9.3.4.3 Interoperability of 3.3-V CAN in 5-V CAN Systems

The 3.3-V supplied CAN transceivers are electrically interchangeable with 5-V CAN transceivers. The differential output is the same. The recessive common mode output is the same. The dominant common mode output voltage is a couple hundred millivolts lower than 5-V supplied drivers, while the receivers exhibit identical specifications as 5-V devices.

To help ensure the widest interoperability possible, the SN55HVD233-SEP successfully passed the internationally recognized GIFT ICT conformance and interoperability testing for CAN transceivers. Electrical interoperability does not always assure interchangeability, however. Most implementers of CAN buses recognize that ISO 11898 does not sufficiently specify the electrical layer and that strict standard compliance alone does not ensure full interchangeability. Interchangeability is ensured with thorough equipment testing.