SparkFun AST-CAN485 Dev Board

The SparkFun AST-CAN485 Dev Board is a miniaturized Arduino with the compact form factor of the Pro Mini, packing an onboard CAN (Control Area Network) and RS485 ports. This allows for easy interfacing with a wide range of industrial devices, making it a bridge between the maker and industrial spaces. The board is based on the Atmel AT90CAN128 processor, running at 16MHz, with 128kB of Flash and 4kB of SRAM. It also features a hardware CAN controller.

The CAN485 operates on the Arduino platform and is pin-compatible with the Arduino Pro Mini. This makes it perfect for embedding in projects due to its small form factor. It supports the Arduino IDE and Arduino core libraries and is installed using the Arduino boards manager. Libraries are available to support the CAN and RS485 ports, simplifying the interfacing process. The onboard CAN and RS485 transceivers allow for immediate interfacing with either network.

The board breaks out commonly used communications ports and pin functions, including I²C, SPI, UARTs, eight analog inputs, and six interrupt-enabled pins. It also comes with an onboard regulator, allowing for an unregulated input voltage to be supplied on the VIN pin. The allowable input voltage range is 7--16V, although 7--12V is recommended.

Both CAN and RS485 are integral to many communication protocols, finding applications in automation, industrial systems, building management, automotive systems, OBDII, and more. The combination of these features makes the SparkFun AST-CAN485 Dev Board a cost-effective, versatile board with a wide array of functions that fits in the palm of your hand.

Features:

• Employs the AT90CAN microcontroller
• 16MHz Clock
• 8 analog inputs
• 2 UARTs
• 16 Digital I/Os
• DC Input: 5--16V (150mA Current Max)
• RS485 Transceiver
• CAN Transceiver
• Pro Mini form factor
• Compatible with Arduino
• Onboard power and D13 LEDs