CANbus modules aim at industrial embedding

Now available from Computer Solutions, the Peak System range of CANbus modules and interfaces offer facilities for integrating local CAN communications into embedded systems for industrial applications. CAN modules include a motherboard with a PIC controller that can take a variety of application-specific daughterboards for inputs from temperature, optical or magnetic sensors, along with analogue and digital outputs including PWM and stepper motor control. The PIC controller is normally supplied programmed for routine CAN use, but can be custom-programmed if required.

A dedicated stepper motor controller is also available.

PC-based CAN controllers are available that use the USB interface, a parallel port (dongle) or the ISA bus.

These will allow the PC to drive a CAN system or to analyse and diagnose faults in the traffic on the CAN.

A PC104 board is also available that will drive multiple CAN networks, and can be supplied with 1kV isolation.

Baud rates can be configured up to 1Mbit/s, and connection is via a CIA standard DS102-1 9-pin connector.

The range also includes a handheld CAN terminal that can be used as a network monitor and logger, or to transmit messages under manual control, periodically or in response to an external message.

Names can be allocated to CAN addresses and data, simplifying its use by field engineers.

All the CAN controllers are supplied with CANView DOS software and PCANView Lite Windows software, allowing the CANbus to be monitored and commands transmitted under manual control, periodically or as the result of a remote request.

DOS and Windows application programming can be carried out in C++, VB, Pascal or Delphi.

A software simulation package is also available that can simulate a CAN network and can then be used to integrate it by replacing the simulation with real-world CAN devices as they become available.