Description
Key Technical Specifications
- Model: MVME167-033
- Manufacturer: Motorola
- Product family: MVME167 VME single-board computer
- Processor: MC68040-class CPU
- Bus standard: VMEbus
- Form factor: 6U board
- Memory: Configuration-dependent; verify installed DRAM on the exact unit
- Serial ports: Dual serial interfaces on typical builds
- Front panel controls: Abort and reset buttons
- Use case: Legacy industrial control, embedded VME systems, and rack-mounted automation hardware
- Compatibility note: Exact revision and populated options must be verified before substitution
Product Introduction
Motorola MVME167-033 is a VME single-board computer used in legacy industrial control and embedded automation systems. It serves as the processing core for older VME racks, test systems, and plant equipment that still rely on Motorola 68040-era hardware.
This board is usually selected as a direct replacement where the installed VME platform must stay intact. Buyers want exact revision matching, installed memory details, and firmware compatibility checked before install.
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Relevance to this Part | Quick Check Method | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No boot activity, no status LEDs | Missing backplane power or failed board | ✅ High | Measure rack supply rails at the VME backplane and verify front-panel power indications | Check power first; if rails are correct, the board may be faulty |
| Boots intermittently or hangs early | Memory issue or configuration mismatch | ✅ High | Inspect installed memory options and compare jumper/DIP settings to the old board | Match the original configuration before replacing the card |
| Serial port not responding | Cable, terminal settings, or UART issue | ⚠️ Medium | Check baud rate, parity, cable pinout, and loopback with a terminal tool | Verify wiring and settings before declaring board failure |
| VME crate fails to recognize board | Backplane seating or slot compatibility issue | ✅ High | Reseat the card, inspect edge connector condition, and confirm crate voltage and slot rules | Reinstall carefully and confirm the exact VME slot requirements |
| Random resets during operation | Aging power supply or unstable backplane voltage | ⚠️ Medium | Measure 5 V, 12 V, and -12 V rails under load with a multimeter | Check crate PSU and backplane before replacing the CPU board |
| Diagnostic LEDs show error pattern | CPU, memory, or firmware fault | ✅ High | Compare the LED pattern with the original manual or known-good board behavior | If the pattern repeats after swap, replacement is likely needed |
Contact technical support with clear photos, startup symptoms, and any diagnostic logs if the fault is still unclear.
- MVME167-033
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the MVME167-033 a direct replacement for every MVME167 board?
A: Not automatically. The MVME167 family has revision differences, memory population differences, and firmware variations, so you need to match the exact installed version before swapping.
Q: Can I hot-swap this board?
A: No. Treat it as a powered-down replacement only. Pulling a VME CPU board live can damage the backplane or the card.
Q: Will my old configuration transfer automatically?
A: Not always. Some systems depend on jumper settings, boot firmware, and installed memory options, so capture the original board settings before removal.
Q: Why is this cheaper than buying a new factory unit?
A: Because this is usually legacy surplus or tested pulled stock, not current production. That lowers cost, but it also means condition, revision, and remaining life must be checked carefully.
Q: What should I verify before ordering?
A: Confirm the exact part number, board revision, memory size, serial I/O needs, and the crate/backplane type. A mismatch here is the fastest way to lose time during installation.
Q: Does this board usually fail, or is the rack more likely the issue?
A: To be honest, the rack, power supply, or configuration is often the real problem. The board only gets blamed after the backplane rails, seating, and setup are verified.
Q: What condition should I expect?
A: This is typically sold as New Surplus or Tested Used stock, not factory fresh. Ask for test status, photos, and any available revision details before purchase.


WhatsApp: +86 16626708626
Email:
Phone: +86 16626708626