Description
Emerson VMVME55006E-0163 – High‑reliability 6U VME Single Board Computer for Industrial and Defense Control
The Emerson VMVME55006E-0163 is a 6U VME SBC variant that, from my experience, aligns with the well‑known MVME5500 family used in machine control, test systems, and rugged COTS deployments. It typically features a PowerPC G4‑class CPU, dual Gigabit Ethernet, and PMC expansion, making it a practical drop‑in for long‑life VME installations where software portability and I/O flexibility matter. You might notice that many integrators choose this board when they need stable performance, dependable VME64x timing, and broad RTOS support (VxWorks/LynxOS) without reworking existing chassis.
One thing I appreciate is the balance between performance and compatibility: the Tundra VME bridge on these builds is designed for VME64x and 2eSST transfers, while the front‑panel I/O keeps commissioning straightforward. In many cases, customers pair it with a rear transition module to break out additional serial and storage signals, keeping the front clean for network and service ports.
Order Placement Process and Guarantees
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- – Warranty: 365 days from delivery
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- – Delivery: 1 week if in stock; no more than one month at the latest
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- – Payment: 50% advance payment, full payment before delivery
- – Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL
Key Features
- 6U VME64x architecture – Fits standard 19” VME chassis; supports legacy and new builds without mechanical rework.
- PowerPC G4-class processing – MPC745x series CPU with AltiVec vector unit, suitable for motion control, DSP‑style tasks, and deterministic RTOS workloads.
- Dual Gigabit Ethernet – Typical front‑panel 10/100/1000Base‑T for control networks and data backhaul.
- PMC expansion – One or two PMC sites (build‑dependent) for field I/O, additional comms, or storage controllers.
- VME64x/2eSST capable bridge – Tsi148‑class PCI‑to‑VME bridging for high‑throughput block transfers and solid bus mastering.
- Flexible storage options – EIDE/ATA for HDD/DOM and, in many cases, support for CompactFlash or rear‑I/O storage via RTM.
- Industrial OS ecosystem – Typically supported by VxWorks, LynxOS, and Linux BSPs common to the MVME5500 family.
- Field‑proven thermals – Air‑cooled 0–55°C operation in most installations; extended variants are available depending on the exact build.
Technical Specifications
| Brand / Model | Emerson VMVME55006E-0163 (MVME5500 family variant) |
| HS Code | 8471.50 (Automatic data processing machines and units thereof) |
| Power Requirements | +5 VDC from VME backplane; typical board power 25–40 W depending on configuration |
| Dimensions & Weight | 6U VME (approx. 233 × 160 mm); weight ~0.8 kg |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to +55°C, air‑cooled (extended‑temp options may apply to “6E” builds) |
| Signal I/O Types | 2 × Gigabit Ethernet; async serial (front and/or rear I/O); USB 2.0 (build‑dependent); EIDE/ATA storage; PMC I/O via Pn |
| Communication Interfaces | VME64x with 2eSST support, PCI/PMC expansion, 10/100/1000Base‑T Ethernet, RS‑232/422/485 (via front or RTM) |
| Installation Method | 6U VME card with extraction levers; mounts in a standard VME64x chassis with forced‑air cooling |
Related or Supporting Products
- Emerson MVME6100 – Newer PowerPC VME SBC; higher performance and memory bandwidth, similar mechanical fit.
- Emerson MVME5100 – Earlier generation VME SBC; often used as a legacy replacement path in stable systems.
- Emerson MVME721 Rear Transition Module – Breaks out additional serial, IDE, and USB signals to the rear for cleaner front panels.
- PMC expansion modules – GigE, MIL‑STD‑1553, CAN, extra serial ports, or SSD controllers to tailor I/O without redesigning the backplane.
- Reflective Memory (e.g., VMIVME-5565) – Adds deterministic data sharing across multiple VME nodes for synchronized control or HIL.
Installation & Maintenance
- Cabinet & cooling – Install in a VME64x chassis with guided airflow; target 0–55°C inlet air. Keep intake filters clean to maintain thermal margin.
- Wiring & RTM – Use the appropriate rear transition module for serial/storage breakout. Secure all front‑panel RJ‑45 and serial connections to avoid vibration‑induced drops.
- VME backplane – Ensure slot keying matches 6U VME64x. From my experience, verifying VME grant and interrupter settings before power‑up saves a lot of time.
- Firmware & BSP – Keep boot firmware and BSP at a matched revision. Plan periodic updates for RTOS kernels and network stacks.
- Routine checks – Quarterly: inspect levers/faceplate screws; reseat PMC modules; back up boot images and NVRAM parameters.
- ESD & safety – Handle by faceplate and levers; observe ESD precautions; power down chassis and allow discharge before insertion or removal.
Quality & Certifications
- CE and RoHS compliance for typical commercial variants
- UL/CSA safety recognition for board‑level products (model‑dependent)
- Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems
- Manufacturer warranty policies apply; our supply includes a 365‑day warranty







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