Core Specifications

• Processor: Equipped with MPC7455/MPC7457 PowerPC, with a maximum clock speed of 1 GHz.
• Memory: Standard configuration includes 512 MB 133 MHz ECC SDRAM (expandable up to 1 GB); supports 128 MB–2 GB DDR SDRAM as an option.
• Storage: On-board Flash memory ranging from 8 MB to 64 GB, with support for external HDD/SSD.
• Interfaces: 4 RS‑232 serial ports (EIA‑232‑D), 2 Ethernet ports (1 GbE + 10/100 Base‑TX), 2 USB 2.0 ports, 1 PCI‑Express port, and 2 PMC expansion slots.
• Power Supply: 24 V DC.
• Dimensions/Weight: Approximately 160 mm × 233 mm × 30 mm, weighing around 500 g.
• Operating Temperature: -40 °C ~ +85 °C, suitable for harsh industrial environments.

Product Features

• High Reliability: Adopts industrial-grade components, a wide operating temperature range, and ECC memory for error prevention.
• Rich Interfaces: Offers multiple serial ports, dual Ethernet ports, USB, PCIe, and PMC expansion, meeting the interconnection needs of multiple devices.
• Modular Design: Can be directly inserted into the MVME5500 motherboard or other compatible platforms, facilitating system integration and upgrades.
• Real-Time Performance: The PowerPC architecture, combined with a real-time operating system, enables low-latency data acquisition and control.
• Easy Maintenance: Features hot-swappable PMC card design and standardized connectors, reducing the difficulty of on-site maintenance.

Structure and Composition

• PMC Card Body: Includes PCB, power supply circuit, clock module, and heat sink.
• Serial Communication Submodule: Comprises 4 RS‑232 ports, isolated driver circuits, and TTL-RS232 conversion chips.
• Network Submodule: Equipped with dual Ethernet controllers (including 1000Mbps PHY), supporting link aggregation.
• Expansion Interfaces: PCIe port, USB controller, and additional PMC slots.
• Power Management Unit: Converts 24 V input into multiple regulated voltages (e.g., 3.3 V/5 V/12 V) for internal use.
• Heat Dissipation System: Features metal heat sinks and optional fan mounts to maintain thermal balance under high loads.

Typical Application Fields

• Process Control Systems: Factories in chemical, petroleum, metallurgical, and other industries that require a large number of on-site instruments.
• Motion Control & Robotics: Serial command interaction for multi-axis drivers and servo systems.
• Transportation & Railway Systems: Serial data acquisition for signal equipment and train monitoring systems.
• Energy Management: Network connection of on-site equipment in power plants and distribution automation systems.
• Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): Serves as an edge gateway to connect traditional serial devices to Ethernet or cloud platforms.

Installation and Maintenance Guidelines

Installation

1. Insert the TPMC917 into the corresponding PMC slot of a compatible MVME5500 (or other motherboards supporting the PMC standard).
2. Ensure the 24 V DC power interface is securely connected, and use a dustproof and moisture-proof industrial junction box.
3. Connect RS‑232 ports using shielded twisted-pair cables or fiber optic converters to avoid electromagnetic interference.
4. Secure the card body with screws or clips according to on-site requirements to prevent loosening due to vibration.

Debugging

1. After starting the system, check if the BIOS/firmware recognizes the TPMC917, and confirm that all serial ports and Ethernet ports are enumerated.
2. Use terminal emulation software (e.g., Tera Term) to verify parameters such as baud rate and parity bit for each RS‑232 port.
3. Test Ethernet link quality using network diagnostic tools (e.g., ping, iperf).

Daily Maintenance

1. Regularly check for dust accumulation on the card’s heat sink; clean or replace the fan if necessary.
2. Monitor power supply voltage and temperature, and set alarm thresholds using system monitoring software.
3. Visually inspect serial cables to prevent communication interruptions caused by wear or loose connectors.
4. When upgrading firmware, use the secure upgrade tool provided by Emerson to ensure version compatibility.

Troubleshooting

• Communication Abnormalities: First, check physical connections and port configurations. If the issue persists, use the card’s built-in diagnostic LEDs or system logs to identify hardware faults.
• System Non-Recognition: Confirm the card is properly inserted and the power supply is normal. Test the card on another compatible motherboard to rule out motherboard faults.
• Overheating: Check if the heat sink is loosely fixed and whether the ambient temperature exceeds the operating range. If necessary, install additional air cooling or liquid cooling devices.