Description
Key Technical Specifications
- Model Number: VMIVME-4116
- Manufacturer: GE Fanuc (VMIC)
- Series: VMIC Megamodule
- Module Type: 8-Channel 16-Bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC)
- Bus Standard: VME64x (6U Form Factor)
- Settling Time: 10 µs maximum to ±0.0003% of FSR
- Data Transfer Rate: Up to 132 MB/s
- Built-in-Test (BIT): Requires VMIVME-3100 ADC for self-testing
- Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
- Power Requirements: +5V, ±12V
Functional Role & Application Analysis
The GE VMIVME-4116 is a high-precision 8-channel 16-bit DAC board built on the VME64x standard. It serves as the critical analog output interface in VMIC Megamodule systems, converting 16-bit digital control words from the CPU into precise analog voltages or currents for field actuators. A unique feature of this board is its Built-in-Test (BIT) logic. By routing outputs through an on-board multiplexer to a companion VMIVME-3100 ADC board, the system can verify analog channel integrity in real-time without disconnecting field wiring. This self-test capability is vital for mission-critical applications where silent failures are not an option.
- Aerospace & Defense: Used in flight simulation, radar control, and weapons testing platforms requiring microsecond-level analog response and strict self-diagnostics.
- Industrial Process Control: Drives control valves, servo motors, and variable frequency drives in petrochemical and metallurgical plants.
- Scientific Research & Test Equipment: Provides high-resolution analog stimulus for automated test equipment (ATE) and particle accelerator control systems.
- Legacy VME System Maintenance: Serves as a direct replacement for failed DAC boards in aging VMEbus installations where modern PCIe alternatives require costly software rewrites.
Our Quality Standard & Testing Process
We understand that the cost of an unreliable analog output module is far greater than its purchase price. A drifting DAC channel can cause a control valve to stick open, leading to a catastrophic process upset. We have established a rigorous, multi-stage testing process to ensure every product we ship is 100% functional and meets original factory specifications.
- Visual & Component Inspection: All parts undergo professional cleaning and visual inspection under magnification to identify cracked solder joints, corroded traces, or degraded electrolytic capacitors.
- Live System Test: The module is installed in a live VME64x test chassis and run for 24 hours to verify backplane communication, power rail stability, and thermal performance.
- Full-Function Diagnostics: We exercise all 8 DAC channels across the full 16-bit range, measuring settling time, linearity, and output accuracy against calibrated reference standards.
- Built-in-Test Verification: The BIT circuitry is validated to confirm the multiplexer correctly routes each channel to the test ADC and that the fail LED logic operates as designed.
- Warranty Backing: Only parts that pass all diagnostic tests are approved for shipment and backed by our full 12-month warranty.
GE-VMIVME-4116
Compatibility & Migration Paths
To ensure this VMIVME-4116 is 100% compatible with your system, you must check these key compatibility points. VME analog boards have strict electrical and mechanical requirements that vary by revision.
- VME Bus Standard: Confirm your backplane supports VME64x. While VME64x boards are generally backward-compatible with VME32, the P2 and P3 connector pinouts must match your chassis.
- Built-in-Test Dependency: If your application relies on the BIT self-test feature, you MUST have a VMIVME-3100 ADC board installed in the same chassis. The BIT function will not operate without it.
- Analog Backplane (AMXbus): Verify that your VME chassis includes the VMIC AMXbus analog backplane if you intend to use the built-in test multiplexer. Standard VME backplanes do not carry these analog test signals.
- Software Driver Version: Confirm your VxWorks, LynxOS, or Linux BSP includes the correct driver for the VMIVME-4116. Older BSP versions may only support the VMIVME-4115 (lower-resolution predecessor).
- Get Expert Help: Unsure about your backplane compatibility or BIT requirements? Contact our technical team today for a free compatibility check and system assessment.
