GE Fanuc (VMIC) VMIVME-5620 – VMEbus high‑speed shared-memory/communications interface for real-time control

The VMIVME-5620 is a 6U VMEbus board from GE Fanuc (VMIC) designed for deterministic, low-latency data exchange between VME-based controllers. In many cases, it’s used as a fiber‑optic shared-memory link (often called reflective memory) to mirror data across multiple chassis with very predictable timing. From my experience, this is exactly the kind of card you drop in when you need multiple PLCs, motion controllers, or HIL simulators to see the same data at the same moment—without wrestling with non-deterministic Ethernet traffic.

Typical applications include turbine and drive control, test stands, aerospace iron-bird rigs, and any distributed control system where microsecond-level consistency matters more than raw bandwidth. You might notice that system integrators like it because it plugs straight into standard 6U VME slots, exposes familiar A24/A32 memory maps, and provides fiber links that are easy to close into a redundant ring.

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• – Warranty: 365 days

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Key Features

• Deterministic data sharing – Mirrors blocks of memory across multiple VME nodes with stable, predictable latency; ideal for closed-loop systems.
• Fiber‑optic ring or point‑to‑point – Typically supports multimode fiber topologies for resilience and easy expansion; rings help maintain uptime if a link is interrupted.
• VMEbus-friendly mapping – Standard A24/A32 addressing and D16/D32 data widths so software integration is straightforward.
• Interrupt and DMA support – Offloads the CPU and signals events on data updates; in most cases this simplifies real-time task scheduling.
• 6U form factor – Fits standard 6U VME64/IEEE 1101.10 card guides; front-panel fiber connectors for quick access.
• Robust for industrial duty – Designed for continuous operation in control cabinets where reliability is non-negotiable.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• VMIVME-5565 Reflective Memory – Newer-generation reflective memory with higher bandwidth; a typical upgrade path if you need more throughput.
• VMIVME-5588 Reflective Memory – Earlier family member; often interchangeable in ring networks when matched on speed and fiber type.
• VME CPU boards (e.g., VMIVME-7807 series) – Common host processors used alongside the VMIVME-5620 in control or HIL applications.
• Multimode fiber cables – 62.5/125 µm or 50/125 µm, SC or ST depending on the 5620 build; verify connector type before ordering spares.

One thing I appreciate is how drop-in replacements are usually straightforward as long as the node memory map and the fiber topology remain consistent. We’ve seen customers swap a failed node, rejoin the ring, and be back online within minutes.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet and chassis – Use a compliant 6U VME or VME64x chassis with IEEE 1101.10 card guides. Maintain clear airflow; target at least 25 CFM per slot in dense systems.
• Power and grounding – Ensure stable +5 VDC on the backplane and clean chassis ground. From my experience, reflective memory links are sensitive to noisy grounds in mixed-signal cabinets.
• Fiber routing – Keep bend radius within cable spec; avoid tight bundles near high-voltage wiring. For ring topologies, label the loop order to simplify troubleshooting.
• Wiring and ESD – Insert with ESD protection, seat the board fully in card guides, and secure the front-panel screws before cabling the fiber.
• Configuration – Set node address/memory map as required by your control software. Verify link integrity LEDs prior to live commissioning.
• Routine maintenance – Quarterly dust removal with dry air; inspect fiber ends and clean with approved swabs if signal margin drops. Check for firmware/FPGA revisions that may improve stability.
• Spares strategy – Keep at least one spare node per ring; it seems to be the most cost-effective insurance for 24/7 plants.

Quality & Certifications

• Typically manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems
• CE conformity and RoHS status available for most builds
• UL recognition for applicable subassemblies, depending on the production lot
• Manufacturer’s warranty practices apply; we additionally provide a 365‑day warranty

Note: Specifications can vary slightly by build or option code. If you share your installed base details (connector type, required memory map, and ring speed), we’ll cross-check compatibility and confirm the exact part configuration before shipping.