Carolyn In the structure of a car you can find networks and topologies in which its accessories are connected. In addition, newer cars have the ability to access the Internet through such networks. So, in this article, it is explained what is the Local Interconnect Network or LIN, as well as the devices that the central sensor controls. In the same way, the function that this connection has and the bit rate at which it moves is specified.
What does LIN mean?
Current knowledge in the area of computing and advances in technology allow for a large amount of network software to exist. In that sense, there are many programs that allow people to have internet network access and send data. In the same way, there are programs with which a car can send this information both externally and internally to the components of its structure.
In this sense, the LIN Bus is a system that is currently used and that is part of the automotive data delivery networks. The name comes from the abbreviation of the title Local Interconnect Network and works as an auxiliary system of the network or CAN bus in a vehicle in order to keep its devices and accessories connected.
The LIN network has only one wire, which is purple, while the CAN network (Campus Area Network) use more materials. With this single cable the data transmission is executed, for example, it is connected to the windshield wiper, so that it is possible to carry out instructions. The Local Interconnect Network provides the user with a reduction in costs in the accessories of his vehicle, as well as security in the installation.
What is LIN used for?
The transmission of each data begins in a master type node, which travels through the LIN bus. After the journey, the information reaches its destination when it reaches the nodes that are in slavery according to the computer description. The process is quite simple, as one component requests something, while the other provides a response.
In this sense, when the nodes begin the journey, the information request is executed there. So each of the slave modules or in slavery they send the responses to the request, information related to the master node.
The function of the LIN bus is to act as a connection with each of the sensors that the vehicle has. This connection is established descending with the sensors, which are called slaves. The node that acts as the master or the principal is the one that makes the orders or requests.
This device has the capacity to connect with more than 16 slave modules. All this process of sending information and connections seems complicated, however, it happens in a short time thanks to the bit rate and latency of the process. Likewise, some elements can be updated through the internet.
This means that there is a main component that requests an action such as lowering a glass to be executed. Therefore, the mainframe computer and network software evaluate and comply with the request. It also occurs with more complex processes within the operation of the vehicle. In simpler words, it is a system that can control all the elements and accessories (lights, air, seats or windows) of the car from a device that connects to the internet.
What is the speed of LIN?
The transmission of data and information in a LIN bus internet network occurs at a speed of 20 kilobits per second. This moves in only one direction on the only cable found on the bus, which usually measures about 0.35 mm. Regarding the voltage used in the process, it is estimated that both the master and the slaves use about 11 or 12 volts.
How to use LINK?
What the bus network allows is to use a protocol to execute actions in the vehicle through commands. In this sense, reference is made here to vehicles that are equipped with advanced technology and with a control computer. So, a structured network is created to send each data and information that it requires. Local Interconnect Network is the way in which this system or protocol is connected, the user decides whether to use this or, failing that, the CAN version.
The LIN bus network wakes up or activates from the moment the car is turned on, likewise, the modules in slavery also begin to work. From that moment the driver can activate any of the devices or accessories with those that the car has, since there are several actions that can be carried out with this system:
- The steering wheel: The computer can activate the radiowindshield wipers and climate control.
- Comfort accessories: Activates the convertible or sunroof, humidity and light.
- Air conditioning: You can regulate the action of this tool.
- Seating: Control the position and movement of the seats.
- Door: The LIN protocol allows to move the side mirrors, also raise or lower the windows. In the same way, it provides control over the vehicle locks.
- Headlights and airflow can also be moved from this command center.
