Controller area networks were first developed for use in automobiles. Equipped with an array of sensors, the network is able to monitor the systems that the automobile depends on to run properly and safely. Beyond automobiles, controller area networks can be used as an embedded communication system for microcontrollers as well as an open communication system for intelligent devices.

The controller area network, first developed by Robert Bosch in 1986, is documented in ISO 11898 (for applications up to 1 Mbps) and ISO 11519 (for applications up to 125 Kbps).

15 Years of CAN
A short history of the technology from CANopen.us.

CAN Information
This description of controller area networks details how messages are broadcast and prioritized.

The CAN Protocol
A detailed explanation of the controller area network from CAN in Automation (CiA).