Curtiss-Wright / VMETRO VDRIVE-PB(B) Piggyback Module

The Curtiss-Wright/VMETRO VDRIVE-PB(B) is a VMEbus piggyback module that functions as a Master, Slave, and System Controller for comprehensive testing and validation of VMEbus boards and systems. Built around the VIC068 VMEbus interface chip, it generates and responds to a full range of VMEbus cycle types under user command control. The module integrates with the VBT-325 VMEbus Analyzer, enabling simultaneous bus mastering and real-time analysis. Software-controlled configuration eliminates jumpers entirely, allowing dynamic adjustment of slave base addresses, cycle parameters, address sizes, and interrupt levels - making it ideal for automated manufacturing test environments.

Technical Specifications Master Functions

Memory inspect, patch, and fill operations

Test and loop execution

Normal, block, and RMW (Read-Modify-Write) cycle support

Operation at any Bus Request (BR) level

Selectable release modes: RWD (Release When Done), ROR (Release On Request), ROC (Release On Cycle) Slave Functions

Software-controlled base address and window sizing

Configurable window sizes: 64 KB, 128 KB, or 256 KB

Address support: A32, A24, A16

Data width support: D32, D16, D8 with unaligned 2- and 3-byte transfers Interrupt Subsystem

Configurable IRQ level and vector on IACK

User-defined IRQ operation for interrupt handling

On-screen display of level and vector status DTACK Generator*

Dedicated address decoder: 64 KB, 128 KB, or 256 KB window

Programmable assertion delay: 30–590 ns

Emulation support for planned but non-existent modules Data Pattern Generation

Walking Ones & Zeros patterns

Address as Data patterns

Key Features

All parameters configured via software - no jumpers required

Direct 5V supply voltage readout

Real-time board temperature monitoring

Parallel operation with VBT-325 analyzer

VMEbus compliance via VIC068 interface chip

Typical Applications Automated VMEbus board manufacturing test, system-level validation, bus protocol verification, and development debugging when paired with the VBT-325 analyzer.

Compatibility & Integration Designed to interface with the Curtiss-Wright/VMETRO VBT-325 VMEbus Analyzer for enhanced testing and analysis capabilities.