The National Instruments NI-9862 is a one port high speed CAN module for CompactDAQ and CompactRIO systems. It provides Controller Area Network communication for test, monitoring, and control applications. The module is a C Series interface that allows a modular measurement system to exchange data with CAN devices and networks.
CAN networks are common in automotive, industrial, and embedded systems. The NI-9862 allows engineers to read CAN frames, transmit messages, and integrate bus data with analog and digital measurements. This supports systems that need to correlate network behavior with physical signals.
High Speed CAN Interface
The NI-9862 provides one CAN port for high speed communication. Engineers can configure bit rate and message handling according to the network. The port should be connected with proper CAN cabling and termination. Bus length, stub length, and node count should follow the network design rules.
Proper termination helps prevent reflections and communication errors. Engineers should verify that the module is connected to the bus with correct polarity and grounding. Isolation and voltage requirements should be checked for the application. Documentation of bit rate and identifiers helps maintain reliable operation.
Modular System Integration
The NI-9862 is a C Series module and operates in compatible CompactDAQ and CompactRIO systems. In CompactDAQ, it adds CAN communication to a USB or Ethernet based measurement system. In CompactRIO, it supports embedded control applications that require local CAN communication.
The module can be combined with analog input, analog output, digital I O, and sensor modules. This integration supports test systems that combine bus data with physical measurements. For example, a system can log CAN messages while acquiring temperature, voltage, and vibration data.
Software Configuration
The NI-9862 is configured through NI software and compatible programming environments. Engineers can define CAN channels, set frame identifiers, and read or write data. Software can apply scaling, filtering, and logging. The module can be integrated into test sequences and control logic.
Software should include error handling, timeout detection, and safe state behavior. Engineers should document message identifiers, data formats, and scaling. For high bus loads, buffering and data reduction should be planned. Timestamps help correlate CAN data with other measurements.
Applications
The NI-9862 is suited to automotive component test, vehicle network monitoring, machine control, industrial communication testing, and embedded system validation. In automotive test, it can monitor CAN traffic while acquiring sensor data. In machine control, it can exchange commands and status with CAN devices.
The module is also useful for research and development. Engineers can prototype CAN communication, validate network behavior, and integrate bus data with test reports. The C Series platform supports reuse across different chassis and controller configurations.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation requires inserting the module into a compatible C Series slot and connecting CAN wiring according to the product documentation. Termination and bit rate should be verified. The chassis should provide adequate cooling and protection. Cable routing should avoid noise sources and mechanical strain.
Maintenance includes checking connectors, verifying bus termination, and reviewing software configuration. For critical systems, periodic bus monitoring and error counter review are recommended. Documentation of network settings and message maps helps troubleshooting.
Summary
The National Instruments NI-9862 CAN Module provides one high speed CAN port for CompactDAQ and CompactRIO systems. It supports bus communication, monitoring, and control in automotive, machine, and industrial applications. The NI-9862 is a practical interface for engineers who need to integrate CAN data with modular measurement systems.
