The Evolution of In Vehicle Networks: From CAN to Automotive Ethernet
As vehicles become increasingly complex and connected, the evolution of in vehicle networks has become a critical factor in enabling advanced automotive technologies. From the early days of the Controller Area Network (CAN) to the emergence of Automotive Ethernet, the journey of in vehicle network development reflects the growing demand for higher data rates, real-time communication, and integration of sophisticated systems like Ethernet TSN and IP camera software. The Foundation: Controller Area Network (CAN) Introduced in the 1980s, the Controller Area Network (CAN) was a groundbreaking innovation that revolutionized in-vehicle communication. CAN allows different systems—such as engine management, transmission, and safety systems—to communicate without needing a central computer, enabling reliable communication among various electronic control units (ECUs) in a vehicle. This network protocol provided the reliability and efficiency required for the first generation of digital veh