IXXAT completes its PCI-Express series, consisting of serveral PCI-Express boards and a PCI-Express-Mini card, with two new variants based on the PCI/104-Express standard. The new PCI/104-Express boards are designed specifically for use in compact industrial computers and mobile systems.
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Extended version enables easy PC access to CAN systems via Bluetooth for control and configuration applications
IXXAT’s CANblue II is now available in an extended version. In addition to the bridge and gateway mode, the intelligent CAN/Bluetooth module comes with a new PC interface mode. The support of the Windows driver package (VCI – Virtual CAN Interface) enables easy, wireless access for PC-based applications to CAN networks. At this, both customer specific applications as well as the IXXAT analysis and configuration tools are supported.
Along with the extension packages for NMEA2000 and ISO15765-2, IXXAT now offers the Diagnostic Extension package according to J1939-73 to extend the functionality of the SAE J1939 protocol software.
During the development of J1939 devices, the implementation of diagnostic services becomes more and more important. Diagnostic messages provide the utility needed when the vehicle is being repaired. They are also used during vehicle operation by the networked ECUs to allow them to report diagnostic information and self-compensate as appropriate, based on information received.
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New methods for the analysis of the physical layer of CAN networks and possibilities for robustness improvement
By Tobias Frey and
Thomas Waggershauser
With CAN-based systems being used in manifold applications that require continuous operability, also under harsh environmental conditions and extended service-cycles, the verification of CAN operability is essential. Especially, the direct detection of failure sources enabling thorough maintenance before systems may fail…
Software package for the development of CANopen applications under Windows
With the CANopen Master API, IXXAT offers a proven solution for a quick and easy development of PC based CANopen® control, test and service applications under Microsoft Windows.
IXXAT Automation is pleased to announce the updated and expanded CANopen Master API V6. Along with the active CAN interfaces, CANopen Master API V6 supports IXXAT’s low-priced passive interfaces.
The new API can operate up to 12 CAN interfaces in parallel, and, depending on the used hardware, up to 4 CAN channels per interface board.
New functionality of CANopen Master API V6 includes support for the latest CiA® specifications CiA 301 (CANopen application layer and communication profile) version 4.2 and CiA 305 (CANopen layer setting services (LSS)) and protocols) version 2.2.
New CANblue II for wireless connection of CAN systems
With its new CANblue II, IXXAT offers an intelligent CAN/Bluetooth module providing both a bridge and gateway operation mode.
Especially in the service area, CANblue II enables easy access to the CAN network via a wireless connection using a laptop or handheld service device. Data and parameters within electric facilities and mobile systems can be read or configured wirelessly without having to directly intervene into the existing network. The Bluetooth communication is performed using simple ASCII commands and CAN-optimized binary messages, so it is possible to access the device via “non-Windows” systems or embedded platforms.
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In CAN networks the underlying transport protocol sets structural limits to the system in standard applications. CAN currently manages a 1 Mbit/s transmission rate, given that the overall network cable length does not exceed 25 meters. If longer lines are necessary, the transmission rate must be recuded – the longer the distance, the higher the speed loss. However, with suitable topology components, high bandwidths can be realized even in large networks. Specific benefits of various solutions will be outlined in the article.
Industrial Ethernet is the talk of the day and the list of its promises is impressive: high data rates, long cable distances, and cost-efficient standard cables and plugs make Ethernet technology seem the communication medium of the future for automation manufacturers and users. While the benefits cannot be denied, Industrial Ethernet systems are not necessarily the best communication solution for each and every application. CAN is still a very simple, flexible, and powerful network technology which, considering its low costs, is an unrivaled solution for many applications.
with new features and extended hardware support
IXXAT’s IEEE 1588 protocol stack enables the fast and easy development of IEEE 1588 conform devices. Due to the broad functional range, continuous development and the wide distribution, IXXAT’s IEEE 1588 protocol software can be considered as the leading 1588 reference implementation.
The new release 1.04 now also supports the Intel PCI network card “Intel Ethernet Server Adapter I340-T4″ under Linux, enabling the high accurate system time synchronization on standard PCs using IEEE 1588.
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With the iPC-I 165 the last ISA interface card of the IXXAT CAN interface card program is discontinued. The card will be replaced by the newer PCI and PCI Express cards. At this, the common driver API of the VCI driver enables to switch to the newer boards, in most cases without adaptation of the customer application.
Last orders can be made until 06/30/2012.