Custom Protocols

What you'll learn

• How to create a custom channel protocol
• How to define a multi-protocol channel

Prerequisites

• Complete Tutorial 7: Designing with Channels.
• You need the Editor or Admin role to change these settings.

Steps

1Create a custom protocol

Use this when your protocol isn't built in (CAN, Ethernet, UART, …).

1. In the Library sidebar header, click Channels ⚙ Interfaces.
2. In the Channels section, click Add Custom under Custom.
3. Name the protocol and list its roles. For each Role, set the Mating Role it connects to on the other device (e.g. TX → RX).
4. Click Apply.

The protocol now appears in a device's Channels: picker. Set its default wiring the same way as any built-in protocol (Tutorial 7: Designing with Channels).

Screenshot

2Define a multi-protocol channel

A multi-protocol channel is a pin group that can carry more than one protocol (e.g. RS-422 or RS-485). In Cross-Channel Compatibilities, click Add Multi-Protocol Channel, add the protocols as columns and the roles as rows, map them, and click Apply.

Summary

Custom protocols and multi-protocol channels let you use channels for any interface your system needs.

What's next

• → Tutorial 9: Standard Interfaces — the equivalent for off-the-shelf connectors like USB and Ethernet.