What does CAN bus wiring look like?

CAN Bus Wiring: Color-Coded for Clarity

The Controller Area Network (CAN) bus is a robust communication protocol widely used in automotive and industrial applications. Its wiring follows a standardized color scheme to ensure proper connections and facilitate troubleshooting.

CAN High and CAN Low Lines

A CAN bus consists of two twisted-pair wires: CAN-High and CAN-Low. These wires carry differential signals that represent the data transmitted and received by devices on the network.

Color Code for CAN-High and CAN-Low

To distinguish between the CAN-High and CAN-Low lines, the following color code is typically employed:

• Yellow: CAN-High
• Green: CAN-Low

This color scheme is commonly used on CAN devices, such as transceivers and modules, to help technicians identify and connect the correct wires.

Other Wires in CAN Bus Wiring

In addition to the CAN-High and CAN-Low wires, other wires may be present in CAN bus wiring, depending on the specific application. These include:

• Power: Provides power to devices connected to the CAN bus. Typically red or black.
• Ground: Connects devices to a common ground reference. Usually black.
• Shielding: Optional, may be used to minimize electromagnetic interference. Usually braided or foil.
• Termination Resistors: Required at both ends of the CAN bus to match the characteristic impedance of the bus. Typically connected across CAN-High and CAN-Low.

Importance of Proper Wiring

Adhering to the standardized color scheme is crucial for ensuring the proper operation of a CAN bus network. Incorrectly connecting wires can lead to communication errors, data corruption, and even device damage.

Conclusion

The color-coded wiring scheme used in CAN bus applications provides a clear and consistent way to connect devices and maintain a reliable communication infrastructure. By following the standard color code, technicians can quickly and effectively troubleshoot any issues that may arise, ensuring that the CAN bus network functions as intended.