With the release of PCAN-Explorer 7, PEAK offers an essential update that adds Python scripting, multiple symbol files per connection, full support for CAN XL, and flexible licensing, including floating licenses.
Existing users will appreciate the familiar usability and engineering teams building for the next generation of automotive and industrial CAN networks get the powerful functionalities they need. Darmstadt, Germany – January 28, 2026.
Many beneficial features for engineers can be found in the next major evolution of PEAK’s professional CAN communication software for CAN, CAN FD, and CAN XL network analysis, monitoring, and simulation.
PCAN-Explorer 7 marks a huge step forward, providing full CAN XL support for faster bit rates (up to 20 Mbit/s) and higher payload (2,048 Bytes).
It is now possible for users to designate several description databases per connection, such as symbol files or CANdb files, which facilitates working with numerous databases concurrently and eliminates the need for manual merging.
The integration of Python scripting offers a modern automation environment to the platform largely used in automotive testing applications.
The introduction of a new CodeMeter-based licensing system is another significant improvement. Customers have the option of floating licenses or single user licenses. Additionally, single user licenses can be made portable via USB license dongles.
Trial licenses are available for users who wish to test the software. The Explorer software is now flexible for both individuals and teams with these options.
PCAN-Explorer 7: New features, that convince
Another helpful functionality is the fine-grade trace playback, allowing users to step through trace files message by message, pause automatically on defined breakpoints, and create highly controlled test and replay scenarios.
PCAN-Explorer 7 also introduces support for J1939 FD, enabling engineers who work with heavy-duty and off-highway applications to analyze and simulate next-generation protocol variants.
Another practical enhancement is the highlighting of data changes in the receive list. This makes it easier to spot dynamic values, detect anomalies, and follow changing signals in real time.
The Product Manager for the PE7, Kristofer Koch, summarizes the goal of the new version as follows: “With PCAN-Explorer 7, we are anticipating the shift to CAN XL and empowering our users to be future-proof already today. Plus, we succeeded to deliver these advanced capabilities without changing the familiar interface and established workflows of version 6.”
“The new version is the essence of all previous editions combined with new capabilities”, adds Koch. “This means, we have integrated profound user feedback over years and added state-of-the-art technologies and functionalities to lift the Explorer to the next evolution stage.”
Users, that have relied for many years on previous versions of the most famous CAN software on the market, can still relate to its core functionalities, its user interface and all well-established add-ins – plus now benefit from strong new features of the future.
PCAN-Explorer: The standard CAN software
PCAN-Explorer has long been known as a powerful and versatile Windows software tool for working with CAN and CAN FD networks.
Its core functionality is built around simultaneous access to multiple CAN channels, which allows users to observe, analyze, and log communication in complex network environments.
A central element is the symbolic representation of messages, which transforms raw CAN data into readable and meaningful signal information using symbol files.
In everyday use, PCAN-Explorer enables both manual and periodic transmission of messages, making it ideal for testing, network trouble shooting and system development.
The New Features at a Glance
- Support for CAN XL
- Support for J1939 FD
- Multiple symbol files per connection
- Python scripting support
- Fine-grade trace playback with step control, break points, and playback areas
- Highlighting of data changes in the receive list
- Improved performance with 64-bit foundation and separate UI and communication engines
- Flexible license options: Single, Floating, Trial, Add-Ins with license dongle option
- Optional maintenance contracts for updates and support
- All proven PCAN-Explorer 6 core functions included
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