General
Degree of protection	F/UTP
Rated shaft resistance	120 Ohm
Conductor cross section	2x2x0,5 mm²
Outer sheath	PVC
Colour	Violet
Diameter	9,6 mm
Certification	cUL listed
Application	CAN, CAN FD
Installation method	Fixed installation
Mechanical stress	medium
Environmental conditions	dry and wet
Chemical resistance	Acids, alkalis, conditionally oil-resistant

The UNITRONIC® BUS CAN 2X2X0.5 cable from Lapp is a data cable specifically developed for fieldbus communication in CAN- and CAN FD-based networks. It is suitable for fixed installation as well as occasional movements without tensile stress and is designed for moderate mechanical stress. The cable features a PVC outer sheath in violet colour, which is resistant to acids and alkalis and conditionally oil-resistant. The construction allows use in dry and damp environments.

Applications

The cable is intended for industrial applications, particularly in automation systems where reliable data transmission via CAN bus is required. It is commonly used in machine building, manufacturing plants, and other industrial environments where stable communication between controls, sensors, and actuators is necessary. The UL certification according to technical specifications enables use of the product in the North American market.

Functions and Features in Detail

The cable features an F/UTP construction, meaning a copper braided shield with high coverage, providing excellent protection against electromagnetic interference. This ensures secure and interference-free data transmission, even with increasing transmission length. The construction consists of two pairs, each with a conductor cross-section of 0.5 mm², providing sufficient electrical conductivity for most CAN applications. The nominal characteristic impedance is 120 Ohm, ensuring optimal impedance matching and minimal reflections.

Technology Explained Simply

The designation F/UTP describes a shielding where the entire cable is surrounded by a copper braid (F = Foil, interpreted here as braid), while the individual pairs are additionally constructed as UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair). This design ensures high interference resistance and minimizes influence from external electromagnetic fields. The violet colour of the PVC sheath serves visual identification and is typical for CAN bus cables. The cable is designed for fixed installation, meaning it is not intended for frequent movements or bending, but for installations where it remains stationary after mounting.

Compatibility and Accessories

The cable is suitable for use in CAN- and CAN FD-based networks, which are widely used in industrial automation. It can be connected with standard CAN connectors and terminals required for the respective application. The cUL listing confirms compliance with safety standards of the North American market, enabling use in these regions. The cable is not specifically designed for particular accessories, but can be combined with generally available connection components for CAN bus systems.

Installation and Mounting

Installation is carried out by fixed routing, with the cable not subjected to tensile stress. It is suitable for occasional movements, provided no tensile load occurs. Installation is performed in dry and damp environments, with the PVC sheath ensuring mechanical and chemical resistance. The cable is not designed for outdoor use or in explosion-hazard areas, unless additional protective measures are implemented.

Operational Advantages

The high interference resistance provided by the copper braided shield ensures reliable data transmission, even in electromagnetically noisy environments. The UL certification expands the application range into the North American market. The construction with two pairs enables flexible use in various topologies, particularly in longer transmission distances where stable impedance matching is important. The violet colour facilitates identification in cable harnesses and reduces installation errors.