Quick Summary: The NavX3-CAN robotics navigation sensor is a completely re-engineered inertial measurement unit (IMU) for FRC and competition robotics. Designed from the ground up, it features a new gyro, accelerometer, magnetometer, and CAN-FD connectivity, providing accurate sensor data, easy calibration, and improved autonomous control. Ideal for all teams, from rookies to advanced builders.
What is an IMU and How is it Used in Robotics?
An IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) is a sensor that tells a robot how it is moving and which way it is oriented. It combines a gyroscope, accelerometer, and magnetometer.
A gyroscope measures how fast and in which direction the robot rotates. An accelerometer measures acceleration, how quickly the robot speeds up or slows down in any direction. A magnetometer acts like a compass to detect orientation.
In robotics, including FRC and other competitions, IMUs help robots drive straight, turn accurately, and navigate the field. They provide real-time data for autonomous routines and precise control, helping teams improve reliability and overall performance.
NavX3-CAN: Upgrades for FRC Teams
NavX3-CAN is a completely redesigned competition IMU. Unlike the previous NavX2 IMU, nothing carries over from the earlier version. All hardware, firmware, and architecture are completely new from the ground up.
Major Advantages:
✅ 
Brand-new IMU, magnetometer, MCU, and CAN architecture: Offers a fresh start for modern competitions.
✅ CAN-FD connectivity: Up to eight times faster than CAN 2.0, with up to eight times more data per packet for smoother control and better logging.
✅ Easy Calibration: Mount in any position or direction, simple user app to increase accuracy.
✅ High-speed Output: User-selectable rates up to 1000 Hz for fast control loops.
✅ Durable Design: Sealed case, reverse power protection, and color-coded Wago connectors.
These upgrades ensure that every team, from rookies to advanced builders, can rely on accurate sensor data without complicated setup or difficult calibrations.
How NavX3-CAN Helps Teams Succeed
✅ Accuracy: Continuous per-axis bias estimation and a custom sensor fusion algorithm reduce drift and improve autonomous performance.
✅ Simple Calibration: Orientation-independent setup saves time during build season and competitions.
✅ Team-Friendly: Works for rookies with simple setup and reliable data, while advanced teams can push for higher autonomous precision.
✅ Future-Ready Systems: Compatible with legacy roboRIO via CAN 2.0 and ready for SystemCore updates in 2027.
NavX3-CAN Technical Highlights
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Gyroscope | ±15.625 dps to ±4000 dps, 16-bit resolution |
| Accelerometer | ±2 g to ±32 g, 16-bit resolution |
| Magnetometer | ±800 µT, 13 nT resolution |
| Outputs | Yaw, Pitch, Roll, 6- & 9-axis Quaternion, Linear Acceleration, Angular Velocity |
| Voltage Range | 5–30 VDC |
| Shock Reliability | 20,000 g |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +85°C |
| Low Drift | No motion: ~0.0619°/hour 5 seconds after motion: ~0.0582°/min |
CAN-FD: Faster Data for Better Robot Control
CAN-FD (Controller Area Network Flexible Data-Rate) is an upgraded communication protocol that sends more data at higher speeds than the traditional CAN 2.0 (Controller Area Network Version 2.0, the older standard used for connecting sensors and controllers in robotics and automotive systems). For FRC teams, this means your robot can get sensor readings faster and more reliably, improving responsiveness and ultimately smoother autonomous operation.
✅ Smoother Sensor Readings: Faster updates mean more precise and responsive control.
✅ Better Autonomous Performance: High-speed data improves autonomous routine accuracy.
✅ Seamless FRC Integration: Works with modern control systems and prepares teams for future updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should use the NavX3-CAN?
All FRC robotics teams can benefit from the NavX3-CAN. Rookie teams enjoy a straightforward setup and automatic calibration, while advanced teams gain precise control for complex autonomous routines.
How is it different from the NavX2?
The NavX3-CAN is a complete redesign. All hardware, firmware, and architecture are new, providing a modern competition-ready IMU and competition robotics sensor for FRC.
Do I need to worry about calibration?
Before NavX-sensors are shipped, the accelerometers and gyroscopes are initially calibrated at the factory; this calibration data is stored in flash memory and applied automatically to the accelerometer and gyroscope data each time the NavX-sensor circuit board is powered on. A simple PC app allows the user to re-calibrate to help increase accuracy. While calibrating, the sensor will automatically detect its orientation.
Can I use it with older roboRIO systems?
Yes. The sensor supports CAN 2.0 for legacy systems and also offers CAN-FD for high-speed data and improved control performance.
Will it improve autonomous performance?
Yes. The NavX3-CAN delivers improved accuracy, low yaw drift, and reliable sensor data, making autonomous routines more precise and effective in FRC competitions.
Build Smarter with FRC-Ready Accessories
Studica Robotics offers FRC-ready components to support your build:
Wire Options
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Bonded wire with rated insulation and high flexibility, including 4 AWG, 6 AWG, 10 AWG, 12 AWG, 16 AWG, 18 AWG
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CAN Wire for high-speed sensor communication
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Sensor Wire for reliable connections
Each of these accessories is designed to help teams build faster, wire reliably, and focus on programming and autonomous performance.
Build Smarter and Compete Stronger
The NavX3-CAN makes your robot smarter, easier to program, and more reliable on the field. Whether you’re a rookie team taking your first steps or an advanced team chasing precision, it gives you the edge you need this FIRST® Robotics Competition REBUILT™ season.
Studica Robotics also offers a range of FRC-ready components to support your build, including flexible bonded wire in multiple gauges, CAN and sensor-specific options, and pre-drilled extrusion at competitive prices. These tools help teams get up and running quickly so they can focus on programming and optimizing autonomous routines.
Team discounts for FIRST® teams make it easier to access the sensors and accessories needed to compete at their best.
Get ready for an exciting FRC season and take your robot’s performance to the next level with NavX3-CAN and the supporting components designed to help your team succeed.
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