13-06-2009, 07:16 PM
LIN is low cost serial holistic communication system concepts for local interconnect networks in vehicles which complements the existing portfolio of automotive multiplex networks (see figure below).The specification defines interfaces for development tools and application software in addition to the definition of the protocol and the physical layer.
LIN enables a cost-effective communication for smart sensors and actuators where the bandwidth and versatility of CAN is not obligatory. The communication is based on the SCI (UART) data format, a single-master/multiple-slave concept, a single-wire 12V bus, and clock synchronization for nodes without stabilized time base.
The LIN standard reduces the manifold of existing low-end SCI based multiplex solutions and cuts the cost of development, production, service, and logistics in vehicle electronics thereby the consortium helps to standardize a concept of a serial low cost communication concept in conjunction with a development environment, that enables the car manufacturers and their suppliers to create, implement, and handle complex hierarchical multiplex systems in a very cost competitive way.