Description

Motorola MVME2600 | Legacy Automation VME Processor

2. Unboxing & Physical Snapshot

Model & Brand: Motorola MVME2600 VMEbus Single Board Computer family. The MVME2600 series uses PowerPC processors and combines processor, memory, VMEbus, PCI, Ethernet, SCSI, and PMC expansion functions in a single 6U VME module. The family includes MVME2603 (PowerPC 603) and MVME2604 (PowerPC 604) variants.
Approximate Physical Dimensions (W × H × D):
- Base board: approximately 233 × 160 × 20 mm (9.2 × 6.3 × 0.8 in.)
- With front panel and connectors: approximately 262 × 188 × 20 mm (10.3 × 7.4 × 0.8 in.)
Estimated Shipping Weight: Approximately 1.3–1.6 kg (2.9–3.5 lb) including ESD shielding, front panel protection, and transport packaging.
What’s in the Box:
- Motorola MVME2600 VME single board computer
- Front panel assembly
- Anti-static (ESD) shielding bag
- Protective foam packaging
- Installed memory modules when supplied
- Flash/boot firmware devices as configured
- Asset identification label and traceability documentation

3. Product Introduction

The Motorola MVME2600 mounts directly into a 6U VMEbus chassis, where the rear connectors interface with the VME backplane and system I/O structure. Correct slot assignment, backplane compatibility, and cooling airflow must be confirmed before installation. Use the extraction handles during insertion and removal. Do not press on the PCB surface because mechanical stress can damage connectors and solder joints.

This controller family was developed for embedded computing systems requiring long service intervals, including industrial automation, instrumentation, and specialized control platforms. The architecture combines PowerPC processing, ECC-capable memory options, PCI expansion through PMC interfaces, Ethernet communication, SCSI storage support, and VMEbus system controller functions (which remains useful when maintaining legacy equipment with validated software environments). Inspect the memory modules, battery-backed components, PMC connectors, and board surface before returning stored inventory to operation.

4. Core Technical Specifications

Parameter	Value
Manufacturer	Motorola
Model Number	MVME2600 Series
Product Type	6U VME Single Board Computer
Processor Options	PowerPC MPC603 / MPC604
Processor Frequency	200 MHz / 333 MHz / 400 MHz options
L2 Cache	Optional 256 KB
Main Memory	16 MB to 512 MB ECC DRAM configurations
Flash Memory	1 MB onboard Flash; larger RAM module options available
VME Interface	VME64 compatible
VME Data Width	D8/D16/D32/D64 block transfer support
VME Addressing	A16/A24/A32
PCI Interface	Local PCI bus architecture
PMC Expansion	IEEE P1386.1 PMC support
Ethernet Interface	Integrated Ethernet support
SCSI Interface	Integrated SCSI support
Serial Ports	Synchronous/asynchronous serial interfaces
NVRAM	Battery-backed NVRAM with real-time clock
Watchdog Timer	Hardware watchdog support
Power Input	+5 VDC, +12 VDC, -12 VDC rails
Typical Power Consumption	Approximately 25–40 W depending on CPU and memory configuration
Cooling Method	Forced-air VME chassis cooling
Operating Temperature	0°C to +55°C
Storage Temperature	-40°C to +85°C

Motorola MVME2600

5. Global Compliance & Industry Certifications

Expected regulatory approvals and compliance considerations for the Motorola MVME2600 include:

CE Mark compliance when installed within a qualified equipment assembly
UL/cUL recognition where applicable to the complete VME system
FCC Class A industrial computing emissions considerations
IEEE 1014 VMEbus compatibility
VME64 interface compliance
RoHS compliance depending on manufacturing date and refurbishment history
ATEX/IECEx suitability only when integrated into an approved hazardous-area enclosure
Marine approvals such as DNV GL only for specifically certified equipment packages

CE and EMC compliance are generally evaluated at the complete system level. The chassis shielding, power supply filtering, grounding arrangement, and external cable routing all influence final certification performance.

Verify specific lot certifications with OEM.

6. Long-Term Storage & Asset Preservation Guide

Keep the MVME2600 inside an original anti-static (ESD) shielding bag during warehouse storage. Protect the VME edge connectors, PMC contacts, and rear interface pins from oxidation and contamination.

Inspect battery-backed NVRAM components before installation. Extended shelf storage can affect backup batteries and older components, especially on boards that have remained unused for many years.

Maintain warehouse humidity below 60% RH. Avoid rapid temperature changes and corrosive storage areas. Before deployment, record the serial number, CPU type, memory size, Flash image version, and PCB condition in the asset management system.

7. Physical Installation Prerequisites

Install only in a compatible 6U VMEbus chassis.
Verify VME64 backplane compatibility before insertion.
Confirm slot configuration and system controller settings.
Use extraction handles and card guides correctly.
Maintain continuous forced-air cooling through the chassis.
Leave approximately 50 mm clearance around airflow paths where practical.
Confirm chassis protective earth grounding.
Inspect VME connector fingers and PMC interfaces before energization.
Verify installed firmware and operating system compatibility before commissioning.

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

Q: What HS Tariff Code is commonly used for the Motorola MVME2600?

A: VME single board computers are commonly evaluated under HS classifications covering electronic computing assemblies, often within HS 8471 categories. The final tariff classification depends on the declared function and the importing country’s customs interpretation.

Q: Does Country of Origin affect importing the Motorola MVME2600?

A: Yes. COO affects customs clearance, supplier qualification records, and industrial asset traceability. Confirm the origin from the board label, commercial invoice, and supplier documentation before shipment.

Q: Is shipping insurance recommended for the MVME2600?

A: Recommended. The module contains PowerPC processor electronics, memory assemblies, and precision VME connectors. Use ESD protection, impact-resistant packaging, moisture control, and documented receiving inspection.

Q: Does the MVME2600 include the latest firmware pre-loaded?

A: Firmware depends on the installed Flash contents and previous application history. The board supports boot ROM/Flash-based firmware, but the correct boot image, operating environment, and application software must be verified against the target VME system before commissioning.