The Abaco Systems / VMIC VMIPMC-5588DMA-610 is a PMC-based reflective memory board delivering high-speed, distributed shared memory across fiber-optic networks. Operating at 1.2 Gbaud, the module implements direct memory access (DMA) for zero-copy data synchronization between up to 256 networked nodes. Data written to memory on one node automatically propagates to all connected nodes in software-transparent fashion, eliminating explicit I/O overhead and reducing CPU load. The board supports network-wide interrupt generation for event-driven inter-node communication and system coordination.

Technical Specifications

• Data Rate: 1.2 Gbaud serial fiber-optic network
• Maximum Transfer Rate: 29.5 Mbyte/s (standard mode); 14.8 Mbyte/s (redundant transfer mode)
• Network Capacity: Up to 256 nodes
• On-board Memory: Configurable 256 Kbyte to 16 Mbyte SDRAM
• Fiber Connectivity: Multimode to 1,000 ft (300 m); single-mode to 10 km (32,800 ft); twinax to 30 m
• Memory Access: A24:A32:D64:D32:D16:D8
• Form Factor: PMC (PCI Mezzanine Card)

– Key Features

• On-board DMA controller enables high-speed transfers without CPU intervention
• Transmit and receive FIFOs optimize bus performance during peak data rates
• Software-transparent data replication across distributed nodes
• Network-wide interrupt capability—any node signals any node or broadcast to all nodes
• Error detection with redundant transmission suppression mode
• Mixed-media connectivity: multimode and single-mode fiber plus twinax

– Typical Applications

Mission-critical distributed computing environments requiring low-latency shared memory, real-time inter-system synchronization, and high-bandwidth node-to-node communication across extended distances.

– Compatibility & Integration

Interfaces as daughterboard to host systems. Documented OS support includes Solaris, SGI IRIX 4.x, SGI IRIX 6.x, VxWorks, DEC UNIX 4.x, and Windows NT.