Controller Area Network
What it is:
– A simple communication method for sensors, controllers and actuators
– Broadcast network, every module can talk and listen to all others
– Up to 1Million bits per second
– 2-wire communications
What it’s good for:
-Short messages for sensor values or actuator commands
-Noisy environments (cars, trucks, factories, etc)
-Wire reduction (many messages on 2 wires)
What it’s not good for:
-Pictures, Videos, large files and datasets
Most common CAN Bus mistakes:
-Modules not set to the same bus speed (ex 1Mbit/s)
-Termination resistors incorrect (NEED (2) and ONLY (2) 120ohm)
-Termination resistors not at ends of longest wire run (trunk)
-Drop wires longer than permitted
Hookup:
-Power
-Ground
-CAN High
-CAN Low
Speed vs Allowable Length:
High-speed (1 Mbits/s) data transmission over short distances of 40m
Low-speed (5 kbits/s) transmissions at lengths of up to 10,000 m
Line Resistance (Between CAN High and CAN Low) should read 60 ohms.
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Products:
Check out the many Techmor products with CAN Bus capabilities, including LINC connectivity to Smartphones and Tablets.
IM-1 Inertial Measurement Device
SG-1-C Strain Gage Amplifier to CAN
LA-1 LASER Alignment – Steer/Camber Measurement
LINC Smartphone and Tablet Bridge
Sources:
Spec:

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