XYCOM Automation DIO XVME-240

XYCOM Automation DIO XVME-240

This is a 48-channel digital input/output module for VMEbus systems. It is designed for industrial automation environments, providing PLCs or industrial computers with an interface to external devices such as sensors, buttons, relays, indicator lights, and solenoid valves.

1. Product Overview

The XYCOM XVME-240 is a 48-channel Digital Input/Output module for the VMEbus system. Designed for industrial automation environments, it provides a connection interface for PLCs or industrial computers to interact with external devices such as sensors, push buttons, relays, indicator lights, and solenoids.

As it is based on the VME bus, it was primarily used in medium to large-scale industrial control systems requiring high reliability and real-time performance, such as manufacturing, process control, and test benches.

2. Key Features

• High-Density I/O: Provides 48 digital channels in a single VME slot, saving rack space.

• Flexible Configuration: All 48 channels can be configured via software as all inputs, all outputs, or mixed in groups (e.g., first 24 as inputs, last 24 as outputs), offering significant wiring flexibility.

• Wide Voltage Range: Supports isolated I/O signals from 5V to 50V DC, compatible with various voltage levels found in industrial field devices.

• Opto-isolation: Each I/O channel is opto-isolated, effectively preventing voltage spikes, noise, and ground loop interference from the field side from damaging the VME bus backplane and control system, thereby enhancing system stability and reliability.

• VMEbus Interface: Complies with the VME bus standard, enabling high-speed data communication with the main CPU board via the backplane.

• LED Status Indicators: The module faceplate features an LED indicator for each I/O channel, providing a clear visual indication of the real-time status (ON/OFF) of each point, greatly facilitating on-site debugging and fault diagnosis.

• Removable Terminal Blocks: Signals are connected via removable screw terminal blocks, simplifying installation, maintenance, and replacement without handling the card itself or dealing with complex wiring.

3. Technical Specifications

• Bus Type: VMEbus (IEEE 1014)

• I/O Channels: 48 points

• I/O Type: Digital Input / Digital Output (software configurable)

• Signal Voltage Range: 5 to 50 V DC

• Isolation: Opto-isolation

• Input Characteristics:

  • Logic “1” Voltage: > 3.5V (for 5V systems) or corresponding threshold (for higher voltages)

  • Logic “0” Voltage: < 1.5V

• Output Characteristics:

  • Output Type: Sinking (open collector)

  • Max Load Current: Typically around 100-150mA per point (refer to specific datasheet)

  • Note: Outputs require an external power supply to drive the load.

• Power Requirements: +5V logic power is supplied via the VME backplane. The field-side power is provided externally by the user.

• Physical Dimensions: Single-slot VME 6U board.

4. Functional Description

• As an Input: The module receives dry contact or passive signals from field devices (e.g., from buttons, limit switches, proximity sensors), converts them into logic levels readable by the VME bus, and stores them in the input image register for the main CPU to read.

• As an Output: The main CPU writes control signals to the module’s output image register. The module then drives its internal circuitry to switch external loads (e.g., relay coils, indicator lamps, small contactors) on or off.

5. Typical Applications

The XVME-240 was commonly used in industrial applications requiring control of large numbers of discrete signals, such as:

• Automobile manufacturing production lines

• Material handling systems

• Machine tool control

• Packaging machinery

• Industrial test and measurement equipment

• Building automation systems

6. Important Considerations (Comparison with Modern Systems)

• Legacy Technology: The VME bus is an older industrial bus architecture. While very stable and reliable, it has been largely superseded by more modern buses like CompactPCI, VXI, and PC-based PCI/PCIe and Ethernet.

• Brand Status: The XYCOM brand has been integrated into Rockwell Automation’s product lineup. While some classic products may remain in stock or are used to maintain legacy systems, Rockwell now strongly promotes its current platforms like ControlLogix/CompactLogix and FLEX I/O.

• System Compatibility: Using the XVME-240 requires a complete VME system, including a VME chassis, backplane, main CPU board, and corresponding programming software (typically Rockwell software or third-party software supporting VME).