CAN-bus stands for Controller Area Network, in fact a form of multiplexing where the “bus” consists of a unique cable to which a bunch of calculators are connected. The main purpose of this new grid-type is to drastically reduce the number of electrical cables, while adding functions otherwise non viable in the context of a traditional, “point per point” pattern.
Since 2004, ie when BMW’s 1200cc Boxer engine was launched, the CAN-bus system was progressively extended to the whole
BMW motorcycle range. We have no intention to assess this technical option, but at the same time we must point out some unwanted niggle here, namely the impossibility to run a prolonged maintenance charge during periods when the motorcycle is not in use. This aspect is undoubtly crucial to a good functioning of the various bike’s periphericals during the off season, not to mention the battery’s longevity & usability. In fact, once the battery has been recharged and the charging current has therefore dropped to a maintenance level, the charger then becomes “invisible”, leading the CAN-bus to “closing the gate”, making an intervention from the user necessary.
OptiMate – of whichever generation – brings a solution to this problem, by simply using the permanent eyelet set, delivered as standard with all our chargers – actually a direct connection which bypasses the CAN-bus system. The new « DUAL PROGRAM » version allows, in CAN-bus mode, a connection through a BMW 12V socket, and relieves the user from having to dismantle anything at all. Neither is it necessary to turn the ignition key, as is the case with any competitor charger, including BMW’s own model.
For further informations please visit
www.tecmate-int.com