Microchip Solutions Power Nodable: A Scalable CAN-to-BLE Bridge for Vehicle Telemetry
Unlock seamless CAN-to-BLE connectivity for vehicle platforms with Nodable—powered by Microchip. Read on to learn how to enable real-time telemetry, modular upgrades and robust mobile integration for OEMs and retrofitters.
As vehicle platforms become increasingly connected, the need to bridge traditional automotive networks with modern mobile interfaces has grown. One application leading the charge in this space is Nodable, a compact CAN-to-Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) bridge developed by Embedded One and powered primarily by Microchip components.
Currently deployed in Recreational Vehicles (RVs), Nodable enables real-time telemetry from auxiliary battery systems and Electronic Control Units (ECUs) directly to mobile applications.
Bridging the Gap for Vehicle Builders and Retrofitters
A significant segment of the connected vehicle market—third-party coach builders and custom vehicle integrators—requires simple, reliable tools to expose CAN-based system data to end users via smart devices. Nodable addresses this need by enabling BLE-based access to vehicle data, with core connectivity and logic powered by our solutions.
Built Around Microchip’s Embedded Ecosystem
At the heart of Nodable’s architecture is a stack of discrete, proven Microchip components, offering a blend of modularity, power efficiency and firmware control:
- RN4020: Our BLE module provides a complete Bluetooth stack with support for secure pairing, simple GATT services and BLE server mode operation—all within a low-power envelope
- PIC24FJ128GA308: A 16-bit Microchip microcontroller that handles application logic, CAN message filtering, power management and real-time request/response cycles
- MCP2562FD/MCP2515: These CAN transceivers enable communication across both standard CAN and CAN-FD networks, providing hardware flexibility
- 25AA160D: A Microchip EEPROM that stores non-volatile configuration data
This configuration allows for reliable wireless transport of CAN telemetry while maintaining firmware-level control and efficient power management.
Proven in Production
Nodable has been produced in volumes exceeding 10,000 units with zero reported failures. Designed and manufactured in the USA, it also minimizes tariff exposure and supports fast adaptation to newer BLE chipsets—preserving the longevity and scalability of the design.
System-Level Capabilities and Use Cases
Key Technical Features:
- BLE Connectivity via RN4020: Secure, low-power communication with support for live data access via GATT
- CAN Message Processing via PIC24: Handles message parsing, filtering and live request-response with ECUs
- Flexible CAN Interfacing: Supports both MCP2562FD and MCP2515, enabling deployment across different vehicle platforms
- Custom App Integration: Nodable is supported by tailored iOS and Android apps that match each customer's branding and data requirements
Use Cases Include:
- Vehicle Telematics and Diagnostics – Real-time monitoring of vehicle data such as battery voltage, current, error codes and cell health
- Battery Monitoring Systems (BMS) – Seamless UI integration with Embedded One’s battery solutions for mobile monitoring and data visualization
- ECU Development and Field Testing – Suitable for embedded engineers testing CAN-enabled prototypes with BLE apps for data inspection
- Aftermarket Vehicle Add-ons – Easy integration into legacy vehicles for BLE-based dashboards and retrofit projects
Designed for Modularity and Longevity
The selection of our RN4020, PIC24FJ128GA308, MCP2562FD, MCP2515 and 25AA160D supports a design philosophy built around:
- Modular Upgradability – Individual components can be swapped for new variants with minimal redesign
- Firmware Control – The standalone MCU gives developers full control over system behavior and updates
- Cost Predictability – Use of well-established, readily available Microchip components provides cost-effective scaling
- Reliability – All components are field-proven in automotive and industrial environments
Final Thoughts
Nodable exemplifies how our embedded solutions can be leveraged to create scalable, robust CAN-to-BLE connectivity platforms for the growing demands of connected vehicles, battery systems and mobile diagnostics. Its production success and proven integration make it a compelling solution for OEMs, developers and system integrators alike.
Learn more about Nodable and Embedded One’s work.