The professional programming interface PCAN-API of the PCAN-Developer package makes it possible to create complex Windows® applications with CAN CC, CAN FD, CAN FD light, and CAN XL support. The API (Application Programming Interface) provides an extensive function library using interface DLLs for x86, x64, and ARM64 systems.

Unlike PCAN-Basic, the CAN communication is handled by Clients and offers significant advantages. Thus, not only a single but multiple applications can access a physical CAN channel. Furthermore, it works even without hardware: Via virtual connections, Clients establish a simulated CAN communication among Windows® applications.

As of PCAN-Developer version 5, the PCAN-API supports the new CAN XL and CAN FD light standards. CAN XL features a significantly larger payload length of up to 2048 bytes as well as higher bit rates of up to 20 Mbit/s. CAN FD light is a simplified, cost-effective version of the CAN FD standard based on a Commander-Responder architecture.

The API can be used with different programming languages. Header files are provided for the languages C/C++, Pascal OO, and Python. For C#, VB.NET and C++/CLR an assembly is available. Example code is included for all supported languages.