XYCOM XVME-1641 – VMEbus I/O Interface Module for Industrial Control Racks

The XYCOM XVME-1641 is a VMEbus I/O interface card designed for 6U VME racks, typically used to bring field signals into a VME-based controller. From my experience with Xycom’s VME line, the 16xx family is commonly deployed for high‑density field I/O in factory automation, test stands, and legacy system expansions where stability matters more than trendiness. You might notice that integrators choose this board when they need a dependable way to bridge sensors, discrete devices, or serial peripherals with a VME CPU in an industrial cabinet.

Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Lead time: 1 week for in‑stock items; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
• Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• Standard 6U VME form factor – Fits directly into a 6U VME chassis slot for fast integration with existing backplanes.
• Backplane-powered – Draws power from the VME backplane (typically +5 VDC; ±12 VDC may be used depending on I/O), which simplifies cabinet wiring.
• High-density field I/O – Commonly used for discrete signals or serial interfacing to legacy equipment; ideal when you need a lot of channels in a single slot.
• Front-panel connectivity – Field signals are cabled at the front panel to transition/terminal boards, making service work straightforward.
• Industrial temperature range – Suitable for controlled cabinets in production lines and test cells; in many cases 0–55 °C operation is standard.
• Rack-friendly serviceability – You might notice status indicators and labeling on Xycom VME cards that speed up troubleshooting during commissioning.

Technical Specifications

Where it fits best

Typical uses include tying photoelectric sensors, relays, valve manifolds, or legacy serial devices back to a VME controller in packaging lines, automotive fixtures, or endurance test rigs. One thing I appreciate is how consistent Xycom’s VME hardware tends to be across generations—making replacements or expansions less painful than you’d expect for legacy platforms.

Related or Supporting Products

• 6U VME CPU board (for example, Motorola/GE or Xycom VME CPUs) – Hosts the application and communicates with the XVME-1641 over the backplane.
• VME 6U chassis and backplane (8–14 slots) – Provides power, cooling, and slot infrastructure.
• Front‑panel terminal/transition boards – Break out the high‑density connector(s) to screw terminals for clean field wiring.
• Shielded I/O cables (50‑pin/68‑pin, depending on front‑panel connector style) – Reduces noise pickup and helps with CE/EMC in cabinet builds.
• Comparable VME I/O modules from Acromag or SBS/GE (where interface compatibility allows) – Useful when standardizing spares across mixed racks.

If you’re swapping a failed card in an existing rack, share the exact front‑panel connector type and any option codes—the XVME‑1641 appears in multiple build variants in the field.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet & rack – Use a 19″ VME enclosure with adequate airflow; keep inlet air below the specified temperature (typically ≤55 °C inside the rack).
• Power budgeting – Confirm +5 V and ±12 V rail capacity on the backplane; VME slots share current, so leave margin for inrush and aging.
• Wiring – Route field I/O in shielded cable bundles; bond shields at the cabinet side, and segregate high‑voltage or VFD motor leads from low‑level signals.
• ESD & handling – Handle only with ESD protection; seat the card straight into the guides and secure the front‑panel screws to prevent vibration‑related intermittents.
• Maintenance – Every 6–12 months, inspect connectors, re‑seat edge contacts, remove dust with dry air, and check for loose terminal screws. Firmware updates are not typically required on this class of I/O board.
• Spare strategy – In many cases, keeping one spare per rack family reduces downtime; label any calibration or jumper settings before swap.

Quality & Certifications

• CE (EMC) compliance typical for VME I/O modules
• UL/CSA recognition in many installations
• Manufacturer operates under ISO 9001 quality systems (typical for this product family)
• RoHS status may vary by production date; legacy units can be non‑RoHS
• Warranty: 365 days from shipment