SN65HVD230 CAN Bus Transceiver Module - 3.3V Logic for ESP32 & STM32

Specifications

• Operating Voltage: 3.3V DC (Full compatibility with 3.3V logic).

• Chipset: SN65HVD230.

• Data Rate: Supports up to 1 Mbps.

• Node Capacity: Connect up to 120 nodes on a single bus.

• Protection: High ESD protection for the bus pins; thermal shutdown protection.

• Standby Mode: Features an ultra-low current standby mode for battery-powered IoT devices.

• Common Mode Range: -2V to 7V (Ideal for high-noise industrial environments).

• Interface: Standard 2.54mm pitch pins.

Key Applications & Projects

• Automotive Telematics: Interface directly with a car's OBD-II port using an ESP32 for real-time tracking.

• Industrial IoT: Build multi-node sensor networks in factories where long-distance (up to 1km) communication is required.

• Robotics: Use the CAN protocol for high-reliability communication between motor controllers and main processors.

• Drones & UAVs: Implementing the DroneCAN protocol for peripheral communication.

Project Evolution

• Past Projects (Prerequisites): If you’ve built basic I2C or UART sensor networks and found they fail due to cable length or electrical noise, you’re ready for CAN.

• Feature Upgrade: This module unlocks Differential Signalling. Unlike single-ended protocols, the SN65HVD230 uses two wires to cancel out noise, allowing your project to survive in high-interference environments like engine bays or factory floors.

• Effort/Requirements: Intermediate. You will need a CAN controller (most modern MCUs like ESP32 have one built in) and basic knowledge of the CAN protocol stack.

Virtual Technician & Wiring

⚠️ Critical Wiring Note: Ensure you have a 120-ohm termination resistor at both ends of your CAN bus. Many of these modules include a built-in resistor; if you have more than two nodes, you may need to desolder the resistors on the "middle" nodes.

Helpful Tutorials & Resources

• Texas Instruments SN65HVD230 Datasheet

• GitHub: ESP32 CAN-BUS (TWAI) Example Code

Package Includes: 1 x SN65HVD230 CAN Bus Transceiver Module

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is this module 5V tolerant? No, the VCC and logic pins must be 3.3V. However, the CANH/CANL pins can handle common automotive bus voltages.
• Does the ESP32 need an external CAN controller with this? No, the ESP32 has a built-in CAN (TWAI) controller. You only need this transceiver module.
• Does it work with Arduino Uno? No, the Uno is 5V logic. For 5V systems, use our TJA1050 module instead.
• How many nodes can I have? You can connect up to 120 nodes on a single network.
• What is the maximum baud rate? It supports up to 1 Mbps.
• Does it include the termination resistor? Yes, most units come with a 120-ohm resistor pre-soldered.
• Is this compatible with CAN FD? No, this is for standard CAN 2.0A and 2.0B.
• Can I use this for long distances? Yes, CAN can reach up to 1km at lower baud rates (e.g., 50kbps).
• What wire should I use? Twisted-pair wire is mandatory for noise cancellation.
• What is the "RS" pin for? It controls the mode; grounded for high-speed, high-resistor for slope control, or high for standby.
• Does it work with Raspberry Pi? Yes, via the GPIO pins, but you usually need a SPI-to-CAN controller (like MCP2515) as the Pi lacks an internal CAN controller.
• Is it original TI silicon? We source high-grade, verified-performance silicon for all our SN65HVD230 modules.
• Can it handle automotive transients? Yes, it has built-in ESD protection, but for high-surge environments, additional TVS diodes are recommended.
• Is it better than the TJA1050? For 3.3V systems, yes. For 5V systems, the TJA1050 is better suited.
• What is the power consumption? Very low, especially in standby mode, making it ideal for battery applications.
• How do I troubleshoot "Bus Off" errors? Check your termination resistors and ensure CANH/CANL are not swapped.
• Can I use this for DroneCAN? Yes, it is widely used in PX4/ArduPilot ecosystems.
• Does the module get hot? No, under normal operation it remains cool to the touch.
• What is the common mode range? -2V to 7V, providing robust performance against ground offsets.
• Can it communicate with a 5V CAN network? Yes, the bus levels (CANH/CANL) are compatible; only the logic side (CTX/CRX) is 3.3V.