Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Motorola (Motorola Embedded Computing) |
| Model Number | MVME162-P244L |
| Processor | PowerPC 603E (PPC603E) |
| Clock Frequency | 133 MHz |
| L1 Cache | 32 KB instruction + 32 KB data (64 KB total) |
| Memory | Up to 256 MB DRAM (P244L typically 128 MB) |
| Flash Memory | 1 MB on-board flash |
| NVRAM | Battery-backed NVRAM with time-of-day clock |
| Bus Standard | VMEbus (6U form factor, dual-high) |
| PCI Interface | 32-bit PCI (local bus) |
| Serial Ports | 2× EIA-232-D (console + configurable) |
| Ethernet | Dual 10BaseT/100BaseTX (optional Ethernet transceiver) |
| IndustryPack Slots | 4× IPIC ports for I/O module expansion |
| SCSI | Optional 53C710 SCSI with 32-bit DMA |
| Timers | Six 32-bit timers + watchdog timer |
| VMEbus Interface | A32/D64 master/slave with system controller function |
| Operating Systems | VxWorks, Linux, LynxOS, OS-9 |
| On-Board Debugger | Yes (diagnostic firmware included) |
| Form Factor | 6U VME (dual-high) |
| Application | Industrial automation, DCS, telecom, embedded control |
Product Introduction
Motorola MVME162-P244L is a PowerPC 603E-based VME embedded controller running at 133 MHz with 128MB DRAM and 32-bit PCI support. It is part of the MVME162 series, which offers scalability with different processor options (MC68040 or PowerPC 603E) and memory configurations.
The MVME162-P244L uses PowerPC architecture for better performance than the 68040-based variants, supporting Linux and newer real-time operating systems. It features 4 IndustryPack slots, optional dual Ethernet, and optional SCSI with DMA support, making it suitable for industrial automation, DCS, telecom, and embedded control applications. Like all MVME162 boards, it includes on-board debugger firmware and diagnostic capabilities.

- MVME-162-P244L
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Relevance to this Part | Quick Check Method | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| System will not boot | SBC fault or poor VME backplane seating | ✅ High | Power down, reseat board, inspect VME connector pins | Replace if boot failure follows the board |
| No POST or console output | PowerPC CPU fault or memory failure | ✅ High | Check front-panel LEDs, measure 5V/±12V rails, read diagnostic buffer | Replace if CPU does not initialize |
| Random crashes or lockups | Memory error or overheating CPU | ✅ High | Monitor CPU temperature, run memory test if available | Improve cooling or replace if errors persist |
| Ethernet not working | Network interface fault or cable issue | ✅ Medium | Test with known-good cable, check link LEDs, verify IP config | Replace if both ports fail with good cables |
| IndustrialPack module not detected | IP module fault or IP controller failure | ✅ Medium | Reseat IP modules, test with known-good IP card | Replace if IP controller fails with good modules |
| Board overheats | Failed thermal path or CPU overload | ✅ High | Thermal check after power-up; verify heatsink contact | Replace if overheating continues with proper cooling |
If you are stuck, contact technical support with photos of the board, front-panel LEDs, VME connector, and diagnostic logs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is MVME162-P244L a direct replacement for my existing board?
A: Only if your system uses a PowerPC 603E MVME162 at 133 MHz. The MVME162 family has many variants (68040 at 25/32 MHz or PowerPC 603E at 100/133 MHz). Memory size (64/128/256 MB), Ethernet presence, and SCSI options must also match. Check your board revision and firmware version.
Q: Is this part new or used?
A: This model is obsolete and typically sold as new surplus or refurbished (tested). No new factory stock exists. All available units are surplus or refurbished from EOL inventory.
Q: What warranty do I get?
A: Warranty varies by vendor: typically 30–90 days for used/refurbished units, 1 year for new surplus. Confirm before ordering.
Q: Can I hot-swap this board?
A: No. VMEbus SBCs are not hot-swappable. Power down the entire rack before removing or installing. Backplane damage is a real risk if you try.
Q: Will this fix a system that will not boot?
A: Maybe. A bad backplane, power supply, or other VME card can cause similar symptoms. Check supply rails (5V, ±12V), reseat the board, and confirm the fault follows the SBC before replacing it.
Q: Do I need to reprogram the board after replacement?
A: Yes, likely. Back up the existing configuration (firmware version, network settings, IP module settings) before removal and restore it on the new board. Document DIP switches/jumpers with photos. The MVME162 has battery-backed NVRAM with time-of-day clock.
Q: Why is PowerPC MVME162 more expensive than 68040 models?
A: PowerPC 603E (133 MHz) is significantly faster than MC68040 (25/32 MHz) and supports Linux plus newer real-time OS versions with better performance. The PowerPC architecture is more modern and suitable for demanding applications
Q: What should I verify before ordering?
A: Match the model (MVME162-P244L), processor (PowerPC 603E 133 MHz), memory size (128 MB), Ethernet/SCSI options, and firmware version. Confirm OS compatibility with your application. Always back up configuration before swapping. Take a photo of DIP switches/jumpers before removal.

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