GPS2CAN module

[Manu]

Hello,
Fenixecu is proud to present it new GPS over CAN Module, named GPS2CAN. We worked hard on it last year to bring to you the more powerful and configurable module possible.



You can buy this module here : https://www.megasquirt.fr/fenixecucom/2 ... s2can.html

Characteristics of the FenixECU GPS2CAN module :

• 100% compatible with MS3 ECUs
• size: 66 x 50 x 21 mm without wires
• weight: 60g
• wires: 20 centimetres approx. Automotive grade wires (FLRY)
• Case material: ABS
• Protection : IP40
• room temperature : from -20°C to +85°C
• power supply : from 4,5Vcc to 24Vcc
• CANbus speed : 125kbps, 250kbps, 500kbps, 1Mbps
• CAN termination resistor settable per software (112 Ohm)
• Frame period : from 10ms to 2,5s
• Configuration via USB bus with a free PC software (Windows Only)
• sold without connector on wires

GPS Characteristics (uBlox GPS module) :

• Cold start : 30s approx.
• Hot Start : 1s until the current ephemeris is still valid. In case it's not, will perform a cold start instead
• Refresh rate : 16Hz (16 times per second)
• Horizontal accuracy : 2,5m
  
  You can download the software, drivers, dbc files and manual here :
  https://forum.megasquirt.fr/fichiers/gp ... AN_V21.zip

This module can be configured with the PC software :



With it, you can enable/disable native CAN frames, MS3 compatibles frames (RaceTechnology emulation) ECUmaster frames (for use with their ADU dashboard and enable all chronometer features). You can also change the current time zone, enable automatic "day light saving" time, set the LED brigthness (or disable it), etc.

To use it with your MS3 ECU, you have to :

1. enable "Megasquirt 3 CAN (RT)" frame (at least GPS position/Speed/Altitude Messages). That's all you have to do at the GPS2CAN module side
2. With TunerStudio MS software, in "CAN-bus/Testmodes => CAN Parameters" window, you have to set "Master Enable" to "On"
3. in "CAN-bus/Testmodes => CAN EGO, GPS" window, you have to set "GPS Data Via CAN" to "Race Technology 11bit"
4. In "Advanced Engine => Speed and Gear Sensor" window, you have to set :
   1. VSS1 Input Type : Digital
   2. Digital Input : Use GPS Speed

A copy of this article is available in French on the Megasquirt French Forum here :
https://forum.megasquirt.fr/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=1030

Thank you for reading this article,
Manu

[paw]

Amazing work Manu, thank you !

- Do you have to purchase a USB-CAN adapter to use the GPS2CAN.exe configuration tool, or does the tool communicate via MS3 connected to the module?

Best regards,
Pasi

[Manu]

Hi,

There is an USB connector inside the case, you just have to unscrew 2 screw and use a normal USB cable.

We decided to NOT allow configuration over CAN because in a previous module we had a problem with that : on an OEM vehicle, the car maker used the same ID than one of our configuration frames (or we use the same ID than one of the OEM manufacturer, depending from where you're looking at ;-). At these time, we had problem and we had to implement a specific pattern in the configuration frame to "sort" a config frame from another one. But nobody certified us that OUR pattern can't be seen one day in a normal frame.
We also had think about using a button to put the module in config mode at boot-up, and then listen to configuration frames, only in this mode.

But we finally go with a simple and cheap USB cable (and a screw driver) ;-)

Regards,
Manu

[MWPau]

This looks interesting.

Manu...

If used with a MS3, and "GPS Data Via CAN" is set to "Race Technology 11bit", and "SD Card Datalogging" -> "Interleave GPS Data" is enabled, will the GPS coords be visible in MLV?

[Manu]

Hello,

I never tried. I think a dev can/should answer. At the moment, due to chips shortage, I redo the module with another microprocessor. Si I haven't a module left to try

Maybe this week-end I can get a hand on one at a customer location. If I do, I'll test and report.

Best regards,
Manu

[MWPau]

I await your reply then. Thanks.