1. Motorola MVME55006E-0163 | Authentic Embedded Computer Unit

2. Unboxing & Physical Snapshot

• Model & Brand: Motorola MVME55006E-0163
• Product Type: 6U VMEbus single-board computer (SBC) designed for industrial embedded computing, real-time control, instrumentation, and long-life automation platforms. The MVME5500 series uses a 1 GHz MPC7457 PowerPC processor, 512 MB SDRAM, dual PCI buses, and PMC expansion capability.
• Approximate Physical Dimensions (W × H × D):
  • Standard 6U VME64X format
  • Approximately 233 × 160 mm board footprint
  • Depth varies with PMC modules and rear transition assemblies.
• Estimated Shipping Weight: Approximately 0.6-1.2 kg including ESD shielding, foam protection, and transport packaging.
• What’s in the Box:
  • Motorola MVME55006E-0163 VME processor board
  • IEEE-style front panel handles
  • Installed MPC7457 PowerPC processor
  • ECC SDRAM memory
  • Flash memory devices
  • VME backplane connector assembly
  • Anti-static (ESD) shielding bag
  • Conductive foam insert
  • Documentation package when supplied

3. Product Introduction

The Motorola MVME55006E-0163 installs into a 6U VME64X chassis backplane and operates as the primary embedded computing controller within the rack architecture. Its VME interface, PCI buses, PMC expansion positions, and rear I/O options allow it to communicate with specialized industrial peripherals and application-specific hardware (which is critical for facilities maintaining validated computing platforms with long replacement cycles).

This board is normally retained as a controlled spare rather than a general electronic replacement. The PowerPC processor, ECC memory, flash storage, and expansion interfaces must match the existing application baseline. Confirm the boot image, operating system, PMC population, memory configuration, and chassis compatibility before installation. The -0163 version is identified with IEEE handles and a 1 GHz MPC7457 processor with 512 MB SDRAM.

4. Core Technical Specifications

Parameter	Value
Manufacturer	Motorola
Model	MVME55006E-0163
Product Family	MVME5500 Series
Product Type	VMEbus Single Board Computer
Form Factor	6U VME64X
Processor	MPC7457 PowerPC
Processor Frequency	1 GHz
L2 Cache	512 KB on-chip
L3 Cache	2 MB external cache
SDRAM Memory	512 MB ECC SDRAM
Flash Memory	32 MB + 8 MB flash banks
VME Interface	VME64X compatible
PCI Architecture	Dual independent 64-bit PCI buses
PMC Expansion	Two PMC sites
Ethernet Interface	Gigabit Ethernet + 10/100Base-TX Ethernet
Serial Interfaces	Two serial ports
Expansion Support	PMC / PrPMC compatibility
Operating System Support	VxWorks and other embedded OS platforms (application dependent)
Supply Voltage	+5 VDC from VME backplane
Power Consumption	Approximately 30 W class depending on configuration
Heat Dissipation	Primarily from processor, memory, PCI bridge, and interface devices
Cooling Method	Forced-air VME chassis cooling
Operating Temperature	Industrial commercial range
Storage Temperature	Approximately -40°C to +85°C

Motorola MVME55006E-0163

5. ? Global Compliance & Industry Certifications

Expected regulatory considerations for the Motorola MVME55006E-0163 include:

• CE Mark: Applicable when installed within a compliant enclosure and evaluated as part of the complete equipment assembly.
• UL/cUL Recognition: Generally evaluated at the system chassis level rather than the individual VME processor board.
• RoHS Compliance: Verify based on manufacturing revision because original MVME5500 production spans the transition period of environmental regulations.
• ATEX / IECEx: Not a standalone hazardous-area certified product. Hazardous-location suitability requires certification of the complete installed control system.
• Marine Approvals (DNV GL): Applicable only when integrated into approved marine automation or control equipment.

For legacy VME assets, compliance records should include board revision, serial number, firmware image, and installed expansion hardware. A functionally compatible board without matching configuration history can create maintenance audit concerns.

Verify specific lot certifications with OEM.

6. ? Long-Term Storage & Asset Preservation Guide

Keep the MVME55006E-0163 inside its original anti-static shielding bag during warehouse storage. The VME edge connector fingers, processor package, and memory devices require protection from electrostatic discharge and airborne contamination.

Maintain storage humidity below 60% RH. Avoid locations with condensation cycles because oxidation on connector contacts may produce intermittent VME communication faults after installation.

Inspect the board every 12-24 months. Check the IEEE front panel handles, connector plating, flash memory area, battery-backed components, and PCB condition. For extended storage periods, perform a controlled power-up test with verified firmware before returning the board to service.

7. Physical Installation Prerequisites

• Install the MVME55006E-0163 only in a compatible 6U VME64X chassis.
• Confirm backplane support for VME64X signaling and required PCI/PMC resources.
• Verify forced-air cooling before operation.
• Maintain clear airflow paths through the card cage.
• Leave sufficient spacing around adjacent boards to prevent thermal buildup.
• Inspect VME connectors before insertion.
• Confirm chassis grounding and protective earth bonding.
• Verify +5 VDC backplane supply stability.
• Confirm PMC modules, rear transition modules, and boot firmware compatibility before commissioning.

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

Q: What HS Tariff Code is commonly used for a Motorola MVME55006E-0163 shipment?

A: VME single-board computers are commonly reviewed under HS classifications associated with electronic computing assemblies, often within HS 8471 or related electronic board categories. Final classification depends on customs interpretation and the declared function of the imported equipment.

Q: Does Country of Origin (COO) documentation affect this VME controller shipment?

A: Yes. COO records support customs clearance, warranty tracking, and critical spare inventory documentation. For refurbished boards, retain manufacturer identification, refurbishment records, and shipment origin details.

Q: Should this PowerPC VME board be shipped with insurance?

A: Recommended. The MVME55006E-0163 contains processor silicon, ECC memory, VME connectors, and expansion interfaces. Shock, vibration, or moisture exposure may cause failures that appear only during system startup.

Q: Does the MVME55006E-0163 include the latest firmware pre-loaded?

A: The board includes factory firmware storage, but the installed image depends on previous service history and application requirements. Verify PPCBug firmware revision, operating system image, and customer-specific application software before installation.