Yes, this can be quite confusing. The internally/externally powered option refers to how the transceiver of the NI-CAN board is powered. When internal, the transceiver gets its power from the computer. When external, the transceiver gets its power from the V+ line of the CAN bus. Changing to external power will NOT bring any power to the V+ line.
If a CAN bus requires power, try adding a power supply that can produce the recommended voltage. In such a case it is best to either set the NI-CAN board to externally powered or do not connect the V+ line to the board.
Randy Solomonson
Application Engineer
National Instruments