CAN Tool Comparison

Vector CANalyzer vs. Peak PCAN-Explorer

Dan Pas

Purpose

The purpose of this document is to compare the features and capabilities of the Vector hardware and software options to the Peak PCAN hardware and software capabilities.

Click Image for Canalyzer Product Page

Click Image for PCAN Explorer Product Page

What will this tool be used for?

The tasks that we want to use these tools for are:

  • Viewing CAN messages
  • Logging CAN messages
  • Writing CAN messages

Cost Comparison

Differences:

CANalyzer

Price
CANalyzer Fun License 1967
VN1610 Dongle 818
CANcable 2Y 37
Total 2,822.00
Price
CANalyzer PRO License 4917
VN1630A Dongle 1065
Total 5,982.00

PCAN-Explorer

Price
License and Dongle 600
Plotter Add-in 150
CANdb Import Add-in 80
J1939 Add-in 290
Instruments Panel Add-in 150
Total 1,270.00
  • CANalyzer FUN with VN1610 vs PCAN: $1552
  • CANalyzer PRO with VN1630A vs PCAN: $4712

Tracing/Logging

CANalyzer

PCAN-Explorer

Plotting

CANalyzer

PCAN-Explorer

Writing

CANalyzer

PCAN-Explorer

Summary

CANalyzer

  • Elegant and familiar user interface.
  • I know that HYG uses this rigorously for their needs.
  • Lead time is 6 weeks for more expensive VN1630 dongle, and TBD for VN1610 dongle.

PCAN-Explorer

  • Less expensive with very similar functions to CANalyzer.
  • There is a free plot viewer software for other users to view plots generated without buying a license.