Non-contact sensors read CAN bus signals without the need to strip cables

The new HIOKI sensors now available from MDL Technologies Signals can be reliably read from CAN bus cables with no need for bare wire connections.

In the development and verification of CAN bus systems, engineers are familiar with the difficulty that when measuring CAN bus signals portion of the cable insulation must be excluded to directly probe the bare wiring.

With the company's new SP7000 series sensors, this time-consuming process is no longer required. Their very high-resolution measurement characteristics allow reliable and reproducible detection of even weak signals through the cable insulation.

There are two types of sensors in the family. The SP7001 supports the CAN and CAN-FD protocols at up to 3Mbit/s, while the SP7002 is intended for compatibility with CAN networks at up to 1Mbit/s. Each of the sensor variants is equipped with a standard D-SUB 9-pin interface, which can be employed to attach any conventional CAN bus analyser. This keeps users from needing to invest in new analytical equipment.

The measurement probes play an essential part in the high performance of the series. The hook-shaped tip of the measuring head has an opening that enables it to be easily hung on the cable. A few turns of the clamping screw under the head then enables the probes to be swiftly and securely fixed in place, even in the presence of shock or vibration. They are fit for employment with cables with an outer diameter from 1.2mm to 2mm.

"The sensors will be of great benefit in the automotive industry, especially in engine and vehicle development, where a substantial amount of time is wasted in stripping cable insulation and replacing the damaged cables," said MDL managing director, Mark Lucock.