VMEBUS, also known as Versa Module Europa bus, is a bus or a computer-based communication system that allows for the interconnection of various types of modules or cards within a computer system. It is a widely used bus standard in the field of industrial and embedded computing.
The VMEBUS, developed in the 1980s, employs a EUROCARD form factor, which consists of a 160-pin male plug that serves as the interface between the backplane and the modules. This allows for easy insertion and removal of modules, known as cards, into the system. These cards may include central processing units (CPUs), memory modules, input/output (I/O) modules, and other peripherals.
The VMEBUS operates with a parallel bus architecture, which enables the transfer of data and control signals between the modules and the central controller or CPU. It supports high-speed data transfers, typically at rates of 10 to 40 megabytes per second, making it suitable for real-time applications and data-intensive tasks.
The VMEBUS follows a master-slave relationship, where the central controller acts as the master and the modules as slaves. The central controller initiates data transfers and provides the clock signals for synchronization. It also handles arbitration and interrupt mechanisms to manage access to the bus resources among the modules.
Overall, the VMEBUS provides a flexible and scalable solution for system integration and expansion. Its wide acceptance and compatibility have made it a popular choice in a wide range of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and scientific research.
