Many defence, aerospace and industrial platforms continue to depend on proven VMEbus technology. Although these systems remain reliable, their original processor boards may no longer provide the performance, connectivity or long-term availability required for modern applications.
The Acromag XVME-6800 offers a practical upgrade path. This single-slot 6U VME processor board allows system designers and sustainment teams to introduce modern Intel Xeon processing. Whilst retaining compatible VME backplanes, specialist I/O boards and existing system infrastructure.
At its core, the XVME-6800 uses an 11th-generation Intel Tiger Lake-H Xeon W processor. Along with eight cores and 16 processing threads. The platform also includes 32GB of DDR4 ECC memory and onboard NVMe solid-state storage. Therefore, supporting demanding embedded computing, real-time control and high-speed data-processing applications.
Modern processing for established VME systems
The XVME-6800 uses an FPGA-based VME-to-PCIe bridge. This Enables connection for the modern processor platform with the established VMEbus architecture. This approach helps overcome component-obsolescence issues associated with older VME interface devices. Whilst supporting continued use of installed VME equipment.
As a result, organisations can extend the operational life of mission-critical platforms without immediately replacing the complete chassis, backplane and I/O architecture. This can reduce redevelopment work, integration risk, system downtime and lifecycle costs.
Programmable CPU power limits also allow engineers to reduce processor power consumption in thermally constrained systems. The processor can operate at its standard 45W thermal design power or be configured down to 35W where required.
Flexible PMC and XMC expansion
Two onboard PMC/XMC mezzanine sites allow the XVME-6800 to support additional processing, communications and I/O functions. Compatible mezzanine modules may be used to add capabilities such as FPGA processing, data acquisition, video capture, networking, serial communications or specialised platform interfaces.
Both mezzanine sites provide front-panel I/O access. The PMC sites also route 64 I/O signals to the VME backplane. Therefore, helping engineers integrate application-specific functions within existing system architectures. The XMC sites support high-speed PCI Express Gen4 x8 connectivity.
Extensive front-panel and backplane connectivity
The XVME-6800 provides a broad selection of modern and legacy interfaces through its front panel and VME backplane.
Connectivity includes:
- Four 2.5G/1G BASE-T Ethernet interfaces across the front panel and backplane
- USB 3.x and USB 2.0 ports
- Front and rear DisplayPort connections
- RS-232 and RS-232/422/485 serial communications
- SATA storage interfaces
- Six general-purpose digital I/O points
- Front-panel high-density I/O connector
- Optional P0 rear I/O support
A two-digit power-on self-test display assists with boot diagnostics and software debugging. After start-up, application software can also use the display for user-defined diagnostic codes.
Real-time and embedded software support
Board support packages are available for Windows, Linux and VxWorks. These packages include utilities and example code to help developers access the board’s hardware capabilities. Therefore, reducing integration time.
The Intel processor platform also supports technologies for embedded and time-sensitive computing. Including Intel Time Coordinated Computing, Time-Sensitive Networking and Intel Deep Learning Boost.
Designed for demanding long-life applications
Standard-temperature XVME-6800 models operate from 0°C to 70°C with the specified airflow. Extended-temperature versions support operation from –40°C to 75°C. Conformal-coated variants are also available for applications requiring additional environmental protection.
The board meets VITA 47 Class OS1 shock and Class V1 vibration requirements. Acromag designs and manufactures the XVME-6800 in the United States for use in demanding, long-lifecycle embedded systems.
Typical applications
The Acromag XVME-6800 is suitable for:
- Defence platform sustainment and upgrades
- Radar and electronic-warfare systems
- C5ISR and mission-system processing
- Naval, ground-vehicle and airborne systems
- Flight-test and data-recording equipment
- Simulation and training systems
- Scientific and laboratory instrumentation
- Semiconductor manufacturing equipment
- Rail and transportation control
- Industrial automation and machinery
- High-speed data acquisition and processing
Why choose the XVME-6800?
The XVME-6800 allows engineers to increase system performance while protecting their organisation’s investment in established VME technology. Its combination of modern Xeon processing, ECC memory, high-speed networking and flexible PMC/XMC expansion makes it particularly valuable for sustaining systems. That would be costly, risky or impractical to redesign.
Local Acromag support in Australia and New Zealand
Metromatics is the exclusive Acromag partner for Australia and New Zealand. Our team can help you assess 6U VME Single Board Computer compatibility. Such as processor requirements, operating temperature, P0 connectivity, PMC/XMC expansion and board-support-package options.
Contact Metromatics to discuss upgrading or extending the operational life of your VMEbus system.
