CANbridge NT 200/420

Configurable CAN-to-CAN Bridge/Router with CAN FD Support

The CANbridge NT is offered in two versions, as CANbridge NT 200 with 2 classic CAN channels and as CANbridge NT 420 with 4 CAN channels, where 2 channels can be switched between CAN and CAN FD. 
Both devices allow the easy coupling of CAN (CAN FD) networks, including networks with different bit rates or frame formats (11/29 bit identifier). The bridges/routers have a powerful microcontroller that can perform message filtering, ID translation and data multiplexing (e.g. required for CAN FD to CAN message conversion), at this even bursts at higher data rates can be processed without message loss.

FEATURES

• Up to 4 CAN (2 CAN FD) channels in one device
• Powerful filter, ID translation, data mapping and multiplex functionality
• Execution of pre-defined actions using event-triggered "Action Rules"
• Programming of any kind of action rules using LUA
• Configurable security levels for device access (configuration or firmware upload)
• Windows configuration tool for easy configuration via USB

BENEFITS

• Easy coupling of CAN and CAN FD systems and devices
• Cost savings due to simple wiring
• Allows system expansion and tree/star topologies
• Increased system reliability
• Line protection by galvanic isolation

• CANbridge NT 200 or CANbridge NT 420
• CD with CAN-Gateway Configurator
• Manual
• Mini USB cable

Unlike a CAN Repeater, which only translates the electric signals, the CAN messages are received completely by the CANbridge NT and then sent to the other CAN or CAN FD network in line with existing filter, conversion, port mapping or multiplex rules (Store-Forward principle). With two CANbridge NT 420 it is possible to transmit messages between two Classic CAN networks via a CAN FD network (CAN tunnel).

Filtering and multiplexing
By using mapping tables the message reception/transmission is possible between all 4 channels. With the aid of filter and conversion rules, CAN or CAN FD messages can be filtered or modified. With these mechanism, the bus load can be reduced in the individual networks by only sending messages which are of interest to the other network. For SAE J1939 applications a special mapping table is provided, adapted to the specific parameters. The data multiplexing/demultiplexing functionality enables the mapping of e.g. CAN-FD data to several standard CAN messages and vice versa. 

Action Rules
In response to received messages, device or CAN bus status events, a variety of actions can be performed automatically, e.g. sending messages (CAN, CAN FD), changing device settings or switching device LEDs. Action rules are created through intuitive drop-down menus for events and actions within the Windows-based device configuration tool or by using LUA scripts.

Cyclic transmission
The cyclic transmission feature enables cyclic forwarding of messages. Both, messages and cycle times are defined within a central cyclic transmission table. 

The configuration of the CANbridge NT and the firmware upload is done with an intuitive to operate Windows configuration tool via USB. With the tool, the configuration of filter, mapping, multiplexer or translation rules can be carried out very easily, without programming skills.

Windows configuration tool supporting CANbridge NT and CAN@net NT

Application examples – How bridges and gateways are used

Interconnection of networks via wireless Bluetooth enables networking of hard to access or moving components.
 

Remote access for analysis via Ethernet as well as status and alarm messages on mobile devices using MQTT based cloud connection. 

Bridging large distances via Ethernet to connect test benches and test systems.

Easy linking of automotive buses with HMS-Hub and OPC UA based applications.