Motorola VME172PA-652SE Single-Board Computer (SBC)

Product Description

The Motorola VME172PA-652SE is a high-performance 6U VMEbus single-board computer (SBC), engineered for rugged industrial, military, aerospace, and telecommunications applications requiring reliable processing in harsh environmental conditions. Built around the PowerPC® 604e RISC processor (running at up to 400 MHz), this SBC delivers exceptional computational power while maintaining compatibility with the VME64 and VME64x bus standards for seamless integration into legacy and modern VME-based systems. Equipped with high-speed memory, multiple I/O interfaces, and advanced thermal management, the VME172PA-652SE excels in mission-critical environments characterized by extreme temperatures, shock, vibration, and electromagnetic interference (EMI). Its compact 6U form factor, hot-swappable capability (when paired with compatible VME chassis), and extended operating temperature range make it an ideal solution for embedded control systems, real-time data acquisition, and command & control applications where uninterrupted performance is non-negotiable.

Key Functions

The primary function of the Motorola VME172PA-652SE SBC is to serve as the central processing unit (CPU) for VMEbus-based embedded systems, executing real-time control algorithms, processing high-volume data streams, and managing communication between system peripherals. It features a PowerPC 604e processor with integrated floating-point unit (FPU) and L1/L2 cache (16 KB instruction/16 KB data L1; 1 MB L2), enabling fast execution of complex mathematical and control tasks. The SBC supports up to 1 GB of ECC SDRAM for error-free data storage in critical applications, along with a CompactFlash™ slot for removable, non-volatile storage of operating systems, firmware, and application software. It provides a comprehensive set of I/O interfaces including dual 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports, RS-232/RS-422 serial ports, SCSI-2, and VGA video output, facilitating seamless connectivity with field devices, operator terminals, and network infrastructure. The VME172PA-652SE incorporates built-in watchdog timer and hardware monitoring capabilities to detect system faults and trigger automatic recovery, ensuring maximum uptime in remote or unattended installations. Additionally, it complies with MIL-STD-810F for shock and vibration resistance, and meets EMI/EMC standards (EN 55022, EN 55024) for operation in electrically noisy environments.

Application Scenarios

The Motorola VME172PA-652SE SBC is widely deployed in rugged embedded systems across military, aerospace, industrial automation, and telecommunications sectors. In military and defense applications, it powers command & control systems, radar signal processing units, and unmanned vehicle (UAV/UGV) control modules, operating reliably in battlefield environments with extreme temperature fluctuations (-40°C to +70°C) and high shock/vibration levels. For aerospace applications, it is integrated into aircraft avionics systems, satellite ground stations, and launch vehicle telemetry units, complying with strict aerospace standards for radiation hardness and reliability. In industrial automation, it serves as the CPU for process control systems, robotics controllers, and test & measurement equipment in harsh industrial environments (steel mills, oil refineries, mining operations) where conventional computers would fail. The SBC is also essential for telecommunications infrastructure, powering base station controllers, network switching equipment, and satellite communication terminals that require 24/7 uptime and resistance to environmental stressors. Additionally, it is used in transportation systems (railway signaling, maritime navigation) and energy sector applications (power grid monitoring, oil & gas pipeline control) where ruggedness, reliability, and real-time performance are critical requirements.

Technical Specifications