I/O modules

Product Overview

This carrier card expands VMEbus systems by providing four additional expansion slots. It accepts standard VME modules and integrates them into a single backplane interface. The GE VIPC616 simplifies system architecture while maintaining robust signal integrity across all connected boards. Engineers can populate each slot with diverse function cards for customized control solutions. This design reduces chassis space requirements and streamlines cabling between multiple VME devices.

Technical Specifications

The GE VIPC616 measures 233.4 mm in height and 160 mm in depth, following the standard 6U VME form factor. It weighs approximately 850 grams, including all onboard components and connectors. This carrier card draws 1.8 A from the +5 VDC supply and 300 mA from the ±12 VDC rails. It incorporates a 4-slot P1/P2 backplane connector arrangement for reliable data transmission. The board includes 64 KB of onboard configuration EEPROM for storing slot assignment data. A 32-bit VME64 interface supports transfer rates up to 40 MB/s. The card accommodates both 3U and 6U VME modules through its versatile slot design. Each slot provides dedicated power filtering and decoupling capacitors for stable operation. The GE VIPC616 also features LED indicators for each slot’s power and activity status.

Slot Configuration and Signal Routing

This carrier card distributes VMEbus signals across all four slots with minimal propagation delay. It maintains matched trace lengths to ensure synchronous data transfer between modules. The backplane supports 7 interrupt request levels and 4 bus grant daisy-chain lines. Each slot connects to the system controller through the onboard arbitration logic. The card also provides auxiliary I/O connections through a front-panel 50-pin header.

Physical and Electrical Parameters

Installation and System Integration

Installing the GE VIPC616 requires a standard 6U VME chassis with adequate power capacity. Ensure the system provides sufficient +5 V current for all populated modules. Seat the card firmly into the backplane connector and secure it with front-panel screws. After installation, configure slot assignments through the onboard EEPROM using a terminal interface. The card automatically detects inserted modules and allocates bus resources accordingly.

Applications and Use Cases

This carrier card serves data acquisition systems, industrial controllers, and military embedded platforms. It enables flexible system expansion without replacing existing backplane hardware. The GE VIPC616 supports mixed-function configurations combining analog, digital, and communication modules. Its robust design suits harsh environments requiring reliable VME bus expansion.

Details