Hioki MR8904 User manual

MR8904
Instruction Manual
CAN UNIT
EN
Sept. 2018 Revised edition 3
MR8904A981-03 18-09H

Contents
i
Contents
Introduction ..................................................1
Confirming Package Contents....................1
Safety Notes..................................................2
Usage Notes..................................................4
Chapter 1 Product Overview 7
1.1 Features ..............................................7
Chapter 2 Names and 
Functions of Parts 9
Chapter 3 Connections 11
3.1 Installing and Removing the 
MR8904 into and from a Memory
HiCorder ............................................11
3.2 Connecting the Unit to the 
Measurement Target ........................12
3.3 Connecting the Unit to a PC ...........14
Installing the USB driver ...........................14
Connecting the Memory HiCorder and PC 17
Uninstalling the USB Driver ......................19
Chapter 4 Preparing the
MR8904 CAN Editor 21
4.1 Operating Environment ...................21
4.2 Installing the MR8904 CAN Editor ..21
4.3 Uninstalling the MR8904 CAN 
Editor .................................................22
Chapter 5 Settings 23
5.1 Launching and Exiting the 
Software ............................................23
• To connect a Memory HiCorder after 
launching the MR8904 CAN Editor ............... 24
5.2 Screen Types ....................................25
5.3 Creating a CAN Definition Data File 26
• How to count the bit position .........................28
• Calculating the start bit (data start position).. 28
• Byte order ......................................................29
• To read a saved CAN definition data file .......29
• To load an existing CANdb file ......................30
• To set a password when opening a saved 
CAN definition data file.................................. 30
• To delete, edit, or duplicate registered CAN
definition data ................................................30
5.4 Creating Condition Settings Files ...34
Loading a CAN definition data file ............ 34
• To edit the [CAN Definition Data List] ............35
Registering CAN definitions 
(creating an MR8904 register list) ............ 36
• To edit the [MR8904 Register List]................ 37
Setting CAN communications conditions . 38
Allocating channels (Creating MR8904 
analog/logic assign lists) .......................... 40
• What is an ID trigger? ....................................41
• Deleting data from an assign list ...................41
Configuring transmission 
(creating an MR8904 Send list) ............... 42
• To edit the [MR8904 Send List] .....................42
Saving a list 
(saving a condition settings file) ............... 44
• To load a previously saved condition settings 
file ..................................................................44
5.5 Printing a Condition Settings File ...45
MR8904A981-03

Contents
ii
5.6 Sending and Receiving Condition 
Settings .............................................46
Sending condition settings ....................... 46
Receiving condition settings .................... 47
5.7 Window Menu Commands ...............48
Launch window........................................ 48
CAN Definition Data File Settings window 49
Condition Settings window ....................... 50
Chapter 6 Configuring 
Settings with the Memory
HiCorder 51
6.1 Checking and Editing Settings .......51
6.2 Checking Analog Channel 
Allocation ..........................................52
6.3 Checking Logic Channel 
Allocation ..........................................54
6.4 Setting the Transmission Timing ....55
Chapter 7 Specifications 57
7.1 Model MR8904 Specifications .........57
7.2 Model 9713-01 CAN Cable 
Specifications (Terminates in Bare
Wires on One End) ...........................58
7.3 Model 9713-02 CAN Cable 
Specifications (for Onboard Vehicle
Connectors) ......................................59
7.4 MR8904 CAN Editor General 
Specifications ...................................60
Chapter 8 Maintenance and 
Service 63
8.1 Troubleshooting .............................. 63
8.2 Cleaning ............................................ 64

Introduction
1
Thank you for purchasing the Hioki Model MR8904 CAN Unit. To obtain maximum performance from the
MR8904, please read this manual first, and keep it handy for future reference.
• Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or
other countries.
• CANdb is a registered trademark of Vector Infomatik in Germany.
When you receive the MR8904, inspect it carefully to ensure that no damage occurred during shipping. In
particular, check the accessories and connectors. If damage is evident, or if it fails to operate according to
the specifications, contact your dealer or Hioki representative.
Options
Model 9713-01 CAN Cable
(No connector on one end; approx. 2 m)
Model 9713-02 CAN Cable
(For vehicle equipment connectors; approx. 2 m; made to order; check specifications and availability)
Introduction
Registered trademarks
Confirming Package Contents

Safety Notes
2
This manual contains information and warnings essential for safe operation of the MR8904 and for main-
taining it in safe operating condition. Before using it, be sure to carefully read the following safety precau-
tions.
The following symbols in this manual indicate the relative importance of cautions and warn-
ings.
Safety Notes
This MR8904 is designed to comply with IEC 61010 Safety Standards, and has been
thoroughly tested for safety prior to shipment. However, mishandling during use
could result in injury or death, as well as damage to the MR8904. Using the MR8904 in
a way not described in this manual may negate the provided safety features.
Be certain that you understand the instructions and precautions in the manual before
use. We disclaim any responsibility for accidents or injuries not resulting directly
from MR8904 defects.
Safety Symbols
In the manual, the symbol indicates particularly important information that
the user should read before using the MR8904.
The symbol printed on the MR8904 indicates that the user should refer to a
corresponding topic in the manual (marked with the symbol) before using
the relevant function.
Hazard Labeling
Indicates that incorrect operation presents an extreme hazard that could result in
serious injury or death to the user.
Indicates that incorrect operation presents a significant hazard that could result
in serious injury or death to the user.
Indicates that incorrect operation presents a possibility of injury to the user or
damage to the MR8904.
Indicates advisory items related to performance or correct operation of the
MR8904.

Safety Notes
3
• Unless otherwise specified, “Windows” represents Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7,
or Windows 8.
• Menus, commands, dialogs, buttons in a dialog, and other names on the screen and the
keys are indicated in brackets.
Notation
(p. ) Indicates the location of reference information.
Indicates quick references for operation and remedies for troubleshooting.
Mouse action terminology
Click Press and quickly release the left button of the mouse.
Right-click Press and quickly release the right button of the mouse.
Double click Quickly click the left button of the mouse twice.
Drag While holding down the left button of the mouse, move the mouse and then
release the left button to deposit the chosen item in the desired position.
Activate Click on a window on the screen to activate that window.

Usage Notes
4
Follow these precautions to ensure safe operation and to obtain the full benefits of the various functions.
Operating temperature and humidity: As per Memory HiCorder specifications
Storing temperature and humidity:
Temperature: -20Cto 60C (-4 to 140°F)
Humidity : -20Cto 40C (-4 to 104°F) 80%RH or less (non-condensating)
40Cto 45C (104 to 113°F) 60%RH or less (non-condensating)
45Cto 60C (113 to 140°F) 50%RH or less (non-condensating)
See: "3.1 Installing and Removing the MR8904 into and from a Memory HiCorder" (p.11)
Usage Notes
Avoid the following locations that could cause an accident or damage to
the instrument.
Exposed to direct sun-
light
Exposed to high tem-
perature
In the presence of cor-
rosive or explosive gas-
es
Exposed to water, oil,
other chemicals, or
solvents
Exposed to high hu-
midity or condensa-
tion
Exposed to high levels
of particulate dust
When Installing and Removing the MR8904 into and from the Memory
HiCorder
• To avoid electric shock accident, before removing or replacing an MR8904, confirm
that the instrument is turned off and that the power cord and connection cables are
disconnected. The mounting screws must be firmly tightened or the MR8904 and
the Memory HiCorder may not perform to specifications, or may even fail.
• To avoid the danger of electric shock, never operate the Memory HiCorder with an
input module removed. To use the Memory HiCorder after removing an input mod-
ule, install a blank panel over the opening of the removed module.
Blank panel
Measurements made without a blank panel installed may fail to meet specifications
because of temperature instability within the input modules.

Usage Notes
5
See: "3.2 Connecting the Unit to the Measurement Target" (p.12)
Before using the MR8904 for the first time, verify that it operates normally to ensure that no
damage occurred during storage or shipping. If you find any damage, contact your dealer or
Hioki representative.
When Connecting the MR8904 and the Object under Measurement
This device is designed to collect messages being transferred on the CAN bus and to
send messages to the CAN bus. Do not connect it to anything other than a CAN bus.
In addition to damaging the Memory HiCorder, CAN Unit, and measurement target,
doing so may cause bodily injury.
Use of the CAN Unit may affect the operation of the CAN bus as well as systems con-
nected to the CAN bus. The resulting operation may cause bodily injury or property
damage. Verify how CAN Unit use, both proper and inadvertent, may affect associ-
ated systems before use.
• When connecting the MR8904 to a CAN bus, exercise care not to connect the power sup-
ply and ground lines backwards. Doing so may damage the MR8904 and measurement
target.
• When measuring low-speed CAN or single-wire CAN buses, the Memory HiCorder
ground and measurement cable ground lines are not isolated. Wire the system so that no
potential difference occurs between the ground lines. Failure to do so may damage the
Memory HiCorder, CAN Unit, and measurement target.
• When connecting the CAN unit to a low-speed CAN or single-wire CAN bus, power must
be supplied form an external source. Since the Memory HiCorder’s ground and measure-
ment cable ground lines are not isolated in this configuration, be sure to provide power
from a circuit with the same ground. Failure to do so may damage the Memory HiCorder,
CAN Unit, and measurement target.
Transport and Handling
To avoid damage to the MR8904, protect it from physical shock when transporting and han-
dling. Be especially careful to avoid physical shock from dropping.
This device may cause interference if used in residential areas. Such use must be avoided
unless the user takes special measures to reduce electromagnetic emissions to prevent inter-
ference to the reception of radio and television broadcasts.
Before Use
Before using the MR8904, make sure that the insulation on the cables is undamaged
and that no bare conductors are improperly exposed. Using the product in such con-
ditions could cause an electric shock, so contact your dealer or Hioki representative
for repair.

Usage Notes
6

1.1 Features
7
The MR8904 is an input module for Memory HiCorder that captures necessary data from CAN bus sig-
naling and transfers analog or logic signals to a Memory HiCorder as waveform data.
• When you connect the Memory HiCorder to a PC with a USB cable, you can configure the MR8904
from the PC with the MR8904 CAN Editor application (the USB cable and application are included with
the Memory HiCorder).
• Up to 200 CAN definitions can be registered.
The MR8904 is a Memory HiCorder option. It should only be used when installed in a Memory HiCorder.
Supported models: MR8875
The MR8904 provides an extensive number of output channels, including 15 analog channels
and a 16-bit logic channel.
The device’s independent CAN1 and CAN2 ports allow it to be connected to different net-
works with different CAN bus types or baud rates.
A single MR8904 provides support for three types of CAN bus: high-speed CAN, low-speed
CAN, and single-wire CAN.
The MR8904 monitors the CAN bus and automatically configures the baud rate accordingly,
eliminating the need to make troublesome settings (12 baud rates are supported: 10k, 20k,
33.3k, 50k, 62.5k, 83.3k, 100k, 125k, 250k, 500k, 800k, and 1 Mbps). The baud rate can also
be set manually.
Advanced settings concerning data captured from the CAN bus can be configured with the
MR8904 CAN Editor, an application featuring exceptional usability.
The MR8904 converts CAN signals into analog and logic data in real time, allowing signals to
be observed as waveforms on the Memory HiCorder.
Product Overview Chapter 1
1.1 Features
Extensive number of output channels
Two independent input ports
Support for three types of CAN bus
Automatic baud rate configuration
PC-accessible advanced settings
Real-time waveform observation

1.1 Features
8
Used in combination with other Memory HiCorder optional input modules, the MR8904 can be
used to implement mixed recording of sensor data and control signals on a CAN bus as well
as signals that cannot be acquired on a CAN bus.
The MR8904 can send ACK responses to CAN messages as well as CAN messages them-
selves, allowing it to be used in simple simulations.
The MR8904 can use Vector’s CAN communications database files. If you already have a
CANdb file, there is no need to create new CAN definitions.
Support for mixed recording
Ability to send data to the CAN bus
Use of CANdb files

9
Names and 
Functions of PartsChapter 2
When an error is encountered, the port in question will enter ACK OFF mode, making it
unable to send messages or issue ACK responses.
The error state will return to normal after measurement completes.
When a port enters an error state, verify that the wiring and CAN communications condi-
tions are correct.
CAN input port 1 (left) and 2 (right)
CAN signal input terminals. CAN1 and CAN2 are independent and can be
connected to different networks.
CAN LED1
• Turns green when a CAN message allo-
cated to the port 1 output channel is input.
• Turns red when port 1 experiences an error.
CAN LED2
• Turns green when a CAN message allocated
to the port 2 output channel is input.
• Turns red when port 2 experiences an error.

10

3.1 Installing and Removing the MR8904 into and from a Memory HiCorder
11
Before connecting the device, be sure to read "When Installing and Removing the MR8904 into and from
the Memory HiCorder" (p.4), which describes how to install a newly purchased MR8904 into a Memory
HiCorder and how to switch between it and other input modules.
(Example: MR8875)
Required items: Phillips head screwdriver (No.1)
Connections Chapter 3
3.1 Installing and Removing the MR8904 into
and from a Memory HiCorder
MR8904
Mounting
screws
1 Turn the Memory HiCorder POWER switch
off and unplug the AC adapter and any
measurement cords.
2 With attention to the orientation of the
MR8904, insert it firmly all the way in.
3 Using the Phillips screwdriver, tighten the
two MR8904 mounting screws.
To remove the MR8904, turn off the Memory
HiCorder, disconnect any cords that are connected
to the MR8904, and remove the device by revers-
ing the procedure described above.
Grip
Grip

3.2 Connecting the Unit to the Measurement Target
12
Before connecting the unit, be sure to read "When Connecting the MR8904 and the Object under Mea-
surement" (p.5). Then connect the MR8904 to the measurement target with a CAN cable.
Required items: Model 9713-01 CAN Cable, Phillips head screwdriver (No.1)
3.2 Connecting the Unit to the Measurement
Target
Example: Connecting the unit with the 9713-01
Wire
color Pin no. Receive signal name
-1 NC
Green 2 CAN_L
Black 3CAN_GND
- 4 NC
- 5NC
- 6 NC
Red 7CAN_H
- 8 NC
White 9CAN_V+
- Shield GND
12345
6789
Connector
D-Sub 17LE23090-27
(Manufactured by DDK Ltd.)
Top
Screw
1
2
1 Connect the CAN cable to one of
the MR8904 CAN Unit’s ports.
Take care to orient the connector
properly. Tighten the fixing screw
with a Phillips head screwdriver to
secure the connector to the unit.
2 Attach to the measurement object.

3.2 Connecting the Unit to the Measurement Target
13
Connection diagram when using Model 9713-01
Red
Green
Black
Battery
Green
Black
Red
Battery
White
Black
Red
White Battery
High-Speed CAN
Low-Speed CAN
Single-Wire CAN
CAN bus
CAN bus
CAN bus
Memory HiCorder
Model
MR8904
Model
MR8904
Model
MR8904
Model
9713-01
Model
9713-01
Model
9713-01
CAN-High
CAN-Low
GND
CAN-High
CAN-Low
GND
CAN
GND
Memory HiCorder
Memory HiCorder

3.3 Connecting the Unit to a PC
14
The MR8904 can be configured from a PC via the Memory HiCorder. Before starting the configuration
process, install the USB driver and connect the PC and Memory HiCorder.
Install the USB driver before you use the Memory HiCorder with a USB connection.
3.3 Connecting the Unit to a PC
Installing the USB driver
Do not plug in or unplug the USB cable while the Memory HiCorder is operating.
Use a user account with administrator privileges to perform the installation.
1 Execute the [HiokiUsbCdcDriver.msi] file in the X:\Driver folder on the CD.
(“X” indicates the CD-ROM drive. The letter varies with the PC.)
2 Click [Next].
Depending on the environment, the dialog box may take some time to appear so please
wait till it does so.
Click

3.3 Connecting the Unit to a PC
15
3 Click [Next].
When you want to change the
installation destination
Click [Browse...] to change the folder to
install into. Normally, there is no need to
change.
4 Click [Next] to start installing.
The installation of the software will begin.
Click
Click

3.3 Connecting the Unit to a PC
16
For Windows XP
During the installation, a message saying
that the software has not passed Windows
Logo testing will appear a few times, click
[Continue Anyway] to continue installing.
For Windows Vista/7/8
When a dialog box requesting your per-
mission to continue the program appears,
click [Yes].
Sometimes another dialog box requesting
yourpermission to installthesoftware may
appear. When it does, check [Always
trust software from "HIOKI E.E. COR-
PORATION"] and click [Install] to contin-
ue.
5 When installation is completed
and the dialog box appears,
click [Close] to exit.
This completes the driver installation.
Click
Click
1 Check 2 Click
Click