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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 [...]
Enhancing Raspberry Pi 4 with PiCAN3: A Powerful CAN Bus Solution for Automotive and Industrial Applications
The PiCAN3 CAN Bus Board is a versatile expansion board designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi 4, enhancing its capabilities by providing Controller Area Network (CAN) Bus functionality. This integration is particularly beneficial for applications in industrial automation, automotive diagnostics, and embedded systems development. Key Features CAN Bus Functionality: The PiCAN3 utilizes the Microchip MCP2515 CAN controller [...]
Optimized Design: Enhancing CAN Transceiver Isolation for Reliable Fieldbus Networks
The Controller Area Network (CAN) bus has become a staple in industrial automation, process control, medical systems, and manufacturing due to its high noise immunity and error-handling capabilities. As CAN networks often span long distances and connect multiple systems, isolating the bus from individual systems is critical. Isolation prevents electrical transients, eliminates ground loops, and [...]
The Teensy Series of Processor Modules: A Versatile Platform for Embedded Systems
The Teensy series of processor modules is a family of compact, high-performance microcontroller boards developed by PJRC. These boards are widely recognized for their small form factor, powerful processing capabilities, and extensive I/O support, making them an ideal choice for a variety of embedded systems applications, including robotics, audio processing, and IoT (Internet of Things) [...]
Farmers Are Hacking Their Tractors Because of a Right to Repair Ban
For decades, American farmers have been at the mercy of agricultural equipment manufacturers, who have locked down their tractors with proprietary software, restricting repair options and forcing owners to seek expensive, manufacturer-approved service providers. In response, a growing number of farmers are resorting to hacking their own tractors, using underground software tools and firmware modifications [...]
Exploring Copperhill Technologies' NMEA 2000 PICAN-M HATs for Raspberry Pi
Copperhill Technologies has established itself as a prominent supplier of embedded systems and hardware solutions for applications in industrial, automotive, and maritime domains. Among its innovative offerings is the NMEA 2000 PICAN-M HAT, a Hardware Attached on Top (HAT) module designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi platform. This HAT is tailored to support NMEA 2000 [...]
SAE J1939 Technology for Agricultural Applications
The rapid advancement of technology in the agricultural sector has led to the integration of sophisticated systems to enhance efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. One such innovation is the use of the SAE J1939 protocol, a communication standard widely utilized in the field of commercial vehicles and machinery. In agricultural applications, this protocol plays a pivotal [...]