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Easy configuration for CANbus module

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Jun 27, 2003

A versatile small-format, analogue/digital I/O module has a CANbus interface that is configurable via the bus without requiring any embedded programming skills.

A versatile small-format, analogue/digital I/O module has a CANbus interface that is configurable via the bus without requiring any embedded programming skills.

The new PCAN-MicroMod can be plugged into an application board to provide control and monitoring services via the CANbus.

It provides eight analogue inputs with 10bit resolution, eight digital inputs and eight outputs, along with four PWM/frequency outputs with a range from 1Hz to 20kHz.

The module measures just 32 x 36mm, and requires only a 5V regulated supply.

It is configurable via Windows PC software, and the controller is a Fujitsu MB90-F497 which can be user programmed if required.

The integrated firmware provides simple configuration of the target system via a Windows utility program, with the configuration data being sent to the module via the CANbus.

No embedded programming skills are required to set up a system.

Up to 64 PCAN-MicroMods can be put onto a single CAN network.

The Windows software provides a range of module configuration options.

The digital input values can read, on demand, periodically or following a signal level change, and in addition logic can be applied with the results being sent to the digital outputs.

Digital output bits may be set via the CAN Bus, and analogue values after input can be scaled, have an offset added, or be set via a characteristic curve before being read via the CANbus.

Up to four pairs of digital inputs can be used as standard automotive rotary encoders, with absolute or differential position being reported over the CANbus.

If required, the firmware integrated on the board can be replaced with user-designed software.

A suitable C compiler is available free from the microcontroller manufacturer.

An optional evaluation board simplifies development of user-designed carrier boards, and also makes the PCAN-MicroMod an ideal CAN evaluation tool.

Features of the board include protected digital inputs with LEDs, open-collector output drivers for the digital and PWM outputs, potentiometers for the analogue inputs, a serial interface for Flash download or user implementation, and an optional low-speed CAN transceiver.

The evaluation board is approximately 100mm square.