Description
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | SST / Woodhead |
| Model | PB3-VME-1-E |
| Version | V1.2.2 |
| Product Type | PROFIBUS DP Communication Module |
| Host Interface | VMEbus |
| Network Protocol | PROFIBUS DP |
| Operating Mode | Master / Slave |
| Channel Configuration | Single PROFIBUS DP channel |
| Installation | VMEbus backplane |
| Power | +5 VDC, according to secondary documentation |
| PROFIBUS Data Rate | Up to 12 Mbps reported for the PB3-VME family |
| Processor | Dedicated onboard communication processor |
| Firmware | Downloadable/application firmware dependent |
| Configuration | Application/system dependent |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 60°C reported by one source |
| Version Identification | V1.2.2 |
The 12 Mbps maximum data rate is reported by current technical listings for the SST-PB3-VME-1-E family, while the specific V1.2.2 listing confirms VMEbus installation, PROFIBUS DP master/slave operation, dedicated processing, and +5 VDC supply. Because these figures are from secondary sources rather than an accessible OEM datasheet, they should be treated as reference specifications.
PB3-VME-1-E V1.2.2
Product Overview
The SST PB3-VME-1-E V1.2.2 is a legacy PROFIBUS DP communication interface for VMEbus-based industrial control systems. Its job is to bridge the VMEbus host system with a PROFIBUS DP network, allowing a VME-based controller to exchange process data with PROFIBUS field devices, remote I/O, drives, and other DP-capable equipment. Available references identify the module as supporting both PROFIBUS DP master and slave operation.
The SST PB3-VME-1-E uses dedicated processing for communication handling rather than depending entirely on the host VME CPU. This architecture is useful in older control platforms where PROFIBUS communication needs to be handled independently from the main application processor. The V1.2.2 designation should be retained when sourcing a replacement because firmware and hardware revisions can affect configuration and network behavior.
The SST PB3-VME-1-E V1.2.2 is particularly relevant to legacy VME installations that still depend on PROFIBUS DP field networks. It should be classified as a communication module, not as a general-purpose VME CPU or conventional digital I/O board. Current references also list the PB3-VME-1-E alongside SST’s PB3-VME-2 and PFB3-VME variants, confirming its position within SST’s VME/PROFIBUS product family.
Main Features & Field Considerations
PROFIBUS DP integration
The primary function is PROFIBUS DP communication. The module provides the interface required for a VME-based control system to participate in a PROFIBUS network.
Master/slave capability
Available documentation identifies the as supporting both PROFIBUS DP master and slave operation. The actual mode is determined by the application configuration and firmware.
VMEbus architecture
The board is designed for installation in a VMEbus system. This makes the VME chassis, backplane, host CPU, and system configuration important when evaluating compatibility.
Dedicated communication processing
The available product description states that each communication channel has independent processing and downloadable application firmware. That is useful in legacy systems because network processing is separated from the main VME application CPU.
Version-sensitive replacement
The V1.2.2 marking should be recorded. A replacement with the same basic designation but a different firmware or hardware revision may require configuration changes or may behave differently with the existing PROFIBUS network.
Replacement Checklist
Before replacing an , verify:
- Exact model:
- Version: V1.2.2
- VMEbus chassis and backplane
- Host VME CPU
- PROFIBUS DP master/slave mode
- PROFIBUS baud rate
- Station address
- GSD/device configuration
- Connected DP slaves
- I/O data mapping
- Communication firmware
- Existing application configuration
- PROFIBUS connector and termination arrangement
Specification Caution
There is conflicting third-party information for this model. For example, one listing incorrectly describes the board as having RS-485 and CAN interfaces, while another gives generic 24 VDC input specifications. Those claims do not align with the stronger evidence identifying specifically as a VMEbus-to-PROFIBUS DP interface.
I would also avoid publishing unsupported claims such as 105 A nominal current, 120 W power consumption, or 24 VDC input. One reseller lists these values, but they are internally inconsistent for a VME plug-in communication board and should not be treated as verified specifications.
Procurement Description
SST V1.2.2 — PROFIBUS DP Master/Slave Communication Interface Module for VMEbus Systems
For a replacement, the safest identification is SST + V1.2.2 + existing PROFIBUS configuration. The firmware/version and PROFIBUS network parameters are particularly important when replacing this legacy communication board.
