CAN network: General

CAN (control area network) is a standardized system for multiplex-communication. Multiplex communication means that several control modules can use the same cables for communication without traffic from one control module interfering with traffic from another.

Volvo has developed a new standard for multiplex communication - VOLCANO. VOLCANO is a development of CAN and uses real time operation and prioritization. The description of prioritization is based on VOLCANO but is designated CAN.

The control area network (CAN) standard specifies:

• That two cables are to be used (CAN H and CAN L)
• What voltage levels must be used
• What a message should look like
• How transmission errors should be handled.