CAN Specification 2.0
The Controller Area Network (CAN) is a serial communications protocol which efficiently
supports distributed realtime control with a very high level of security.
Its domain of application ranges from high speed networks to low cost multiplex wiring.
In automotive electronics, engine control units, sensors, anti-skid-systems, etc. are connected
using CAN with bitrates up to 1 Mbit/s. At the same time it is cost effective to build into
vehicle body electronics, e.g. lamp clusters, electric windows etc. to replace the wiring harness
otherwise required.
The intention of this specification is to achieve compatibility between any two CAN implementations.
Compatibility, however, has different aspects regarding e.g. electrical features
and the interpretation of data to be transferred. To achieve design transparency and implementation
flexibility CAN has been subdivided into different layers according to the ISO/OSI
Reference Model:
1