MOTOROLA MVME761-001 VMEbus Rear Transition Module
MOTOROLA MVME761-001 VMEbus Rear Transition Module
Introduction
The MOTOROLA MVME761-001 (Part Number: 01-W3197F-01C) is a specialized Rear Transition Module (RTM)
designed to provide physical interface connections for Motorola’s high-performance VMEbus single-board computers (SBCs).
It is part of a modular I/O strategy where the main processor board (such as the MVME2600. MVME2700.
or MVME5100) handles logic while the MVME761-001 manages external connectivity through industry-standard connectors.
The “-001” variant typically includes a 3-row DIN P2 adapter module and cable, primarily optimized for 8-bit SCSI and standard serial/parallel communication.
It allows for organized cable management at the rear of the VME chassis, keeping the front panel clear for status indicators and maintenance access.
Technical Parameter Table
MVME761-001
| Parameter | Specifications |
| Product Model | MOTOROLA MVME761-001 |
| Part Number | 01-W3197F-01C |
| Type | Rear Transition Module (RTM) |
| Bus Interface | VME64 (via 3-row DIN P2 Adapter) |
| Serial Ports | 2x DB-9 (Async), 2x HD-26 (Sync/Async) |
| Ethernet Port | 1x RJ-45 (10/100BaseTX) |
| Parallel Port | 1x HD-36 IEEE 1284 Parallel Connector |
| SCSI Interface | 8-bit Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) |
| Supported Protocols | EIA-232, EIA-530, V.35, X.21 (via SIM modules) |
| Form Factor | 6U VME Rear Mezzanine / Transition Board |
| Operating Temp | 0°C to +55°C (Commercial Grade) |
Related Models
MVME761-011: Similar to the -001 but includes a 5-row DIN P2 adapter for 16-bit SCSI support.
IPMC761: The PMC-based I/O controller that resides on the processor board to drive the MVME761 ports.
MVME712M: An earlier generation transition module for legacy Motorola SBCs.
MVME5100 / MVME2700: Common processor boards that utilize the MVME761-001 for rear I/O.
Application Cases
Industrial Data Acquisition: Using the high-speed parallel and serial ports to collect data from legacy plant floor sensors.
Network Gateways: Leveraging the RJ-45 Ethernet and synchronous serial ports to bridge VME-based systems with modern local area networks.
Storage Integration: Connecting 8-bit SCSI tape drives or hard disks for data logging in mission-critical aerospace or defense applications.
Legacy System Maintenance: Replacing failed rear I/O interfaces in established power plant or transportation control racks without replacing the main CPU.
Product Advantages and Features
Modular Serial Interfaces: Ports 3 and 4 are user-configurable via Serial Interface Modules (SIMs), allowing the same board to support RS-232. RS-422. or V.35.
Rear-Access Connectivity: Simplifies system maintenance by moving heavy I/O cabling to the back of the rack, reducing mechanical stress on front-panel connectors.
Universal P2 Mapping: The included adapter board ensures compatibility across several generations of Motorola PowerPC VME boards.
High-Density Design: Packs five serial/parallel ports and Ethernet into a single-slot rear footprint.
Other Models in the Same Series
MVME761EXT: An extended version of the module often used in specialized lab environments.
IPMC712: A PMC module designed for backward compatibility with the older MVME712 series transition boards.
RAM500: Memory expansion mezzanines frequently found in systems using MVME761 modules.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation: Secure the P2 adapter board to the rear of the VME backplane at the slot corresponding to the processor board.
Connect the 64-conductor cable from the adapter to the MVME761-001 module. Slide the transition module into the rear rails and tighten the front-panel screws to ensure grounding.
Configuration: Serial port modes (DCE/DTE) are set using internal jumpers or by swapping SIM modules. Refer to the hardware manual for the specific signal mapping for ports 3 and 4.
Safety Warning: Never install or remove the module while the chassis power is on. This can cause permanent damage to the SCSI and Ethernet controller chips.
Maintenance: Ensure the rear cooling fans are operational, as the HD-26 and HD-36 connectors can restrict airflow in tightly packed racks.
Unique Product Description
The Motorola MVME761-001 is the bridge between high-speed VME processing and the “real world” of industrial peripherals.
While the processor does the thinking, the 761-001 does the talking—managing everything from high-speed Ethernet streams to legacy SCSI storage.
Its rugged revision-controlled design (01-W3197F-01C) makes it a staple for long-term support in the automation industry.
For engineers maintaining reliable infrastructure, the MVME761-001 provides a clean, professional, and highly configurable I/O solution that stands the test of time.