The solution for industrial applications, not only now, but certainly for the foreseeable future, is computer systems based on VMEbus standards. A wide range of technical and commercial aspects have contributed to the unique success of the VMEbus concept.

1. The VMEbus is not tied to one particular manufac- turer. It is based on an international open standard supported, globally, by several hundred companies. In practice, this choice means the user can determine the best price/performance ratio and select from a breadth of second-sourcing. This competition forces the manufacturer to be permanently innovative and develop product improvements. The user benefits!

2. VMEbus systems are not bound to a particular processor chip. As the VMEbus has been defined as a 32-bit bus, the user can select, for instance for CISC CPU's, from the Motorola 68xxx family or Intel processors. PowerPC and SPARC dominate RISC based systems. Therefore, 'the optimum inside' is a more than accurate description. Furthermore, the user has free choice in operating systems and software, whereby development can be in the native mode as Host or as cross from all standard platforms.

3. The VMEbus has a range of technical characteristics, which PC based systems cannot compete with: Muliprocessor systems enable an infinite increase in processor performance. Real-time capability is a matter of course in most applications. Mechanical structure is based on classic 19 inch concepts, with a choice of 3U and 6U.

Daily, VMEbus components and systems are proving their worth in automation technology, such as process control systems and machine control. Further applications include monitoring and medical technology, telecommunications, etc., often under extreme climatic and mechanical conditions.

The flexibility of modular structured VMEbus systems, allows a perfect synchronization of performance and price for any assignment. The system can be adapted to increasing demands at any time by simply exchanging or expanding VMEbus modules.

World-wide, more than 400 manufacturers with a product range of over one thousand boards, offer the user a wide spectrum of standard modules, along with a guarantee for the security of investment. It is often not necessary to develop one's own product, VMEbus systems, can yield a decrease in product development times (Time-to Market) accompanied with a minimum of risk. The continual global increase in turnover is further proof of the future of the VMEbus. What PCs and Workstations meant for the office, is what the VMEbus means for the production plant. In other words the absolute standard "sine qua non".

As a manufacturer of microcomputers and industrial electronic systems, EKF is the partner for all applications in the VMEbus range. More than 20 years of experience in the development of electronic and microcomputer components emphasize our competence as a partner who helps to achieve your aims. EKF's benchmarks include:

• A wide-range of 3U/6U VMEbus standard products, meeting practically all requirements with a strong line in CPU boards, heterogenous networks and data transfer as well as graphics.
• Direct customer support by our hardware and software developers.
• Turnkey complete systems.
• Hardware and software project development.
• In-house CAD development for layout and simulation.
• Modern fully automatic SMD production.
• Development, production and administration according to ISO9001 - providing top quality.
• Long-term product delivery span - as a rule over 10 years.

Naturally, in these WWW pages we can only supply a cross section of our products and services. Detailed datasheets are available on most products. We are happy to respond to any other questions or queries. EKF is the right partner - be it standard products, system integration or custom development!