IP67-rated Helios SK51 CAN Keypad adds five programmable RGB tactile buttons to CAN Bus applications

Helios SK51 CAN Keypad is a waterproof (IP67-rated) keypad connected over CAN Bus with five tactile silicone buttons and LED backlighting. Each button is fully programmable and offers a 24-bit RGB color option.

In some ways, it reminds me of the T-Keyboard-S3-Pro mechanical keypad, but instead of relying on USB, the SK51 CAN Keypad works over a CAN Bus compliant with the SAE J1939 standard, and it’s designed for more demanding environments.

Helios SK51 specifications

• 5x programmable buttons with integrated display, each with a status LED on top.
• CAN protocols
  • SAE J1939 compatible protocol
  • Transmit – Button status on press/release or 1s interval
  • Receive
    • Simple Mode: Set backlight & status LED colors, brightness, and flash
    • Full RGB: 24-bit RGB per LED (16.7 million colors)
  • CAN Termination – Not Fitted
• USB – USB-C for firmware update
• Supply Voltage –  6 to 35 VDC
• Power Consumption – 5 to 200mA, depending on LED color/brightness
• Dimensions – 130.4 x 42.4 x 19.7 mm
• Weight – About 100 grams
• Material
  • Case: High impact PBT/PC (epoxied)
  • Button: Silicon with dual-layer paint and topcoat
• Temperature Range – -40°C to 85°C
• IP Rating – IP67 (front)
• Durability – Tested over 1 million cycles

Designed by Helios Technology’s subsidiary Enovation Controls, the SK1 keypad can be mounted on a panel with two M.2 bolts. The device can be used as a stand-alone switch panel, an annunciator, or alongside a display from the company.

The configuration is done over the CAN protocol, and each button supports programmable RGB backlighting and status LEDs with control of color, brightness, and flash rate. The company provides a demo using PowerVision Configuration Studio software and a Windows utility (CANkeyPad control demo) to communicate over CAN with the SK51 using an E-Com cable or WaveShare USB/CAN adapter.

You’ll find both on the documentation website along with installation instructions, CAN Bus messages, and other technical details.

The SK51 CAN Keypad is sold in single units or packs of 24 pieces. I could not find it for sale on any distributor at this time. More details may be found on the product page and the press release.

Thanks to TLS for the tip.

Support CNX Software! Donate via cryptocurrencies, become a Patron on Patreon, or purchase goods on Amazon or Aliexpress