CAN Wiring - A Practical Reference Guide
Drawing 1: Simple Linear Backbone This is the most common and ideal layout. It's simple, efficient, and easy to troubleshoot. Description: • A single, straight backbone connects all devices. • A 120-Ohm terminator is placed at each end. • Power is inserted near the middle of the backbone to ensure even voltage distribution. • The drop cables are short and connect each device to the main line.
Safiery STAR Switch
Safiery STAR Controllers
Safiery STAR Switch
12V DC Power 5A Max
END TERMINATOR
END TERMINATOR
120Ω
120Ω
PWR
FEMALE
MALE
NMEA 2000 BACKBONE
Drawing 2: "L-Shaped" Backbone with Varied Drop Lengths This layout is more realistic for installations where the backbone needs to navigate around corners, like from a helm console down into an engine room or bilge area. Description: • The backbone cable itself can bend and be routed as needed. The key is that it remains a single, continuous electrical path. • The terminators are still at the physical ends of the entire backbone, regardless of its shape. • This example clearly shows different drop cable lengths, all of which are acceptable as long as none exceed the 6-meter limit.
MALE END TERMINATOR
120Ω
Safiery STAR Controller
Medium Drop
Safiery Scotty Device
Safiery STAR Switch
Short Drop
120Ω FEMALE END TERMINATOR
12V DC Power 5A Max
PWR
•
The backbone is extended to reach devices that are far apart.
• With a longer backbone and more devices, placing the power insertion point near the electrical center is even more important to prevent voltage drop at the far ends of the network. • Even with more devices, the core rule of two terminators at the ends remains absolute.
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