Device Integration of CAN Controller, Data Converters, and ISP Non-Volatile Memory Facilitates Smart Sensor Connectivity to Controller Area Networks

IEEE 1451 specifies smart sensor function and connectivity to networks. This marks an evolution from central system control by a master processor with “dumb” nodes to distributed control networks of “smart” sensors. Controller Area Network (CAN) is a multi-master protocol designed for communications in real-time, distributed control systems. Therefore, it is logical that CAN be used to network smart sensors in these systems. The move to IEEE 1451 smart sensor nodes in distributed control systems with CAN connectivity increases the complexity and therefore size and cost per node. To address these size and cost issues, mixed-signal microcontrollers are now offered that integrate a CAN controller, non-volatile memory, and quality analog data converters. Such devices can offer integration of IEEE 1451 functions for smart sensor “plug and play” connectivity to controller area networks. I n t e g r a t i o n m a k e s d i s t r i b u t e d c o n t r o l n e t w o r k s f e a s i b l e .