Understanding CAN-Bus

What is CAN-Bus?

CAN-Bus (Controlled Area Network Bus) is a communication system that allows the various electrical components in a modern vehicle to share data.

A modern car may have as many as 70 electronic control units (ECUs). Typically the biggest processor is the engine control module while others are used for transmission, airbags, anti-lock braking/ABS, electric power steering, audio systems, windows, doors, and more.

A CAN-Bus system allows all of these different components to communicate with each other, control other parts and receive feedback from sensors. It also means a lot less cabling is required even with the growing list of electronics found in new cars. And communication between the components is faster than with a traditional system.

CAN-Bus operating systems are now common in new vehicles with many models from the mid-2000s onwards having at least some CAN-Bus control. This includes most of the major car manufacturers such as Audi, BMW, Nissan, Honda and Toyota.

However, installing traditional after-market security (or other electronic devices) into a CAN-Bus equipped car can be time consuming and difficult.

AVS CAN-Bus solutions

AVS offers two solutions for CAN-Bus equipped cars:

AVS C-Series digital CAN-Bus car alarms

Choose from our AVS C-Series range of digital CAN-Bus alarms which offer seamless integration into your car’s factory system. Controlled by the car’s factory remote they offer great security features with the benefits of CAN-Bus integration.

Standards Certified AVS car alarms with the CAN-Bus translator

Choose from the A-Series and S-Series Standards Certified alarm ranges which can be safely installed with the AVS CAN-Bus translator. This means you can enjoy the features of your favourite Star Rated AVS car alarm (while meeting any insurance company requirements) and control the alarm with the factory remote.

Both these options make it easy and safe to install an AVS car alarm into a CAN-Bus vehicle as the CAN-Bus system provides much of the information required for the alarm (e.g., knowing if a door is opened).

Programming for the vehicle’s make and model is done by the installer during installation. These systems do not interfere with the car’s operating system and provide hassle free operation with the benefits of increased security features.