How to Use MKS CANable V2: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MKS CANable V2 is a USB-to-CAN interface module designed by MakerBase. It enables seamless communication between a computer and devices on a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus. This compact and versatile device is widely used in applications such as robotics, automotive diagnostics, industrial automation, and IoT systems. Its compatibility with open-source tools and support for multiple CAN protocols make it a popular choice for developers and engineers working with CAN networks.

• Automotive diagnostics and ECU programming
• Robotics communication and control
• Industrial automation and monitoring
• IoT systems requiring CAN bus integration
• Debugging and testing CAN networks

The following table outlines the key technical details of the MKS CANable V2:

The MKS CANable V2 features a simple pinout for connecting to the CAN bus. The table below describes the pin configuration:

1. Connect the CANable V2 to a Computer:

   • Use a Micro-USB cable to connect the MKS CANable V2 to your computer. Ensure the necessary drivers are installed (e.g., STM32 Virtual COM Port drivers).

2. Connect to the CAN Bus:

   • Connect the CAN_H and CAN_L pins of the CANable V2 to the corresponding lines on your CAN bus.
   • Optionally, connect the GND pin to the ground of the CAN bus for proper signal referencing.

3. Install and Configure Software:

   • Use open-source tools like candleLight, SocketCAN (Linux), or CANutils to interface with the device.
   • Configure the CAN baud rate and other parameters as required by your application.

4. Send and Receive CAN Messages:

   • Use the software to send and receive CAN messages. For example, in Linux, you can use the candump and cansend commands with SocketCAN.

• Termination Resistor: Ensure that the CAN bus is properly terminated with 120-ohm resistors at both ends of the bus. The MKS CANable V2 does not include an onboard termination resistor.
• Power Supply: The device is powered via USB. If your CAN bus requires additional power, use the 5V pin to supply power (if supported by your setup).
• Firmware Updates: The MKS CANable V2 supports firmware updates. Use tools like DFU-util to flash new firmware if needed.
• Isolation: The device does not provide galvanic isolation. For high-voltage or industrial applications, consider using an external isolator.

The MKS CANable V2 can be used alongside an Arduino UNO to monitor or control a CAN bus. Below is an example of how to send a CAN message using the Arduino IDE and the CANable V2:

// Example: Sending a CAN message using MKS CANable V2 and Arduino UNO
// Ensure the CANable V2 is connected to the CAN bus and the computer

#include <SPI.h>
#include <mcp2515.h> // Include MCP2515 library for CAN communication

MCP2515 mcp2515(10); // Set CS pin to 10 for MCP2515

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200); // Initialize serial communication
  if (mcp2515.begin(MCP_ANY, CAN_500KBPS, MCP_8MHZ) == CAN_OK) {
    Serial.println("MCP2515 Initialized Successfully!");
  } else {
    Serial.println("Error Initializing MCP2515!");
    while (1);
  }
  mcp2515.setMode(MCP_NORMAL); // Set MCP2515 to normal mode
}

void loop() {
  struct can_frame canMsg;
  canMsg.can_id = 0x123; // Set CAN ID
  canMsg.can_dlc = 2;    // Set data length
  canMsg.data[0] = 0xAB; // First byte of data
  canMsg.data[1] = 0xCD; // Second byte of data

  if (mcp2515.sendMessage(&canMsg) == CAN_OK) {
    Serial.println("Message Sent Successfully!");
  } else {
    Serial.println("Error Sending Message!");
  }
  delay(1000); // Wait 1 second before sending the next message
}

1. Device Not Recognized by Computer:

   • Ensure the correct drivers are installed (e.g., STM32 Virtual COM Port drivers).
   • Try a different USB cable or port.

2. No Communication on CAN Bus:

   • Verify the CAN bus is properly terminated with 120-ohm resistors.
   • Check the baud rate configuration on both the CANable V2 and the CAN bus.

3. Firmware Issues:

   • If the device is unresponsive, reflash the firmware using DFU mode and tools like DFU-util.

4. Data Corruption or Errors:

   • Ensure proper grounding between the CANable V2 and the CAN bus.
   • Check for electrical noise or interference on the CAN lines.

• Q: Can I use the MKS CANable V2 with Windows, Linux, and macOS?
  A: Yes, the device is compatible with all major operating systems. Use appropriate tools like SocketCAN (Linux) or candleLight (Windows/macOS).

• Q: Does the MKS CANable V2 support CAN FD?
  A: No, the MKS CANable V2 supports only CAN 2.0A and CAN 2.0B protocols.

• Q: How do I update the firmware?
  A: Put the device into DFU mode by shorting the BOOT pins and use DFU-util to flash the firmware.

• Q: Is the device isolated?
  A: No, the MKS CANable V2 does not provide galvanic isolation. Use an external isolator if required.