TeeJet Legacy 6000 CAN Guide - Manual (Page 13)

Fieldware for The Legacy 6000
Software Version 2.11
Chapter 1 - System Introduction 1-3
System Introduction
CAN Bus Versatility and Value
The Legacy 6000 utilizes CAN Bus technology, a new industry standard, which Mid-Tech uses to
execute precise product control in an environment more robust than any of its predecessors.
What is a CAN Bus and why use one?
Controller Area Network (CAN) is a system comprised of independent, intelligent modules con-
nected by a single high-speed cable, known as a bus, over which all the data in the system travels.
CAN was originally developed for the automotive industry to provide a cost effective means for a
large number of electronic functions or systems to be interconnected without large, expensive and
troublesome wiring harnesses.
Within a CAN system, each module contains its own microprocessor. All modules share a stan-
dard protocol or communication sequence, which conforms to the ISO 11898 standard. Since
modules have built-in computing power, a CAN system is extremely flexible and easily expands to
meet a customer's needs.
Individual modules have a specific and unique function to execute, as well as the responsibility to
constantly report that function and its current status. Data on the CAN is available many times a
second allowing the operation of a very fast, responsive control system.
The Legacy 6000 uses 5 types of modules, each having a unique function. Each described in
more detail below. The console in the cab is one of these modules and serves as the user inter-
face. The remaining modules are positioned around the chassis close to the area they influence.
For instance, the Product Control Module (PCM) connects to the actuator and sensor and controls
the actual release of the product. To upgrade from one-product to three-product application (or
more) is simply a matter of adding additional PCM's to the system.