anyone know anything about the data link under the driverside dash, on the right? I'm looking for any info about the data specifications, or possibly information about interfacing it with a computer. any info or links to site that explain the protocol would be VERY useful. thank you!

-Russell

 

All recent vehicles have an OBD ll data link connector.Certain terminals are universal on all cars,while others are manufacturer specific.You can buy a cheap generic scan tool at any parts store.Honda's newest tool ('04 and up)is a laptop.($5000).There might be someway to hook up your computor to it ,butyou would need software to make it work(you already know that) .Good Luck!

 

This is what I use, and if your into programming they do have source code avaliable.

$5000 what a waste of $$$$ get this one for $140

http://www.ghg.net/dharrison/obdscan.html

 

Yeah 5 G's is pretty steep.Honda mandates what tools to use,and the dealership pays for it. You don't get a laptop for $140.It's also more than a regular computor-it's touch screen only /can operated many components(pwr windows/ hvac/evap function/ect..)has docking station which allows instant updates w Honda.it's pretty amazing,i havn't used all it's functions yet.

 

What protocol do the new Honda's use?

 

my understanding is that all new cars are moving away from OBD2 and adopting the new CAN standard.

 

Yeah but both under ODBII and CAN - the manufs can add extra codes....

To the OP

Search under ODBII and learn about the codes and what they can and cant do.

There are already Palm Pilot and LaptTop readers and scanners. Those are like $300 or so (SCANNER)

As I understand it -a code reader an only read the codes.
A budge code reader will spit out the code, a nicer code reader will change the code to "english"
A scanner will allow you to read the "values" off the sensors in real time as the engine is running / drivetrain is moving...

 

Anyone have a picture of the OBD2 port? Maybe I've got goggles that make it invisible, but I can't seem to indentify where it is.

d

 

nevermind about the image. Just did a google image search and found it.

FYI:
http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/4Runne...OBDII_plug.jpg

 

Innova Electronics OBD2 tools are great, affordable and easy to use. www.iequus.com or www.partsamerica.com