The NI USB-8476 is a single-port USB LIN interface enabling PC-based development, testing, and diagnostics of LIN networks and automotive ECUs. It provides real-time monitoring, logging, and frame analysis through software-selectable master/slave termination and supports data rates up to 20 kb/s across LIN 1.3 and LIN 2.0 specifications. The device features 500 V DC optical isolation for high-voltage spike protection and connects via a 9-pin DB9 LIN connector with a 2-meter captive USB cable.
Technical Specifications
LIN Interface
• LIN transceiver: Atmel ATA6620
• Compliance: J2602, LIN 1.3, LIN 2.0
• Data rate: up to 20 kb/s
• Termination: software-selectable master/slave
• Optical isolation: 500 V DC (2 s maximum, channel-to-bus)
Power Requirements
• USB host power: 200 mA at 5 VDC
• External VBat supply: 8 to 18 VDC (required for LIN bus)
• VBat current: 55 mA maximum
Host Interface & Triggers
• High-Speed USB compliant
• Input/output trigger lines: 1
• Clock frequency: ±1% at 1 MHz, 10 MHz, and 20 MHz
Physical
• Connector: 9-pin DB9 (LIN)
• Dimensions: 3.1 × 2.5 × 1.0 inches
• LED indicators: USB (Green/Amber), VBAT, CAN bus activity
Environmental
• Operating temperature: 0 to 55 °C
• Storage temperature: −20 to 70 °C
• Operating humidity: 10 to 90% (noncondensing)
• Storage humidity: 5 to 95% (noncondensing)
– Key Features
• Single USB port with integrated 2-meter cable—no external USB power supplies needed
• Isolated LIN channel withstands transient spikes up to 500 V DC
• Dual termination modes: configure as master or slave via software
• LED status indicators for USB connectivity, VBAT presence, and bus traffic
– Typical Applications
• ECU simulation and diagnostics
• LIN network monitoring and frame capture
• Automotive embedded system development and validation
– Compatibility & Integration
• Windows-compatible drivers
• Development environments: LabVIEW, LabWindows/CVI, Visual C++ 6.0, Borland C/C++, Microsoft Visual Basic
• Analysis tools: NI Spy, NI Bus Monitor
• Configuration: Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX)
