Abaco Systems / VMIC VMIVME-5576-210 Fiber-Optic Reflective Memory with Interrupts

The Abaco Systems / VMIC VMIVME-5576-210 is a fiber-optic reflective memory (RFM) board for VMEbus systems that enables transparent, real-time data sharing across networks of up to 256 nodes. Data written to memory locations on any node automatically replicates to all other nodes without CPU intervention or I/O overhead. Operating at 170 Mbaud over multimode fiber-optic media with 1,300 nm transmitters, the module delivers deterministic, low-latency data exchange ideal for industrial and military applications requiring synchronized distributed processing.

Technical Specifications

Data Transfer and Network Architecture

• Multidrop, daisy-chain ring topology supporting 256 independent nodes


• Data transfer rate: 6.2 Mbytes/s per node (standard mode); 3.2 Mbytes/s per node (redundant transfer mode)


• Fiber-optic transmission at 170 Mbaud, 1,300 nm wavelength


• Software-transparent data replication - no polling or processor intervention required


• Deterministic latency with repeatable performance


• Redundant transmission mode with built-in error detection


• Configurable on-board Transmit/Receive FIFOs: 512-word or 4k-word options Memory Configuration


• On-board SRAM: 256 KB, 512 KB, or 1 MB options


• Memory access: A24:A32:D32:D16:D8


• Addressable boundaries match selected capacity (256 KB, 512 KB, or 1 MB)


• Fast local SRAM read access Interrupt Capabilities


• Any node generates interrupts to any or all other nodes


• Interrupts follow data transfer to ensure reception before acknowledgment


• Three user-definable interrupt levels and vectors


• Supports process synchronization across distributed systems Physical


• Form factor: Single 6U VMEbus board


• Dimensions: 233.35 mm H × 160 mm D


• Weight: approximately 0.5–0.7 kg


• Fiber-optic connectors: ST-style bayonet (multimode, 2.5 mm ferrule)

Key Features

• Hardware-transparent data synchronization across 256-node networks


• Fiber-optic isolation for noise-immune operation in harsh environments


• Dual-mode operation balances throughput and redundancy


• Flexible memory sizing and addressable boundaries


• FIFO buffering optimizes CPU and VMEbus utilization

Typical Applications

• Distributed real-time data acquisition systems


• Military and aerospace command-and-control networks


• Industrial process synchronization requiring deterministic timing


• Multi-node sensor fusion and telemetry systems

Compatibility & Integration Compliant with VMEbus architecture. Operates in multidrop ring configurations supporting heterogeneous node counts up to 256 systems.