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Motorola MVME2301-900 Specialized 3U VMEbus Single-Board Computer

The Motorola MVME2301-900 is a powerful single-slot VME processor module widely used in industrial automation, aerospace, telecommunications, and defense systems. This module fits into control cabinets where real-time processing, precise control, and multi-protocol communications are mission-critical. It excels in applications requiring reliable data acquisition, signal processing, and network communications within harsh industrial environments.

Description

Real-World Use & Application Scenarios

The Motorola MVME2301-900 is a powerful single-slot VME processor module widely used in industrial automation, aerospace, telecommunications, and defense systems. This module fits into control cabinets where real-time processing, precise control, and multi-protocol communications are mission-critical. It excels in applications requiring reliable data acquisition, signal processing, and network communications within harsh industrial environments. Industrial control systems, SCADA stations, and embedded automation rely on the MVME2301-900 for its robust performance in processing control algorithms and managing multiple I/O simultaneously. Its compatibility with Ethernet networks and PMC expansion cards makes it adaptable in evolving automation setups where system uptime and control accuracy are paramount.

Product Introduction & Positioning

The Motorola MVME2301-900 belongs to the MVME2300 series, featuring Motorola’s PowerPC 603 or 604 microprocessors. Typically, it operates at speeds up to 300 MHz with 32-bit processing and dedicated instruction and data caches (in the order of 16KB/32KB for L1 cache depending on processor type). It integrates onboard ECC-protected DRAM memory ranging from 16MB to 128MB and up to 5MB of flash storage for firmware and application code. This board is designed to serve as the main processor in VMEbus-based embedded systems and industrial control racks, acting as the central processing node that manages communications, data processing, and control timing.

The module’s architecture supports flexible I/O through two PMC (PCI Mezzanine Card) expansion slots, front panel and P2 I/O options, as well as onboard Ethernet (10/100Base-T) and asynchronous serial debug ports. The MVME2301-900 is a preferred choice among system integrators for deploying scalable, reliable, and high-performance processing in modular industrial automation solutions.

MVME2301-900
MVME2301-900

Key Technical Features & Functional Benefits

At the core of the Motorola MVME2301-900 is the PowerPC 603 or 604 microprocessor providing 32-bit RISC architecture designed for embedded processing demands. With clock speeds up to 300 MHz and integrated split L1 caches, the module efficiently executes complex control logic and real-time data processing tasks accustomed to demanding automation environments.

This board supports ECC DRAM memory from 16MB to 128MB, ensuring data integrity through comprehensive error detection and correction, a critical requirement in mission-critical industrial automation systems. The memory system’s 66 MHz bus and burst-read/write capabilities facilitate fast and reliable access to data and instructions.

For I/O expandability, the two IEEE P1386.1 compliant PCI Mezzanine Card slots allow installation of a variety of I/O or communication modules (analog, digital, serial interfaces, etc.), greatly increasing the module’s flexibility to match system requirements. Additionally, the onboard Ethernet controller provides standard 10/100 Mbps networking capabilities with PCI local bus DMA support, enabling efficient communication to supervisory and control networks. Supplementary hardware peripherals such as multiple timers, watchdog timers, and a battery-backed real-time clock contribute to system stability, fault detection, and resilience.

Detailed Technical Specifications

Parameter Value
Model Motorola MVME2301-900
Brand Motorola
Product Type Single Board Computer (VMEbus module)
Processor PowerPC 603 or PowerPC 604 32-bit microprocessor
Processor Speed Up to 300 MHz
L1 Cache 16 KB/16 KB for PowerPC 603, 32 KB/32 KB for 604
Onboard Memory 16 MB to 128 MB ECC-protected DRAM
Flash Memory 3 MB to 5 MB onboard flash
PMC Expansion Slots Two IEEE P1386.1 compliant 32/64-bit PCI Mezzanine Card slots
Ethernet Interface 10/100Mbps with PCI local bus DMA
Asynchronous Serial Port One debug port via RJ45 connector
Timers and Counters Four 32-bit timers, one 16-bit timer, watchdog timer
Real-Time Clock Battery-backed 8 KB NVRAM
Operating Temperature 0°C to 55°C
Dimensions 233.4 mm (H) × 160 mm (D) × 19.8 mm (W)
Weight Approx. 0.5 kg
Certifications FCC Class A, VME64 compliant
Cooling Forced air recommended

Related Modules or Compatible Units

MVME2302 – Similar module with alternative processor configurations and expanded memory options.
MVME2303 – Enhanced variant with faster clock speeds and larger memory capacity.
MVME2700-761 – Higher-end PowerPC-based single board computer with advanced I/O modules integration.
MVME162-213 – Compact MC68060-based VME single board computer for embedded applications.
MVME2432 – PowerPC 750-based VME module with superior cache and memory support.
MVME167-33B – Legacy MC68040-based single board computer with ECC RAM support.

Installation Notes & Maintenance Best Practices

Installation of the Motorola MVME2301-900 requires a compatible VME chassis supporting single-slot modules and providing good airflow for cooling. Forced air ventilation is recommended to maintain device longevity and optimal operating temperatures. Make sure all PMC cards and cabling are firmly seated and shielded to minimize EMI susceptibility. Proper grounding practices should be observed to prevent interference in sensitive industrial environments.

Regular maintenance should focus on cleaning cooling pathways to prevent dust buildup and inspecting connectors for corrosion or wear. Onboard watchdog timers and diagnostic LEDs facilitate continuous monitoring of system health. Firmware updates should be applied according to manufacturer recommendations to enhance stability and security. Accurate documentation of configurations and firmware revisions will simplify troubleshooting efforts and streamline system audits.