Kvaser AB is pleased to announce the BlackBird v2 HS CAN 2.0 to WLAN interface. An upgrade to Kvaser’s original BlackBird CAN to WLAN interface, the BlackBird v2 incorporates a new radio chip that gives it up to 75% better range. In addition, a new REST-based application programming interface (API) means that the Blackbird v2 can now be accessed from any tablet PC or smartphone.

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 – see Kvaser’s website (www.kvaser.com) for details.

For more information on Kvaser’s range of Blackbird CAN to WLAN interfaces, please click through to: www.kvaser.com/products/blackbirdv2

Support and Availability
The Blackbird v2 is available now with free software, free software updates and free support.

About Kvaser:

With over 25 years of CAN development experience and more than 60 CAN-related products to their name, Kvaser AB (www.kvaser.com) is the CAN expert, bringing its deep knowledge in the field of CAN to industries that include Automotive, Avionics, Building Automation, Domestic Appliances, Hydraulic Equipment, Industrial Automation, Maritime, Medical, Military, Railway, Telecoms and Textiles.

Kvaser is headquartered in Mölndal, Sweden, with regional offices in Mission Viejo, CA in the United States, and in Shanghai, China. Kvaser AB also has a global network of highly knowledgeable Qualified Sales Representatives and Technical Associates. To find the nearest Kvaser supplier to you, please visit www.kvaser.com

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