CAN Bus Network Topology for Prototyping
Why we chose CAN FD over Ethernet for node communication.
The Protocol Choice
When designing a system with up to 1024 active nodes distributed over 50 feet, the network topology must be deterministic, fault-tolerant, and require minimal wiring.
Why not Ethernet? Star topologies require massive cable management. Wiring 1024 nodes to a central switch defeats the purpose of a clean prototyping board.
Why CAN FD? Controller Area Network Flexible Data-Rate allows us to use a simple linear bus embedded directly into the grid tiles. Nodes tap into the bus anywhere on the board magnetically.
- Baud Rate: 2 Mbps
- Max Nodes: 1024
- Topology: Linear with 120-ohm termination
- Latency: < 50ms for continuity events
Verify your physical termination requirements with the Resistor Calculator tool.