As with the original version of Ollie, Ollie v2 is an isolated, multifunction interface module and USB-to-isolated-UARTx2/CAN/RS485/RS232 converter. This versatile device combines our most commonly used interface modules into one safe, reliable, compact, and affordable package.

Ollie v2 prioritizes safety through isolation, which will save your computer from damage if things go wrong when you’re interfacing with high voltage devices.

Ollie v2 is the perfect tool for hackers and field engineers; a compact device to keep in your tool box whether you’re traveling, hacking your car, or just need quick access to a power supply without worrying about damaging your laptop.

The main objective of this project is turning this mess of wires (left) into a neat and useful device (right)!

What’s New in v2?

This latest version of Ollie comes with a host of improvements:

• UART voltage level can be set from target
• Custom drivers for Windows and script for Linux to identify COM ports functions
• COM ports activity RGB LED
• Robust USB-C Connector
• New plastic enclosure
• Compact design
• Resilient supply chain for ongoing production
• Removed the not-so-useful support for USB Full Speed downstream targets, since most modern debuggers such as STLINK-V3 only support USB High Speed

Features & Specifications:

• Isolated UART:
  • Two isolated UART ports (UARTA and UARTB)
  • Data Rate up to 6 Mbps
  • 1.8/3.3/5 V or Target voltage levels (set by slide switch)
• Isolated CAN:
  • CAN2.0A/B, data rate up to 1 Mbit/sec.
  • Compatible with SocketCAN.
  • CAN bus Monitoring using BUSMaster
  • Termination Resistor switch
  • Available API for LabView, C#, VB.Net, Delphi, Python
  • ESD protection
• Isolated RS485:
  • Bias and Termination resistors switches
  • Error-free transmission up to 500 kbps
  • ESD protection
• Isolated RS232:
  • Typical data rate of 235 kbps
  • ESD protection
• Optional: CAN/RS232/RS485 DB9 pluggable connector

Use Cases

We designed Ollie v2 as the perfect multi-tool for hackers and field engineers; to be a "Swiss Army knife" of interface modules. With that in mind, Ollie v2 can be used in a wide range of situations, but here are some ideas of where we think it will be useful.

• High-speed 1.8/3.3/5 V isolated UART
• Auto flash ESP32, Arduino, or similar
• Isolated CAN to interface with vehicles
• Communicate with any system that uses RS485/RS232

Custom Enclosure

Ollie v2 comes with a plastic protective enclosure, so you can feel safe using it in any situation.

Custom DB9 Adapter

With the optional DB9 v2 adapter, Ollie v2 is easily attached directly to a DB9 cable. Note that the DB9 v2 adapter is not compatible with the original Ollie, nor is the original DB9 adapter compatible with Ollie v2.

Comparisons

Support & Documentation

• GitHub repository with documentation, pinouts, and drivers
• Discord server

Pinout Diagram

Manufacturing Plan

Ollie v2 will be manufactured by a trusted partner we’ve been working with for years across multiple products.

Fulfillment & Logistics

After production, Ollie v2 will be shipped to Crowd Supply’s fulfillment partner, Mouser Electronics, which will deliver to backers worldwide. Additional information about Crowd Supply’s fulfillment service can be found in the Ordering, Paying, and Shipping section of their guide.

Risks & Challenges

One lesson we’ve learned from past campaigns is that there’s always a possibility of delays. To mitigate this risk, we’ve proactively secured the most crucial components for the initial batch. We’re committed to making every effort to ensure timely shipment.