (SLAs) are available, including scheduled preventive maintenance and priority technical response. Emerson, as the successor to Motorola’s industrial computing division, remains committed to providing long-term lifecycle support for the Motorola MVME5500-0161, ensuring investment protection for our customers.