MOTOROLA MVME761-001 VMEbus Rear Transition Module

MOTOROLA MVME761-001 VMEbus Rear Transition Module

Introduction

The MOTOROLA MVME761-001 (Part Number: 01-W3197F-01C) is a specialized Rear Transition Module (RTM)

 designed to provide physical interface connections for Motorola’s high-performance VMEbus single-board computers (SBCs).

It is part of a modular I/O strategy where the main processor board (such as the MVME2600. MVME2700.

or MVME5100) handles logic while the MVME761-001 manages external connectivity through industry-standard connectors.

The "-001" variant typically includes a 3-row DIN P2 adapter module and cable, primarily optimized for 8-bit SCSI and standard serial/parallel communication.

It allows for organized cable management at the rear of the VME chassis, keeping the front panel clear for status indicators and maintenance access.

Technical Parameter Table

Related Models

MVME761-011: Similar to the -001 but includes a 5-row DIN P2 adapter for 16-bit SCSI support.

IPMC761: The PMC-based I/O controller that resides on the processor board to drive the MVME761 ports.

MVME712M: An earlier generation transition module for legacy Motorola SBCs.

MVME5100 / MVME2700: Common processor boards that utilize the MVME761-001 for rear I/O.

Application Cases

Industrial Data Acquisition: Using the high-speed parallel and serial ports to collect data from legacy plant floor sensors.

Network Gateways: Leveraging the RJ-45 Ethernet and synchronous serial ports to bridge VME-based systems with modern local area networks.

Storage Integration: Connecting 8-bit SCSI tape drives or hard disks for data logging in mission-critical aerospace or defense applications.

Legacy System Maintenance: Replacing failed rear I/O interfaces in established power plant or transportation control racks without replacing the main CPU.

Product Advantages and Features

Modular Serial Interfaces: Ports 3 and 4 are user-configurable via Serial Interface Modules (SIMs), allowing the same board to support RS-232. RS-422. or V.35.

Rear-Access Connectivity: Simplifies system maintenance by moving heavy I/O cabling to the back of the rack, reducing mechanical stress on front-panel connectors.

Universal P2 Mapping: The included adapter board ensures compatibility across several generations of Motorola PowerPC VME boards.

High-Density Design: Packs five serial/parallel ports and Ethernet into a single-slot rear footprint.

Other Models in the Same Series

MVME761EXT: An extended version of the module often used in specialized lab environments.

IPMC712: A PMC module designed for backward compatibility with the older MVME712 series transition boards.

RAM500: Memory expansion mezzanines frequently found in systems using MVME761 modules.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation: Secure the P2 adapter board to the rear of the VME backplane at the slot corresponding to the processor board.

Connect the 64-conductor cable from the adapter to the MVME761-001 module. Slide the transition module into the rear rails and tighten the front-panel screws to ensure grounding.

Configuration: Serial port modes (DCE/DTE) are set using internal jumpers or by swapping SIM modules. Refer to the hardware manual for the specific signal mapping for ports 3 and 4.

Safety Warning: Never install or remove the module while the chassis power is on. This can cause permanent damage to the SCSI and Ethernet controller chips.

Maintenance: Ensure the rear cooling fans are operational, as the HD-26 and HD-36 connectors can restrict airflow in tightly packed racks.

Unique Product Description

The Motorola MVME761-001 is the bridge between high-speed VME processing and the "real world" of industrial peripherals.

While the processor does the thinking, the 761-001 does the talking—managing everything from high-speed Ethernet streams to legacy SCSI storage.

Its rugged revision-controlled design (01-W3197F-01C) makes it a staple for long-term support in the automation industry.

For engineers maintaining reliable infrastructure, the MVME761-001 provides a clean, professional, and highly configurable I/O solution that stands the test of time.