Description
- Motorola MVME162-453 | Industrial Computer Interface Card
2. Unboxing & Physical Snapshot
- Model & Brand: Motorola MVME162-453
- Product Type: 6U VMEbus single-board embedded controller designed for industrial computer systems, instrumentation platforms, and legacy automation applications. The MVME162 family uses Motorola 68040/MC68LC040 processor architecture with integrated VMEbus control and industrial I/O capability.
- Approximate Physical Dimensions (W × H × D):
- Board assembly: approximately 233 × 160 × 17 mm
- With front panel and connectors: approximately 262 × 188 × 20 mm
- Double-height VME form factor.
- Estimated Shipping Weight: Approximately 1.0-1.5 kg including ESD packaging, protective foam, and shipping carton.
- What’s in the Box:
- Motorola MVME162-453 VME controller board
- Front panel assembly
- VMEbus connector interface
- Factory-installed memory and processor components
- Anti-static (ESD) shielding bag
- Protective conductive foam
- Documentation when supplied
3. Product Introduction
The Motorola MVME162-453 installs into a standard VME chassis backplane, occupying a double-height VME slot where the processor board becomes the control point for the embedded system architecture. The board communicates through the VMEbus interface while providing local processing, memory, serial communication, and optional storage interfaces (which is critical for maintaining legacy industrial computers still operating in production environments).
This controller belongs to an older generation of industrial computing hardware, but many MVME162 systems remain active in long-life applications because the installed software environment can be difficult to replace. The board contains battery-backed memory devices, processor circuitry, and multiple connectors that require careful preservation. Verify the exact processor revision, memory configuration, and installed firmware image before replacement.
4. Core Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Motorola |
| Model | MVME162-453 |
| Product Type | VME Embedded Controller Board |
| Form Factor | 6U Double-Height VMEbus Board |
| Processor | Motorola MC68040 / MC68LC040 family |
| Processor Speed | 25 MHz class |
| DRAM Memory | Configuration dependent (1 MB, 4 MB, or 8 MB versions available) |
| SRAM | 512 KB battery-backed SRAM |
| Non-Volatile Memory | 8 KB NVRAM with battery-backed clock functions |
| Flash Memory | Approximately 1 MB |
| VME Interface | VMEbus A16/A24/A32 addressing support |
| Data Transfer | D8/D16/D32 and block transfer modes depending on configuration |
| Serial Interfaces | Two serial ports |
| Ethernet Interface | Optional onboard Ethernet controller |
| SCSI Interface | Optional SCSI DMA controller |
| IndustryPack Support | Four IndustryPack expansion interfaces |
| Power Input | +5 VDC, +12 VDC, -12 VDC from VME backplane |
| Typical Power Consumption | Approximately 3.5 A at +5 VDC |
| Maximum +5 VDC Current | Approximately 4.5 A |
| Heat Dissipation | Approximately 18-25 W depending on installed options |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 70°C with forced-air cooling |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Relative Humidity | 5-90% RH non-condensing |
Motorola MVME162-453
5. ? Global Compliance & Industry Certifications
Expected regulatory considerations for the Motorola MVME162-453 include:
- CE Mark: May apply to complete equipment assemblies containing the board, depending on the final system enclosure and EMC evaluation.
- UL/cUL Recognition: Typically evaluated at the system chassis level rather than the individual VME board.
- RoHS Compliance: Original MVME162 production predates modern RoHS requirements; later refurbished or replacement inventory may have different compliance status.
- ATEX / IECEx: Not a standalone hazardous-area certified device. Any hazardous-area use requires evaluation of the complete certified control system.
- Marine Approvals (DNV GL): Applicable only when integrated into a certified marine automation platform.
Legacy computing hardware requires careful documentation control. An electrically compatible replacement may still create audit issues if revision history, export documentation, or safety declarations are incomplete.
Verify specific lot certifications with OEM.
6. ? Long-Term Storage & Asset Preservation Guide
Keep the MVME162-453 inside an original anti-static shielding bag whenever possible. The VME edge connectors, memory devices, and processor pins are vulnerable to oxidation and electrostatic damage.
Inspect the battery-backed components before long-term deployment. The onboard battery-supported SRAM and clock circuits may degrade during extended storage periods (battery leakage is a common failure point in older VME inventory).
Maintain warehouse humidity below 60% RH and avoid uncontrolled temperature cycling. Check the connector plating, front panel hardware, PCB coating condition, and date codes before installation into an active chassis.
7. Physical Installation Prerequisites
- Install the MVME162-453 only in a compatible 6U VMEbus chassis.
- Confirm the backplane supports required VME addressing and data transfer modes.
- Ensure forced-air cooling is available before operation.
- Leave adequate airflow clearance beneath and around the card cage.
- Verify VME backplane power rails:
- +5 VDC
- +12 VDC
- -12 VDC
- Inspect the VME edge connectors before insertion.
- Confirm chassis grounding and bonding requirements.
- Verify firmware, boot ROM, and operating software compatibility before startup.
8. Buyer’s FAQ (Logistics & Compliance Focus)
Q: What HS Tariff Code is commonly used for a Motorola MVME162-453 shipment?
A: Industrial computer boards are commonly reviewed under HS classifications related to electronic assemblies and automatic data processing equipment, often within HS 8471 or related electronic board categories. Final classification depends on customs interpretation and declared function.
Q: Does Country of Origin (COO) affect import documentation?
A: Yes. COO records support customs clearance, asset traceability, and maintenance documentation. Refurbished VME boards should include clear identification of original manufacturer, refurbishment status, and shipping origin.
Q: Is shipping insurance recommended for this VME controller?
A: Yes. The board contains legacy semiconductor devices, socketed components, and battery-backed memory circuits. Transportation shock, vibration, or moisture exposure can create intermittent failures that are difficult to diagnose after installation.
Q: Does the MVME162-453 include the latest firmware pre-loaded?
A: Firmware depends on the installed EPROM/Flash contents and previous service history. The board may contain Motorola 162BUG firmware or another application-specific boot image. Confirm the required firmware version before replacing an operational controller.
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