Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | SBS / GE Fanuc |
| Model | VIPC616 |
| Part Number | 91611524 |
| Product Type | 6U VME IndustryPack Carrier Board |
| Bus Interface | VMEbus |
| VME Standard | VME Specification C.1 (IEEE P1014/D1.2 compatible) |
| IndustryPack Slots | 4 single-wide IP sites |
| Double-Wide Support | Up to 2 double-wide IndustryPack modules |
| Supported Cycles | I/O, ID, Memory, Interrupt Acknowledge |
| IndustryPack Interface | ANSI/VITA-4 IndustryPack specification |
| Address Space | A16 I/O and ID space; A24/A32 memory support depending on IP module |
| Front Panel Interface | 50-pin keyed ribbon cable connectors |
| Interrupt Mapping | PLD/jumper configurable IRQ mapping |
| Indicators | Slot activity LEDs and power monitoring LEDs |
| Power Input | +5VDC from VME backplane |
| Typical Current | Approx. 610mA at +5VDC (carrier only) |
| Fuse Protection | Filtered and fused power rails |
| Board Size | 6U VME |
| Dimensions | Approx. 160mm × 233.35mm |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +70°C |
| Application | Industrial control, data acquisition, embedded VME systems |
Product Introduction
SBS VIPC616 91611524 Overview
The SBS VIPC616 91611524 is a 6U VMEbus IndustryPack carrier board designed to expand VME-based industrial computer systems with modular IndustryPack I/O hardware. The carrier provides the mechanical mounting structure and electrical connection between the VME backplane and installed IP modules, allowing users to integrate analog, digital, communication, and specialized interface modules into legacy VME platforms.
The SBS VIPC616 91611524 supports up to four single-wide IndustryPack modules or two double-wide modules. It transfers VMEbus resources such as I/O cycles, ID cycles, memory access, and interrupt functions to the installed IP modules. The architecture allows engineers to customize VME systems without replacing the complete controller chassis.
The SBS VIPC616 91611524 is commonly found in industrial automation, test systems, embedded control platforms, and measurement applications where long service life of VME infrastructure is required. Replacement requires checking the VME chassis compatibility, installed IndustryPack modules, interrupt configuration, and software driver support.

VME-IP-CARRIER VIPC616 91611524
Application Scenarios & Field Pitfalls (The Engineer’s Perspective)
Engineering Pain Point
A legacy VME control system continues operating correctly, but one I/O channel requires replacement. The installed hardware uses IndustryPack modules that are no longer directly supported by newer platforms.
Replacing the complete VME controller is often unnecessary. The VIPC616 provides the carrier layer that keeps existing IP modules integrated with the VME architecture.
The challenge is usually not the carrier board itself. The main risks are module compatibility, interrupt mapping, addressing configuration, and software driver availability.
Typical Applications
Industrial Automation Systems
Used for:
- Custom machine controllers
- Factory automation test equipment
- Motion and measurement systems
Data Acquisition Platforms
Applied in:
- High-speed monitoring systems
- Laboratory instrumentation
- Industrial testing equipment
Embedded Control Systems
Common in:
- Defense and aerospace test platforms
- Transportation control systems
- Long-life embedded computers
Process Monitoring Equipment
Used where modular I/O expansion is required within VME-based architectures.
Technical Pitfalls to Avoid
1. Verify IndustryPack Module Compatibility
The is only the carrier layer. The installed IndustryPack modules determine the actual I/O capability. Confirm module width, addressing requirements, and driver support before replacement.
2. Check Interrupt Configuration
The uses configurable interrupt mapping. Existing software may depend on specific IRQ assignments. Incorrect mapping can cause communication or application startup failures.
3. Confirm VME Backplane Requirements
Verify:
- VME slot availability
- P1/P2 connector wiring
- Chassis power capability
- Address configuration
A physically compatible VME slot does not always guarantee system compatibility.
4. Inspect Ribbon Cable Connections
Front panel 50-pin ribbon connections are part of the signal path. Aging cables, poor seating, or connector damage can create intermittent I/O faults.
Related Products
- SBS VIPC610
Related IndustryPack carrier family supporting modular IP expansion in VME systems. - SBS VIPC618
Similar 6U IndustryPack carrier variant with different I/O connector arrangements. - Abaco Systems
Continued product support version after SBS/GE Fanuc product ownership transition. - GE VMIVME Series VME Modules
Industrial VME controller and I/O modules commonly used with legacy GE automation systems. - GE VMIVME-7455
VME embedded processor board used in industrial computing applications. - GE VMIVME-7698
VME embedded controller module used in GE industrial control platforms. - IndustryPack I/O Modules
Modular I/O devices installed on carrier boards for customized automation and measurement applications.
