Unlock real-time data exchange and parameter tuning with the XCP protocol on GOcontroll Moduline controllers.

The XCP protocol (Universal Measurement and Calibration Protocol) is widely used in embedded control systems for real-time data acquisition and calibration. With GOcontroll Moduline controllers, XCP comes integrated when programming via MATLAB Simulink, allowing engineers to visualize signals and fine-tune parameters during runtime. This combination makes Moduline controllers a powerful tool for optimizing processes in automotive, industrial, and research applications.

The XCP protocol is a standardized interface designed for real-time communication between an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) and calibration tools. It enables engineers to:

• Extract live measurement data with high sampling rates
• Adjust controller parameters while the system is running
• Use a single .A2L description file to define available signals and variables

In practice, this means development teams can shorten iteration cycles, test control strategies directly in the field, and improve system performance without recompiling software.

GOcontroll Moduline controllers are fully compatible with MATLAB Simulink through a dedicated blockset. Once a control model is built and compiled, XCP functionality is automatically included. During the build process, an .A2L file is generated, describing the available signals. This file can be imported into any XCP-compatible dashboard tool, such as HANtune. Of course, when XCP is not desired (e.g. for roll-out purpose) it can be excluded from the build.

Key benefits of Simulink + XCP on Moduline:

• Automatic XCP server integration
• Seamless signal mapping through the .A2L file
• Direct access to real-time signals for visualization and analysis
• Runtime calibration without stopping the controller

GOcontroll Moduline controllers are equipped with robust networking options where Matlab Simulink can make use of for XCP communication:

• Ethernet
• Wi-Fi
• CAN

This makes XCP especially effective in lab setups or field applications where fast, low-latency communication is essential. Engineers can connect directly to the controller, stream real-time data, and make parameter adjustments on the fly without additional hardware. Especially Wi-Fi is perfect to use in combination with XCP. It doesn’t matter where your controller is positioned in the application. When using XCP over Wi-Fi, your setup doesn’t need to be touched in case you want to benefit from the XCP possibilities.

Because of its ability to capture high-frequency data and allow live parameter adjustments, XCP is an ideal tool for process optimization. Some example domains where XCP with Moduline controllers excels:

• Automotive: fine-tuning engine control or powertrain algorithms during test drives
• Agriculture: optimizing sensor-driven processes in precision farming machinery
• Industrial automation: improving closed-loop control systems in pilot plants
• Research: running experiments with real-time feedback and quick model adaptation

The generated .A2L file can be imported into any XCP-compatible dashboard environment. With tools such as HANtune, engineers can create custom dashboards to:

• Visualize live sensor data
• Adjust controller parameters in real-time
• Log data for post-processing and validation
• Compare multiple test scenarios

This allows for flexible, user-friendly interaction with the Moduline controller, giving engineers complete control over experiments and optimization workflows.

GOcontroll Moduline controllers combine rugged hardware with flexible software integration. Thanks to Linux-based architecture, modular IO options, and Simulink compatibility, they are future-proof for demanding applications. Adding XCP into the workflow enhances:

• Development speed
• Real-time insights
• Ease of tuning and validation

Together, these capabilities help businesses and researchers accelerate their innovation cycles and achieve better results with less effort.