HMS Networks has launched the Ixxat CAN@net Basic, a compact solution designed to simplify CAN-based communication in industrial environments. The new offering enables seamless connectivity and efficient data exchange across automation systems, addressing the growing need for reliable industrial networking.
Modern industrial applications increasingly demand seamless communication between distributed CAN networks and Ethernet-based systems. However, engineers often have to balance performance, latency, and cost, as many existing solutions are either overly complex with unnecessary features or too limited to support real-world CAN FD requirements. The CAN@net Basic addresses this gap by focusing on what matters most, delivering efficient data exchange, low latency, and a cost-effective approach tailored for practical industrial use.
Solving Engineering Challenge I: Balancing Latency and Jitter
In many CAN-to-Ethernet systems, sending an Ethernet frame for every CAN message can generate excessive interrupts, resulting in high jitter and unstable performance. On the other hand, aggregating data helps reduce jitter but often introduces additional delays.
The CAN@net Basic addresses this challenge by using UDP/IP communication, which significantly reduces protocol overhead and minimizes interrupt load. This enables a well-balanced performance delivering low latency with controlled jitter, making it well-suited for time-sensitive industrial applications.
Solving Engineering Challenge II: Scaling Distributed Systems
In applications where multiple devices such as test setups or distributed machines need to exchange CAN FD data, the physical limitations of the CAN bus, particularly in terms of bus length and node capacity can become a bottleneck.
The CAN@net Basic overcomes these constraints by enabling flexible network expansion through Ethernet, allowing engineers to connect distributed systems without being restricted by the limitations of traditional CAN topologies.
Solving Engineering Challenge III: Reducing Cost Without Compromise
Many users require only a limited set of gateway functionalities but often end up paying for fully featured solutions. The CAN@net Basic addresses this gap as a cost-optimized alternative, offering essential capabilities at a competitive price point of 270 Euros, while maintaining industrial-grade performance and reliability.
Key Technical Features
- One CAN CC/CAN FD channel
- CAN data rates of up to 8 Mbit/s
- One Ethernet channel (RJ45)
- ASCII interface mode
- UDP/IP over Ethernet
- USB interface type C, USB 2.0 high-speed (480 Mbit/s)
- Removable Push-in connectors
- Galvanic Isolation (CAN: 2.5 kV 1 minute; Ethernet: 1.5 kV 1 minute)
- Operating Temperature from -25 °C to +85 °C
- Ingress Protection IP20
- DIN rail housing (108 x 149 x 27 mm)
