Product Showcase: SparkFun AST-CAN485 I/O Shield & WiFi Shield

The SparkFun AST-CAN485 I/O Shield allows you to use the AST-CAN485 Dev Board with 24VDC Inputs and Outputs, a popular voltage level for industrial automation devices as well as 5v devices. By providing screw terminals, the board can easily and safely interface with I/O in a semi-permanent manner which allows for inputs, outputs, or the board itself to be swapped out. With all pins pre-populated with either females pin headers or screw terminals, setup time is minimized.

The AST-CAN485 Dev Board brings CAN (Control Area Network) and RS485 to a small, Pro Mini form factor with the ability to interface to 24V input and outputs. When looking to save space, losing the communication cable is one of the best options as well. The SparkFun AST-CAN485 WiFi Shield does just that. With Screw terminal connectors for RS-485 and a U.FL connector, this board supplies solid solutions for working wirelessly in automation, an environment famous for being noisy and unforgiving to electronics.

[crazydaisytales]

We're just getting into circuits as a family as we learn, but we wanted to say we love your videos! Definitely see more of your awesome gear and insights in our future!

[AdityaMehendale]

Hi Rob,
I had the chance to use CAN and LIN back around 2005, however back then, the protocol MCUs were pretty expensive, and the information shared with hobbyists was pretty sparse. I imagine that since the Automotive-sector was the primary target of CAN, the early manufacturers didn't have much incentive to cater to patrons outside their automotive private-club, and some of the more advanced versions of CAN we locked-down against open publication (by Bosch?). Has the situation changed substantially that you'd recommend/encourage hobbyists to use CAN? Thanks!