VMIC VMIPMC-5565 Reflective Memory Node PMC – VMEbus Data Sharing

The VMIC VMIPMC-5565 is a high-performance reflective memory node module in the PMC (PCI Mezzanine Card) form factor, designed for use with VMEbus systems. This module enables high-speed, deterministic data sharing between multiple nodes in a distributed system, with automatic memory replication across all connected nodes. When paired with the FANUC CP236 carrier card or similar VME-to-PMC adapters, the VMIPMC-5565 provides a powerful solution for real-time control, simulation, and data acquisition applications.

Reflective memory technology allows any write to the local memory to be automatically propagated to all other nodes in the network with extremely low latency, eliminating the need for complex software communication protocols and offloading the host CPU. The VMIPMC-5565 is ideal for applications where multiple processors or systems need to share a common, real-time data pool.

Key Features

• Reflective Memory Architecture: Automatic data replication across all network nodes.

• High-Speed Operation: Supports data rates up to 170 MB/s or more.

• Low Latency: Typical propagation delays of less than 1 microsecond.

• PMC Form Factor: Standard PMC module for easy integration with VME carrier cards.

• FANUC CP236 Compatibility: Designed to work with FANUC CP236 VME-to-PMC adapters.

• Scalable Network: Supports up to 256 nodes in multi-drop or daisy-chain topology.

• Diagnostic Features: Built-in error detection and network status monitoring.

Technical Specifications

The VMIPMC-5565 features onboard reflective memory, typically ranging from 128 MB to 512 MB. Data transfers are performed using hardware DMA engines that offload the host CPU. The module supports fiber-optic or copper interconnect options, providing flexibility for distance and noise immunity requirements.

As a PMC module, the VMIPMC-5565 conforms to IEEE P1386.1 PMC standard, with a standard 64-pin connector for interfacing with VME carrier cards. Power is derived from the PMC connector, with typical consumption of 5-10W.

Applications

• Distributed Control: Real-time synchronization of multiple VME controllers.

• Simulation Systems: Sharing state data between multiple simulation nodes.

• Data Acquisition: Merging data from multiple acquisition systems.

• Test and Measurement: Coordinating distributed test instruments.

• Radar and Sonar Processing: Sharing processed data across multiple boards.

Integration and Configuration

The VMIPMC-5565 is installed on a VME carrier card such as the FANUC CP236, which provides the VMEbus interface. Each node is assigned a unique ID, and the network topology is configured via software. Once initialized, memory writes are automatically replicated to all nodes.

Drivers for VxWorks, Linux, and Windows are available, with a comprehensive API for application development.

Benefits

• Real-Time Performance: Deterministic, low-latency data sharing eliminates communication bottlenecks.

• Reduced CPU Load: Automatic data replication offloads the host processor.

• Scalability: Easily expand the network to include more nodes.

• Flexibility: Fiber or copper options suit distance and environmental constraints.

Conclusion

The VMIC VMIPMC-5565 reflective memory node PMC module provides a powerful, efficient solution for high-speed data sharing in VMEbus-based systems. Its combination of low latency, high bandwidth, and ease of integration makes it indispensable for distributed control, simulation, and data acquisition applications.