The BlackBird v2’s ability to leverage existing wireless infrastructure makes it ideal for replacing cumbersome cables, accessing hard-to-reach CAN networks, or for monitoring a CANbus while in motion. Based on a radio chip that is Wi-Fi certified and meets CE and FCC standards, it works in both Ad Hoc and Infrastructure mode.
“The Blackbird name is synonymous with speed; with any wireless link, data throughput depends on the attributes of the network itself, but the Blackbird v2 allows customers to relay CAN messages further and faster than previously possible using a Blackbird, thanks to additional 802.11n compatibility,” commented Lars-Berno Fredriksson, president of Kvaser AB. He added: “Some of our automotive customers use the Blackbird to monitor engine parameters wirelessly during on-track testing and race events; this will allow them to do so more consistently and efficiently than ever.”
Additional features of the BlackBird v2 include galvanic isolation and more onboard memory, which helps the interface overcome potential interruptions to the connection during wireless disturbance. The maximum message rate for this device is 15,000/s, with a timestamp resolution of 25µs. A special feature of the Blackbird v2 is its REST based API. Catering to increased market demand for iOS and Android-based applications, this is a flexible, device independent development environment that lowers the bar for customers wishing to develop applications for the Blackbird v2. Notably, example frameworks for simple applications, such as a CAN monitor, are already available in the Kvaser REST API for Blackbird v2 documentation area.