Description
- Motorola MVME162PA-252SE | Traceable Legacy Controller
2. Unboxing & Physical Snapshot
- Model & Brand: Motorola MVME162PA-252SE
- Product Type: 6U VME Embedded Controller / Single Board Computer
- Application: Industrial embedded controller used in VMEbus-based automation, telecommunications, test systems, and legacy control platforms. The MVME162PA-252SE configuration includes a 25 MHz MC68040 processor, 32 MB SDRAM, SCSI interface, and Ethernet interface.
- Approximate Physical Dimensions (W × H × D):
- Width: approximately 233 mm
- Height: approximately 160 mm
- Depth: approximately 17 mm (PCB only)
- With front panel/connectors: approximately 262 × 188 × 20 mm
- Estimated Shipping Weight: Approximately 1.0–1.5 kg including ESD packaging.
- What’s in the Box:
- Motorola MVME162PA-252SE controller board
- Front panel assembly
- VMEbus edge connectors
- Installed MC68040 processor
- Memory devices
- ESD shielding bag
- Protective transport packaging
- Documentation when included with controlled inventory
3. Product Introduction
The Motorola MVME162PA-252SE installs directly into a 6U VMEbus chassis, where the backplane provides power, communication, and system integration. Its physical architecture was designed for embedded control applications requiring processor execution, local memory, SCSI storage access, and Ethernet communication within a fixed industrial enclosure (important for long-running systems where validated hardware configurations cannot be casually changed).
This controller belongs to the Motorola Computer Group MVME162 family, a legacy platform still maintained in many specialized installations. Replacement requires more than matching the board label. Verify boot firmware, VME addressing, memory configuration, and application compatibility before installation. Inspect the VME edge connector fingers, battery-backed components, socketed devices, and front-panel hardware carefully (age-related degradation often appears first in storage components and connectors).
4. Core Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Motorola |
| Model Number | MVME162PA-252SE |
| Product Type | VME Embedded Controller |
| Form Factor | 6U VME Single Board Computer |
| Processor | Motorola MC68040 |
| Processor Speed | 25 MHz |
| Cache | 8 KB internal cache |
| Floating Point Unit | Integrated in MC68040 processor |
| Main Memory | 32 MB SDRAM |
| Non-Volatile Memory | Battery-backed NVRAM |
| SRAM | Battery-backed SRAM |
| Storage Interface | SCSI interface |
| Network Interface | Ethernet interface |
| Expansion Interface | IndustryPack-compatible interfaces |
| Bus Architecture | VMEbus |
| Power Supply | +5 VDC, +12 VDC, -12 VDC from VME backplane |
| Typical Power Consumption | Approx. 17.5 W to 22 W depending on configuration |
| Heat Dissipation | Equivalent to operating electrical losses |
| Cooling Method | Forced-air chassis cooling |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +70°C exit air temperature |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Relative Humidity | 5–90% RH non-condensing |
Motorola MVME162PA-252SE
5. Global Compliance & Industry Certifications
Expected compliance considerations for this class of industrial embedded computer hardware include:
- CE Mark for applicable EMC requirements when installed within a compliant system enclosure.
- UL/cUL Listed or Recognized status depending on the final equipment assembly.
- ATEX/IECEx consideration only when installed as part of a certified hazardous-area system.
- Marine approvals such as DNV GL when incorporated into approved offshore or vessel control equipment.
For hazardous-area applications, the MVME162PA-252SE board itself does not provide explosion protection. The certified enclosure, power supply arrangement, wiring methods, and complete system approval determine suitability.
Verify specific lot certifications with OEM.
6. Long-Term Storage & Asset Preservation Guide
- Keep the MVME162PA-252SE inside an original anti-static (ESD) shielding bag during warehouse storage. Protect the VME connector contacts from oxidation and handling damage.
- Inspect the battery-backed SRAM and NVRAM components before installation. Legacy VME controllers frequently require battery evaluation after extended storage periods.
- Maintain storage humidity below 60% RH to reduce corrosion risk on connector surfaces and prevent PCB coating degradation.
Check the date code. A documented preservation history is often the difference between a usable spare and an unqualified shelf item.
7. Physical Installation Prerequisites
- Install only into a compatible 6U VMEbus chassis with matching backplane requirements.
- Verify VME slot assignment, address configuration, and system controller settings before power-up.
- Confirm chassis airflow capability. Forced-air cooling is required to maintain operating temperature limits.
- Verify backplane supply rails:
- +5 VDC
- +12 VDC
- -12 VDC
- Ensure chassis grounding and protective earth bonding are completed.
- Use ESD protection when handling the board.
- Confirm firmware image, boot parameters, SCSI configuration, and application software compatibility before returning the system to operation.
8. Buyer’s FAQ (Logistics & Compliance Focus)
Q: What HS Tariff Code is commonly reviewed for the Motorola MVME162PA-252SE?
A: Embedded computer boards are commonly evaluated under HS 8471 or related electronic processing equipment categories. The final classification depends on the importing country, declared function, and customs interpretation.
Q: Does Country of Origin (COO) documentation matter for this legacy VME controller?
A: Yes. COO records support customs processing, supplier qualification, and lifecycle traceability. Maintain the board label, serial information, purchase records, and receiving inspection documents.
Q: Should shipping insurance be purchased for the MVME162PA-252SE?
A: Yes. Legacy computer boards may contain difficult-to-source components, battery-backed memory devices, and irreplaceable firmware configurations. Use ESD packaging, shock protection, moisture barriers, and declared-value insurance.
Q: Does the Motorola MVME162PA-252SE include the latest firmware pre-loaded?
A: Firmware depends on the installed PROM/Flash image and the original application environment. Confirm the 162Bug firmware version, boot configuration, SCSI settings, and software compatibility before deployment.
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