Description
Key Technical Specifications
- Model: 43160 01-W3973B
- Alternate part number: 01-W3973B
- Brand: Motorola
- Product category: VME board card (MVME330-1 VME module)
- Bus standard: VME/VME64
- Form factor: VME board (slot requirements vary; verify crate specifications)
- CPU: Not publicly confirmed; verify the exact unit’s processor type and speed
- Memory: Not publicly confirmed; verify installed RAM on the exact unit
- I/O interfaces: Not publicly confirmed; may include serial, Ethernet, or other I/O
- Operating temperature: Commercial or extended (model-dependent; verify)
- Warranty typically offered: 90 days (varies by supplier)
- Use case: Legacy VME rack processing, industrial control, automation systems
- Compatibility note: Exact revision, CPU speed, memory, and firmware must be verified before substitution
Product Introduction
Motorola 43160 01-W3973B is a VMEbus board card from Motorola’s legacy 01-W series, specifically associated with the MVME330-1 VME module family. It serves as a control or I/O board in older VME racks for industrial automation and embedded systems.
This board is chosen as a direct replacement when a plant must maintain an existing VME chassis. Buyers focus on matching the exact revision, processor type, memory size, and firmware version to avoid boot or communication failures during installation.
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Relevance to this Part | Quick Check Method | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No power LEDs, no boot | Missing backplane power or failed board | ✅ High | Measure VME rails (5 V, 12 V, -12 V) at the slot with a multimeter | If rails are correct and no LEDs, the board may be faulty |
| Boots but hangs early | Memory mismatch or firmware issue | ✅ High | Check installed memory and compare firmware version to the original system spec | Match memory and firmware before swapping the card |
| I/O not responding | Cable, config, or board fault | ⚠️ Medium | Swap cable, test another port, and verify link/status LEDs | If link still fails, the board’s I/O may be damaged |
| Board not detected in VME crate | Poor seating or backplane issue | ✅ High | Reseat the card, inspect edge connector, and confirm correct slot voltage | Clean contacts and reseat firmly before replacing |
| Random resets under load | Power instability or thermal issue | ⚠️ Medium | Measure VME rails under load and monitor board temperature | Check crate PSU, grounding, and cooling; add buffer if needed |
Contact technical support with clear photos of LEDs, slot seating, and any diagnostic logs if the fault is unclear.

- 43160 01-W3973B
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is 43160 01-W3973B the same as MVME330-1?
A: Yes. The 43160 01-W3973B is associated with the MVME330-1 VME module family. However, variants may exist with different CPU speeds or I/O configurations, so match the exact part number before swapping.
Q: What exact CPU and memory does this board have?
A: That information is not publicly confirmed in accessible datasheets. You must verify the CPU type, speed, and installed memory on the exact unit before ordering or installing.
Q: Can I hot-swap this VME board?
A: No. VMEbus boards are not designed for hot-swapping. Power down the crate before installing or removing the card.
Q: Will my existing firmware/driver work with this board?
A: Only if the firmware version and OS config match. Legacy VME boards often require specific driver versions for VxWorks, OS-9, or other RTOS. Confirm the exact firmware before ordering.
Q: Why is this board cheaper than a new OEM part?
A: Because it’s obsolete and typically sold as used/tested stock. New OEM units are no longer in mass production, so prices drop but availability is limited.
Q: What condition should I expect?
A: Most units are used and tested. You’ll get a board with visible signs of prior use, but functional. Ask for test photos, firmware version, and status LED behavior before purchase.
Q: What warranty do suppliers usually offer?
A: Common warranties range from 90 days. Check the specific supplier’s terms, as obsolete stock often carries shorter coverage than new production.
Q: What should I verify before ordering?
A: Confirm the exact part number, board revision, CPU speed, memory size, I/O interfaces, and the crate/backplane type. A mismatch here is the fastest way to lose time during installation.

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