CAN-bus controlled truck vs. non CAN-bus

CAN-bus vs non-CAN-bus port equipment

Modern port equipment can be divided into two main control philosophies: CAN-bus controlled and non CAN-bus controlled equipment. This difference has a major impact on diagnostics, maintenance, uptime, and total cost of ownership. And, where we at Heavy Cargo Lifters deal with on a daily business, also has a consequence for the regions where a truck can easily be sold. It impacts the residual value! CAN-bus controlled equipment CAN-bus controlled machines use digital communication between electronic control units. engine, transmission, hydraulics, braking and safety systems exchange data continuously. faults are logged automatically and can be accessed using diagnostic software. To go into more details: there’s a second circuit going across all ‘users’ and components in the machine to measure whether the components are not causing any issues. This can be simple valves in the hydraulic system but can also be the driver’s seat switch. non-CAN-bus controlled equipment non-CAN-bus equipment relies on mechanical systems, hydraulic logic, and analogue wiring. troubleshooting is done manually, often based on experience and visual inspection. To say it more simple: the truck will have a malfunction and there’s no ‘intelligence on board’ that will point the user or mechanic into the specific direction where the issue might be caused in the truck. Advantages of CAN-bus controlled equipment

So what are the advantages of having a CAN-bus controlled truck?

1. Faster and more accurate diagnostics
2. Support for predictive maintenance and telematics
3. Reduced downtime through quicker fault isolation
4. Better optimisation of fuel and energy consumption

And what are the disadvantages of CAN-bus controlled equipment?

1. Higher system complexity
2. Dependency on manufacturer software and licences
3. Higher cost of electronic components
4. Greater sensitivity to moisture, vibration, and wiring issues so potentially more faults in the system.