Motorola MVME5500 6U VME64x Single‑Board Computer

The Motorola MVME5500 is a high‑performance 6U VME64x single‑board computer built around the MPC7455 / MPC7457 PowerPC processor. It serves as the main controller and computing node for VME‑bus embedded real‑time systems, supporting dual PMC expansion sites and high‑speed network interfaces.

This rugged single‑slot SBC integrates ECC memory, flash storage, multi‑port Ethernet and serial communication circuits. Original production has been discontinued. It is widely stocked as aftermarket spare parts for industrial control, aerospace, medical imaging and legacy VME rack upgrade projects.

Main Specifications

1. Brand:Motorola / Emerson; Model:MVME5500; Type:6U VME64x Single‑Board Computer(SBC)
2. CPU:MPC7455 or MPC7457 PowerPC processor at 1GHz, equipped with AltiVec coprocessor
3. Memory:On‑board ECC SDRAM, 2MB L3 cache, 8MB boot flash plus 32MB expansion flash
4. Expansion:Dual independent 64‑bit PCI buses, two PMC mezzanine card slots
5. Interfaces:Gigabit Ethernet, 10/100Mbps Ethernet, multiple RS232/422/485 serial ports
6. Mechanical:6U VME form factor, single VME slot installation, conformal coating optional
7. Supply Status:Original production discontinued, available as tested surplus or refurbished spare parts

Core Functions

1. Run real‑time operating systems and execute complex control or data processing algorithms for VME systems.
2. Act as VME bus master to exchange large‑volume data with other VME I/O and acquisition boards.
3. Extend system functions by installing PMC modules for extra I/O, communication or signal acquisition.
4. Implement high‑speed network data transmission through dual Ethernet controllers for remote monitoring.
5. Store boot firmware and application programs in on‑board flash memory without hard disk dependency.
6. Work as the central computing unit of rugged embedded systems under demanding environmental conditions.

Application Scenarios

1. Industrial real‑time control, aerospace equipment, medical imaging and high‑end test measurement systems.
2. Spare SBC replacement and routine maintenance of existing MVME series VME rack systems.
3. Technical renovation and computing performance upgrade of aging VME‑bus embedded control cabinets.
4. On‑site troubleshooting and replacement of failed single‑board computers on continuous critical equipment.
5. Spare‑parts stocking for system integrators and VME embedded system maintenance contractors.
6. Global aftermarket spare supply for technicians maintaining obsolete Motorola / Emerson VME hardware.

FAQ

1. Q:What bus standard does MVME5500 adopt?
   A:It follows VME64x specification and supports VME2eSST high‑speed data transfer mode.
2. Q:What are PMC slots used for?
   A:PMC slots allow users to add customized I/O, fieldbus, data acquisition or communication daughter boards.

3. Q:Is this VME single‑board computer still in original production?
   A:Motorola / Emerson has stopped manufacturing this model, only tested surplus and refurbished spare units are available.