python-can

The python-can library provides Controller Area Network support for Python, providing common abstractions to different hardware devices, and a suite of utilities for sending and receiving messages on a CAN bus.

python-can runs any where Python runs; from high powered computers with commercial CAN to usb devices right down to low powered devices running linux such as a BeagleBone or RaspberryPi.

More concretely, some example uses of the library:

  • Passively logging what occurs on a CAN bus. For example monitoring a commercial vehicle using its OBD-II port.
  • Testing of hardware that interacts via CAN. Modules found in modern cars, motocycles, boats, and even wheelchairs have had components tested from Python using this library.
  • Prototyping new hardware modules or software algorithms in-the-loop. Easily interact with an existing bus.
  • Creating virtual modules to prototype CAN bus communication.

Brief example of the library in action: connecting to a CAN bus, creating and sending a message:

Contents:

Known Bugs

See the project bug tracker on github. Patches and pull requests very welcome!

Documentation generated

Mar 08, 2018