National Instruments USB-8473

The National Instruments USB-8473 is a high-speed CAN interface module designed for application development in automotive and industrial automation environments. It features a host of capabilities including listen-only mode, self-reception (echo), and advanced filtering, making it adaptable to various application needs. Utilizing a Hi-Speed USB interface, the USB-8473 provides straightforward connectivity to a host computer and receives power through the USB bus, facilitating quick setup with its integrated transceiver and a captive 2-meter USB cable. This model supports both CAN 2.0A (11-bit) and extended CAN 2.0B (29-bit) arbitration IDs, ensuring compatibility across a wide range of CAN networks, including J1939, which is prevalent in automotive applications.

For precise data acquisition and synchronization among multiple devices, the USB-8473 offers optional hardware synchronization and timestamping capabilities with resolutions suitable for timebases of 1, 10, or 20 MHz. These features are designed for effective logging of messages with microsecond-accurate timestamps, enabling users to reconstruct network events reliably. The integrated frame buffering and high-speed USB connectivity prevent dropped frames, ensuring robust performance under high bus loads. The module also supports high-speed and low-speed/fault-tolerant options with an integrated physical layer that eliminates the need for additional dongles while providing electrical isolation up to 500 V. Additionally, the USB-8473 facilitates tight integration of CAN, LIN, analog, and digital measurements, allowing users to synchronize timing and trigger signals across multiple devices for deterministic performance.

This device measures 3.1 inches by 2.5 inches by 1.0 inch (7.87 cm by 6.35 cm by 2.54 cm) for non-synchronized versions and 3.1 inches by 2.8 inches by 1.0 inch (7.87 cm by 7.11 cm by 2.54 cm) for synchronized versions, operating effectively in temperatures ranging from 0° to 55 °C and storing safely between –20° to 70 °C. The USB-8473 is backed by a three-year warranty, and user manuals for both operation and maintenance are available for download. For pricing information, please contact a sales representative.