MVME167-33B MOTOROLA

Product Core Brief

Model: MVME167-33B
Brand: Motorola Computer Group
Series: MVME167 VMEbus single board computers
Core Function: MC68040 VME master/slave processor with Ethernet SCSI serial I/O
Product Type: VMEbus SBC (A32/D32:D64 master/slave, system controller capable)
Key Specs: MC68040 @ 33 MHz | 16 MB ECC DRAM | 4 serial ports | Ethernet | SCSI
Condition: New Original (New Surplus) — verify mezzanine DRAM population and jumpers

Product Introduction

Motorola MVME167-33B equips VMEbus systems with MC68040 processing at 33 MHz, 16 MB ECC DRAM, Ethernet, SCSI, four serial ports, and Centronics parallel interface for demanding embedded applications. The VMEchip2 ASIC provides full A24/A32 D8/D16/D32/D64BLT master/slave functionality including system controller capability.

The onboard mezzanine accepts DRAM expansion while four PLCC ROM sockets support boot/debug firmware. Battery-backed SRAM/RTC and comprehensive DMA channels across all I/O interfaces ensure reliable operation in multiprocessor VME environments with real-time requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the MVME167-33B support hot-swapping in a VME chassis?
A: VMEbus standards prohibit live insertion; power down the crate before installing the MVME167-33B. Maximum 6.5 A @ 5 VDC (33 MHz, full DRAM) stresses crate supplies—post-install measure all three rails, verify mezzanine seating, monitor SYSFAIL during power-up before VMEbus arbitration testing.

Q: Is the MVME167-33B obsolete, and what replacement paths exist?
A: Obsolete since late 1990s; MVME167 progressed to PowerPC MVME2400 series. MC68040-to-PPC migration requires cache coherency code changes; pin-compatible VME SBCs from Force/Concurrent vendors need custom VxWorks BSP ports. Spares procurement only for legacy sustainment.

Q: Will I lose VME application code or configuration when replacing the MVME167-33B?
A: PLCC ROM and SRAM contents persist through battery backup; DRAM clears on power loss. Primary risk involves mezzanine DRAM mapping and VME address decoders—backup all four ROM sockets, document J1-J24 jumpers, verify SCSI termination before field replacement.

Q: Are these MVME167-33B boards factory-new or refurbished when sold as surplus?
A: Remaining stock originates from decommissioned military VME systems as New Surplus. Require pristine P1/P2 gold fingers, 1996+ date codes on 68040/DRAM, factory silkscreen for “New Original”; mezzanine wear or socket oxidation indicates field service—demand 96-hour POST certification.