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FORCE SYS68K-SASI-1 VME CPU Board

  • Model: SYS68K-SASI-1 (SYS68K/SASI-1)
  • Brand: FORCE COMPUTERS
  • Series: SYS68K
  • Core Function: VMEbus single-board computer for Lam Research semiconductor equipment
  • Product Type: CPU/SBC board
  • Key Specs: 68K CPU, VMEbus, 3 serial ports, parallel I/O
  • ⚠️ Obsolete Model – Limited Stock Available
  • Condition: Used / Pre-Owned (some untested)
Categories: , , , , SKU: SYS68K-SASI-1 Brand:

Description

Key Technical Specifications

  • Processor: Motorola 68K-series CPU
  • Bus Interface: VMEbus (IEEE 1014 compatible)
  • Memory: 512 KB DRAM (hardware refresh 15 μs), 4 EPROM sockets (256 KB space)
  • Serial Ports: 3 RS232-compatible serial communication ports
  • Parallel I/O: Parallel interface to P2 connector
  • Timer: 24-bit timer with 5-bit prescaler
  • Real-Time Clock: On-board battery-backed RTC
  • Interrupts: Local interrupt service via auto-vectoring
  • Control Switches: RESET and ABORT function switches
  • Form Factor: Double Eurocard, VME plug-in card
  • Lam Research Part No.: 17035-1-B-65623
  • Part No.: 300000

 

Product Introduction

FORCE SYS68K-SASI-1 is a Force Computers single-board computer (SBC) built on the SYS68K VMEbus platform, used in Lam Research semiconductor processing equipment. It uses a Motorola 68K-series CPU, provides 512 KB DRAM, 4 EPROM sockets, 3 serial ports, and parallel I/O for embedded control in cleanroom automation.

This board is typically chosen for replacement in legacy Lam 1700/1800 series equipment where exact hardware match and bus behavior are critical. Stock is limited to discontinued/surplus channels, and most listings are used or pre-owned (some untested). Verify the exact revision and firmware before ordering.

SYS68K-SASI-1
SYS68K-SASI-1
SYS68K-SASI-1
SYS68K-SASI-1

 

Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Symptom Possible Cause Relevance to this Part Quick Check Method Recommendation
No boot activity at power-up Missing backplane power, failed board, or bad VME slot ✅ High Measure rack supply rails and check board LEDs/status before swap Verify 5 V and backplane seating first
Boot hangs early or resets CPU fault, memory fault, or firmware error ✅ High Observe reset behavior and any status LEDs; try known-good slot Treat as likely board-level failure
Serial ports unresponsive Wiring issue, baud mismatch, or port hardware fault ✅ Medium Check cabling and terminal settings; run loopback test Fix external side first, then suspect board
Intermittent crashes Thermal issue, aging DRAM, or unstable power ✅ High Monitor board temperature and test with stable rack power Consider board replacement if instability persists
VME bus errors Slot contact issue, backplane fault, or address conflict ✅ High Reseat board, inspect edge connector, verify address map Check rack integrity and jumper/strap settings

Contact technical support with photos of the board, connectors, LEDs, and any console or diagnostic logs if the fault is unclear.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the SYS68K-SASI-1 still in production?A: No. It is an obsolete Force Computers part, discontinued by the manufacturer. Supply is limited to surplus, used, or untested pre-owned stock.

Q: Can I use this as a direct replacement for another SYS68K SBC in Lam equipment?A: Only if the CPU type, memory size, I/O map, revision, and firmware match your installed system. Verify the exact Lam part number (17035-1-B-65623) before ordering.

Q: Is it hot-swappable?A: No. Power down the rack before removal. Pulling a VME board live can damage the board or the backplane.

Q: Will my existing configuration survive a swap?A: Not guaranteed. If your system stores configuration or boot parameters on the board or in VMEPROM, back them up first and match jumpers/straps on the replacement.

Q: What condition should I expect?A: Most stock is used or pre-owned. Some sellers offer parts as-is without warranty or returns. Confirm whether the listing is tested or untested before purchase.

Q: Why is this board expensive/limited?A: It is legacy hardware for semiconductor equipment with no factory support and limited availability. The price reflects age, scarcity, and niche application.

Q: What should I check before installing a replacement SYS68K-SASI-1?A: Match the revision, inspect the edge connector, verify backplane power, and photograph every jumper/strap on the original board before removal.