mdf = MDF(input_path, sync_timestamps=True) Error: MF4 output is 10x larger than the BLF input. Cause: Default MF4 saves XML data uncompressed. Fix: Use compression=2 (Deflate) or compression=3 (LZ4) when saving:
The "new" CLI and Python methods are roughly 4x faster than the old GUI workflow. The Future: Beyond MF4 (And Why You Still Need This) You might wonder: Is MF4 still relevant? With the rise of Apache Parquet and Arrow Flight , some teams are skipping MF4. However, ASAM MDF 4.20 (released Q4 2024) adds native support for Zstandard compression and JSON-based attachments. convert blf to mf4 new
mdf.save(output_path, compression=3) # LZ4 is fastest The "new" trend is data lake automation. Here is a bash script to convert an entire folder: The Future: Beyond MF4 (And Why You Still
convert_blf_to_mf4(sys.argv[1], sys.argv[2]) python convert_blf.py my_vehicle_log.blf my_vehicle_log.mf4 Step 4: Verification (Optional but Recommended) Load the new MF4 back into asammdf to verify channels: but also FlexRay
| Method | Time | File Size (Output) | Metadata Preserved | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | 9 min 30 sec | 2.1 GB | Yes | | CANape 22+ CLI (New) | 1 min 12 sec | 1.9 GB | Yes | | asammdf v7.0 (Old lib) | 4 min 50 sec | 2.4 GB | Partial | | asammdf v7.5+ (New) | 2 min 10 sec | 1.8 GB | Full |
This article will explain why you need this conversion, the "new" tools that have revolutionized the process, and a step-by-step guide to achieving a seamless, lossless transformation. The Legacy Ecosystem (Vector) BLF is the native gold standard for Vector’s CANape and CANalyzer. It is highly efficient for recording high-speed bus traffic without losing a single frame. However, BLF is a proprietary binary format. If your client uses ETAS INCA, National Instruments DIAdem, or open-source tools like Python’s asammdf , BLF is inaccessible. The Industry Standard (ASAM MDF4) MF4 (MDF 4.x) is the open standard. It supports not just CAN, but also FlexRay, Ethernet, LIN, and XCP/CCP calibration data. It is self-describing and supports compression and digital signatures.