Body Controller Area Network (B-CAN) and Fast Controller Area Network (F-CAN)
The fast controller area network (F-CAN) and the body controller area network (B-CAN) share information between multiple electronic control units (ECUs). B-CAN communication moves at a slower speed for convenience related items and for other functions. F-CAN information moves at a faster speed for "real time" functions such as fuel and emissions data. To allow both systems to share information, the gauge control module translates information from the B-CAN to the F-CAN and from the F-CAN to the B-CAN.
The ECUs on the B-CAN and the F-CAN transmit and receive information in the form of structured messages that may be received by several different ECUs on the network at one time. These messages are transmitted and received across a communication circuit that consists of a single wire that is shared by all the ECUs on the circuit. Since messages on the F-CAN are typically of higher importance, a second wire is used for communication circuit integrity monitoring. A backup circuit is also added to the headlight and wiper circuits on the B-CAN in the event of a network wire or ECU failure that would effect the operation of the system.
Messages are transmitted by an ECU (that monitors an input) over the communication circuit. ECUs that use the message (information related to that input) are the receivers. For example, the combination switch control unit monitors the wiper switch. When the wiper switch is placed in the low speed position, the combination switch control unit transmits that message on the communication circuit. The relay control module receives the message and turns on the wipers by providing a ground for the relay.