TJA1050 CAN Bus Transceiver Module - High Speed Interface

Specifications

• Chipset: NXP TJA1050 (High-speed CAN Transceiver)
• Supply Voltage (VCC): 4.75V – 5.25V DC
• Logic Voltage Level: Compatible with 5V logic (Use level shifter for 3.3V MCUs)
• Data Rate: Up to 1 Mbaud (High-Speed)
• Standard Compliance: ISO 11898 standard fully compatible
• Node Capacity: Supports at least 110 nodes on a single bus
• Protection: Thermal shutdown protection and fail-safe features
• Electromagnetic Emission: Optimized for low EME (Electromagnetic Emission)
• Dimensions: 30mm x 11mm

Applications

• Automotive Diagnostics (OBD-II): Read live RPM, engine temp, and fault codes from your car.
• Industrial Automation: Create a noise-resistant network of sensors using the CAN protocol.
• Robotics Communication: Connect multiple robot joints or actuators over a single pair of twisted wires (CAN High/Low) to reduce cable clutter.
• Elevator Control Systems: Reliable long-distance communication

Wiring Guide

WARNING: The TJA1050 operates at 5V. While many 3.3V microcontrollers (like ESP32) have 5V tolerant pins, it is Probots Logic-Safe best practice to use a Logic Level Converter if you are unsure, to protect your MCU's RX pin.

TJA1050 Pin Connection 

• VCC: 5V Source (Required)
• GND: System Ground (Common Ground)
• TXD: MCU CAN_TX Pin
• RXD: MCU CAN_RX Pin
• CANHCAN: High Line (Twisted Pair)
• CANLCAN: Low Line (Twisted Pair)

Package Includes: 1 x TJA1050 CAN Bus Transceiver Module

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use this directly with Arduino Uno?
  No, the Uno lacks a built-in CAN Controller. You need an MCP2515 module plus this TJA1050, or a combo board.
• Does this work with ESP32?
  Yes! ESP32 has a built-in CAN controller (TWAI). You only need this TJA1050 to drive the wires.
• Is this module 3.3V compatible?
  The VCC must be 5V. The logic pins (TX/RX) output 5V levels. Use a level shifter for strict 3.3V devices.
• Does it come with a termination resistor?
  Yes, mostly equipped with a 120-ohm resistor. Check the PCB; it's required at the two ends of the bus.
• Can I use this for OBD-II car hacking?
  Yes, this is the physical interface layer used in many DIY OBD-II scanners.
• What is the difference between TJA1050 and MCP2515?
  TJA1050 is a Transceiver (Physical Layer). MCP2515 is a Controller (Logic Layer). You often need both (or a CPU with a built-in Controller).
• How many nodes can I connect?
  The TJA1050 specification allows for at least 110 nodes on a single bus.
• What cable should I use?
  A Twisted Pair cable is mandatory for CAN High and CAN Low to reject noise.
• Does it support "Fault-Tolerant" CAN?
  No, TJA1050 is for High-Speed CAN. For Fault-Tolerant (Low Speed), you need TJA1054 or similar.
• Why is my communication failing?
  Check if you have shared the Ground (GND) between all devices and if termination resistors are present at only the ends.
• Can I swap this with TJA1040?
  Generally yes, TJA1040 is a newer replacement with standby mode, but TJA1050 is the industry workhorse.
• Is it hot-pluggable?
  The standard doesn't strictly define hot-plugging, but the TJA1050 is robust. However, Probots Secure-Transit advises powering down before wiring.
• What happens if CANH and CANL are shorted?
  The chip has short-circuit protection to VCC and GND to prevent permanent damage.
• Does this module provide isolation?
  No, this is a non-isolated transceiver. For high-voltage safety, look for an isolated CAN module (e.g., with ISO1050).
• How do I disable the termination resistor?
  If the module has a jumper (J1), remove it. If not, you may need to desolder the 120Ω SMD resistor labeled "121" or "1200".
• Can I use this with Raspberry Pi?
  Not directly. The Pi has no CAN controller. You need a HAT or an MCP2515 SPI module.
• Does it support CAN FD?
  TJA1050 is designed for Classical CAN. For CAN FD, newer transceivers like MCP2562 are recommended, though TJA1050 often works at lower FD speeds.
• What is the quiescent current?
  It is relatively low, but TJA1050 does not have a dedicated low-power "Standby" pin like the TJA1040.
• Can I use 5V from my Arduino to power this?
  Yes, the 5V pin on an Arduino can comfortably power this module.