PCAN-Explorer 7: Explore the Difference

by Grid Connect Team

PCAN-Explorer 7 is now available, bringing major updates for engineers working with CAN, CAN FD, and CAN XL networks. This release adds support for CAN XL, expands trace analysis, and introduces modern automation for teams that monitor, analyze, transmit, and test CAN traffic using PCAN hardware.

With these updates, PCAN-Explorer 7 supports higher data rates, more complex systems, and workflows that scale beyond a single user. All without changing how longtime users interact with their CAN data.

What’s new in PCAN-Explorer 7

PCAN-Explorer 7 introduces several major capabilities that redefine how users interact with CAN data.

Key updates include:

CAN XL support: enables analysis, simulation, and measurement of payloads far beyond classic CAN and CAN FD limits
Python-based scripting: replaces legacy VBA-style automation; supports automated sequences, test cases, and post-processing; compatible with Robot Framework–based testing
Improved performance: up to 64-bits for working with large trace files and higher bus loads
Fine-grained trace playback: makes it easier to review and debug recorded traffic; supports importing file formats such as MDF4 and BLF
Highlighting of data changes: highlights changes in data bytes to speed up analysis
J1939 FD support: allows higher data throughput and improved responsiveness - requires J1938 add-in
Apply Multiple Symbol Files: load multiple symbol files simultaneously and combine databases from different suppliers or subsystems - requires Bus Descriptions add-in (formerly CANdb Import)

Together, these changes make PCAN-Explorer 7 better suited for modern vehicle, industrial, and test bench environments where data volumes and complexity continue to increase.

Add-ins: modular functionality, expanded capabilities

PCAN-Explorer 7 continues to use a modular add-in approach, allowing users to license only the functionality they need.

Add-In Overview:

Bus Descriptions Add-In (formerly CANdb): Supports CANdb (.dbc) and AUTOSAR XML (.arxml) files, multiple symbol files per connection, and import/export workflows.
J1939 Add-In : Provides support for classic J1939 and J1939 FD, including diagnostics and parameter handling.
Plotter Add-In: Graphical visualization of CAN signal values over time; improved performance with large recordings and trace files, smoother interaction during live capture, and better handling of higher data rates.
Instrument Panel Add-In : Enhanced dashboards with signal-dependent layouts, SVG graphics, and tighter automation integration.

Licensing options that scale with your team

In addition to the existing single computer and portable license types, PCAN Explorer 7 introduces a floating license option that can be activated on a server and used across teams. License types:

PCAN explorer 7 licenses include single computer, floating, and portable

Single User license - activate and run on a single computer
Floating license - install on a server and use on any computer in the network; licenses required for each concurrent user
Portable license - install the software on as many PCs as you like; requires a USB dongle to activate the software; available in both USB-A and USB-C versions. Portable licenses are available for either single user or floating license types.

For users interested in multiple add-ins, the new “Full Bundle” option includes PCAN Explorer 7 and all four add-ins under a single license, simplifying purchasing and ensuring access to the full feature set. Available for all license types.

Maintenance options and long-term support

Every PCAN Explorer 7 license includes 12 months of product maintenance. New for PCAN Explorer 7 is the option to purchase extended maintenance to keep your software current as CAN technologies evolve.

Active maintenance provides: