CANopen and SAE J1939 are two communication protocols built on the CAN (Controller Area Network) standard. While both are used for ECU-to-ECU communication, they support different industries, use distinct data formats, and are often integrated into electronic components like pressure transducers and switches.
1. Application Areas
CANopen is widely used in:
- Industrial automation
- Building automation
- Integrated systems with sensors and pressure transducers
- Robotics and manufacturing systems
SAE J1939 is primarily used in:
- Automotive and commercial vehicles
- Heavy-duty systems with engine diagnostics and pressure transducer monitoring
- Agricultural and construction equipment
- Marine and fleet vehicle networks
2. Standardization & Governance
-
CANopen: Maintained by CiA (CAN in Automation), a non-profit group that oversees the protocol’s development.
-
SAE J1939: Standardized by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) for the automotive sector.
3. Message Structure & Format
CANopen:
- Supports 11-bit and 29-bit CAN identifiers
- Uses PDOs (Process Data Objects) and SDOs (Service Data Objects)
- Enables structured communication with intelligent devices like digital pressure transducers
SAE J1939:
- Uses a fixed 29-bit message format
- Defines Parameter Group Numbers (PGNs) for grouped data
- Frequently used in systems that require transmission of engine and pressure sensor data
4. Addressing and Identification
CANopen:
- Each device, such as a pressure transducer, has a unique Node ID
- Supports direct device addressing
SAE J1939:
- Devices are identified by source address
- Often used in multi-node systems including ECUs and sensor devices like pressure or temperature transducers
5. Protocol Usage and Flexibility
CANopen:
- Ideal for scalable systems where devices like pressure transducers, actuators, and controllers must communicate in real time
- Often used with PLCs, sensors, and I/O modules
SAE J1939:
- Preferred in large vehicle or fleet systems where transducers monitor engine pressure, oil pressure, and other critical data points
- Enables real-time data sharing across subsystems like engine, transmission, brakes
???? Which One Should You Use?
| Feature | CANopen | SAE J1939 |
|---|---|---|
| Industry | Automation, medical, building systems | Automotive, heavy-duty, off-road vehicles |
| Message Format | 11/29-bit, object dictionary-based | 29-bit PGNs |
| Addressing | Node ID | Source Address |
| Example Devices | Sensors, pressure transducers, PLCs | ECUs, vehicle pressure transducers |
| Governing Body | CiA | SAE |
???? FAQ
Can a pressure transducer use CANopen or SAE J1939?
Yes. Many digital pressure transducers support either CANopen or SAE J1939, depending on the target application — industrial systems or vehicles.
Which protocol is better for pressure transducer integration?
Use CANopen for flexible industrial networks with multiple sensors. Choose SAE J1939 for commercial vehicle environments with strict diagnostic requirements.
???? Need Help Choosing the Right Pressure Transducer?
Our engineers at SUCO ESI North America can help you find the ideal pressure transducer with CANopen or SAE J1939 protocol support.
???? Contact us for technical support or a product recommendation: sales@sucoesi.com
???? Call: 561-989-8499 (ET 8:00 am – 4:30pm)