The Abaco Systems / VMIC VMIVME-5504S is a VMEbus repeater link slave board that extends VMEbus system capacity and physical reach through RS-485 serial communication. Operating as a transparent repeater, it effectively doubles available VMEbus slots or significantly increases physical bus length. The board functions as a slave device, requiring a compatible VMEbus master controller to manage operations and data flow. This architecture enables construction of VMEbus systems exceeding standard single-chassis slot limitations and supports geographically distributed sub-systems connected via RS-485 links.
Technical Specifications
• Product Name: VMIVME-5504S
• Manufacturer: Abaco Systems / VMIC
• Interface Type: VMEbus Repeater Link Slave Board
• Communication Protocol: RS-485
• Functionality: Extends VMEbus system capacity and/or length via RS-485 repeater link
• Operating Mode: Slave Board
• VMEbus Interface: Conforms to VMEbus specifications for repeater link operation
• RS-485 Interface: Standard RS-485 transceiver characteristics
• Form Factor: Standard VMEbus board size (6U, single-slot)
– Key Features
• Transparent data transfer between VMEbus and extended RS-485 link
• Standard VMEbus edge connector for chassis integration
• RS-485 connectors (DB-9, terminal blocks, or equivalent) for bus extension
• Compatible with standard VMEbus chassis cooling mechanisms
• Power consumption dependent on VMEbus master configuration and data traffic
– Typical Applications
• Large VMEbus systems exceeding standard slot limitations
• Distributed VMEbus architectures with signal extension over longer distances
• Legacy system expansion and upgrades
– Compatibility & Integration
The VMIVME-5504S integrates with VMEbus systems requiring bus extension or increased slot count. Operation requires a compatible VMEbus master controller capable of initiating and managing repeater link functions. System compatibility depends on the master controller’s supported operating systems and drivers.
