Mobile terminal for field-bus analysis and visualization

Sontheim Industrie Elektronik has developed the MobiCAN mobile tool for field-bus analysis in either one or many separated networks. MobiCAN is a small industrial PC that has been designed for diagnostics in 11-bit or 29-bit identifier CAN networks. It is capable of providing CAN system monitoring as well as analysis of layer 7 protocols such as CANopen or SAE J1939. Following that, MobiCAN allows an overview about CAN nodes and their specifications as well as preparing and sending data frames. Recorded data can be modified before being sent over the CAN network. Recorded data may be modified before sending over CAN. The terminal is also available with a comprehensive and intuitive CAN-network diagnostic software.

The CPU is an Intel® Atom™ microprocessor with little energy consumption. MobiCAN provides scalable options for internal memory and hard disk like SD-cards, DOM (disc on module) etc.

The operating system can be stored on the SSD, whereas applications can be stored and carried out on either SSD or SD-card. In order to display the diagnostic applications, the mobile terminal uses a resistive 7-inch touch display with LED-Backlight and soft-keys at two outer verges. When being mounted in a fixed place, a power supply of 10 V to 32 V is done via CAN-connectors. However, personnel can use a buffer accumulator and their car power supply, which also fits to the terminal. The housing provides a pressure compensation element. All interfaces are designed in a way that no water can accidentally enter the inner workings, achieving an IP-class of 62. There are two USB 2.0 interfaces for connecting external peripherals like mouse, keyboard or memory stick. Another M12 connector is used for realizing an Ethernet port. It has a bandwidth of 100 Mbit for its connection to a network or direct data transfer. The connection to different field-bus networks is realized via CAN interface with one male and one female M12 connectors. Data traffic is controlled by a 32-bit ARM7 micro-controller. The integrated error frame detection is used for detecting error messages and forwarding them to the host system. By periodically measuring CAN-High and CAN-Low levels, the user has another indicator for the status of the CAN network. Finally, MobiCAN conducts a power metering via CAN-High.

Application example

Whereas some processes need constant monitoring and maintenance at only one single location, a service technician often requires a possibility of flexible connecting and disconnecting the diagnostic device, data transmission via Ethernet etc. A typical application is a bigger machine network with different field-bus systems in a tough environment. The terminal allows data progression and visualization, which eliminates the need for additional laptops. The accumulator facilitates dismounting and taking it to another machine. This saves the costs of having several diagnostic units for various machines. The design guarantees operational ability even when being often connected and disconnected. The device can be used in the automation as well as the automotive sector. Thus, another application might be reading of CAN data in a vehicle during a test-drive with the terminal connected to the on-board power supply.

Features of the PowerCAN-PCI

• Quick visualization of CAN-Data
• Powerful and energy-saving processor
• Various communication interfaces
• Accumulator for mobile deployment
• Compact housing for intensive usage