LV-LOG from Klaric Operates Autonomously — No PC Required

Project in a Nutshell: Promwad built LV-LOG for Klaric — a compact, standalone data logger for EV and hybrid testing. It is based on Microchip silicon: a PIC32MZ DA MCU for control/graphics and a KSZ9563R Ethernet switch with IEEE 1588v2 PTP. 

The system runs without a PC and is operated via a touchscreen. Time-synchronised Ethernet enables precise, distributed measurements across modules. The EMI-compliant device supports multiple power options and modular expansion for future needs. 

Client & Challenge

Klaric GmbH & Co. KG, a trusted German provider of high-precision measurement systems for EV and hybrid testing, faced growing limitations with its legacy data acquisition tools. Their existing systems relied heavily on external PCs, lacked modular flexibility, and offered restricted connectivity, making it difficult to adapt to dynamic testing scenarios and field conditions. 

To remain competitive and meet the expectations of global OEMs, Klaric needed a standalone, reconfigurable subsystem that would support modular expansion, operate reliably across diverse power sources, and provide a future-proof foundation for synchronized data capture and real-time control — all while complying with strict automotive EMI/EMC standards

Solution 

To meet Klaric’s need for a modular and autonomous automotive data acquisition platform, Promwad engineered the LV-LOG subsystem — a fully standalone, scalable solution designed for field operation and real-time diagnostics in EV and hybrid vehicle testing. Built around Microchip’s embedded technologies, the system integrates robust data logging, versatile connectivity, and industrial-grade resilience.

Here’s how Promwad addressed each core challenge: 

Modular Architecture for Customization 
From concept to implementation, the system was designed with a modular approach. This allows Klaric — and future clients — to reconfigure the device easily, tailoring features and performance to specific testing needs without a full redesign. 

Embedded Data Logging with eMMC Storage 
At the heart of the system is the PIC32MZ DA microcontroller, which collects high-resolution data from analog and digital sources and stores it securely on onboard eMMC storage. This ensures reliable logging even without a PC, which is ideal for standalone field operations. 

Touchscreen Interface for Standalone Control 
A built-in graphics engine, generous RAM, and RGB interface support enabled the integration of a touch display — eliminating the need for external PCs during configuration and operation and improving usability in mobile test setups. 

Dual-Mode USB Type-C Connectivity 
The system supports both Host and Device modes via USB 2.0 OTG, enabling flexible interaction with external storage and PCs. This improves data extraction and firmware update workflows. 

Multi-Source Power Input 
Promwad implemented automatic switching between multiple power sources — including CAN/Ethernet connectors, extension boards in HRS, and USB PD (rev 3.0) — covering a wide +9 to +48V range. This ensures stable operation in variable automotive testing environments. 

Interface Expansion & CAN FD Support 
To support future testing scenarios, the platform includes a modular interface expansion mechanism. A dedicated CAN FD extension board enables synchronized, isolated communication across additional ADC modules — increasing system scalability and flexibility. 

High-Current Digital I/O Modules 
IEC 61131-2-compliant digital I/O modules (up to 500 mA per I/O) were designed to support real-time interactions — including triggering ADC events and controlling external equipment directly from the logger. 

Isolated Power Supply (IPS) Board 
To meet strict EMI/EMC requirements, Promwad developed a compact +12V/+24V, 24W isolated dual-channel power module. A major challenge was ensuring low electromagnetic interference in close proximity to sensitive ADC circuits — a challenge successfully solved. 

Ethernet with Precision Time Protocol (PTP) 
To support synchronized communication, Promwad integrated Microchip’s KSZ9563R Ethernet switch, known for its high standalone performance, integrated PHY, and minimal configuration needs. This chip enables IEEE 1588v2-compliant time synchronization, removes the need for external routers, simplifies module cascading, and lays the foundation for future Gigabit Ethernet upgrades. 

Promwad relied on industry-proven engineering tools like Altium Designer and MPLAB® X IDE to streamline development, ensure design accuracy, and reduce integration time when working with Microchip’s embedded components. 

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