Abaco Systems / VMIC VMIVME-5531M-000 Master VMEbus Fiber-Optic Repeater Link

The VMIVME-5531M-000 is a Master VMEbus Fiber-Optic Repeater Link that extends VME system architecture across multiple chassis using fiber-optic connectivity. This two-board system - comprising the VMIVME-5531M master and VMIVME-5531S slave - enables a VME master in a primary chassis to directly control VME slave I/O boards in a secondary chassis with full software transparency. No additional driver code or software overhead is required; VME masters access remote slave boards as if they were local.

The link operates with unidirectional control signaling and bidirectional data transfers, delivering a maximum throughput of 1 MB/s over fiber paths extending to 6,560 ft (2,000 m). Complete electrical isolation between chassis is provided, with fiber-optic cables generating zero electromagnetic interference and delivering high noise immunity - critical for industrial and military installations where signal integrity and long-distance separation are mandatory.

Technical Specifications

• Model: VMIVME-5531M-000 (Master) paired with VMIVME-5531S (Slave)


• Form Factor: VME standard


• Maximum Data Transfer Rate: 1 MB/s


• Maximum Cable Distance: 6,560 ft (2,000 m) fiber optic


• Addressing Support: 16-, 24-, and 32-bit (6U slave boards); 16- and 24-bit (3U slave boards)


• Data Width Support: 8-, 16-, and 32-bit transfers (6U); 8- and 16-bit transfers (3U)


• Transmission Medium: Fiber optic cable


• Electrical Isolation: Total isolation between VMEbus systems


• EMI Generation: None


• Noise Immunity: High

Key Features

• Software-transparent architecture - no host driver modifications required


• Link auto-establishment upon first master access to secondary chassis


• Independent SYSRESET control via front-panel switch on master board


• Primary chassis SYSRESET propagates to all secondary chassis


• Bi-color LED status indicators on both master and slave: Green indicates phase-lock and frame sync; Red signals link-not-ready condition


• Secondary chassis restricted to non-interrupting slave boards only

Typical Applications

• Multi-chassis VME systems requiring long-distance interconnection


• Military and aerospace platforms demanding electrical isolation and EMI immunity


• Industrial control systems with geographically distributed I/O


• Installations where fiber-optic immunity to electrical noise is essential

Compatibility & Integration Designed for VME architecture. Supports both 6U and 3U slave board configurations with appropriate addressing and data width constraints. Link status monitoring via LED indicators enables field diagnostics without external instrumentation.