1. Motorola MVME167-34B | 32MB ECC Memory Board

2. Unboxing & Physical Snapshot

• Brand & Model: Motorola MVME167-34B
• Product Family: Motorola MVME167 Series VME Single Board Computer.
• Product Type: 6U VMEbus embedded single-board computer designed for industrial control, instrumentation, and long-life computing platforms.
• Processor Architecture: Motorola MC68040 32-bit microprocessor.
• Processor Speed: 33 MHz.
• Memory Configuration: 32 MB ECC DRAM onboard memory. The -34B variant identifies the 33 MHz processor version with 32 MB ECC DRAM.
• Approximate Physical Dimensions:
  • PCB assembly: approximately 233 × 160 × 16.8 mm
  • Front panel installed: approximately 262 × 188 × 20 mm
• Estimated Shipping Weight: Approximately 1.0–1.5 kg (2.2–3.3 lb) including ESD protection packaging.
• Mounting Style: 6U VME rack installation using standard VME P1/P2 backplane connectors.
• Board Construction:
  • Multi-layer industrial PCB
  • Aluminum front panel
  • VMEbus interface connectors
  • ROM socket banks
  • Battery-backed memory section
• Hardware Interfaces:
  • SCSI mass storage interface
  • Four serial ports
  • Ethernet transceiver interface
  • VMEbus system controller functions
• Memory and Storage Components:
  • 32 MB ECC DRAM
  • 128 KB SRAM with optional battery backup
  • Four 44-pin PLCC ROM sockets
• Front Panel Features:
  • Status LEDs
  • Reset and abort switches
  • Serial communication access
  • System indicators
• What’s in the Box:
  • Motorola MVME167-34B CPU board
  • Anti-static ESD shielding bag
  • Protective foam insert
  • Documentation when supplied

3. Product Introduction

The Motorola MVME167-34B mounts into a 6U VME chassis as the main processing board for legacy embedded computing systems. Built around the MC68040 processor, this module combines ECC memory, VMEbus control capability, SCSI storage support, and multiple communication interfaces in a compact rack-based assembly (which remains valuable where existing software and machine validation records must be preserved).

Inspect it before installation. The connector contacts, battery-backed SRAM area, ROM sockets, and solder joints deserve attention after long storage periods. Check the date code. For older VME assets, environmental history often matters more than operating hours.

4. Core Technical Specifications

Parameter	Value
Manufacturer	Motorola
Model Number	MVME167-34B
Product Type	VMEbus Single Board Computer
Form Factor	6U Double-Height VME
Processor	Motorola MC68040
CPU Frequency	33 MHz
Memory Type	ECC DRAM
Memory Capacity	32 MB onboard ECC DRAM
SRAM	128 KB battery-backed SRAM
ROM Support	Four 44-pin PLCC ROM sockets
SCSI Interface	DMA-supported SCSI controller
Serial Interfaces	Four EIA-232-D serial ports
Ethernet Interface	External Ethernet transceiver interface
VMEbus Interface	A16/A24/A32 addressing, D8/D16/D32 transfers
Timers	Four 32-bit tick timers
Watchdog Timer	Supported
Real-Time Clock	Battery-backed time-of-day clock
Power Input	+5 VDC, +12 VDC, -12 VDC
Typical +5 VDC Current	Approximately 3 A
Maximum Power Dissipation	Approximately 23 W
Cooling Method	Forced rack airflow

Motorola MVME167-34B

5. Global Compliance & Industry Certifications

Expected regulatory considerations for the Motorola MVME167-34B include:

• CE Mark — applicable when installed within a compliant VME chassis and complete equipment enclosure meeting EMC requirements.
• UL/cUL Recognition — generally assessed at the equipment or system level rather than the standalone processor board.
• RoHS Compliance — depends on manufacturing date because MVME167 products were introduced before current environmental directives.
• FCC Class A Considerations — may apply when installed in a properly configured industrial enclosure with correct shielding and grounding.
• ATEX/IECEx — the board itself is not automatically certified for hazardous areas. A complete certified enclosure and system evaluation are required.
• Marine Approvals (DNV GL, ABS, LR) — applicable only when integrated into an approved marine automation system.

For legacy automation equipment, compliance documentation is usually maintained against the complete rack assembly rather than an individual replacement CPU board.

Verify specific lot certifications with OEM.

6. Long-Term Storage & Asset Preservation Guide

• Keep the MVME167-34B inside its original anti-static (ESD) shielding bag. Static discharge can damage memory devices, ROM components, and interface circuitry.
• Inspect the battery-backed SRAM and clock battery before installation. Leakage from aging cells can damage PCB traces and nearby components.
• Maintain warehouse humidity below 60% RH. Connector oxidation is one of the most common storage-related issues with older VME boards.
• Store the board horizontally with support under the PCB. Avoid pressure on the front panel, ejector area, or connector edge.
• During inventory checks, inspect ROM sockets, capacitor bodies, connector plating, and solder joints.

7. Physical Installation Prerequisites

• Install the MVME167-34B only in a compatible 6U VME chassis.
• Confirm VME backplane wiring, slot assignment, and system controller settings before power application.
• Inspect P1/P2 connectors for contamination or bent contacts.
• Verify protective earth bonding between chassis and cabinet ground.
• Maintain adequate airflow through the rack. Leave at least 50 mm clearance above and below the rack assembly where cabinet airflow depends on open convection paths.
• Confirm cooling fan operation before continuous service.
• Use ESD protection when inserting or removing the board.
• Verify EPROM contents and application software compatibility before commissioning.
  

  Motorola MVME167-34B

8. Buyer’s FAQ (Logistics & Compliance Focus)

Q: What HS Tariff Code is commonly used for the Motorola MVME167-34B?

A: VME single-board computers are commonly reviewed under HS classifications related to electronic computing assemblies, often within 8471 categories. The final code depends on the importing country, declared function, and customs interpretation.

Q: Why does Country of Origin matter for this Motorola VME board?

A: Country of Origin documentation supports customs clearance, supplier qualification, warranty tracking, and regulated spare asset records. Maintain the serial label, purchase records, and shipment documents together.

Q: Should shipping insurance be included for the MVME167-34B?

A: Recommended. This module contains legacy processor electronics, ECC memory, battery-backed SRAM, and precision VME connectors. Shock, moisture, or electrostatic exposure during transport may cause startup failures.

Q: Does the MVME167-34B include the latest firmware pre-loaded?

A: Firmware depends on the installed ROM contents and the target application environment. Legacy VME systems frequently use customized boot images or operating software. Verify the existing ROM configuration before replacement.