The MCP2515 CAN Bus Module is a standalone CAN (Controller Area Network) controller that enables reliable, high-speed communication between multiple microcontrollers and devices. Paired with an onboard CAN transceiver (commonly TJA1050), it allows Arduino, ESP32, and other MCUs to interface with automotive and industrial CAN networks. This module is widely used for vehicle diagnostics, industrial automation, and distributed embedded systems due to its robustness and noise immunity.
Core Module Specifications
• Module Type: CAN bus controller + transceiver
• CAN Controller IC: MCP2515
• CAN Transceiver: TJA1050 (or compatible)
• Communication Standard: CAN 2.0A / CAN 2.0B
Electrical & Interface
• Operating Voltage: 5 V DC
• Logic Interface: SPI
• SPI Pins: SCK, MOSI, MISO, CS
• CAN Bus Pins: CANH, CANL
• Clock Source: 8 MHz or 16 MHz crystal (module dependent)
Performance Characteristics
• Supports CAN baud rates up to 1 Mbps
• High noise immunity with differential signaling
• Reliable long-distance communication
• Multi-node CAN network support
Physical Characteristics
• Module Type: PCB-mounted CAN interface board
• Terminal Type: Screw terminals for CANH/CANL
• Compact and lightweight design
• Clearly labeled pins for easy wiring
Compatibility
• Arduino Uno / Nano / Mega
• ESP8266 / ESP32
• STM32, AVR, PIC microcontrollers
• Raspberry Pi (SPI interface)
Key Advantages
• Enables CAN communication on non-CAN MCUs
• Robust communication for noisy environments
• Simple SPI-based integration
• Widely supported libraries and examples
Technical Insights
• Requires 120 Ω termination resistor at CAN bus ends
• SPI speed must be configured correctly
• Crystal frequency must match software configuration
• CANH and CANL polarity must be maintained
Applications
• Automotive diagnostics (OBD, ECU communication)
• Industrial automation networks
• Robotics and distributed control systems
• Home automation using CAN bus
• Embedded networking projects
Pro Tip
• Ensure correct termination for long CAN buses
• Match baud rate across all CAN nodes
• Keep CAN wiring twisted for noise reduction
• Verify crystal frequency in library settings
Package Includes
• 1 × MCP2515 CAN Bus Module