Overview

The VMIC VMIVME-5599 is an Automatic Fiber-Optic Bypass Switch designed to protect Reflective Memory (RM) networks, such as those built with VMIVME-5576 or VMIVME-5588 modules. It automatically isolates a powered-off node in a ring network, ensuring continuous data flow for all other nodes. The switch plugs directly into the VMEbus backplane, requires minimal power, and maintains bypass operation indefinitely even without power, providing hardware-level fault tolerance for mission-critical systems.

Technical Data

Typical Applications

• Real-Time Control & Redundancy: Industrial and nuclear DCS systems, maintaining data integrity despite a node failure.

• Military & Aerospace Simulators: Ensures synchronized operation of flight simulators even if one chassis loses power.

• High-Availability SCADA Systems: Provides hardware-level network fault tolerance for critical monitoring and control infrastructure.

• Data Acquisition Networks: Maintains continuous sensor data flow, even during node maintenance or unexpected shutdowns.

FAQ

Q1: What is the primary function of a bypass switch in an RM network?
A1: It isolates a failed or powered-off node by automatically rerouting the fiber optic signal around it, preserving the network ring's integrity and continuous communication for remaining nodes.

Q2: Can the VMIVME-5599 bypass a node without loss of power?
A2: Yes, it can be manually activated via the front panel or remotely through the control pin, allowing planned maintenance without disrupting the network.

Q3: What does "Full Reversing Bypass (2x2)" mean?
A3: It means the switch maintains full duplex communication by routing both the Transmit and Receive fibers around the bypassed node, keeping the network fully operational.