scope:

The VMEbus specification defines an interfacing system used to interconnect microprocessors, data storage and peripheral control devices in a closely coupled hardware configuration. The aim of the agreement is to standardize on an already developed and accepted commercial standard microprocessor backplane bus for the following reasons:

a. To provide a common bus architecture that will support computing-intensive functions such as avionics systems.

b. To provide a wide procurement base for future systems supported by the provision of commercially produced hardware during the development stage.

c. To facilitate a higher degree of component commonality thus reducing costs (larger user base), whilst increasing component interchangeability.

d. Machine-based constraints such as addressing modes, word lengths, support software and languages will be obviated to some degree when considering interoperability.

e. To allow communication between devices on the VMEbus without disturbing the internal activities of other devices interfaced to the VMEbus.

f. To specify the electrical, mechanical system characteristics and protocols required to design devices that will reliably and unambiguously communicate with other devices interfaced to the VMEbus.

g. To allow a broad range of design latitude so that the designer can optimize cost and/or performance without affecting system compatibility.