ScionFred

iTrader: (1)

Let's talk about OBDII scan tools and software. I have a ELM327 OBDII-USB clone, an Asus Atom netbook, every free software app and PPE ScanXL. Reading and resetting CEL codes is nice but being able to monitor and log MAF, IAT, ECT, ign timing, O2 sensors, EGR, RPM, EGT, TPS, load, etc. is sweet.

I'm fairly new to this but I've been researching it pretty hard for several weeks now. It was fairly difficult to find good info on OBDII scanning so I'm hoping that we can use this thread to discuss the various hardware and software options, what they can and can't do and which ones work the best.

I can tell you that IME, most of the freeware apps are fine for reading and resetting codes and monitoring some sensors but none of them were useful for data logging or more advanced use. That's why I paid $85 for PPE ScanXL. ScanXL is pro level software but as such, it is harder to use than most of the free apps. For basic use, scantool v1.13 is my fav freeware.

RC-PILOT

So are we talking about a true "Scan Tool" or are we talking about a "LapTop Interface" to the OBDII port? I work at a shop where the techs have all kinds of top notch scan tools, but I want to be able to use my laptop to read and monitor/log what is going on. Do you know where I can look at that type of system?

ScionFred

iTrader: (1)

We could talk about either but IMO non-professionals get a lot more value with a USB to OBDII interface and a laptop. Scangauge is a decent tool for a fair price but if you already have a laptop or netbook you can do a lot more for less money. I think the ELM327 is the best overall interface for non-pros since it is affordable and has lots of software available for it. You can get a genuine ELM327 v1.13 from Scantool.net (ELM 5), a very good clone from OBD2pros.com and good clones from numerous other sources like ebay. Here are some links to get you started:

http://www.scantool.net/

http://obd2pros.com/

http://www.palmerperformance.com/

http://www.digimoto.com/

http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.16923

I have the above elm327 v1.2A clone and it's the only cheap clone I can recommend because it's the only one I've used. I would trust any of the interfaces from the first 3 links and possibly Digimoto but I'm a bit leery of their MobyDic interface chip and their support. Digimoto 5 is pretty cheap ($45) to buy but I was getting false readings and dropped connections with Digimoto Lite so I chose not to chance buying it.

OBD2Pros is highly recommended and their site has a whole page of software links. I haven't tried PPE's hardware but their software and support are good. Same for Scantool.net. If you have any questions, feel free to PM or post them here.

Hypnotik_xB

I have used Auterra for a few years. It is alittle pricer than the ones you listed but can do pretty much everything those can if not more.

I used it to help tune/datalog a turbo Mazda3, MazdaSpeed3 and to check CEL's on all m other vehicles.

Has great logging features that are easy to read and customize.

http://www.auterraweb.com/

I have seen some use this and a Palm Pilot as a Boost/AFR gauge for a factory turbo car.

ScionFred

iTrader: (1)

Auterra looks pretty good and has enhanced vehicle support available like Autoenginuity. Not bad at all for $220 with hard/software. ScanXL has enhanced support available for GM and Ford and claims that Toyota will be available soon. PPE charges more than Auterra for their enhanced support which kind of evens the pricing if you plan to add that.

JMO but most peeps could probably get away with a cheap elm327 clone and freeware to read/clear codes and monitor the ECU sensors but if you want dyno and data logging you gotta pay.