2. Introduction and Overview

2.1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing an Intrepid Control Systems neoVI Vehicle Network Interface and Data Logger for CAN FD, LIN & Ethernet (DoIP/XCP). The neoVI FIRE 3, neoVI RED 2 and neoECU 22 is Intrepid’s next (5th) generation general purpose interface tool, providing access to multiple channels of CAN, LIN and other vehicle networks. The neoVIs can be used to monitor and transmit on networks, to create custom simulations for network analysis and troubleshooting, and neoVI RED 2 and neoVI FIRE 3 can be used for standalone logging based on precise specifications.

The neoVI FIRE 3 & neoVI RED 2 provides numerous evolutionary improvements over the very successful original neoVI ION, neoVI FIRE 2 and neoVI RED, including more CAN channels, greater performance, more robust case and connectors, far larger script space, the ability to download data from removable full size SD card, and support for a wider input voltage range. It also adds new revolutionary features to the world of vehicle networking tools, such as support for CAN FD, Automotive Ethernet and DoIP, individual multi-color network activity LEDs, wireless support and much more.

The neoVI FIRE 3 is the most advanced multi protocol vehicle network interface and data logger available. The neoVI FIRE 3 has 16x CAN FD networks, up to 8x LIN networks, 2x 1 Gb 10/100/1000BASE-T, 1x 10/100BASE-Tx. All networks run simultaneously and are hardware time-stamped. A fully-isolated high-speed ethernet interface allows messages to be sent and received without risk of damage to the networks or your computer.

The neoVI RED 2 combines the best of vehicle network interfaces with the Linux embedded operating system. The result is a solution unparalleled in capability with support for multiple network interfaces and standalone logging. The neoVI RED 2 Series has up to eight dual wire CAN FD channels, two LIN channels, and two Gigabit Ethernet channels. The neoVI RED 2 fills the need for multiple protocol tools with a low-cost, high-value vehicle bus interface that fits in your backpack.

The neoECU 22 is a rapid prototyping tool for CAN, CAN FD, LIN and Ethernet. The neoECU 22 can be scripted to gateway, control and measure automotive network traffic and PDUs in minutes. Logic can be defined in Vehicle Spy’s Function Block scripts, or embedded C code, allowing you to keep your project moving.

2.2. Package Contents

Your neoVI package includes both hardware and software.

Hardware

You should receive the following:

• The neoVI network interface device.

• Category 6 (Cat 6) Standard Gigabit Ethernet Cable

• USB Type A To Ethernet Dongle

• DB26-1 Cable Adapter (DB26HD-F TO DB-25M + DB-9M)

• OBD/Network Cable : (purchase separately)

• Power Supply (purchase separately)

• Antennas (purchase separately)

You will also receive a “Getting Started” card to help you get going quickly with your device.

The neoVI is packaged using a special cardboard insert with a plastic sheet molded over it to hold it securely during shipment. Figure 1 shows how the device will appear in its box after removing the “Getting Started” card.

Figure 1: neoVI RED 2 (depending on your purchase) in its Protective Insert.

Lift up the plastic sheet, remove your neoVI device, and then fold back the cardboard upon which it rested. Underneath you will find the cables and other accessories listed above. Please remove, unwrap and inspect all of the contents, an example of which is shown in Figure 2.

If anything is missing or damaged, please contact Intrepid for prompt assistance, using the information in Chapter 9. Detailed instructions for attaching the cables to your hardware are provided later in the document.

Note

While the USB cable in the all neoVI’s package uses industry standard connectors and pinouts, not all USB cables are the same. To ensure reliable operation, please use the cable included with the neoVI’s devices. If you need to replace the original, be sure not to use one longer than 6” (2 m) or you may experience problems with your hardware. If necessary, contact Intrepid for a replacement.

Figure 2: neoVI RED 2 (depending on your purchase) Package Contents. Starting top center with the RED 2 itself and going clockwise: CAT6-2 (Ethernet Cable), FIRE 2 Ethernet Cable Adapter, USB 3.0 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter

Software

In the neoVI package you will find a software/driver card containing (otherwise you have already received this information via email):

• A copy of Intrepid’s Vehicle Spy vehicle network software (Optional Purchase)

• Drivers for the neoVI.

• An API install kit containing the neoVI Explorer utility for configuring the device.

Intrepid’s Vehicle Spy (often abbreviated as VSpy) is the “Swiss army knife” of automotive networking tools. It allows you to easily monitor and transmit on vehicle networks, and includes capabilities for ECU simulation, data acquisition, scripting, diagnostics, data analysis and much more.

The neoVI and Vehicle Spy are designed to work together hand in hand, and we recommend purchasing a VSpy license to go along with your new hardware. If you did so, then a full copy of the software will be emailed to you. If you did not purchase Vehicle Spy, you can request an evaluation version of the program, which allows access to VSpy’s basic features. You can find the Evaluation request here: https://intrepidcs.com/products/software/vehicle-spy/vehicle-spy-evaluation/

It is also possible to control the neoVI from within other software using one of the APIs that the device supports, visit Github.com/intrepidcs to learn about our open source APIs.

2.3. Operational Overview

The neoVI FIRE 3 & neoVI RED 2 is a compact but powerful hardware tool for working with vehicle networks. Its operation can broadly be broken down into three categories: network interfacing; data acquisition and logging; and simulation and scripting.

Vehicle Network Interfacing

One primary function of the neoVI FIRE 3 & neoVI RED 2 is to act as an interface between vehicle networks and a standard PC. Using the provided cables, you can connect the neoVI RED 2 to either a bench test setup or an actual vehicle, and monitor live network activity. All channels are captured simultaneously, and are hardware time-stamped with great accuracy. Data is transferred by the neoVI RED 2 from attached networks over an ethernet connection, where it can be viewed in software such as Vehicle Spy.

Data Acquisition and Standalone Logging

The neoVI FIRE 3 & neoVI RED 2 enables the acquisition of data from networks with precise control over collection parameters. It is designed to operate not just when connected to a PC, but also in standalone mode, running independently within a vehicle. You can write custom scripts that run in real time, logging data to the included full size SD card. This data can later be downloaded to the PC for analysis, and this can be done conveniently over Ethernet without the need to remove the card.

Simulation and Scripting

The neoVI FIRE 3, neoVI RED 2 and neoECU 22 not only allows you to receive data from vehicle networks, but also to transmit on them. Using Vehicle Spy or other software 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. It is also possible to reflash ECUs using data from the neoVI FIRE 3 and neoVI RED 2 Full Size SD card.

2.4. Summary of Key Features

With the neoVI RED 2, we’ve fit a lot of power and functionality into a tough little package. To give you an idea of how much you can do with the neoVI RED 2, here’s a summary of the device’s most important design, construction, operational and performance features.

Construction, Controls and Cabling

• Compact design: 13.60cm x 11.22cm x 3.97cm.

• Light weight: less than 12 oz (340 g).

• Solid anodized aluminum case.

• Thick rubber end boots for shock protection.

• Ruggedized metal connectors.

• Cable interfaces on sides for easier connections.

• Multiple cable options for vehicle networks, including Ethernet, DoIP and OBD-II.

• Top membrane interface with network and logger status LEDs and two pushbuttons.

• Ability to control LEDs and pushbuttons in custom scripts.

Power and Performance

• Fifth-generation neoVI architecture, offering over ten times the performance of earlier devices.

• Memory updated to 800 MB and on-board flash to 64 MB, allowing much more space for scripting and buffering.

• Field-upgradeable firmware.

• Support for 5V to 60V input power.

• Built-in five-second uninterruptible power supply to ensure graceful shutdown on power loss.

• Ability to configure the device and download SD card data on the desktop using only Ethernet.

• Lower power consumption than earlier generation devices.

neoVI RED 2 Network Interfaces and Features

• Up to 8 dedicated DW CAN channels (ISO 11898-2): two LIN channels, and two Gigabit Ethernet channels (2 Gigabit Ethernet (1000BASE-T)

• All Dual Wire CAN channels have CAN FD support.

• Initial support for non-ISO CAN FD, with ISO CAN FD upgrade included when it is available.

• software-programmable CAN termination.

• 2 LIN channels.

• 4 MISC I/O channels, which can be configured as analog / PWM.

• Software-configurable CAN and LIN channels enables/disables, baud rates and other parameters.

• 10/100 Ethernet with low power mode and activation line.

• Ethernet link usable for DoIP/XCP, or to connect to Automotive Ethernet network through Intrepid RAD-Moon series (sold separately).

• Real-time clock for 64-bit message timestamping.

neoVI RED 2 Logging and Simulation

• Fully-programmable scripting and standalone logging functionality.

• SD card logging of all traffic.

• Software-configurable sleep mode.

• Low power modes.

• Comatose support; device wakeup can be triggered by all 2, 4, 8 CAN transceivers, all 2 LIN channels, by Ethernet or by the membrane keypad.

neoVI Fire 3 Network Interfaces and Features

• The neoVI FIRE 3 has 16x CAN FD networks, up to 8x LIN networks, 2x 1 Gb 10/100/1000BASE-T, 1x 10/100BASE-Tx.

• All Dual Wire CAN channels have CAN FD support. [16 dedicated ISO 11898 Dual Wire CAN FD physical layers (TJA1043)]

• Initial support for non-ISO CAN FD, with ISO CAN FD upgrade included when it is available.

• Software-programmable CAN termination.

• 8 LIN channels.

• 4 MISC IO (0-40V); can be configured as analog/PWM IO

• Software-configurable CAN and LIN channels enables/disables, baud rates and other parameters.

• 10/100/1000BASE-T, 10/100 Ethernet with low power mode and activation line.

• Ethernet link usable for DoIP/XCP, or to connect to Automotive Ethernet network through Intrepid RAD-Moon series (sold separately).

• Real-time clock for 64-bit message timestamping.

neoVI Fire 3 Logging and Simulation

• Fully-programmable scripting and standalone logging functionality.

• SD card logging of all traffic.

• Software-configurable sleep mode.

• Low power modes.

• Comatose support; device wakeup can be triggered by all 16 CAN transceivers, all 8 LIN channels, by Ethernet or by the membrane keypad.

neoVI Fire 3 FlexRay Network Interfaces and Features

• 2x FlexRay channels

  • Configurable for 1A± / 1B± (1 four wire) or 1A± / 2A± (2 two wire)

  • Selectable on-board termination between 100 ohms, 5 kohm, or no termination

  • Tx and Rx capable

• FlexRay Cold Start (Optional)

• 15x DW CAN / CAN FD channels (2x switchable*)

• 15x Software enabled CAN termination

• 4x LIN channels

• 2x SW CAN*

• 2x LSFT CAN*

• 2x DoIP activation line

• 2x 1 Gb 10/100/1000BASE-T, 1x 10/100BASE-Tx for use with DoIP, XCPoE and more

• 2x Full-size SD card slots. SD 3.0 compatible and supporting up to 2 terabytes of total storage. Up to 800 Mbps logging (1x 64 GB SD card included standard)

• 4x General Purpose MISC IO

• Real Time Clock for hardware timestamping of all messages and backup at 25ns

neoECU 22 Network Interfaces and Features

• neoECU 22 has 8x DW CAN / CAN FD channels

• 8x software enabled CAN terminations

• 2x LIN channel

• 1x DoIP Activation line

neoECU 22 Simulation

• Fully-programmable scripting functionality.

• Software-configurable sleep mode.

• Low power modes.

• Comatose support; device wakeup can be triggered by all 8 CAN transceivers, all 2 LIN channels, by Ethernet or by the membrane keypad.

PC Interface

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

Advanced Features

• Device control by external software using open APIs: libicsneo (https://github.com/intrepidcs/libicsneo), Python_ICS (https://github.com/intrepidcs/python_ics), Intrepid SocketCAN Ketnel Module (https://github.com/intrepidcs/intrepid-socketcan-kernel-module) , neoVI DLL, SAE J2534, and TMC RP1210 A/B.

• USB host slot for hardware expandability, such as powering a RAD-Moon, using a RAD-IO2 Analog DAQ devices or using a neoVI MIC microphone/trigger pendant.

2.5. Hardware and Software Requirements

Only a small amount of hardware is required to use the neoVI:

• A vehicle network, either within an actual vehicle or in a test bench environment.

• A DC power supply capable of providing 5V to 60V of DC power, with a nominal current of 250 mA at 12V.

• A PC with an open standard Ethernet Port or USB 2.0 (or higher) if you do not have an Ethernet port on your computer. You can use an Ethernet to USB converter provided with your neoVI’s. If you plan to use a USB hub, we recommend that this be a powered hub to ensure that sufficient power is provided.

Additional hardware may be required for some uses of the device:

• Interfacing to a Automotive Ethernet network requires an Intrepid RAD-Moon Series or similar media converter device.

• Interfacing to a Cellular connection requires an Intrepid RAD 4G modem or modem approved by Intrepid Control Systems

• Additional cables may be needed, depending on the nature of the network to which the RED 2 is being connected.

Intrepid’s Vehicle Spy 3 Professional is recommended for use with the neoVI, and provides everything you need to set up your hardware and use all of its capabilities. The setup program for VSpy will also install the necessary drivers for your neoVI. If you do not have a VSpy license, you can use the Vehicle Spy evaluation version or download the free neoVI Explorer 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 web site at http://www.intrepidcs.com. Installation instructions can be found in Chapter 4.

Please refer to the Vehicle Spy documentation for its more specific PC hardware and operating system requirements and recommendations. Note, however, that Vehicle Spy will run on most modern Windows-based PCs.

2.6. Difference in neoVI Fire 3, neoVI RED2 and neoECU 22

Products	neoVI FIRE 3	neoVI FIRE 3 FlexRay	neoVI RED 2	neoECU 22
DW CAN / CAN FD Channels	16x DW CAN / CAN FD channels	15x DW CAN / CAN FD channels	Option for 2, 4 or 8x DW CAN / CAN FD channels	8x DW CAN / CAN FD channels
S/W enabled CAN termination	16x software enabled CAN terminations	15x software enabled CAN terminations	Up to 8x software enabled CAN terminations	8x software enabled CAN terminations
SW CAN & LSFT CAN	2x SW CAN & 2x LSFT CAN	2x SW CAN & 2x LSFT CAN
LIN Channel	8x LIN	4x LIN	2x LIN	2x LIN
FlexRay		2x FlexRay
DoIP	2x DoIP activation line	2x DoIP activation line	1x DoIP activation line	1x DoIP activation line
Ethernet	3x Ethernet Interfaces	3x Ethernet Interfaces	2x Ethernet Interfaces	2x Ethernet Interfaces