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Understanding the Role of LIN Bus in Automotive Networking
The Local Interconnect Network (LIN) bus is a serial communication protocol designed to facilitate cost-effective networking of sensors, actuators, and other components within automotive systems. Developed in the late 1990s by a consortium of European automakers, including BMW, Volkswagen Group, Audi, Volvo Cars, and Mercedes-Benz, along with technology partners such as Volcano Automotive Group and [...]
The Marine Electrical and Electronics Bible: Expert Guide for Sailors | Installation, Maintenance & Troubleshooting
The Marine Electrical and Electronics Bible: A Practical Handbook for Cruising Sailors by John C. Payne is a comprehensive guide designed to assist sailors in selecting, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting the myriad electrical and electronic systems found on modern vessels. This fourth edition, published on December 1, 2023, has been thoroughly revised and updated to [...]
Implementing OpenPlotter and Signal K with Raspberry Pi and PiCAN-M HATs
OpenPlotter is a powerful open-source software suite designed for maritime navigation, data collection, and automation using a Raspberry Pi. It integrates Signal K, an open data standard for marine use, enabling the collection and sharing of data from various sensors and communication protocols like NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000. This guide will cover the implementation of [...]
Exploring the ESP32 Development Board: Features, Applications, and Integrations
The ESP32 is a powerful and versatile microcontroller widely used in embedded systems and IoT applications due to its dual-core processor, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, and extensive peripheral support. Various development boards have been designed to enhance the ESP32's functionality by integrating additional interfaces such as GPIO, CAN bus, and NMEA 2000/0183 protocols. This [...]
Comprehensive Guide to OpenPlotter and Signal K
OpenPlotter is an open-source marine navigation and data integration platform designed for use with Raspberry Pi. It provides a powerful toolkit for sailors, researchers, and DIY enthusiasts who want to collect, process, and visualize data from various maritime sources. A core component of OpenPlotter is Signal K, an open data format and server for marine [...]
Comprehensive Guide to the JCOM1939 Monitor: SAE J1939 Data Analysis, Simulation, and Hardware Integration
The JCOM1939 Monitor Software is a comprehensive Windows application developed by Copperhill Technologies, designed to monitor, record, analyze, and simulate SAE J1939 data traffic. It serves as an essential tool for professionals and enthusiasts working with Controller Area Network (CAN) protocols, particularly in heavy-duty vehicle networks. Key Features: ECU Simulation Setup: Users can configure Electronic Control Units [...]
NMEA 2000: A Comprehensive Overview and Integration with Copperhill PiCAN-M Series
NMEA 2000 (National Marine Electronics Association 2000) is a standardized communication protocol used in the marine industry to facilitate seamless data exchange between electronic devices onboard vessels. Based on the Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol (ISO 11898), NMEA 2000 enables efficient, real-time data sharing between sensors, navigation instruments, and control systems. This standard has been [...]
Programming the PiCAN-FD with Python: Implementing CAN FD on Raspberry Pi
Introduction The PiCAN FD board equips the Raspberry Pi with Controller Area Network (CAN) Bus capabilities, specifically supporting the CAN FD (Flexible Data Rate) protocol. At its core, it utilizes the Microchip MCP2517FD or MCP2518FD CAN controller, interfacing with the Raspberry Pi via the SPI bus. This combination is ideal for applications requiring high-speed data transmission [...]
The ESP32 Processor and Programming MCP2515 and MCP2517/18 Per SPI Port
Introduction The ESP32 is a powerful, low-cost microcontroller developed by Espressif Systems, widely used in IoT applications. It features integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it a popular choice for embedded systems. Among its various interfaces, the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) plays a crucial role in facilitating communication with peripherals such as sensors, displays, and external memory [...]
Exploring the ESP32 Processor and Its CAN Interface Programming
The ESP32 processor, developed by Espressif Systems, has rapidly emerged as a favorite among developers and hobbyists alike due to its robust performance, integrated wireless connectivity, and versatility in handling various tasks. Among its many features is a built-in CAN (Controller Area Network) interface—technically implemented as a TWAI (Two-Wire Automotive Interface) controller—that has opened up [...]