2. Introduction and Overview¶

2.1. Introduction¶

Thank you for purchasing a RAD-Pluto from Intrepid Control Systems (ICS). The RAD-Pluto is 5-Port Automotive Ethernet Smart Switch Supporting 100BASE-T1 and 1000BASE-T. It also has an option to contain an integrated interface for CAN FD and LIN networks which can be used to monitor and transmit messages, and to create hardware simulations for network analysis.

Here are some of the noteworthy features of the RAD-Pluto:

2.1.1. Network Interfaces and Features¶

NXP SJA1105 Ethernet Switch and TJA1101 PHYs

Standard RJ-45 for Gigabit Ethernet connection with automatic or static configuration for 10/100/1000 Mb/s Ethernet networks.s

USB 3.0 / Ethernet Bridge

2.1.2. Product Features¶

Powered by a USB Type C Port or standard DC supply (5V-40V)

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

Automatic or static master/slave PHY configuration

LED indicators for Link Status and CAN/LIN Activity Construction, Controls and Cabling

Compact design: 5.5” x 4.5” x 1.6”.

Rugged aluminum enclosure with rubber bumpers for durability

Light weight: less than 1 lb. (.45 kg).

NanoMQS connection systems for Automotive Ethernet connection

2.1.3. Optional Features¶

2x CAN FD and 1x LIN Channels

Ability to control CAN/CAN FD termination resistance on both channels.

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

2.2. Operational Overview¶

The RAD-Pluto is a 5-port Ethernet Switch designed to automotive standards and interface with automotive networks. The base functionality is a Layer 2 Switch. It also has an option for an embedded processor with CAN and LIN network interfacing, data acquisition, and simulation and scripting.

2.2.1. Switch Port PHY Assignment¶

Ports 1 and 5 of the switch can be can be connected to 1 of 2 different PHYs as defined below.

Switch Port	Config 1 (Port Label)	Config 2 (Port Label)
Port 1	100BASE-T1 (AE1)	1000BASE-T (RJ-45)
Port 2-4	100BASE-T1 (AE2/AE3/AE4)	N/A
Port 5	USB Bridge (USB 3.0)	CoreMini Processor (N/A)

2.2.2. Port 5 Configurations¶

When port 5 is connected to the USB bridge, the RAD-Pluto will appear as a Network Interface Card (NIC) to a connected computer (with properly installed driver). Ethernet traffic will pass directly between the switch and the computer. This configuration is intended for use with or without Vehicle Spy software.
When port 5 is connected to the optional CoreMini Processor, the Ethernet traffic will pass through the processor for use exclusively with Vehicle Spy or Intrepid’s API.

2.2.3. Vehicle Network Interfacing (Optional)¶

The primary function of this device is a layer 2 switch, it can be used as and Ethernet interface by configuring the CoreMini processor to be connected to Port 5 of the switch. This allows the PC to monitor live network activity as well as transmit Ethernet frames. The received network traffic arrives to the PC with a precision time stamp for data acquisition. Transmit and receive functions can be accessed using Vehicle Spy software our the Open Source API. For more information on how to use Vehicle Spy with this feature, reference Core Features

Monitoring and Simulating Ethernet Traffic

Note that not unlike ICS Ethernet tap devices, when used with VSPY or your own software, not all ports are directly accessible. The host computer is connected directly to a port of the 88Q5050 switch. To monitor or simulate Ethernet traffic, the switch needs to be configured to forward between the desired physical ports for your application.

Data Acquisition (Optional)¶

With the use of Vehicle Spy or Intrepid APIs Acquisition of data from networks with precise control over collection parameters. The data can be captured in Vehicle Spy or using the Intrepid APIs.

Simulation and Scripting (Optional)¶

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 embedded scripts which can run within the device itself. This functionality allows you to create specialized test scenarios, and to simulate ECUs and gateways. More information can be found in CoreMini Scripting

2.2.4. PHY Register access¶

In any mode, each PHY can be accessed by the embedded processor over MDIO in order to read and write configurations registers. More information can be found in PHY Dashboard

2.3. Package Contents¶

Your RAD-Pluto package includes both hardware and software. Upon receipt, please remove, unwrap and inspect all its contents. If anything is missing or damaged, please contact Intrepid for prompt assistance, using the information at the end of this guide.

2.3.1. Hardware¶

Your RAD-Pluto package includes the following:

The RAD-Pluto device.

A standard 8-wire Ethernet cable (CAT5e)

Nano-MQS Connector and Terminal kit

A standard USB Type B to Type C SuperSpeed cable

A 12 Volt Power Supply

2.3.2. Software¶

Unless physical media was specifically requested, your box should contain a reference card with instructions on where to download the device drivers and any other purchased software. If your media or reference card cannot be located, please contact Customer Support.

2.4. Hardware Requirements¶

2.4.1. Device Power¶

The RAD-Pluto can be powered in 3 different ways.

DC supply:¶

This device comes with a DC supply rated for this device. If an alternate supply is used, insure that the voltage is between 5V-40V and is rated for at least 1 Amp.

Certified USB 3.0 Port:¶

Earlier versions of USB or uncertified devices may not supply the current required for reliable operation. If you are unsure of your USB port’s power capabilities, use one of the other 2 options to provide power to the device.

9-pin DSUB¶

(See section 2.2 for pin assignments)

2.4.2. Computer Interface¶

As a hardware device, there are no specific requirements on the computer aside from the proper USB interface and the proper device driver installed. Instructions on installing the device driver are covered later with the installation of software.

Connection to a computer is needed both for configuration of the tool as well as to communicate with the device if you intend to use Vehicle Spy or Intrepid’s available API. A slow connection is sufficient to configure the device. But to take full advantage of Gigabit speeds, it is important to connect to a certified USB 3 port using a USB 3.0 cable certified for SuperSpeed. Using inferior hardware and cables may result in erratic performance.