CAN (Controller Area Network):

• Application: Originally designed for automotive applications, but extended to industrial and other applications.
• Communication Protocol: Two-wire communication protocol that allows asynchronous and reliable data transfer in vehicles and industrial environments.
• Applications: Used in motor control, airbag systems, ABS (anti-lock braking system), but is also commonly used in maritime applications.

NMEA 0183:

• • Application: Marine navigation and maritime applications.
  • Communication Protocol: Text-based serial communication protocol that provides low-speed data transfer.
  • Applications: Transfer of GPS data, speed, direction, depth, and other navigation and maritime information within marine systems.

NMEA 2000:

• Application: Marine and industrial applications where higher bandwidth data transfer is required.
• Communication Protocol: Multidrop network protocol that transmits higher-speed, prioritized data over a common cable system.
• Applications: Transfer of a wide range of navigation data, such as temperature, fuel consumption, engine information, and other system data.

Each protocol has its own characteristics and application areas, and the choice depends on the specific application, speed requirements, reliability, and data needs. NMEA 2000 is often used in maritime applications for its higher bandwidth and easy network management, while CAN and NMEA 0183 can be found in other applications and maritime systems.