Introduction

NEX-FD is a compact protocol and interface converter that seamlessly bridges CAN networks with external actuators and peripherals. Powered by an onboard microcontroller, it delivers deterministic, ultra-low latency translation between CAN-FD or CAN 2.0 buses and RS232, RS485, I2C, GPIO, ADC or PWM interfaces.

Thanks to its miniaturized design (33 x 11 x 4 mm, 10 g), NEX-FD is installed in-wire: it is soldered directly to the harness, next to the device it controls.

The available interfaces are:

• 1x CAN-FD or CAN 2.0 bus (bidirectional).
• 2x RS232 or 1x RS485 serial port (bidirectional).
• 1x I2C bus, 2x GPIO, or 2x PWM outputs at 5 V.
• 1x ADC, with a measurement range of 0 - 5 V.

Use cases

• Extending the number of supported peripherals, by connecting them to the CAN network.
• Optimizing the harness, allowing devices of any kind to be connected to the same CAN network.
• Connecting devices placed at long distances that use protocols which are not suitable for it, such as PWM or analog signals.