LIN Bus

There are several types of networks in cars. The best known, and mostly used is probably CAN (Controller Area network); these networks are designed to allow microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other in applications without a host computer. LIN (Local Interconnect Network) is a serial network protocol used for communication between components in vehicles. LIN is a lower cost version of CAN, allowing data to be transmitted over a single line. It is typically used for non-safety critical applications, such as (light) sensors, seat positioning motors or even cruise control. As it is connected to the car battery, the supply range is broadly defined (7V-18V). The PHY should be designed to drive a variable load, depending on the number of slaves on the LIN bus. Additionally, the robustness requirements are quite severe; for example, the IC should survive loss of ground or loss of battery, pass high ESD levels and have a well thought out EMC design.
Sofics' LIN transceiver PHY combines all these elements.

• Sofics' LIN PHY with built-in on-chip robustness against a myriad of automotive disturbances