Description
| Product model | VMIVME-1128 |
| Manufacturer | VMIC (later acquired by GE Fanuc, now part of Emerson) |
| Form factor | 6U VMEbus (233 mm x 160 mm) |
| Board type | Single-Board Computer (SBC) |
| CPU | Intel i486DX4 running at 100 MHz |
| FPU | Integrated math coprocessor (80487 compatible) |
| Memory | 16 MB DRAM (expandable in some configurations) |
| Boot device | EPROM or external disk via SCSI/PC/104 |
| VMEbus interface | 32-bit data path, A32/A24/A16 addressing, master/slave/DMA support |
| Onboard I/O | • 1x 10Base-T Ethernet (AMD LANCE) • 2x RS-232/422 serial ports (16550 UART) • 1x Parallel port (optional) |
| Expansion | PC/104 bus interface for local I/O expansion |
| Real-Time Clock | Yes, with battery backup |
| Cooling options | Air-cooled and conduction-cooled variants available |
| Operating temperature | 0°C to 55°C (air-cooled), -40°C to +85°C (conduction-cooled) |
| Certifications | RoHS compliant, designed for industrial and MIL-STD environments |
Product Introduction
The VMIVME-1128 is a high-reliability 6U VMEbus single-board computer (SBC) developed by VMIC (VersaModular Industrial Computers), a pioneer in embedded control systems later acquired by GE Fanuc and now part of Emerson’s industrial automation portfolio. Designed for demanding real-time applications, the VMIVME-1128 features an Intel i486DX4 processor running at 100 MHz, making it one of the most powerful x86-based VME processors of its era. With 16 MB of onboard DRAM and integrated peripherals including Ethernet, dual serial ports, and PC/104 expansion, the VMIVME-1128 delivers robust performance for industrial automation, military, and scientific computing systems.
As a full-featured VMEbus master, the VMIVME-1128 can control the VME data highway, support DMA transfers, and communicate with other VME modules such as I/O cards, motion controllers, and data acquisition units. Its conduction-cooled variant is engineered for deployment in harsh environments, including airborne, shipboard, and ground-mobile platforms where shock, vibration, and extreme temperatures are common.
The VMIVME-1128 was widely adopted in legacy systems requiring deterministic real-time operation and long-term availability. It supports popular real-time operating systems (RTOS) such as Wind River VxWorks, ISDC pSOS, and LynuxWorks Linux, as well as DOS-based control applications, making it a versatile platform for both new development and system maintenance.
VMIVME-1128 VMIC
Core Advantages and Technical Highlights
High-performance i486DX4 processor:
The 100 MHz Intel i486DX4 CPU provides significant processing power for its time, enabling complex control algorithms, data logging, and communication tasks in real-time systems. The integrated FPU (floating-point unit) accelerates mathematical computations critical in scientific and engineering applications.
Integrated networking and serial I/O:
Equipped with a 10Base-T Ethernet port (AMD LANCE controller) and two full-duplex RS-232/422 serial ports, the VMIVME-1128 supports robust communication with HMIs, SCADA systems, and field devices. The serial ports use 16550 UARTs with FIFO buffers to prevent data loss under heavy load.
PC/104 expansion capability:
The onboard PC/104 bus allows users to add local I/O such as analog inputs, digital I/O, or additional serial ports without consuming VME slots. This enhances system flexibility and reduces backplane congestion.
VMEbus mastery and DMA:
The VMIVME-1128 operates as a full VMEbus master, capable of initiating transactions and managing data flow across the VME crate. DMA support enables high-speed data transfers between memory and VME peripherals without CPU intervention, improving system efficiency.
Rugged, long-life design:
Available in both air-cooled and conduction-cooled versions, the VMIVME-1128 meets the mechanical and thermal demands of military and industrial applications. Its design emphasizes reliability and long-term support, with many units still operational after 20+ years of service.
Legacy system sustainability:
As a cornerstone of many aging but mission-critical systems, the VMIVME-1128 remains in demand for replacement and upgrade projects. Its compatibility with legacy software and RTOS environments makes it indispensable for maintaining operational continuity.
Application Areas
The VMIVME-1128 is extensively used in large-scale scientific facilities, including particle accelerators at CERN and other research laboratories. In these environments, it controls beam diagnostics, vacuum systems, and magnet power supplies, where deterministic timing and reliability are paramount.
In power generation and distribution, the VMIVME-1128 serves as a controller in turbine monitoring, generator protection, and substation automation systems. Its ability to run real-time operating systems ensures fast response to grid events and fault conditions.
Military and aerospace platforms deploy the VMIVME-1128 in radar signal processing, electronic warfare (EW) systems, and flight test instrumentation. The conduction-cooled version is particularly valued in avionics and naval systems for its resilience to environmental stress.
Manufacturing and process industries use the VMIVME-1128 in high-end motion control, robotics, and test stands. Its PC/104 expansion allows integration of specialized I/O for precision measurement and control.
Related Products
VMIVME-7700: VME I/O module with discrete and analog channels, often paired with the VMIVME-1128 for complete control systems.
VMIVME-1118: Lower-performance i486-based SBC (66 MHz), predecessor to the VMIVME-1128.
GE FANUC IPxxC Series: Modern replacements or upgrades for legacy VMIC boards, offering higher performance and extended support.
VxWorks 5.5 / pSOS+: Real-time operating systems commonly used on the VMIVME-1128 in critical embedded applications.
VMIVME-1418: Pentium-based VME SBC, successor to the VMIVME-1128 with higher processing power.
PC/104 Analog I/O Cards: Used with the VMIVME-1128’s PC/104 bus for local data acquisition.
VME Chassis with 6U Slots: Required to house the VMIVME-1128, typically with 6U backplanes and forced-air or conduction cooling.
VMIVME-1128 VMIC
Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions
Installation Preparation:
Power down the VME chassis and follow ESD safety protocols. Insert the VMIVME-1128 into a 6U slot, ensuring full engagement with the P0, P1, and P2 connectors. Secure the front panel with screws. For conduction-cooled systems, verify proper wedge lock engagement and thermal interface. Install PC/104 modules if needed.
Commissioning Steps:
Power up the system and observe front-panel LEDs for power and CPU activity. Connect a terminal to the serial port (typically 9600 baud, 8-N-1) to access the onboard boot monitor or BIOS. Load the operating system from EPROM, SCSI disk, or network (via BOOTP/TFTP). Configure VMEbus addressing, interrupts, and DMA settings as required. Test network and serial communication.
Maintenance Suggestions:
Regularly check for firmware updates (if available) and backup EPROM images. Monitor battery health for the real-time clock. Clean chassis vents to prevent overheating. Keep spare VMIVME-1128 boards and EPROMs on hand for rapid replacement. Use anti-static bags for storage.
