Communications Network: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Ford Pickup, 2012 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2012 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2012 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Multiplexing is a method of sending 2 or more signals simultaneously over a single circuit. Multiplexing is used to allow 2 or more electronic modules (nodes) to communicate simultaneously over a twisted-wire pair [data (+) and data (-)] network. The information or messages that can be communicated on these wires consists of commands, status or data. The advantage of using multiplexing is to reduce the weight of the vehicle by reducing the number of redundant components and electrical wiring.

The vehicle has 2 module communication networks which are connected to the Data Link Connector (DLC), located under the instrument panel:

High Speed Controller Area Network (HS-CAN)
Medium Speed Controller Area Network (MS-CAN)