VME 64x backplanes add gigabit Ethernet

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Feb 20, 2006

Elma reckons it is providing the best of both worlds with the integration of 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet network technology on VME 64x backplanes.

Elma reckons it is providing the best of both worlds with the integration of 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet network technology on VME 64x backplanes.

The new backplanes comply with the VITA 31.1 standard and are future-proof thanks to their high-performance network technology.

Nevertheless, existing VME 64x boards can continue to be used without restrictions due to their backward-compatibility.

The specialists from Pforzheim have implemented the switched point-to-point connection of modern fabric architectures for the VME 64x standard on the eight-slot dual star backplane.

In addition, there are two redundant fabric slots (VITA 31.1) located on the right of the backplane.

This geometry offers short connecting paths as well as a minimised stub effect and optimal signal integrity - thanks to the reduced thickness of the backplane.

Six node slots (VITA 31.1) are provided for the boards.

Alongside the proven standard plug connectors for VME 64x, CompactPCI connectors are also used for the fabric slots.

The daisychaining effect occurs automatically and the power is supplied via M3/M4 power bolts.

The inboard termination is passive (1.5A rated current).

As VITA 31.1 adapts the definition of the PICMG 2.16 for fabric boards both of these standards can also use the same active cards (fabrics) without restriction.

For customers with efficient existing computer designs, VITA 31.1 means that they can continue to use established boards, while simultaneously benefiting from the advantages of a new technology: the redundancy of the fabric slots, the increased data transfer rate of 320Mbit/s (2eSST protocol) as well as Gigabit Ethernet and improved functional security.

These features mean that Elma's new backplane is ideal for applications in scientific research, with COTS and ATR systems, for sophisticated automated industrial tasks, for medical technology and for the military sector.