GE / VMIC | VMIVME-5567 | Reflective Memory Module

The VMIVME-5567-000 (often cross-referenced with GE Fanuc/Emerson part IC698CMX016) is a high-speed Reflective Memory (RFM) module. It is a critical component used in deterministic, real-time distributed control systems where multiple processors, controllers, or workstations must share a common memory space with extremely low latency.

Clarification: While you requested a “controller model,” this module is technically a communication and memory interface. It provides a “shared memory” environment across all nodes on a fiber-optic network, allowing data to be mirrored across multiple systems in real-time, often used in complex simulations or high-speed turbine control synchronization.

⚙️ Technical Specifications

  • Model Number: VMIVME-5567-000 (IC698CMX016-ED)

  • Function: Reflective Memory Module (RFM)

  • Interface: VMEbus (6U form factor)

  • Memory Capacity: 64 MB of high-speed SDRAM

  • Data Transfer Rate: Up to 170 Mbytes/s

  • Network Media: Fiber optic (supports redundant networks)

  • Network Nodes: Up to 256 nodes

  • 📏 Physical Dimensions: Standard 6U VME board

  • 🌍 Country of Origin: United States

🛠️ Key Capabilities

  • Deterministic Performance: By utilizing a fiber-optic ring network, the module ensures that all nodes have the same data simultaneously, with highly predictable and minimal transfer times, regardless of the number of nodes.

  • Hardware-Based Data Sharing: The “reflection” happens at the hardware level. When data is written to the local memory on one module, it is automatically broadcast to all other nodes in the network without burdening the host CPU.

  • Fault Tolerance: Supports a redundant fiber-optic configuration, allowing the system to continue operating even if one fiber link is severed or a node fails.

  • Ease of Integration: Once configured, the reflective memory appears as standard local RAM to the host processor, simplifying the software development process for multi-controller synchronization.

📋 Installation & Integration Notes

  • Network Configuration: All nodes in the RFM network must be linked via high-quality fiber-optic cables. Ensure the cable length and bending radius specifications are followed to prevent signal degradation.

  • VME Backplane: This module requires a VMEbus chassis. Ensure the board is slotted into a compatible VME backplane that provides adequate power and bus arbitration.

  • Driver Software: Depending on your operating system (e.g., VxWorks, Linux, Windows, or Solaris), you will need the specific VMIC reflective memory driver to interface the module with your application software.

📋 Related Components

To complete a high-speed synchronized architecture, the following modules are typically used in conjunction with the CMX016/5567:

  1. IC698CHSxxx (VME Chassis)

  2. IC698CPExxx (PACSystems VME CPU Modules)

  3. Fiber Optic Cable Kits (Specifically designed for RFM networks)

  4. IC698RMXxxx (Legacy Reflective Memory variants)

Share this story:

Discover more