LIN Decoder

The LIN Frame Format

In simple terms, the LIN bus message frame consists of a header and a response.
Typically, the LIN master transmits a header to the LIN bus. This triggers a slave, which sends up to 8 data bytes in response.

Header

Response

LIN Decoding in HScope

Use the following settings:

  • Input range: at least 16V
  • Sampling rate: at least 100KSa/s
  • Use the digital module to enable the LIN decoding

Sample of HScope decoded data:

  • In the HEADER part the module ID is in YELLOW color.
  • Data fields are in GREEN color.
  • Light BLUE fields are for parity and CRC control.

HScope LIN decoder performs automatically: LIN bus speed recognition, parity and CRC check. In case of problem the corresponding field will be in RED color:

What is LIN?

LIN bus is a supplement to CAN bus. It offers lower performance and reliability - but also drastically lower costs.

  • Low cost option (if speed/fault tolerance are not critical)
  • Often used in vehicles for windows, wipers, air condition etc..
  • LIN clusters consist of 1 master and up to 16 slave nodes
  • Single wire (+ground) with 1-20 kbit/s at max 40 m bus length
  • Time triggered scheduling with guaranteed latency time
  • Variable data length (2, 4, 8 bytes)
  • LIN supports error detection, checksums & configuration
  • Operating voltage of 12V
  • Physical layer based on ISO 9141 (K-line)
  • Sleep mode & wakeup support
  • Most newer vehicles have 10+ LIN nodes