Known as CANtact, the device serves as an interface between a computer’s USB port and the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus that serves as the gateway to a vehicle’s electronic systems.
Such tools already exist, but most are specific to a single automaker and cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. CANtact takes a different approach, utilizing open-source software that can support a wide range of vehicles. Enthusiasts can tinker with the programming to expand the tool’s capabilities over time.
“I realized that there were no good tools for me to play around with this stuff outside of what the auto industry uses, and those are incredibly expensive,” Evenchick told Wired. “I wanted to build a tool I can get out there, along with software to show that this stuff isn’t terribly complicated.”
Evenchick suggests the tool can be used by enthusiasts, vehicle owners and security researchers. Each group can take advantage of a deeper level of interaction with a vehicle’s electronics systems, beyond the simple trouble-code checks available from a simple OBD-II scanner.
The CANtact tool will sell for $60, requiring a USB and OBD-II cable to complete the link. Evenchick’s supplies appear to be depleted, with the aim of fulfilling additional orders by July, but the hardware design is also open-source.
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