XYCOM SRM XVME-010 printed circuit boards

XYCOM SRM XVME-010 PCB

It is a high-performance, industrial-grade single-board computer based on the VMEbus architecture. It is designed to be used as the core processing engine of the XYCOM SRM series industrial workstations (such as SRM-402, SRM-403, etc.)

1. Core Overview

The XYCOM XVME-010 is a high-performance, industrial-grade single-board computer based on the VMEbus architecture. It was designed to serve as the core processing engine for XYCOM’s SRM series of industrial workstations (such as the SRM-402, SRM-403, etc.). This motherboard embodies the stringent requirements for reliability and computing power in the industrial automation sector during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

2. Brand and Historical Context

• Brand: XYCOM

  • XYCOM was a legendary brand in industrial automation, renowned for its rugged and durable industrial computers and human-machine interface products.

  • The company was later acquired by GE Fanuc, integrated into GE Intelligent Platforms, and this business segment is now part of Abaco Systems. Therefore, you might see labels from these companies on spare parts lists, but the core design and part number (like XVME-010) remain.

3. Key Technology and Specifications

• Bus Architecture: VMEbus (VME64)

  • This is a popular open-standard bus in industrial, defense, and aerospace applications, supporting multi-mastering and high-speed data transfer.

• Microprocessor:

  • Typically featured a Motorola 68030 or 68040 series 32-bit CPU.

  • Clock speeds ranged from around 25 MHz to 50 MHz (depending on the version and configuration), providing substantial processing power for its time.

• Memory:

  • System Memory (DRAM): Typically ranged from 4 MB to 32 MB, expandable via SIMM slots on the board.

  • Flash Memory (Flash ROM): Used for storing firmware, the operating system, and the application program, typically 1 MB or larger.

• Input/Output Interfaces:

  • Serial Ports: Usually provided multiple RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 serial ports for connecting to PLCs, drives, modems, and other serial devices.

  • Parallel Port: One standard Centronics parallel port for connecting a printer.

  • Keyboard/Mouse Interface: Typically DIN or PS/2 style connectors.

  • Display Interface: Integrated graphics controller, supporting a CRT monitor at resolutions such as VGA or SVGA (e.g., 1024×768).

• Other Key Features:

  • Real-Time Clock (RTC): With battery backup for time-stamping.

  • Watchdog Timer: A critical safety feature designed to automatically reset the system in the event of a software crash or hang, ensuring high availability in harsh industrial environments.

  • Industrial Ruggedness: Designed for extended temperature operation and to withstand vibration, shock, and electrical noise common in industrial settings.

4. Function and Application

As the system core, the XVME-010 PCB was primarily used for:

• Industrial Workstation/HMI: Served as the brain for XYCOM SRM workstations, running specialized industrial automation software to provide operators with a graphical monitoring and control interface.

• Data Acquisition and Processing: Collected data from field sensors, PLCs, and devices via its serial and parallel interfaces for processing, logging, and display.

• Machine Control: Acted as a controller or supervisor in complex manufacturing systems.

• Process Monitoring: Used in monitoring systems for industries like chemicals, oil and gas, and water treatment.

5. Physical Appearance and Installation

• This is a standard 6U VME sized circuit board.

• It connects to a VME backplane via one or more 96-pin DIN connectors to receive power and communicate with other VME cards in the system (e.g., I/O cards, network cards).

• The PCB is installed inside the metal chassis of an XYCOM SRM series enclosure, designed to protect against dust, moisture, and electromagnetic interference in industrial environments.