VM-USB VME Controller with USB-2 interface

The VM-USB is a VME master module featuring a USB 2.0 interface for high-speed communication and comprehensive internal FPGA logic. Its internal control is handled by a Spartan-3 series FPGA that automatically loads from onboard flash memory at power-up – the flash can also be reprogrammed via USB.

Key features include Slot-One bus arbitration and/or interrupt handling capability, full interrupt support for IRQ1-7, and the ability to generate interrupts autonomously. In addition, four selectable firmware/configuration regions are available in flash memory, switchable via a rotary selector on the front panel.

Two NIM/TTL inputs and two configurable outputs, along with four programmable diagnostic LEDs, enable versatile use cases such as triggering, counting, delay-gate generation, or pulser functions. In sequencer mode, the module supports single-word transfers (D16, D24, D32), block transfer modes (BLT), and addressing in A16, A24, and A32 spaces.

Its data buffer and command stack design provides a total of 32 kB (typically divided into 28 kB data / 4 kB commands), using FIFO or dual-port RAM for autonomous readout based on user-defined sequences triggered via USB, VME, or external signals. Supported operating systems include Microsoft Windows (XP to Windows 8, 32-/64-bit), Linux, and LabVIEW VIs from version 7.1 onwards.

With the VM-USB, you get a flexible module for VME systems that combines data transfer, control, and trigger logic in a compact 6U VME plug-in unit with USB interface.