Re: What is CAN?...
 

I modified it so that when it throws an exception (in java) instead of actually throwing it, printing the stack trace to the DS LCD box and blinking a light on the dashboard (<- that part didn't quite work, datatype mismatch)

If something can throw an exception make it a compile time catch, because if you forget to handle it somewhere in your code, you will have a bunch of angry drivers telling you to fix your code. :yikes:

Re: What is CAN?...
 

I am slightly confused now. I thought that CAN used CAT5 connectors, but I am now getting the sense that it is phone line. Can someone provide a definitive answer?

Thanks!!!!

Re: What is CAN?...
 

CAN cables are RJ-11, Serial-CAN cables are RJ-12 (RJ-14 works also for regular CAN. The standard phone wiring isn't used though - 2 CAN wires: CAN H and CAN L, make up the regular CAN cable. A Serial version includes the CAN wires, plus 3 serial lines (RX, TX, and GND)

So in a way, yes it is phone wires and connectors, but the wiring is slightly different

Re: What is CAN?...
 

So....

I've been searching....

Is there anywhere that says "This is how to setup CAN"?

I understand there are two means:
1.) Serial to can with a Black Jaguar
2.) 2CAN Adapter for CAN to Ethernet from andymark.

It seems as buying a Black Jaguar is the less expensive route. What is needed to connect the serial to the telephone connection. Is there a pinout? Is it something to buy, and if so where?

Is there a spec on the terminator. 135 ohm resistor between which wires? Can I buy them somewhere?

Thanks,

Re: What is CAN?...
 

Take a look at the Getting Started Guide for black jaguars, found on this page:
http://www.luminarymicro.com/jaguar
It's under the name "Getting Started (MDL-BDC24)"

You're interested in the section called "Network-based control".

Re: What is CAN?...
 

So I wanted to sum up what I learned:

There are two methods for First teams to use CAN (Controller Area Network)

1.) Serial + Black Jaguar Cost: ($85 + cabling accessories)
Pros:
✔ Less Expensive
✔ No Firmware upgrade required
✔ Keeps Ethernet port 2 free for Camera
Cons:
✘Serial Connection for Firmware Updates
http://www.luminarymicro.com/jaguar

2.) Ethernet and 2Can Cost: ($199 + cabling accessories)
Pros:
✔ Ethernet Connection for Firmware Updates
Cons:
✘Cost
http://www.andymark.biz/am-0545.html

Both:
✘Require a Firmware update


So from this, we decided to look into Option 1....
Black Jaguars(MDL-BDC24) can be purchased here: http://sales.digikey.com/dkes/FirstR...ompetition.asp

and Instructions on how to fabricate the needed cables can be found here: (pg 29)
http://www.luminarymicro.com/index.p...8&Itemid=59 1

Best,

Re: What is CAN?...
 

Yep, that's right.
If you have any trouble, feel free to send me an email.