MIKROE I2C to CAN Click is a compact add-on board that contains I2C to CAN-physical transceiver, which extends a single-master I2C bus through harsh or noisy environments. This board features the LT3960, a robust high-speed transceiver that extends a single-master I2C bus up to 400kbps using the CAN-physical layer from Analog Devices. One LT3960 from SCL and SDA I2C lines creates equivalent differential buses (CAN) on two twisted pairs, while the second LT3960 recreates the I2C bus locally for any peripheral I2C devices on the other end of the twisted pairs. A built-in 3.3V LDO powers both the I2C and CAN lines from a single input supply from 4V to 60V. This Click board™ is suitable for industrial and automotive networking, remote sensor applications, and more.

I2C to CAN Click is supported by a mikroSDK compliant library, which includes functions that simplify software development.

I2C to CAN Click as its foundation uses the LT3960, I2C to CAN-Physical transceiver used to send and receive I2C data up to 400kbps using the CAN-Physical layer for differential signaling over twisted pair connections from Analog Devices. Using two integrated CAN transceivers, the LT3960 creates a differential proxy for each single-ended I2C clock and data signal capable of crossing harsh or noisy environments across two twisted pairs. Each transceiver consists of a transmitter and receiver, capable of quickly converting I2C dominant signal into a differential dominant signal and vice versa. Also, it extends functionality in environments with high common-mode voltages due to electrical noise or local ground potential differences.

I2C to CAN Click communicates with MCU using the standard I2C 2-Wire interface to read data and configure settings, supporting Fast Mode operation with a clock frequency up to 400kHz. The LT3960 provides a mode selection feature selectable via jumper labeled as MODE, where the user can choose between Master or peripheral mode of operation. The SHD pin routed to the CS pin of the mikroBUS™ socket is used to put the LT3960 in a low-power Shutdown mode, disabling both the LDO and transceivers and allows selection between Master and peripheral modes when enabled.

The selection between Master and peripheral mode is performed by positioning the SMD jumper labeled as MODE to an appropriate position marked as SLV and MST. When a jumper is on the MST position, Master mode is selected, and the EN/MODE pin of the LT3960 is tied to a high logic state, while floating this pin, more precisely positioning the SMD jumper to an SLV position, allows the user to select peripheral mode of operation.

This Click board™ can operate with both 3.3V and 5V logic voltage levels selected via the VCC SEL jumper. It allows for both 3.3V and 5V capable MCUs to use the I2C communication lines properly. Additionally, there is a possibility for the LT3960 power supply selection via jumper labeled as VIN SEL to supply the LT3960 from an external power supply terminal in the range from 4 to 60V or with VCC voltage levels from mikroBUS™ power rails. However, the Click board™ comes equipped with a library containing easy-to-use functions and an example code that can be used, as a reference, for further development.

• Interface: I²C
• Compatibility: mikroBUS™
• Dimensions: 42.9 x 25.4mm
• Input Voltage: 3.3V or 5V, External
• Supply Voltage VCC: Min. 3.3V, Max. 5V
• Supply Voltage VIN: Min. 4V, Max. 60V
• Data Rate: 400kbps
• Operating Temperature Range: Min. -40°C, Typ. +25°C, Max. +125°C

• Schematic
• mikroSDK
• GitHub