Isolate CAN For Better Performance

July 27, 2009

The controller-area network (CAN) often works in isolation—that is, the network bus needs to be electrically isolated from the attached nodes. This is often done using one or more opto-isolator chips and non-isolated CAN driver chips. Texas Instruments’ ISO1050 uses galvanic isolation of up to 4000 V with a life expectancy above 25 years. It is designed for rugged environments such as automotive applications. The approach also reduces loop tine by 34%, allowing longer buses or better performance. It reduces power consumption by 38% compared to the multichip opto-isolator appraoch as well. Pricing starts at $1.55. The chips are available in eight-pin DUB or 16-pin small-outline IC (SOIC) packages.

Texas Instruments

www.ti.com

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William G. Wong | Senior Content Director - Electronic Design and Microwaves & RF

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