FAQs

Are CAN bus drivers readily available for Microchip microcontrollers?

Vector Informatik GmbH has developed software packages for several Microchip 8- and 16-bit microcontrollers for various OEM CAN networks. Please contact your local Microchip representative for specific details.

Are Microchip CAN microcontrollers qualified at the automotive OEMs?

Several Microchip CAN microcontrollers have been qualified at different OEMs. Please contact your local Microchip representative for specific details.

Are Microchip products with ECAN modules backward compatible with products with CAN modules?

Yes, they are fully backward compatible.

Can I get conformance testing reports for Microchip CAN products?

Yes. Please contact your local Microchip representative for copies of the reports.

What are the differences between the CAN and ECAN modules?

There are several differences between the CAN and ECAN modules. Please refer to the application note AN916: Comparing CAN and ECAN Modules for detailed explanations of the differences and how to find the best CAN-based solution for your application.

What is CAN?

CAN (Controller Area Network) is a high-speed, serial communications network originally developed by Intel Corporation and Robert Bosch GmbH for automotive applications. It has since spread to various other applications such as industrial control and medical equipment.

What is required for a CAN node?

A CAN node is comprised of 3 basic elements:

a host processor that interprets and generates messages
a CAN controller that converts messages to/from bits transmitted/received on the serial bus
a transceiver that is the physical layer interface (adapts the signal levels to/from the bus from/to the CAN controller)

What ISO Standards are there for CAN?

ISO 11898 specifies the physical layer and ISO16845 specifies conformance testing.

What products does Microchip offer for CAN applications?

Microchip offers a wide portfolio of 8-, 16- and 32-bit microcontrollers with integrated CAN and ECAN peripherals, CAN transceivers, CAN controllers and CAN I/O expanders. Please refer to the CAN product links to the left for more detailed information.

Where can I get training?

Microchip offers various online seminars (Webinars) related to CAN. Vector also offers many seminars and workshops at their sites throughout the world www.vector-worldwide.com.

Which versions of the CAN specification do Microchip’s microcontrollers support?

The CAN and ECAN modules used in Microchip’s 8- ,16- and 32-bit microcontrollers support CAN 1.2, CAN 2.0A, CAN 2.0B Passive and CAN 2.0B Active versions of the protocol.