Markus LarssonHelix Connectivity: USB, WiFi, 4G, and VPN for Every Scenario
One of the key strengths of Helix is its flexible connectivity. Whether you are sitting next to the device on a workbench or monitoring it remotely from another country, Helix gives you the tools to stay connected.
USB: The Simplest Connection
For quick, direct access, simply connect Helix to your computer via USB. The device appears as a network interface — no drivers required. Open your browser, navigate to the device address, and you are ready to go.
This is the fastest way to get started, especially for bench testing and development work.
USB Host Mode: Expandable Connectivity
When powered externally (9-32V DC), the USB port can operate in host mode, allowing Helix to act as a USB host for peripheral devices. This makes it possible to connect USB adapters for WiFi, Ethernet, or 4G/LTE connectivity — extending the device's networking capabilities without any built-in radio hardware.
USB-Ethernet: Wired Network Access
By connecting a USB-Ethernet adapter, Helix integrates into existing lab or workshop networks. Access it from any computer on the same network — ideal for shared environments where multiple engineers need access to the same device.
WiFi: Wireless Local Access
Connect a USB WiFi adapter and configure the wireless network directly from the settings page.
The WiFi settings support:
- WPA2/WPA3/Mixed security modes for enterprise-grade protection
- Open mode for isolated test networks
- Simple SSID and password configuration
- One-click save and restart
Once connected to your wireless network, you can access the Helix UI from any device on the same network — laptop, tablet, or phone.
4G/LTE: Remote and Mobile Deployments
For vehicles, mobile equipment, and remote installations, Helix supports cellular connectivity via 4G/LTE. This enables you to:
- Monitor CAN data from devices installed in vehicles during test drives
- Access field-deployed equipment without being on-site
- Stream data to the cloud via MQTT for centralized monitoring
The cloud settings page lets you configure MQTT broker connectivity with:
- Broker URL — Point to your own MQTT broker or use our cantainer.io cloud service
- Client ID and Topic Postfix — Organize data from multiple devices
- Authentication — Username and password support for secure connections
- DBC cloud upload — Automatically upload decoded signal values to the cloud
VPN: Secure Remote Access with Tailscale
For the most flexible remote access, Helix integrates with Tailscale VPN. This creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between the device and your Tailscale network, allowing you to access the Helix UI from anywhere in the world as if you were on the local network.
Tailscale configuration includes:
- Auth key — Securely authenticate the device to your Tailscale network (the key is not stored on the device after authentication)
- Device name — Give the device a custom name on your VPN network
- Route advertisement — Share local subnets through the VPN (CIDR notation)
- Exit node — Route all traffic through the VPN for additional security
This is particularly powerful for field deployments. A Helix device installed in a vehicle or at a remote site can be accessed securely from your office, without exposing any ports to the public internet.
Choose the Right Connection for Your Use Case
| Scenario | Recommended Connection |
|---|---|
| Bench testing and development | USB (direct) |
| Shared workshop or lab | USB-Ethernet or WiFi |
| Vehicle test drives | 4G/LTE + MQTT cloud |
| Remote site monitoring | 4G/LTE + Tailscale VPN |
| Multi-site fleet management | 4G/LTE + MQTT cloud |
Helix adapts to your workflow — not the other way around.
