VM-USB VME Controller with USB-2 interface Datasheet
493.17 KB | March 26, 2026
VM-USB VME Controller with USB-2 interface
The VM-USB is a powerful VME master with a high-speed USB 2.0 interface. It features integrated sequencing and data buffering via FPGA logic – ideal for automated data acquisition and VME control.
- Form Factor: 6U VME, 1 slot
- Interfaces: USB 2.0 (high-speed), VMEbus (A16/A24/A32, D16/D24/D32, BLT)
- FPGA Controller: Xilinx Spartan-3 series (auto-load from flash, reprogrammable via USB)
- Memory: 32 kB total (standard split 28 kB data / 4 kB command)
- Inputs/Outputs: 2 × NIM/TTL inputs, 2 × configurable outputs, 4 × programmable LEDs
Product Information
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.
Technical data
| Features | Compliance: Fully compliant with ANSI/IEEE STD 1014, IEC 821, and IEC 297 Power & Efficiency: Low-power CMOS design with typical power consumption of 1.2 A @ +5 V Protection: Integrated bus arbitration and interrupt handling with full IRQ1–7 support Control & Monitoring: Programmable sequencing and trigger conditions; USB 2.0 and VME access; supported by Windows, Linux, and LabVIEW software Design & Components: Xilinx Spartan-3 FPGA with dual on-board flash for configuration storage; firmware upgradable via USB; selectable configuration via rotary switch Mechanical: 6U single-slot VME module with front-panel connectors for NIM/TTL I/O, LEMO trigger input, and diagnostic LEDs" |
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