Ramix PMC008A PMC-to-VME Adapter

The Ramix PMC008A (part number 700502) is a passive adapter card that converts a standard PMC module into a VMEbus-compatible board. It provides the mechanical and electrical interface required to mount a PMC module in a VME chassis, with front panel I/O access and VME P2 connector for rear I/O. The adapter is ideal for prototyping or for using low-cost PMC modules in VME systems.

Simple and Reliable Design

The PMC008A contains no active electronics; it simply routes signals between the PMC connector and the VME backplane. This passive design ensures high reliability and zero latency. The board includes a PMC mounting area with four standoffs and a standard front panel cutout for PMC I/O connectors. The P2 connector can be optionally wired to bring PMC rear I/O signals to the backplane.

Compatibility

The adapter supports 3.3V and 5V PMC modules with 32-bit or 64-bit PCI interfaces. It complies with the IEEE 1386.1 PMC standard and the VME64 specification. The board is designed for use with standard VME backplanes and chassis, including those with 5-row P1/P2 connectors. The front panel matches the standard 6U VME pitch, allowing the adapter to be inserted into any VME slot.

Application Domains

This adapter is commonly used in development labs to test PMC modules in VME environments, as well as in low-volume production systems where custom carrier boards are not cost-effective. It is also used to upgrade legacy VME systems with new PMC-based I/O without redesigning the backplane.