Introduction and Overview
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Keysight AP1200A Multi-Protocol Vehicle Network Interface User Guide
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Operational Overview
The AP1200A is a compact but powerful hardware tool for working with vehicle
networks. Its operation broadly consists of three categories:
– network interfacing
– data acquisition and logging
– simulation and scripting
Vehicle Network Interfacing
One primary function of the AP1200A is to act as an interface between vehicle
networks and a standard PC. Using the provided cables, you can connect the
AP1200A to either a bench test setup or an actual vehicle, and monitor live
network activity. All channels are captured simultaneously and are hardware
time-stamped with great accuracy. The AP1200A transfers data from the attached
networks over a USB connection. View the data via software such as the VSpy.
Data Acquisition and Standalone Logging
The AP1200A enables the acquisition of data from networks with precise control
over collection parameters. It is designed to operate not just when connected to a
PC, but also in standalone mode, running independently within a vehicle. You can
write custom scripts that run in real-time, logging data to the included microSD
card. You can later download this data to the PC for analysis, and this can be done
conveniently over USB without the need to remove the card.
Simulation and Scripting
The AP1200A not only allows you to receive data from vehicle networks but also to
transmit on them. Using VSpy or other software, you can define transmit
messages with custom data and send them manually or on a schedule of your
choosing. You can also write intelligent scripts that implement arbitrary logic, and
compile them into CoreMinis that run within the AP1200A. This functionality
allows you to create specialized test scenarios, and to simulate ECUs and
gateways. It is also possible to reflash ECUs using data from the AP1200A's
microSD card.
