Getting Started with VN5640
Version 1.0
Application Note AN-IND-1-020
Author: Vector Informatik GmbH
Restrictions: Public Document
Abstract: This document details the configuration steps for the VN5640 interface, focusing on Ethernet-specific settings relevant to your use case.
1 Overview
The Vector VN5640 is a 16-channel Ethernet interface designed for complex measurement, simulation, and test tasks. It also includes two CAN channels and an I/O interface. This guide provides an overview of the necessary configuration steps, with a particular focus on Ethernet configuration.
2 Definitions of Terms
2.1 Client Application
Applications like CANoe, CANalyzer, or CANape that connect to the VN5640 via one or more application channels.
2.2 Hardware Channel
A physical connection on the VN5640 interface used for connecting external devices.
2.3 Hardware Segment
A hardware segment provides access to an Ethernet network, potentially combining multiple hardware channels to offer a single application channel to the client. Available types include:
- Switch: Acts as a layer-2 switch, learning MAC addresses for packet forwarding. Rules are retained until the interface is powered off.
- TAP (Test Access Point): Represents a measuring point, typically using two hardware channels.
- Direct connection: Uses a single hardware channel for direct network access, often for diagnostic applications.
2.4 TAP
A TAP serves as a measuring point between two communication partners. For point-to-point Ethernet connections, an intelligent unit like the VN5640 is used. Each TAP offers options:
- PHY Bypass (Physical Layer Bypass): Transmits packets with minimal latency, forwarding data immediately. Erroneous packets are also transmitted. Data is sent to the client application upon complete packet reception, but sending from the client is not supported.
- MAC Bypass (Media Access Control Layer Bypass): Transmits packets with minimum latency, buffering and forwarding them after complete reception. Erroneous packets are discarded. Data is sent to the client application, and sending from the client is supported.
- Bypass Off (“man in the middle”): Packets are not automatically transmitted. Users must manually feed extracted packets back into the system for filtering or manipulation.
Note: For detailed information on bypassing latency, consult the VN5640 user manual.
2.5 Application Channel
Connects the Vector interface to the client application. In systems like CAN or FlexRay, an application channel is typically mapped to a physical hardware channel within the Vector Hardware Config dialog. Each application channel corresponds to one network in the client application.
Diagram Description (Figure 3): Illustrates the connection of a Vector interface to a CANoe simulation setup. It shows hardware channels (CAN, LIN) mapped to application channels (CANoe CAN 1, CANoe CAN 2, CANoe LIN 1), which then connect to networks within the CANoe simulation.
The VN5640 allows assigning application channels to hardware segments. The number of hardware channels per segment is determined by the selected operation mode (see section 3.1.1).
2.6 Standard Configuration
Settings configured in the Vector Hardware Config dialog, including the number of segments, hardware channel (PHY) settings, and TAP configurations. These settings are stored permanently in the VN5640's flash memory and applied upon each power-on.
2.7 Standalone Mode
The VN5640 can operate without a connected computer or client application, using its standard configuration. Section 4 explains how to override this configuration for CANoe/CANalyzer measurements.
3 Configuration of the VN5640 Interface
3.1 Creation of the Standard Configuration
Configuration is performed using the Vector Hardware Config dialog, accessible via the system control or the [Driver...] button in CANoe/CANalyzer's Network Hardware Configuration dialog.
Diagram Description (Figure 4): Shows the Vector Hardware Config dialog. The left pane lists connected Vector interfaces. Under the VN5640 entry, hardware segments are displayed. Application channels can be assigned to hardware segments via the context menu. The operation mode, which determines the number of segments, can be changed by selecting 'Device Configuration' from the context menu of the VN5640 entry or from the Details view.
3.1.1 Selection of the Operation Mode
Choose an operation mode suitable for your use case:
| Operation Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Simulation | For general network topology flexibility. The interface forwards all Ethernet packets, with the built-in switch learning MAC addresses. CAPL functions allow direct sending via specific connectors. |
| Measurement | Preserves network topology. Provides 8 network access points per segment for tapping into a network. Options for MAC or PHY bypass mode are available for modifying transmitted packets. CAPL functions support direct sending via specific connectors. |
| Direct Connection | Offers direct access to all 16 hardware channels for tasks like accessing diagnosis ports. Channels operate independently without packet forwarding. |
| Media Conversion | Connects Ethernet devices with different media requirements. Provides four media converters and four additional network access points, with MAC/PHY bypass options. CAPL functions support direct sending. |
| Direct Connection with TAP (legacy) | For compatibility with older VN5610/VN5610A configurations. Allows setting a TAP between two segments. |
Diagram Description (Figure 5): Illustrates the operation mode selection within the VN5640 Device Configuration dialog. It shows the interface ports and segments, with options to select bypass modes.
3.1.2 Configuration of the Hardware Segments/Hardware Channels
After selecting an operation mode, the dialog's central area updates to show hardware configuration. Select segments or channels to make settings in the lower area.
Note: Selecting a hardware segment causes its assigned hardware channel LEDs to flash, aiding in cabling.
Example: Configuration of a TAP
- Select Measurement or Media Conversion operation mode.
- Select a hardware segment.
- Choose the desired bypass functionality (e.g., PHY Bypass).
- Select hardware channel 1 of the segment and configure its physical layer.
- Select hardware channel 2 of the segment and configure its physical layer.
- Close the Device Configuration dialog. Settings are saved as standard configuration for standalone mode.
4 Overwriting the Standard Configuration at the Start of a Measurement of CANoe/CANalyzer
The VN5640's standard configuration can be temporarily overridden by a client application at the start of a measurement. The standard configuration reactivates upon measurement stop. Not all client applications support this feature.
Access the Network Hardware Configuration dialog in CANoe/CANalyzer (via the Hardware ribbon tab | Network Hardware) to overwrite settings not related to segments. Segment/channel assignments are managed via the Vector Hardware Config dialog and its operation mode (see 3.1.1).
Diagram Description (Figure 6): Shows the Network Hardware Configuration dialog, where users can select Ethernet configurations for measurement, including transfer modes and negotiation settings.
When to Overwrite Standard Configuration:
- Automated Settings: To ensure client applications (e.g., CANoe/CANalyzer) automatically apply specific settings to the Vector interface at measurement start. This is useful for distributing configurations to colleagues who can immediately start measurements without manual interface setup. Ensure correct external hardware connection, operation mode, and application channel assignment. The standard configuration is restored after the client application stops.
- Temporary Network Interference: For scenarios requiring minimal latency when a measurement stops, after initially setting up a TAP with PHY bypass. During measurement, CANoe can modify the TAP option (e.g., to MAC bypass for sending packets or Bypass Off for manipulation). Upon measurement stop, the system reverts to the standard PHY bypass configuration.
Note: Overwriting affects only hardware segments and channels; the operation mode must be set in the Vector Hardware Config dialog.
4.1.1 Definition of the Transfer Mode
In the Network Hardware Configuration dialog, select from the following transfer modes:
- Switch: Configures up to 16 hardware channels. Learns MAC addresses for packet transmission based on defined rules.
- Y-cable: Configures a measuring point (TAP or media converter) using two hardware channels.
- Direct access: Uses a single hardware channel for direct network access.
- Direct Access (with TAP): Uses a single hardware channel for direct network access, primarily for compatibility.
The transfer mode defines the expected transmission behavior. CANoe validates settings at measurement start; incompatible settings will cancel the measurement.
Diagram Description (Figure 7): Shows the Network Hardware Configuration dialog with the transfer mode selection dropdown, offering options like Switch, Y-cable, and Direct access.
4.1.2 Definition of the Bypass Method
This option is available when Y-cable or Direct access (with TAP) transfer modes are selected. It allows setting the bypass method for the TAP at the start of a measurement.
4.1.3 Configuration of the Hardware Channels
Hardware channels assigned to a segment can be configured via Ethx.y fields. In Switch mode, the number of channels can be adjusted with [+] and [-] buttons. Channels are configured sequentially from left to right. The first available channel matching the setting is used.
Example with VN5640:
A hardware segment with Switch transfer mode (16 channels) assigned to ETH1. The Network Hardware Configuration dialog shows settings for ETH 1.1 to ETH 1.5. At measurement start, hardware channel 1 uses setting 1 (IEEE 100BASE-T1, master). The next available channel for setting 2 (Auto-Negotiation) is hardware channel 13. The resulting configuration is detailed, showing assignments for channels 1-16.
5 Contacts
For a complete list of Vector locations and addresses worldwide, please visit http://vector.com/contact/.
