The amount of data communicated in automotive networks is increasing rapidly,
leading to more complex systems alongside the rising number of Electronic
Control Units (ECUs) in modern vehicles. As the number of ECUs has risen,
Controller Area Network (CAN) communication bandwidth has been pushed to its
limit. Existing solutions - such as using multiple CAN buses, sending multiple
CAN frames or switching to another protocol - require a significant
system-design effort and replacement of hardware and software. This has paved
the way for CAN Flexible Data-rate (CAN FD), which extends the CAN standard and
permits significantly higher data rates, enabling faster firmware upgrades.
However, some changes must be made like: exchange the classical CAN
microcontroller with a CAN FD microcontroller and also a CAN FD transceiver must
be used.
This article will explore the benefits of CAN FD, how it compares with the
classical CAN protocol, requirements for systems and how to introduce CAN FD
into existing CAN networks.