The Local Interconnect Network (LIN) is being implemented in vehicles around the world to help embedded system designers meet challenges including lower system cost, lower power consumption, weight reduction, and faster time to market for innovative electronic solutions. LIN is a low-cost, serial communication system for distributed electronic systems, such as window controls, seat movement, mirror positioning, LED lighting, and other body-oriented applications.
~20 LIN nodes already populate cars today and that # is growing
Some of the advantages of LIN are:
- Ease of use for the new and experienced designers
- Many components are drop in compatible
- Cheaper than other alternative network communication buses
- Harness reduction
- Provides for a more reliable vehicle
- No protocol license fee required
- Can be used in non-automotive environment similar to CAN
Some frequently asked LIN questions:
Does LIN replace CAN?
Answer:
No, LIN and CAN co exist in the automotive market.
LIN addresses an application space that requires less bandwidth and versatility when compared to the CAN application space.
What are the target applications for LIN Bus?
Answer:
Target automotive applications include mirrors, window lift, doors switches, door lock, HVAC motors, control panel, engine sensors, engine cooling fan, seat positioning motors, seat switches, wiper control, light switches, interface switches to radio/navigation/phone, rain sensor, light control, sun roof, RF receivers, body computer/smart junction box, interior lighting and more.
Can LIN be used for non-automotive applications?
Answer:
Although designed for automotive applications, LIN is not limited to automotive applications and has found it’s way already into applications such as appliance and consumer.
Microchip is a provider of some of the best in class Transceivers that have been accepted by the major OEMs. Meeting automotive requirements allows our products to more easily proliferate across other non-automotive applications since the parts already meet stringent requirements.
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