2. Introduction and Overview

2.1. Introduction

The ValueCAN 4-2 is Intrepid Control Systems’ fourth-generation general purpose interface tool, providing access to multiple channels of CAN FD. The ValueCAN 4-2 can be used to monitor and transmit on CAN and CAN FD networks. It can also create hardware simulations for network analysis.

The ValueCAN 4-2 provides numerous improvements over the original ValueCAN3, including CAN FD support, greater performance, more robust case, and connectors

2.2. Package Contents

The ValueCAN 4-2 package includes both hardware and software:

2.2.1. Hardware

The package contains the following:

  • The ValueCAN 4-2 network interface device.
  • Quick Start Card to help you get going quickly with your device.

2.2.2. Software

The ValueCAN 4-2 package includes media containing:

  • A copy of Intrepid Control Systems’ Vehicle Spy vehicle network software.
  • Drivers for the ValueCAN 4-2 series adapters.
  • An API install kit containing the neoVI Explorer utility for configuring the device.

If you did not purchase Vehicle Spy, a free trial version with the program’s minimum features is provided instead.

It is also possible to control the ValueCAN 4-2 from within other software using APIs that the device supports.

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Figure 1: ValueCAN 4-2 in packaged form.

If anything is missing or damaged, please contact Intrepid Control Systems for assistance. The contact for your locale can be found at https://www.intrepidcs.com/worldwide or refer to Section 7 within this document.

2.3. Operational Overview

The ValueCAN 4-2’s operation can broadly be broken down into three categories: vehicle network interfacing, data acquisition, and simulation and scripting.

2.3.1. Vehicle Network Interfacing

Using the provided cables, you can connect the ValueCAN 4-2 to either a bench test setup or a vehicle to monitor live network activity. All channels are monitored simultaneously and are hardware time-stamped.

2.3.2. Data Acquisition

The ValueCAN 4-2 enables the acquisition of data from networks with precise control over collection parameters. The data can be captured in Vehicle Spy or using the Intrepid APIs.

2.3.3. Simulation and Scripting

Using Vehicle Spy, you can define transmit messages with custom data and send them manually or on a schedule of your choosing. You can also write intelligent scripts that implement arbitrary logic and compile them into CoreMinis that run within the device itself. This functionality allows you to create specialized test scenarios, and to simulate ECUs and gateways.

2.4. Summary of Key Features

This section includes a summary of the device’s most important design, construction, operational and performance features:

2.4.1. Construction, Controls and Cabling

  • Compact design: 2” x 1.3” x 0.5”.
  • Light weight: less than 3 oz (80 g).
  • Solid powder-coated aluminum case.
  • Thick rubber boot for shock protection.
  • Water tight metal connector.
  • Multiple USB cable options including USB type A and USB type C connections.
  • CAN/CAN FD channel status LEDs.
  • Ability to control CAN/CAN FD termination resistance on both channels.

2.4.2. Performance

  • Fourth-generation neoVI architecture, offering over ten times the performance of earlier devices.
  • Field-upgradeable firmware.
  • Reduced USB latency.
  • CAN FD baud rates supported upto 8 Mbps.
  • Lower power consumption.
  • Powered exclusively over USB.

2.4.3. Network Interfaces and Features

  • Two dedicated dual-wire CAN / CAN FD channels (ISO 11898-2:2015).
  • Both dual wire CAN channels have CAN FD support.
  • Support for ISO CAN FD and NON-ISO CAN FD.
  • Software-programmable CAN termination resistance.
  • Real-time clock for 64-bit message timestamping.

2.4.4. Simulation

  • Fully-programmable scripting using CoreMini and Vehicle Spy Professional or Enterprise versions.

2.4.5. PC Interface Support

  • High-speed isolated USB connection protects PC from potential damage.

2.4.6. Advanced Features

  • Device control by external software using three open APIs: neoVI DLL, SAE J2534, and TMC RP1210 A/B.

2.5. Hardware and Software Requirements

2.5.1. Hardware:

It is recommended to have a CAN or CAN FD network, either in-vehicle, test bench, or other environment.

A PC with a USB 2.0 port (Type A or USB-C connector). It is recommend to use a native USB port to ensure that sufficient power is provided.

2.5.2. Software:

The setup program for Vehicle Spy will install the necessary drivers for the ValueCAN 4-2. If you do not have a Vehicle Spy license, you can use the Vehicle Spy trial version for basic network interfacing and driver setup. Drivers can also be set up using the API kit installer. All of this software can be downloaded from the Intrepid Control Systems web site at https://www.intrepidcs.com/support/.

Please refer to the Vehicle Spy documentation for more specific PC hardware and operating system requirements and recommendations.