The PiCAN-M board connects a Raspberry Pi directly to NMEA 2000 (CAN bus) and NMEA 0183 networks, enabling developers to build navigation systems, data loggers, and sensor gateways with open-source software.

Below is a curated overview of real projects, software platforms, and websites where the PiCAN-M board is used in practical Raspberry Pi systems.

Marine Navigation Systems

1. Signal K marine data server

A Raspberry Pi with PiCAN-M can run Signal K, an open marine data platform that collects and distributes vessel data.

https://signalk.org

Typical data sources include:

• GPS position
• wind instruments
• depth sounders
• engine telemetry

Signal K then publishes the information to dashboards, navigation software, or mobile devices.

2. SeaBits – Signal K + Grafana dashboards

https://seabits.com/set-up-signal-k-and-grafana-on-raspberry-pi-with-pican-m-nmea-2000-board/

This project shows how a Raspberry Pi with PiCAN-M can power a complete marine data monitoring system with:

• Signal K server
• InfluxDB time-series database
• Grafana dashboards

3. OpenPlotter navigation platform

https://openplotter.readthedocs.io

OpenPlotter is a Raspberry Pi operating system designed for boats.

Using the PiCAN-M board it can:

• read NMEA 2000 networks
• integrate GPS receivers
• display navigation charts
• monitor vessel systems

4. Raymarine display integration

https://theprojectboat.com/2021/11/06/raymarine-axiom-integration-part-three/

A Raspberry Pi with PiCAN-M can serve as a Signal K data hub feeding Raymarine displays with navigation and sensor data.

5. Bareboat Necessities marine OS

https://bareboat-necessities.github.io

A full marine software distribution based on Raspberry Pi that supports Signal K and NMEA2000 interfaces such as PiCAN-M.

Marine Data Logging and Monitoring

6. Raspberry Pi marine data logger

https://copperhilltech.com/blog/building-a-marine-data-logger-with-raspberry-pi-and-picanm-a-stepbystep-guide/

This setup logs NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 data for:

• engine monitoring
• environmental sensors
• fuel consumption analysis
• long-term performance tracking

7. NMEA 2000 powered Raspberry Pi

https://seabits.com/nmea-2000-powered-raspberry-pi/

This project demonstrates powering the Raspberry Pi directly from the NMEA 2000 network using the PiCAN-M board.

8. Open Boat Projects – PiCAN-M system

https://open-boat-projects.org/en/pican-m-mit-signalk-und-openplotter/

A complete boat electronics integration project using:

• Raspberry Pi
• PiCAN-M interface
• Signal K
• OpenPlotter

9. Electronics-Lab marine CAN interface project

https://www.electronics-lab.com/pican-m-nmea-2000-on-the-raspberry-pi-for-marine-applications-made-possible/

Explains how PiCAN-M enables CAN-based marine instrumentation for Raspberry Pi systems.

CAN Bus Development Platforms

10. SocketCAN Linux development

https://www.kernel.org/doc/html/latest/networking/can.html

PiCAN-M interfaces appear as SocketCAN devices in Linux, enabling direct CAN bus communication.

11. CANBoat NMEA2000 decoding tools

https://github.com/canboat/canboat

CANBoat is widely used with Raspberry Pi CAN interfaces such as PiCAN-M to decode NMEA2000 messages.

12. NMEA2000 SocketCAN project

https://github.com/thomasonw/NMEA2000_socketCAN

Example code demonstrating CAN communication using SocketCAN interfaces.

13. Python CAN development

https://python-can.readthedocs.io

Developers often use python-can with PiCAN-M to create CAN bus monitoring or control applications.

Raspberry Pi Marine Software Ecosystem

14. Signal K server project

https://github.com/SignalK/signalk-server

Many Raspberry Pi installations use PiCAN-M as the NMEA2000 interface for Signal K systems.

15. Signal K → NMEA2000 plugin

https://github.com/SignalK/signalk-to-nmea2000

Enables sending and receiving PGNs on the NMEA2000 network.

16. Signal K Home Assistant integration

https://github.com/The-Greg-O/signalk-ha-bridge

Connects boat sensor data to Home Assistant automation systems.

17. OpenCPN chart plotter

https://opencpn.org

Navigation software frequently used together with Signal K and PiCAN-M setups.

Community Projects and User Builds

18. Ericson Yachts forum project

https://ericsonyachts.org/ie/threads/happy-pi-day-raspberry-pi-project.18525/

Example boat build using multiple Raspberry Pi systems with PiCAN-M boards.

19. OpenMarine forum

https://forum.openmarine.net

Community discussions and builds involving OpenPlotter and PiCAN-M.

20. MAIANA AIS integration discussions

https://github.com/peterantypas/maiana/discussions

AIS projects integrating with Raspberry Pi navigation systems.

21. Sailing blog DIY navigation computers

Various sailing blogs document building Raspberry Pi navigation computers using CAN interfaces like PiCAN-M.

22. LinuxGizmos hardware overview

https://linuxgizmos.com/raspberry-pi-hat-offer-nmea-2000-link-for-marine-applications/

Coverage of the PiCAN-M board and its marine electronics capabilities.

23. Projects-Raspberry hardware analysis

https://projects-raspberry.com/pican-m-nmea-2000-on-the-raspberry-pi-for-marine-applications-made-possible/

Technical overview of the board and its applications.

24. DIY marine automation systems

Numerous hobbyists use PiCAN-M to build boat automation and monitoring systems.

25. CAN-based sensor networks

The board can also be used outside marine environments for:

• vehicle telemetry
• industrial CAN networks
• robotics control systems
• distributed sensor networks

Why the PiCAN-M Is Popular for Raspberry Pi Projects

The PiCAN-M board combines several important capabilities:

• NMEA 2000 CAN bus interface
• NMEA 0183 RS-422 serial interface
• onboard power supply for marine systems
• Linux SocketCAN compatibility
• seamless integration with Raspberry Pi software

This makes it one of the most versatile Raspberry Pi interfaces for marine electronics development and CAN bus experimentation.

Instead of connecting diagnostic tools blindly and hoping that communication works, the GODIAG breakout box acts as a transparent interface between the vehicle and your diagnostic equipment, allowing you to inspect signals, monitor power, and troubleshoot communication problems before they damage expensive scan tools or ECUs.

What Is an OBDII Breakout Box?

An OBDII breakout box is essentially a signal access and monitoring platform for the vehicle’s diagnostic port. The GODIAG GT100+ connects between the vehicle’s OBDII port and a diagnostic device, exposing all 16 OBD pins for testing, signal detection, and measurement.

This design allows technicians to verify voltage levels, protocol activity, and wiring integrity before performing programming or diagnostics.

For anyone working with vehicle electronics, this capability can dramatically reduce troubleshooting time and prevent costly mistakes.

Key Features

1. OBD Protocol Detection and Communication Testing

The primary purpose of the GODIAG GT100+ is detecting OBDII communication protocols and verifying that communication between the vehicle and the diagnostic tool is working correctly.

The device supports several automotive communication standards including:

• CAN Bus

• K-Line

• PWM

• VPW

• KWP2000

These protocols cover the majority of modern and legacy OBD communication systems used in vehicles.

LED indicators on the breakout box allow technicians to quickly confirm whether communication signals are present and whether the diagnostic link is functioning properly.

2. Real-Time Voltage and Current Monitoring

One of the most useful features of the upgraded GT100+ version is the integrated voltage and current display.

The built-in digital display allows you to monitor:

• OBD power supply voltage

• Current consumption of connected ECUs

• Electrical anomalies during programming or testing

This is particularly useful during ECU programming or bench testing because abnormal current readings can indicate wiring errors or damaged modules before serious problems occur.

3. ECU Bench Testing and Programming

The breakout box can also be used to connect directly to ECU modules outside the vehicle, enabling bench testing and programming.

Using the DB25 connector or banana plug leads, technicians can:

• Connect individual ECU modules

• Test multiple modules simultaneously

• Perform programming or coding with diagnostic tools

This makes the device extremely valuable for workshops performing ECU repairs, immobilizer programming, or advanced diagnostics.

4. Protecting Expensive Diagnostic Equipment

Professional scan tools and programming devices can be costly. Connecting them to a vehicle with faulty wiring or unstable voltage can damage them.

The breakout box helps prevent this by allowing technicians to verify power and communication lines first. If voltage or ground connections are incorrect, the issue can be detected before connecting the scan tool.

5. Auxiliary Power Supply During Battery Replacement

Another clever feature is the ability to maintain vehicle power while replacing the battery.

During battery replacement, some vehicles can lose ECU data, immobilizer settings, or remote key synchronization. The GT100+ can supply auxiliary power through the OBD port, ensuring the vehicle electronics remain powered during the swap.

6. OBD1 to OBD2 Conversion

Older vehicles often use non-standard diagnostic connectors. The GODIAG breakout box supports OBD1-to-OBD2 conversion, allowing older diagnostic ports to be connected to modern OBDII diagnostic tools.

This makes the tool useful not only for modern vehicles but also for legacy automotive systems.

Who Should Use This Tool?

The GODIAG GT100+ is designed for a wide range of automotive professionals:

• Automotive diagnostic technicians

• ECU programmers and repair specialists

• Automotive locksmiths working with immobilizer systems

• Automotive electronics engineers

• Advanced DIY enthusiasts working with vehicle networks

If your work involves ECU diagnostics, programming, or CAN bus communication, a breakout box like this can quickly become an essential piece of equipment.

Why Tools Like This Matter

Modern vehicles are essentially distributed computer systems with dozens of ECUs connected through multiple communication networks. Diagnosing these systems requires visibility into signals, power, and protocols, something that a standard scan tool alone cannot provide.

The GODIAG GT100+ fills this gap by acting as a diagnostic bridge between the vehicle and your tools, enabling safer, faster, and more reliable troubleshooting.

Final Thoughts

For anyone working seriously with automotive electronics, the GODIAG GT100+ OBDII Breakout Box Protocol Detector is a practical and versatile diagnostic platform.

By providing direct access to OBD signals, protocol detection, real-time electrical measurements, and ECU bench testing capabilities, it turns the vehicle’s diagnostic connector into a powerful troubleshooting interface.

In an industry where electronic complexity continues to grow, tools like this are no longer optional—they are essential. More information...

Teensy 4.0 OBDII CAN-Bus ECU Simulator Includes Teensy 4.0

The Teensy 4.0 OBDII CAN‑Bus ECU Simulator from Copperhill Technologies is a compact development platform designed for engineers, educators, and embedded developers working with automotive diagnostics. Built around a pre-installed and pre-programmed Teensy 4.0 microcontroller, the board simulates a vehicle’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and generates realistic OBD-II diagnostic data over the CAN bus. This allows developers to design and test OBD-II software, diagnostic tools, telemetry systems, or CAN-bus applications without needing access to an actual vehicle.

The simulator supports the ISO 15765 CAN-based OBD-II protocol used by most modern vehicles and provides a controlled environment for experimenting with diagnostic commands, parameter IDs (PIDs), and vehicle data communication. Because the system behaves like a real ECU on the CAN network, developers can validate code readers, logging tools, and vehicle-health monitoring systems safely on the workbench. This makes the platform ideal for rapid prototyping, training, and automotive software development where reliability and repeatability are essential. More information...

Whether you are developing a custom marine display, building a diagnostic tool for NMEA 2000 networks, or experimenting with sensor integration, this board provides an ideal starting point.

A High-Performance Embedded Platform

At the heart of the board is the Teensy 4.0 microcontroller powered by the NXP i.MXRT1062 ARM Cortex-M7 processor running at 600 MHz. This processor provides exceptional performance for embedded applications, supported by 2 MB of flash memory and 1 MB of RAM, including tightly coupled memory optimized for high-speed operations.

For developers working with real-time systems, this level of processing power enables advanced tasks such as signal processing, sensor fusion, CAN message decoding, and complex control algorithms without sacrificing responsiveness.

Despite its performance, the board maintains a remarkably compact footprint, making it suitable for portable tools, experimental marine electronics, and embedded instrumentation.

Integrated NMEA 2000 Connectivity

Modern vessels rely on networked electronics to share navigation, engine, and environmental data. NMEA 2000 has become the standard marine networking protocol, built on CAN bus technology and designed to allow multiple devices to communicate seamlessly over a shared backbone.

This board integrates a Micro-C NMEA 2000 connector directly on the hardware, allowing it to connect easily to an existing marine network. The bus provides both data communication and power, simplifying wiring and installation while enabling the board to read or transmit marine data such as:

• Wind speed and direction
• GPS position and course over ground
• Water depth and temperature
• Engine performance parameters
• Navigation and heading information

Because NMEA 2000 supports a multi-talker, multi-listener architecture, a single device can exchange data with numerous sensors and displays across the vessel network.

Built-In IPS LCD for Real-Time Visualization

One of the standout features of this board is the integrated 1.54-inch IPS TFT display with a resolution of 240 × 240 pixels. The IPS technology provides wide viewing angles and vivid colors, making it ideal for displaying live sensor data or system status information.

Developers can use the display to create compact dashboards showing critical marine parameters directly on the device. During development, the display also acts as an immediate feedback interface, eliminating the need for external monitors.

This feature alone turns the board into a complete development and diagnostic tool for marine networks.

Designed for Expansion and Sensor Integration

The board also includes a Qwiic (I²C) connector, making it easy to attach a wide range of sensors and peripherals. This enables hybrid systems that combine NMEA 2000 network data with local environmental or motion sensors.

For example, developers can easily integrate:

• Temperature and humidity sensors
• Barometric pressure sensors
• Motion and orientation sensors
• Environmental monitoring devices

These sensors can then be displayed locally on the LCD or transmitted back onto the NMEA 2000 network.

Typical Applications

Because of its unique combination of processing power, networking capability, and built-in visualization, the board supports a wide range of marine and embedded development projects.

Common use cases include:

Marine Instrumentation Displays
Create compact dashboards that display navigation data, engine information, or environmental readings.

NMEA 2000 Diagnostic Tools
Monitor network traffic, analyze PGNs, or test marine electronics during development or service operations.

Portable Data Loggers
Capture vessel data such as speed, heading, or environmental conditions for later analysis.

Marine Electronics Prototyping
Develop custom autopilot interfaces, monitoring devices, or experimental marine sensors.

Educational Platforms
Teach CAN bus networking, NMEA 2000 communication, and embedded systems programming using real marine hardware.

Compact, Powerful, and Ready for Innovation

The Teensy 4.0 With NMEA 2000 Connector And 240 x 240 IPS LCD stands out as a uniquely capable development board for marine and CAN-based systems. It combines a high-performance microcontroller, native NMEA 2000 connectivity, and an integrated display into a compact platform designed for real-world experimentation and development.

For engineers, makers, marine electronics developers, and educators, it provides a powerful tool to explore and create the next generation of marine instrumentation and networked vessel electronics.

If you are looking for a compact yet powerful platform for NMEA 2000 development, marine data visualization, or embedded system experimentation, this board offers an outstanding combination of performance, connectivity, and flexibility. More information...

Mastering CAN Bus with NMEA 2000: A Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide to Marine Electronics, Networked Devices, and Practical CAN Bus Applications

Take control of your boat’s electronics with confidence. Whether you are a boating enthusiast, a marine electronics hobbyist, or someone who simply wants to understand how modern vessels communicate, this book provides a clear and practical introduction to CAN Bus and NMEA 2000.

Modern boats rely on complex electronic networks to share information between engines, navigation systems, sensors, and displays. Understanding how these systems work allows you to install, maintain, and troubleshoot your vessel’s electronics without guesswork or unnecessary expense.

Inside this guide, you will learn how marine networks actually work and how to build and manage them yourself.

Inside the book you will discover:

Step-by-step guidance for building your first NMEA 2000 network from the ground up
Clear explanations of CAN Bus communication, NMEA 2000 PGNs, and how marine devices exchange data
Practical examples for connecting displays, sensors, engines, GPS units, and gateways
Troubleshooting techniques to diagnose and resolve common network problems
Professional insights for efficient wiring, stable network design, and protecting expensive equipment

This book is written specifically for beginners. No prior experience with CAN Bus, marine electronics, or networking is required. Each concept is explained in straightforward language, supported by practical examples that help you move from theory to real-world application.

By the end of the book, you will understand how to:

Build a reliable and scalable NMEA 2000 network
Understand how devices communicate and share data on the vessel network
Diagnose and fix common network issues quickly
Maintain and expand your system as new devices are added

Whether your goal is to monitor engine performance, integrate navigation systems, track environmental conditions, or simply understand how your boat’s electronics communicate, this guide provides the knowledge needed to work with NMEA 2000 systems with confidence.

Stop guessing and start understanding the technology behind your vessel’s electronics. This practical guide reveals the principles and techniques professionals use to design, install, and maintain reliable marine networks—explained in a clear, accessible way.

Take the first step toward smarter boating and gain full control of your marine electronics. More information...

A recent article by Michael Fitzmayer (Bucher Automation) in the March 2026 issue of the CAN Newsletter describes an open-source tool designed to simplify these tasks and provide developers with a flexible environment for CANopen development and testing.

Let’s take a closer look at what this tool offers and why it matters.

Why CANopen Development Tools Matter

CANopen is widely used in industrial automation, robotics, medical devices, and many other embedded systems. Like any communication protocol, successful implementation requires extensive testing.

Developers typically need to:

• Configure CANopen nodes and object dictionaries

• Monitor CAN traffic

• Simulate device behavior

• Validate communication sequences

• Debug unexpected interactions

Professional tools exist for these tasks, but many of them are proprietary and costly. Commercial solutions such as CAN network development platforms can provide powerful analysis and simulation features for protocols like CANopen or J1939.

For smaller teams, researchers, or open-source developers, a freely available alternative can be extremely valuable.

An Open-Source Approach

The tool described in the article takes a different approach: it is open-source and designed to integrate easily into modern development workflows.

Instead of relying on closed ecosystems, the platform allows engineers to:

• Inspect CANopen communication

• Simulate CANopen nodes

• Test device behavior in controlled environments

• Automate testing procedures

Because it is open source, developers can extend or customize the tool for their specific applications. This flexibility is particularly useful when working with specialized devices or experimental setups.

Key Capabilities

The tool focuses on the practical needs of engineers working with CANopen devices.

1. Monitoring CANopen Communication

One of the core functions is observing CAN traffic and interpreting CANopen messages. This allows developers to see exactly what is happening on the network and quickly identify issues such as incorrect object dictionary entries or faulty message sequences.

2. Node Simulation

Testing a device often requires other nodes to be present on the network. The tool can simulate these nodes, allowing engineers to reproduce real-world communication scenarios without needing multiple physical devices.

This capability is especially useful during early development stages.

3. Object Dictionary Handling

The object dictionary is the heart of any CANopen device. The tool simplifies working with object dictionary entries, making it easier to configure parameters and verify that devices behave as expected.

4. Automated Testing

Another useful feature is automated testing. Engineers can create repeatable test scenarios that simulate specific communication patterns and verify the response of the device under test.

Automated testing helps catch errors early and reduces manual debugging effort.

Benefits for Developers

An open-source CANopen tool offers several advantages.

Lower entry barrier
Engineers and students can experiment with CANopen without purchasing expensive software licenses.

Customizability
Because the source code is available, developers can adapt the tool to specific projects or research environments.

Integration with modern workflows
Open-source tools often integrate better with scripting, continuous integration systems, and automated testing pipelines.

Community development
Users can contribute improvements, report issues, and extend the functionality over time.

When to Use It

This type of tool is particularly valuable in the following situations:

• Early device development

• Prototyping CANopen applications

• Research or academic environments

• Automated testing setups

• Open-source hardware projects

For large automotive or industrial programs, commercial solutions may still offer additional features and support. However, open-source alternatives are becoming increasingly capable.

Final Thoughts

CANopen continues to be an important protocol in embedded systems and industrial automation. Tools that simplify development and testing help reduce implementation errors and accelerate product development.

The open-source tool described in the CAN Newsletter article represents a promising step in that direction. By making CANopen testing more accessible and flexible, it lowers the barrier for engineers who want to build reliable CANopen devices without relying entirely on proprietary toolchains.

For developers working with CANopen networks, it may be worth exploring this tool as part of their development workflow.

Embedded Networking with CAN and CANopen

CAN (Controller Area Network) is a serial communication protocol originally developed for the automotive industry. Compared with traditional serial interfaces such as RS-232, CAN offers significantly greater functionality, robustness, and reliability while remaining highly cost-effective to implement.

CANopen is a higher-layer protocol built on top of CAN that enables developers to leverage the powerful features of the CAN bus in industrial and embedded applications. By standardizing communication structures and device behavior, CANopen simplifies the development of distributed control systems and improves interoperability between devices from different manufacturers.

Because of its reliability and deterministic communication behavior, CANopen has become widely adopted in industries that require high levels of safety and operational stability. Examples include medical technology, robotics, elevators, and transportation systems, where system failures can have serious consequences.

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to both CAN and CANopen in the context of embedded networking. It begins with an overview of embedded communication networks and then explains the core functionality and architecture of CANopen systems.

Readers will learn how to configure and operate CANopen networks using commercially available components, as well as how to design and implement their own CANopen nodes. The book also explores the wide range of real-world applications where CAN and CANopen are used and provides practical guidance for developing embedded systems based on these technologies.

In addition, the text includes references and examples using development tools such as MicroCANopen, PCANopen Magic, and Vector’s professional CANopen development platforms. More information...

That is exactly why we created jcom1939.com.

A Dedicated Platform for J1939 Engineering

JCOM1939.com was designed as a focused, engineering-driven platform built around Copperhill Technologies’ J1939 analyzing and simulation tools — both hardware and software. The core idea is simple: provide practical tools and deep technical knowledge in one centralized resource.

The website is not a generic overview of CAN Bus. Instead, it targets engineers, developers, system integrators, and technical decision-makers who need:

• J1939 monitoring and analysis tools
• J1939 simulation hardware
• Embedded development support
• Protocol-level explanations
• Market and research insights

Copperhill’s analyzers and simulators are positioned as practical development instruments — not just lab accessories. The content reflects that focus by discussing real-world use cases such as ECU testing, network monitoring, protocol validation, and system integration.

Technical Depth Beyond Product Listings

Unlike typical product-focused sites, JCOM1939.com provides substantial educational and reference material. The site includes structured technical discussions on:

• SAE J1939 fundamentals
• PGNs, SPNs, addressing, transport protocols
• Network management and diagnostics
• Implementation considerations in embedded systems
• Interaction with microcontrollers such as Arduino and ESP32
• Bus timing, termination, and physical-layer design

The technical articles move beyond theory and focus on implementation — including monitoring strategies, integration challenges, and troubleshooting considerations. This makes the platform particularly valuable for engineers working on firmware, gateway devices, or diagnostic systems.

J1939-Based Protocols: NMEA 2000 and ISOBUS

The website also addresses J1939-derived and J1939-related standards, including:

• NMEA 2000
• ISOBUS

These protocols reuse or extend J1939 principles for marine and agricultural environments. By covering them alongside core J1939 topics, the site reflects the real-world overlap between heavy-duty, marine, and off-highway systems.

This broader perspective is particularly useful for engineers transitioning between industries or developing cross-domain gateway devices.

CAN Bus Foundations and Emerging Trends

While J1939 is a primary focus, JCOM1939.com also provides foundational CAN Bus coverage. This includes:

• CAN physical layer fundamentals
• Bit timing and arbitration
• Bus loading and topology
• Common design mistakes
• Silent monitoring techniques
• Integration with modern microcontrollers

In addition, the platform addresses industry trends such as the transition toward Automotive Ethernet in advanced vehicle architectures. While CAN and J1939 remain dominant in heavy-duty and off-highway applications, hybrid network architectures are becoming more common. The site acknowledges this evolution and provides context for how J1939 systems fit into broader network ecosystems.

Research Reports and Market Analysis

One of the distinguishing features of JCOM1939.com is its collection of research reports.

These reports cover:

• Technical deep dives into J1939 implementation challenges
• Monitoring and diagnostic strategies
• Market trends in heavy-duty vehicle networking
• Adoption of Automotive Ethernet
• Industry resistance to third-party network access
• Silent-mode monitoring techniques

The reports are written in a structured, engineering-oriented style, aimed at professionals who need both technical clarity and strategic awareness.

Rather than repeating textbook explanations, the research section often explores practical constraints, integration politics, interoperability challenges, and evolving industry architectures.

Bridging Hardware, Software, and Knowledge

The website’s structure reflects its original intention: combine tools and knowledge into a single ecosystem.

Hardware:
J1939 analyzers and simulators for development and validation.

Software:
Monitoring and diagnostic tools designed to work with Copperhill hardware.

Knowledge Base:
In-depth protocol explanations and implementation guidance.

Research:
Market and technical reports to provide broader industry insight.

This layered approach differentiates JCOM1939.com from purely commercial product pages or purely academic protocol references. It is positioned as a working engineer’s resource.

Who Should Visit JCOM1939.com?

The platform is especially relevant for:

• Embedded firmware engineers
• ECU developers
• CAN Bus system integrators
• Agricultural equipment developers
• Marine electronics designers
• Off-highway vehicle engineers
• Technical managers evaluating network tools

If you are developing J1939-based systems or analyzing existing networks, the site provides both the tools and the technical framework needed to move from concept to deployment.

A Focused Engineering Resource

JCOM1939.com was created with a clear mission: support professionals working with SAE J1939 and related technologies through practical tools and in-depth technical insight.

By combining Copperhill Technologies’ hardware solutions with educational content and research reports, the website serves as both a development resource and a knowledge hub.

In a networking landscape that continues to evolve — with CAN, J1939, ISOBUS, NMEA 2000, and Automotive Ethernet coexisting — having a specialized, technically grounded platform is more valuable than ever.

JCOM1939.com is intended to be exactly that.

SAE J1939 to USB Gateway in Plastic Enclosure

The SAE J1939 to USB Gateway in Plastic Enclosure is a compact, USB-powered interface device that bridges SAE J1939 vehicle networks with standard computing platforms. Built around a fully compliant SAE J1939 ECU simulator board and housed in a rugged plastic case, it enables real-time monitoring, simulation, recording, and analysis of J1939 data traffic directly from any host with a USB COM port. The gateway supports full J1939 protocol functionality including network management and transport protocol, and it comes with free Windows software for packet visualization, message filtering, and ECU simulation, making it ideal for diagnostics, development, and field use.

Designed for ease of integration and robust performance, this gateway presents the vehicle network as a standard COM port to Windows, Linux, embedded systems, and microcontroller platforms. Its durable plastic enclosure protects internal electronics from dust and handling, while features such as programmable filters, automatic node address negotiation, and comprehensive software support simplify tasks from fleet diagnostics to embedded firmware testing. Whether you’re validating network traffic, building custom tools, or simulating ECUs for development and education, this gateway offers a reliable and flexible hardware interface for SAE J1939 applications. More information...

This board combines the extraordinary performance of the Teensy microcontroller platform with three independent CAN channels, Ethernet capability, and a built-in high-resolution LCD display — delivering a compact yet powerful solution for professional developers and system integrators.

Understanding the Teensy Microcontroller Series

The Teensy series is known for delivering desktop-class performance in a compact microcontroller format. Developed for engineers who demand both speed and flexibility, Teensy boards provide:

• Extremely high clock speeds
• Advanced 32-bit ARM Cortex-M processors
• Large memory resources
• Real-time performance capabilities
• Extensive peripheral interfaces

The Teensy 4.1, at the heart of this Triple CAN board, is based on a 600 MHz ARM Cortex-M7 processor. This level of performance allows it to handle complex communication stacks, real-time control algorithms, data filtering, encryption, and network protocol processing simultaneously — without compromising determinism.

Unlike many typical microcontroller platforms, Teensy boards are capable of bridging the gap between embedded control and higher-level data processing. This makes them ideal for gateway applications, protocol conversion, and edge intelligence tasks.

Why Triple CAN Matters

Controller Area Network (CAN) remains the backbone of reliable, real-time communication in:

• Automotive systems
• Heavy equipment
• Agricultural machinery
• Marine electronics
• Industrial automation
• Energy storage and battery systems

However, modern systems rarely operate on a single CAN network. Increasingly, engineers must work with multiple independent CAN domains, such as:

• Powertrain CAN
• Body control CAN
• Diagnostic CAN
• Battery management CAN
• Safety or redundant CAN

Triple CAN capability allows a single embedded controller to:

• Monitor multiple networks simultaneously
• Bridge messages between networks
• Perform filtering and security validation
• Translate between different CAN baud rates
• Implement isolation strategies
• Log traffic independently per bus

This is particularly useful in fleet retrofits, advanced diagnostics, telematics modules, or research and development environments where engineers must observe and interact with multiple CAN segments concurrently.

The Role of Ethernet in Modern Embedded Systems

Ethernet transforms a CAN-based controller into a connected system node.

By integrating Ethernet alongside triple CAN, this board enables:

• IoT gateway functionality
• Cloud connectivity
• Remote firmware updates
• Web-based diagnostics interfaces
• Data streaming to backend servers
• Remote configuration and monitoring
• Integration into enterprise networks

In industrial IoT (IIoT) environments, CAN networks often operate at the machine level, while Ethernet connects systems to plant infrastructure or the cloud. This board acts as a high-speed bridge between deterministic fieldbus communication and TCP/IP-based networking.

For example:

A battery energy storage system may use multiple CAN networks internally (battery modules, inverter control, thermal management), while Ethernet is required for SCADA integration or remote monitoring.

An agricultural machine may operate separate CAN buses for engine and implement control, while Ethernet provides telemetry to fleet management platforms.

A laboratory test bench may require simultaneous CAN logging from multiple devices, with Ethernet transferring captured data to a remote workstation.

Integrated 240x240 LCD for Standalone Operation

The built-in 240x240 LCD adds another dimension: immediate local interaction.

With an integrated display, developers can implement:

• Live CAN traffic visualization
• System status dashboards
• Diagnostic message displays
• Configuration menus
• Error logging views
• Field service interfaces

This eliminates the need for an external HMI in many applications. The system can function as a self-contained controller, diagnostic tool, or network monitor without requiring a connected PC.

For field engineers, service technicians, and R&D environments, this dramatically improves usability.

Ideal Applications

The combination of triple CAN, Ethernet, and high-performance processing makes this board particularly suited for:

IoT Gateways
Bridging industrial CAN networks to cloud-based analytics platforms.

Protocol Converters
Translating CAN traffic into Modbus TCP, MQTT, HTTP, or custom Ethernet protocols.

Automotive and EV Development
Monitoring multiple vehicle CAN networks while streaming data to a development workstation.

Fleet Telematics
Capturing data from multiple onboard CAN networks and transmitting summaries over Ethernet or external gateways.

Industrial Automation Controllers
Acting as supervisory controllers across segmented CAN subsystems with centralized Ethernet reporting.

Energy Storage and Power Systems
Integrating battery management systems, inverter CAN networks, and Ethernet-based energy management systems.

Marine and Off-Highway Equipment
Managing redundant CAN networks while maintaining external connectivity.

Research and Development Platforms
High-speed data acquisition and real-time analysis across multiple CAN domains.

Engineering Advantages

High-speed 600 MHz processing for complex filtering and bridging

• Multiple independent CAN interfaces
• Ethernet for TCP/IP networking
• Integrated display for standalone operation
• Compact footprint
• Professional-grade hardware design
• Suitable for both prototyping and production

A True Edge Intelligence Platform

The convergence of CAN networking and Ethernet connectivity defines modern embedded systems. Data must move reliably within machines while also being accessible externally for monitoring, analytics, and predictive maintenance.

The Teensy 4.1 Triple CAN Bus Board with 240x240 LCD and Ethernet is not merely an interface board — it is a complete edge processing platform. It allows engineers to design systems that:

• Observe
• Decide
• Filter
• Secure
• Bridge
• Report

All in real time.

For engineers building next-generation connected systems, this board delivers the performance, connectivity, and flexibility required to move beyond simple embedded control and into intelligent networked solutions. More information...

Embedded Software for the Internet of Things

Even the most conservative projections confirm that the Internet of Things (IoT) represents one of the largest and fastest-growing technology markets of our time. Innovation is not optional in this space — it is essential. As billions of devices become connected, the demand for skilled programmers who understand both software and hardware integration continues to rise dramatically.

The challenge is that IoT development spans multiple knowledge domains. Success requires more than writing application code. Developers must understand embedded hardware, real-time constraints, networking protocols, security architectures, data processing, and system reliability. This book equips programmers with the foundational knowledge required to thrive in this multidisciplinary environment.

Embedded Software for the IoT provides a practical and structured introduction to embedded programming within connected systems. It explains the underlying technologies that power IoT devices and clarifies how hardware and software interact in real-world applications. Readers gain a clear understanding of IoT architectures, system design parameters, and best practices in coding, version control, and defect tracking — all essential for building robust, maintainable, and scalable connected systems.

The book begins with a concise overview of the evolution of the Internet and the World Wide Web, providing historical context for today’s connected ecosystem. It then introduces modern CPU architectures and operating systems commonly used in embedded environments, establishing the technical foundation necessary for advanced topics.

From there, the discussion moves into key IoT domains, including:

• Wired and wireless networking
• Digital signal processing and filtering
• Security in embedded and networked systems
• Statistical process control and Industry 4.0 concepts

By combining theoretical grounding with practical insight, this book bridges the gap between traditional software development and embedded engineering.

Embedded Software for the IoT is ideal for software developers transitioning into embedded systems as well as experienced embedded engineers seeking a broader understanding of modern connected architectures. It enables readers to build reliable, secure, and scalable IoT solutions — and to reach their full potential in one of the most dynamic technology fields today. More information...

In practice, most field issues reported in these systems are not related to CAN communication itself, but to power budgeting and power stability, especially when the Raspberry Pi is powered directly from the NMEA 2000 backbone.

This article explains how Raspberry Pi power requirements differ across versions 3, 4, and 5, how those requirements interact with the NMEA 2000 power model, and how the PiCAN-M variants with and without onboard SMPS should be used in each case.

NMEA 2000 Power Model in Brief

NMEA 2000 is designed around a shared network power concept. Devices are powered from the backbone and are budgeted using Load Equivalency Numbers (LEN), where 1 LEN corresponds to 50 mA at nominal network voltage.

In real installations, the following assumptions are common:

• Backbone power is nominally 12 VDC (with an allowed operating range).

• Total backbone current is typically limited to about 3 A by cabling, fusing, and installation practice.

• Devices drawing more than approximately 1 A equivalent are normally expected to be powered separately, even if they remain connected to the network for data.

This model works very well for sensors, displays, gateways, and control units that draw modest and predictable current. It is not well suited to powering general-purpose computers.

Raspberry Pi Power Requirements by Generation

The Raspberry Pi family spans multiple performance classes. While they share a 5 V input requirement, their current demand and transient behavior differ significantly.

Raspberry Pi 3

Raspberry Pi 3 models are specified for a 5 V supply rated at approximately 2.5 A.

In marine gateway applications (Signal K, OpenPlotter, logging, light dashboards), the Pi 3 typically operates comfortably within this envelope. Peak current events exist, but they are relatively modest.

From a power perspective, the Raspberry Pi 3 is generally compatible with small, well-designed DC/DC converters.

Raspberry Pi 4

Raspberry Pi 4 models increase CPU performance, memory bandwidth, and I/O capability. The recommended supply rating increases to 5 V at 3 A.

In steady operation, a Pi 4 used as a marine gateway often runs below this limit, but transient peaks become more significant, particularly during:

• boot

• CPU bursts

• Wi-Fi activity

• SD card writes

This places the Pi 4 at the upper edge of what a 5 V / 3 A rail can reliably support.

Raspberry Pi 5

Raspberry Pi 5 represents a major architectural jump. It is specified for a 5 V supply rated up to 5 A.

Even when no USB SSDs or high-power peripherals are attached, the Pi 5 can draw substantially more current than previous generations due to higher CPU performance, I/O bandwidth, and power management behavior.

A 5 V / 3 A supply is sufficient only in a restricted mode and leaves little margin for transient load events.

From a marine power-distribution perspective, Raspberry Pi 5 must be treated as a computer-class load, not as a typical embedded device.

Translating 5 V Raspberry Pi Loads to NMEA 2000 Backbone Current

When a Raspberry Pi is powered from the NMEA 2000 backbone, the 12 V network power must be converted to 5 V using a switch-mode power supply (SMPS).

This conversion matters.

Approximate power relationships:

• Raspberry Pi 3:
  5 V × 2.5 A ≈ 12.5 W → roughly 1.1–1.3 A from the 12 V side

• Raspberry Pi 4:
  5 V × 3 A ≈ 15 W → roughly 1.4–1.6 A from the 12 V side

• Raspberry Pi 5:
  5 V × 5 A ≈ 25 W → roughly 2.3–2.7 A from the 12 V side

These values assume reasonable SMPS efficiency and do not include additional margin for transient load spikes.

In a network commonly constrained to about 3 A total, a Raspberry Pi 5 alone can consume most of the entire backbone power budget.

PiCAN-M Variants and Power Behavior

The PiCAN-M by Copperhill Technologies is a compact and robust CAN bus interface designed specifically for Raspberry Pi systems used in marine and industrial applications. It provides a direct hardware connection to NMEA 2000 and other CAN-based networks, enabling reliable reception and transmission of CAN frames for software platforms such as Signal K and OpenPlotter. PiCAN-M integrates seamlessly with the Raspberry Pi ecosystem, offering stable CAN communication, galvanic isolation options depending on variant, and versions with or without an onboard 12 V to 5 V switch-mode power supply, allowing flexible integration into a wide range of power architectures. Designed with real-world installations in mind, PiCAN-M is widely used as a dependable gateway between modern IP-based systems and CAN-based marine networks.

The PiCAN-M is available in variants with and without an onboard SMPS.

PiCAN-M with onboard SMPS (NMEA-powered)

This variant includes a 12 V → 5 V switch-mode power supply rated for 5 V at 3 A. The SMPS draws its input power directly from the NMEA 2000 network.

Behavior by Raspberry Pi version:

• Raspberry Pi 3
  Generally suitable. The SMPS provides adequate current, and the resulting backbone load is usually acceptable in lightly to moderately loaded networks.

• Raspberry Pi 4
  Typically functional but operating at the limit. System stability depends heavily on backbone wiring quality, total network load, and transient behavior. Marginal installations may exhibit occasional undervoltage symptoms.

• Raspberry Pi 5
  Not suitable. The 5 V / 3 A limit is below the Pi 5’s specified requirement, and the corresponding 12 V backbone current approaches or exceeds what many networks can reliably supply. Undervoltage warnings, reboots, or intermittent behavior should be expected.

PiCAN-M without onboard SMPS (externally powered Raspberry Pi)

In this configuration, the Raspberry Pi is powered independently, and PiCAN-M interfaces only to the CAN bus.

Behavior by Raspberry Pi version:

• Raspberry Pi 3
  Fully supported with a dedicated 5 V / 2.5 A supply or equivalent DC/DC converter.

• Raspberry Pi 4
  Fully supported with a dedicated 5 V / 3 A supply.

• Raspberry Pi 5
  Strongly recommended approach. A dedicated 5 V / 5 A-class supply provides the required headroom and isolates the NMEA 2000 network from computer-class power demand.

This configuration aligns best with NMEA 2000 power-budget assumptions and results in the highest system reliability.

Typical Failure Patterns Caused by Marginal Power

When Raspberry Pi power is undersized or drawn from an overstressed backbone, the symptoms are often indirect:

• spontaneous reboots under load

• SD card filesystem corruption over time

• intermittent disappearance of NMEA 2000 devices

• unstable Wi-Fi or delayed startup

• undervoltage warnings logged by the operating system

These issues are frequently misattributed to software or CAN communication problems, when the root cause is power integrity.

Practical Guidance for Marine Installations

• Raspberry Pi 3 and Raspberry Pi 4 can be used with PiCAN-M SMPS variants in suitable networks, provided total backbone load is well understood.

• Raspberry Pi 5 should be powered from a dedicated supply and not from NMEA 2000 backbone power.

• Treat NMEA 2000 power as a network-device resource, not as a general 5 V power rail.

• Separating computing loads from network power improves stability, simplifies troubleshooting, and aligns with established marine installation practice.

CAN Bus with NMEA 2000 for Beginners: A Guide to Marine Electronics Networking, Protocols, and Hands-On Implementation

Modern marine electronics rely on NMEA 2000, a standardized CAN-based network that allows engines, sensors, displays, navigation systems, and monitoring devices to communicate over a single, shared backbone. Instead of point-to-point wiring, NMEA 2000 uses a robust two-wire CAN bus to distribute data efficiently and reliably across the vessel. While powerful and flexible, this technology often appears intimidating due to unfamiliar terminology, strict wiring rules, and a lack of clear beginner-level explanations.

Many boat owners, technicians, and engineers struggle to understand how CAN Bus and NMEA 2000 systems actually work in practice. Confusing diagrams, fragmented documentation, and overly theoretical explanations make it difficult to build or troubleshoot a network with confidence. That is exactly why First Steps in CAN Bus with NMEA 2000 was written. This book provides a beginner-friendly yet technically accurate path to understanding, designing, and maintaining NMEA 2000 networks without requiring prior CAN experience.

Whether you are new to marine electronics or looking to strengthen your foundation before moving on to advanced configurations, this guide walks you through every critical concept step by step. It explains how CAN communication works, how NMEA 2000 builds on it, and how real devices share data on the network. Rather than acting as a dry reference manual, the book emphasizes practical understanding through real-world examples, clear diagrams, and straightforward explanations.

Inside the book, you will learn how to design a stable network using correct cabling and termination practices, manage power and grounding to avoid common failures, understand PGNs and data flow, and safely integrate displays, sensors, GPS units, and engine gateways. Dedicated chapters focus on troubleshooting and testing, showing how to diagnose voltage issues, communication errors, and network load problems using practical methods that reflect real installations.

Written with field-tested experience and a clear, professional voice, First Steps in CAN Bus with NMEA 2000 turns a complex marine communication standard into something practical and approachable. It gives you the knowledge and confidence to design, install, and maintain reliable NMEA 2000 networks, helping your systems perform as intended and saving time, frustration, and costly mistakes along the way. More information...

Programming the ESP32 In C Using the Arduino Library

A dedicated book on ESP32 programming with the Arduino IDE is an especially valuable companion for NMEA 2000 development. While NMEA 2000 defines how data is exchanged on the CAN bus, the quality and reliability of a device ultimately depend on how well the microcontroller firmware is written. A practical ESP32 book helps developers understand the Arduino programming model, ESP32-specific features, memory management, task handling, and peripheral control. These skills translate directly to NMEA 2000 applications, where timing, stability, and clean CAN message handling are critical. By building confidence in ESP32 programming, the book reduces development time and lowers the risk of subtle bugs that can lead to unstable network behavior.

Programming the ESP32 In C Using the Arduino Library is an excellent introduction to the ESP32 and a resource we strongly recommend for NMEA 2000 and embedded development projects. It explains why the ESP32 is both inexpensive and powerful, and shows how to program it efficiently in C using the Arduino IDE layered on top of Espressif’s official development framework. The book focuses on building real skills rather than finished projects, covering GPIO, interrupts, PWM, SPI, I²C, UARTs, Wi-Fi, sensors, motors, power management, and FreeRTOS. By emphasizing core concepts and hands-on understanding, it equips readers to confidently design, debug, and complete their own ESP32-based applications with far less trial and error. More information...

Note: We are aware that there are many books covering ESP32 programming with the Arduino IDE. However, we consider this title the closest match to our topic, as it focuses on core concepts and fundamentals rather than narrowing its scope to specific application use cases.

Waveshare Industrial Grade CAN/CAN FD Bus Data Analyzer

A USB-to-CAN or CAN FD adapter is equally important for serious NMEA 2000 development. While an ESP32 can transmit and receive CAN frames, debugging without external visibility is difficult and often frustrating. A CAN adapter allows developers to monitor live bus traffic, inspect raw frames, verify PGNs, and confirm correct arbitration, timing, and data formatting. It also enables controlled testing by injecting messages or simulating other devices on the network. Even though NMEA 2000 itself uses classic CAN, a CAN FD–capable adapter offers flexibility and long-term usefulness for broader CAN-based projects beyond marine applications.

The Waveshare USB-CAN-FD adapter is an industrial-grade, high-performance USB-to-CAN and CAN-FD adapter designed for reliable bus communication, analysis, and diagnostics. It features two independent CAN-FD interfaces with electrical isolation and comprehensive protection circuitry, ensuring stable operation in demanding development and test environments.

The adapter supports Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, and 11 and is supplied with drivers, CAN-FD tools, example applications, and development documentation. Connected to a PC or industrial controller via USB, it enables real-time CAN and CAN-FD message transmission, monitoring, logging, and protocol analysis. Its compact form factor and straightforward operation make it well suited for learning, debugging, and validating CAN-based systems, as well as for integration into industrial automation, power systems, and intelligent control applications that rely on CAN or CAN-FD communication. More information...

For more technical details, see the Waveshare Wiki

Note: As with our choice of literature, there are many alternative devices available. However, we found the Waveshare adapter to offer an excellent balance between functionality and price. If you consider other options, make sure the device includes robust CAN data analyzer software for Windows, Linux, or both, as this is essential for effective development and debugging.

Together, a solid ESP32 programming reference and a reliable CAN analysis tool form a powerful development foundation. The book strengthens firmware design and implementation, while the CAN adapter provides transparency into network behavior. For anyone developing NMEA 2000 devices with the ESP32, these resources help move projects from experimentation to professional, predictable results.

CAN Bus with NMEA 2000 for Beginners: A Guide to Marine Electronics Networking, Protocols, and Hands-On Implementation

Modern marine electronics rely on NMEA 2000, a standardized CAN-based network that allows engines, sensors, displays, navigation systems, and monitoring devices to communicate over a single, shared backbone. Instead of point-to-point wiring, NMEA 2000 uses a robust two-wire CAN bus to distribute data efficiently and reliably across the vessel. While powerful and flexible, this technology often appears intimidating due to unfamiliar terminology, strict wiring rules, and a lack of clear beginner-level explanations.

Many boat owners, technicians, and engineers struggle to understand how CAN Bus and NMEA 2000 systems actually work in practice. Confusing diagrams, fragmented documentation, and overly theoretical explanations make it difficult to build or troubleshoot a network with confidence. That is exactly why First Steps in CAN Bus with NMEA 2000 was written. This book provides a beginner-friendly yet technically accurate path to understanding, designing, and maintaining NMEA 2000 networks without requiring prior CAN experience.

Whether you are new to marine electronics or looking to strengthen your foundation before moving on to advanced configurations, this guide walks you through every critical concept step by step. It explains how CAN communication works, how NMEA 2000 builds on it, and how real devices share data on the network. Rather than acting as a dry reference manual, the book emphasizes practical understanding through real-world examples, clear diagrams, and straightforward explanations.

Inside the book, you will learn how to design a stable network using correct cabling and termination practices, manage power and grounding to avoid common failures, understand PGNs and data flow, and safely integrate displays, sensors, GPS units, and engine gateways. Dedicated chapters focus on troubleshooting and testing, showing how to diagnose voltage issues, communication errors, and network load problems using practical methods that reflect real installations.

Written with field-tested experience and a clear, professional voice, First Steps in CAN Bus with NMEA 2000 turns a complex marine communication standard into something practical and approachable. It gives you the knowledge and confidence to design, install, and maintain reliable NMEA 2000 networks, helping your systems perform as intended and saving time, frustration, and costly mistakes along the way. More information...

Many boat owners, technicians, and engineers struggle to understand how CAN Bus and NMEA 2000 systems actually work in practice. Confusing diagrams, fragmented documentation, and overly theoretical explanations make it difficult to build or troubleshoot a network with confidence. That is exactly why First Steps in CAN Bus with NMEA 2000 was written. This book provides a beginner-friendly yet technically accurate path to understanding, designing, and maintaining NMEA 2000 networks without requiring prior CAN experience.

Whether you are new to marine electronics or looking to strengthen your foundation before moving on to advanced configurations, this guide walks you through every critical concept step by step. It explains how CAN communication works, how NMEA 2000 builds on it, and how real devices share data on the network. Rather than acting as a dry reference manual, the book emphasizes practical understanding through real-world examples, clear diagrams, and straightforward explanations.

Inside the book, you will learn how to design a stable network using correct cabling and termination practices, manage power and grounding to avoid common failures, understand PGNs and data flow, and safely integrate displays, sensors, GPS units, and engine gateways. Dedicated chapters focus on troubleshooting and testing, showing how to diagnose voltage issues, communication errors, and network load problems using practical methods that reflect real installations.

Written with field-tested experience and a clear, professional voice, First Steps in CAN Bus with NMEA 2000 turns a complex marine communication standard into something practical and approachable. It gives you the knowledge and confidence to design, install, and maintain reliable NMEA 2000 networks, helping your systems perform as intended and saving time, frustration, and costly mistakes along the way. More information...

ESP32S3 NMEA2000 Device Simulator

This ESP32-S3 NMEA 2000 device simulator is a two-board development and testing platform designed to generate and control NMEA 2000 traffic on a CAN-based marine network. The base board is built around an ESP32-S3 microcontroller with integrated Wi-Fi, Bluetooth LE, and an onboard CAN transceiver, providing the processing and communication core. A stacked top board adds physical user controls, including potentiometers, push buttons, and indicator LEDs, allowing developers to interactively adjust simulated values and trigger events in real time. The simulator is preconfigured to generate standard NMEA 2000 Parameter Group Numbers such as environmental data, enabling realistic sensor emulation without requiring actual marine hardware.

The device is intended for development, testing, and validation of NMEA 2000 products, gateways, and embedded applications. Its firmware is fully reprogrammable, allowing the simulated PGNs and control behavior to be adapted to custom use cases beyond the default configuration. By combining a flexible ESP32-S3 platform with intuitive hardware controls, the simulator provides a practical and efficient way to test network behavior, verify device interoperability, and accelerate development of CAN-based marine and embedded systems. More information...

In addition to its CAN/NMEA 2000 interface, the board includes a Qwiic (I2C) connector for easy integration of external sensors such as environmental and motion modules without soldering or custom wiring. This makes it an ideal platform for prototyping or deploying custom sensor gateways, data loggers, wireless bridges, or smart instrumentation on boats and other vehicles that use CAN-based networks. Whether you’re capturing environmental data, battery and power metrics, or attitude information from a motion sensor, this board serves as the central hub for gathering sensor data locally and distributing it over NMEA 2000 or forwarding it via Wi-Fi/Bluetooth to dashboards, apps, or cloud services.

Please note that the devices listed below are suggestions only for use with the ESP32S3 CAN-Bus Board with NMEA 2000 connector in marine applications. Copperhill Technologies cannot provide technical support for third-party sensors or devices. We’re always happy to support our own products, but we’re not able to offer engineering or system design services.

We’ll continue to publish blog posts and examples that highlight possible use cases and integrations. That said, this content represents the extent of the engineering guidance we can provide for marine applications.

Qwiic-Compatible I2C Sensors for ESP32 and NMEA 2000 Applications

When designing an ESP32-based NMEA 2000 device, simplicity and reliability matter. The Qwiic ecosystem offers a clean solution: standardized 3.3 V I2C sensors with JST-SH connectors, onboard pull-ups, and no soldering required. This makes Qwiic an excellent match for marine electronics prototypes, demo applications, and even production systems when sensors are mounted locally.

Below is a curated list of Qwiic-compatible sensors that work out of the box with an ESP32 and integrate naturally into NMEA 2000 networks. Each section includes purchasing links and a suggested NMEA 2000 PGN mapping for documentation and firmware design.

Environmental and Weather Sensors

BME280 – Temperature, Humidity, Barometric Pressure

The BME280 is a well-known, low-power environmental sensor and an ideal baseline for marine applications. It works well for cabin climate monitoring and weather trend observation.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic BME280 Breakout
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/14348

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 130310 – Environmental Parameters
  Temperature (air), humidity, barometric pressure

• PGN 130311 – Environmental Parameters (extended, optional)

Use cases

• Cabin temperature and humidity

• Weather trend display on MFDs

• Environmental logging

MS8607 – Temperature, Humidity, Pressure

The MS8607 combines a high-stability pressure sensor with humidity and temperature sensing. It is often favored where pressure accuracy and long-term stability are important.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic MS8607
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/16298

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 130310 – Environmental Parameters
  Pressure, temperature, humidity

Use cases

• Weather monitoring

• Barometric trend alarms

• Environmental data logging

Power and Battery Monitoring

INA219 – Voltage, Current, Power
The INA219 is a simple current and voltage monitor suitable for basic battery or load measurements.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic INA219
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/15598

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 127508 – Battery Status
  Battery voltage, current, temperature (if available)

Use cases

• House battery monitoring

• Load current measurement

• Entry-level power dashboards

INA226 – High-Accuracy Voltage and Current

The INA226 offers higher resolution and accuracy than the INA219 and is better suited for serious marine power monitoring.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic INA226
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/17704

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 127508 – Battery Status

• PGN 127506 – DC Detailed Status (if implemented)

Use cases

• Battery charge/discharge tracking

• Solar or DC subsystem monitoring

• Power efficiency analysis

INA260 – Voltage and Current with Integrated Shunt

The INA260 includes an internal precision shunt resistor, simplifying wiring and installation.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic INA260
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/18279

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 127508 – Battery Status

Use cases

• Compact battery monitoring solutions

• Demo and bench testing setups

Analog Sensor Interface

ADS1115 – 16-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter
Many marine sensors are analog by nature: tank level senders, pressure transducers, and NTC temperature probes. The ADS1115 bridges those sensors into the I2C/Qwiic world cleanly.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic ADS1115
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/15334

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 127505 – Fluid Level
  Fuel, water, waste tanks

• PGN 130312 – Temperature
  External or fluid temperatures

Use cases

• Tank level monitoring

• External temperature probes

• Pressure transducer interfaces

Motion and Orientation Sensors

BNO055 – Absolute Orientation Sensor
The BNO055 includes onboard sensor fusion, making it one of the easiest ways to obtain pitch, roll, and heading-related data without complex math.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic BNO055
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/14662

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 127257 – Attitude
  Pitch and roll

• PGN 127250 – Vessel Heading (with caution)

Use cases

• Heel and trim monitoring

• Motion logging at anchor

• Stabilization or alert systems

ICM-20948 – 9-DoF IMU

A modern IMU offering accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer data. Sensor fusion is handled in firmware.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic ICM-20948
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/15335

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 127257 – Attitude

• PGN 127250 – Vessel Heading (if magnetometer used)

Use cases

• Advanced motion analysis

• Sailing performance metrics

• Custom attitude solutions

Light and Visibility

VEML7700 – Ambient Light Sensor
The VEML7700 measures ambient light levels and is useful for display dimming and day/night awareness.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic VEML7700
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/14350

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 130310 – Environmental Parameters
  Ambient light level (manufacturer-specific field if needed)

Use cases

• Automatic display dimming

• Daylight logging

• Night-mode switching

Digital Inputs and Expansion

MCP23017 – 16-bit GPIO Expander
While not a sensor itself, the MCP23017 is extremely useful in marine systems for reading multiple digital signals.

Purchase
SparkFun Qwiic MCP23017
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/17022

Typical NMEA 2000 PGNs

• PGN 127501 – Binary Status Report

• PGN 126983 – Alert Response

• PGN 126985 – Alert Text

Use cases

• Bilge switch monitoring

• Hatch and door sensors

• Alarm and status inputs

Closing Notes

All sensors listed above operate at 3.3 V, support I2C natively, and connect directly via Qwiic without additional hardware. They are best suited for short cable runs and enclosure-mounted installations, which aligns well with typical marine electronics design practices.

Hands-on ESP32 with Arduino IDE: Unleash the power of IoT with ESP32 and build exciting projects with this practical guide

The ESP32 is a powerful and versatile microcontroller, ideal for those venturing into the world of IoT (Internet of Things). While it offers a wealth of capabilities—including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, camera support, and sensor interfacing—its initial configuration and integration with external components can be daunting for newcomers. Fortunately, the Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE) simplifies programming, code uploading, and access to ESP32’s rich feature set, making it easier for beginners to bring their ideas to life.

This book is designed to guide you through the fundamentals of sensing, networking, data processing, and real-world IoT applications using the ESP32. It begins with the essentials of working with ESP32 and Arduino IDE 2.0, providing step-by-step instructions for setting up your development environment.

You’ll then dive into hands-on projects, learning how to interface various sensors, as well as ESP32-compatible camera and display modules. These practical examples lay the groundwork for understanding more advanced topics, such as IoT networking protocols (e.g., MQTT, HTTP, WebSocket) and their roles in building connected devices.

As you progress, you'll apply your skills to build projects ranging from smart devices to data loggers and automation systems. Through these engaging applications, you’ll develop a solid understanding of how to design, prototype, and deploy your own IoT solutions.

By the end of this book, you’ll be equipped to:

• Confidently develop and troubleshoot ESP32-based projects

• Choose appropriate IoT communication protocols for your applications

• Build and deploy functional IoT systems with real-world relevance

Whether you're a student, hobbyist, or aspiring engineer, this book provides a practical, project-based pathway to mastering the ESP32 and its role in the ever-expanding world of IoT. More information...