In this issue of GMS Tech we will take an introductory look at the VMEbus and its metamorphosis over the past 30+ years. In 1981 the VMEbus architecture was created. The new design combined the VERSAbus electrical specification, which was based on microprocessor technology, with the rugged and modular Eurocard packaging system. Both were proven, off-the-shelf technologies. The resulting combination was successful because it was durable and could be easily adapted to a variety of applications. The original planners introduced the VMEbus specification into the public domain. This meant that suppliers had to conform to the same technical standard. They also had to compete directly on the basis of price, performance, quality and time-to-market. The adoption of VMEbus as a public domain standard made it easier to accept by competitors.

Merriam-Webster defines trust as the “assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something.” When you flip on a light switch, you trust the lights will come on. When you turn on your computer, you trust it will function properly.