A2L Files + XCP on CAN: CANedge-XCP Python Tool [News]
news / 2025-05
Our A2L file intro explains the ASAP2 format for XCP on CAN, while the open source canedge-xcp Python tool turns your A2L file into a CANedge transmit list and DBC file for XCP data logging. Plus: An updated CCP/XCP intro, J1939 DBC 2025-03 and a CANmod.router video.
XCP A2L Files - A Simple Intro
A2L (ASAP2) is a text file format defined in the ASAM MCD-2 MC standard. An A2L file describes the internal data of an ECU - and how a master tool can communicate with it for the purpose of ECU measurement and calibration, using e.g. CCP or XCP on CAN - protocols frequently used by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
In this intro we cover below key topics:
- What is an A2L file?
- A2L syntax
- How to get the A2L?
- A2L software tools
- A2L vs. DBC files
- canedge-xcp tool
In particular, we focus on A2L files in the context of XCP on CAN with outset in real-life sample files and use cases. This makes it key if you want to better understand XCP on CAN and/or you aim to use the CANedge for XCP data acquisition (more on this below).
canedge-xcp: Easily log + analyze XCP on CAN data!
Our new 100% open source 'canedge-xcp' Python tool makes it easy to deploy the CANedge for XCP on CAN data logging using dynamic DAQ lists.
The tool lets you provide your A2L file and a CSV the measurements/signals you wish to record. Using this, the tool auto-generates a CANedge transmit list and DBC file.
This lets you easily log your ECU data with the CANedge and analyze it with e.g. the asammdf GUI, Grafana dashboards, python-can, Vector tools, MATLAB and more.
The tool supports CAN FD (incl. WRITE_DAQ_MULTIPLE). It also lets you add your DAQ transmit list to an existing CANedge Configuration File (incl. validation) - and even lets you create transmit lists for multi-ECU communication.
You can test out the tool using our sample A2L + CSV via the github page.
Today, the canedge-xcp tool is actively used by OEM engineers for XCP data acquisition in prototype vehicles. Learn more below - and contact us for free technical sparring!
![CCP/XCP Explained - a Simple Intro [updated]](https://www.csselectronics.com/cdn/shop/files/newsletter-2025-05-ccp-xcp-explained-a-simple-intro-updated.jpg)
CCP/XCP Explained - a Simple Intro [updated]
We have now improved our CCP/XCP intro. In particular, this includes increased focus on XCP on CAN, 10+ new illustrations and new XCP on CAN dynamic DAQ examples.
The prior revision was focused on CCP, but based on user feedback we have now added a lot more examples and details for XCP on CAN. If you are looking to use the CANedge for XCP data logging, we recommend checking out the new intro below.
J1939 DBC 2025-03 released!
We have now released the J1939 DBC 2025-03 revision. The new DBC adds 10+ new PGNs vs. the previous 2024-12 release, including 30+ new SPNs related to EV charging, ELD data, engine fuel and more. Get your copy today:
Awesome video by Couch Built
Jon Volk uses our CANmod.router as part of his project to stream 4 x CAN via USB - and analyze the data via SavvyCAN. Definitely check this video out - Jon is truly a CAN bus expert! In particular, check out Jon's review of different CAN hardware around 5:40 in the video.
This update was sent as part of our newsletter on 6 May 2025. You can also download it as a PDF.
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