CAN-L4-RC Input Adapter, AP Periph

1.1. Product Description

The Matek CAN-L4-RC Input Adapter is a compact CAN bus peripheral node running the AP_Periph firmware. It converts a traditional serial/PWM/PPM RC receiver input into a CAN/DroneCAN message stream — enabling integration of legacy RC receivers into modern autopilot systems with CAN bus architecture. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

1.2. Product Features

• Based on MCU STM32L431xC with 256 kB flash. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• One CAN interface (DroneCAN protocol). :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• One UART interface (UART3: Tx3 / Rx3) for connection to the serial RC receiver. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Small board footprint: approx. 23 × 12.5 mm, weight ~2.5 g. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Input voltage range: 4.5 V to 5.5 V Pad/Pin (nominal 5V). :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Low current consumption: ~10 mA typical. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• Operating temperature: –40 °C to +85 °C. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Firmware updates via DroneCAN GUI Tool. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

1.3. Applications

• FPV drones / UAVs: Integrate traditional Rx without separate wiring into CAN bus autopilot setups.
• Autopilot upgrade: Convert existing PWM/PPM/UART receivers into CAN bus node for systems such as ArduPilot or PX4.
• Robotics and unmanned vehicles: Simplifies cleaner wiring by using CAN instead of many individual wires for receiver signals.

5.1. Integration Notes

• Connect the receiver (PWM/PPM/SBUS) to UART3 Tx3/Rx3 pins of the adapter.
• Connect CAN lines (C-H / C-L) to the autopilot’s CAN network bus.
• Ensure proper CAN termination (120 Ω) at the ends of the bus if used as the last node.
• Update firmware using DroneCAN GUI Tool to ensure compatibility with autopilot stack (ArduPilot / PX4).
• Mount the board away from strong EMI sources and keep power supply stable (5 V regulated).

5.2. Typical Applications

• Converting legacy RC receivers to CAN interface in UAV/FPV builds.
• Use in commercial drone autopilots requiring minimal wiring and CAN sensor/peripheral integration.
• Robotics platforms where receiver signals are best routed via CAN bus for scalability.