TJA1050 CAN Controller Bus Driver Interface Module

TJA1050 CAN Controller Bus Driver Interface Module is a robust and essential piece of hardware for any project requiring communication over the Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol. This module acts as the crucial interface between a CAN controller (like those found in microcontrollers such as the STM32 or Arduino with a CAN shield) and the physical two-wire CAN bus. The TJA1050 transceiver chip translates the logic-level signals from your microcontroller into the differential signals needed for long-distance, noise-immune communication on the bus. Engineers and developers rely on this module for its high-speed performance, excellent electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and fail-safe features, making it the standard choice for **automotive, industrial automation, and embedded control systems**. You can quickly integrate this reliable module to establish rock-solid communication in your network.

Key Features:

• High-Speed CAN Transceiver: Supports bit rates up to 1 Mbit/s, accommodating demanding real-time data communication requirements.
• Differential Signal Transmission: Uses CAN-High (CANH) and CAN-Low (CANL) lines to provide superior immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI).
• Silent Mode Capability: Includes a stand-by or silent mode, allowing the microcontroller to reduce power consumption when active bus communication isn’t needed.
• Excellent EMC Performance: Engineered to meet stringent automotive standards for Electromagnetic Compatibility and Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection.
• Simplified Interface: Provides standard VCC, GND, CANH, CANL, and RS (Slope Control/Silent Mode) pins for easy connection to standard microcontrollers and the bus.
• Integrated Slope Control: Allows you to optimize the electromagnetic emission of the module by adjusting the slew rate for different network lengths.

Technical Specifications:

• Transceiver Chip: NXP TJA1050
• Supply Voltage ($V_{\text{CC}}$): 4.75 V to 5.25 V (Typically 5V DC)
• Logic Voltage: Compatible with 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers.
• Maximum Bus Speed: 1 Mbit/s
• CAN Standard Compatibility: ISO 11898-2 (High-Speed CAN)
• Operating Current: Typically 7 mA (Normal Mode)
• Protection: Short-circuit proof to GND and $V_{\text{BAT}}$, and transient protection.

Mechanical Specifications:

• Mounting: PCB Module with through-hole headers for easy breadboard or wiring connections.
• Connectors: Screw terminals for CANH and CANL bus connection and standard pin headers for controller logic connection.
• Onboard Resistor: Often includes an optional 120-ohm termination resistor jumper, crucial for network stability.

Dimensions:

• Module Length: ~22 mm
• Module Width: ~11.5 mm
• Module Height: ~3.5 mm (excluding pins/terminals)

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC: Connect to the 5V power supply.
• GND: Connect to the circuit ground.
• TXD (Transmit Data): Connects to the CAN controller’s TX output pin (logic signal).
• RXD (Receive Data): Connects to the CAN controller’s RX input pin (logic signal).
• CANH: High-side connection to the physical CAN bus cable.
• CANL: Low-side connection to the physical CAN bus cable.
• Wiring Note: Ensure all nodes in your CAN network share a common GND. Connect CANH to CANH and CANL to CANL across all devices. Always use a 120-ohm termination resistor at both ends of the main CAN bus line.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download TJA1050 Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Automotive Diagnostics: Essential component for connecting diagnostic tools to vehicle ECUs (Electronic Control Units).
• Robotics & UAVs: Used for creating reliable internal communication networks between various control and sensor modules.
• Industrial Control Systems: Implement reliable field bus communication in factory automation and distributed control systems.

Applications:

• In-Vehicle Networking: Develop custom ECUs or simulate sensor data for testing purposes.
• Building Automation: Connect HVAC, lighting, and security systems across large buildings.
• Embedded Prototyping: Interface microcontrollers (like Arduino/ESP32 with CAN shields) to existing or new CAN networks.

Equivalent Models:

• MCP2551: A popular and widely used high-speed CAN transceiver from Microchip, offering very similar functionality.
• SN65HVD230: Another well-regarded CAN transceiver, often favored for 3.3V systems, though typically requiring an external regulator on a 5V board.

Package Includes:

• 1 x TJA1050 CAN Controller Bus Driver Interface Module