The MR2-52-xx main board uses the Altera® re-programmable ACEX PLD, which makes it possible to fit the functions of hundreds of glue logic chips into a one-square-inch piece of silicon. This approach improves reliability and dramatically reduces the emulator size without compromising features and performance. A few glue logic chips, memory chips, and a master microcontroller that handles communications to a host PC and reprogramming the ACEX unit, represent other components set on the Main board.

There are several types of the main boards that differ in the suffix following the part number MR2-52-. This suffix defines the max clock frequency and memory size.

The Main board has three connectors on the top. One, marked "LNK" is intended for connecting a link cable going to a PC serial port or USB. This is a mini-USB type connector. The second one, marked as "TRACER" in intended for connecting a flat trace cable TC-R1 with micro hooks at the ends of the cable wires. The cable allows entering up to 8 external signals and outputting up to four triggers to synchronize an oscilloscope, logic analyzer or other lab equipment. The third coaxial socket is intended for applying power to the ICE unit (3.3V, regulated, center positive).

The Main board has two connectors on the bottom to stack it with one of the POD that carries an execution (emulating) processor.