Do you want to unlock the wealth of data hidden within your car’s onboard computer? Understanding and utilizing your vehicle’s data can revolutionize how you maintain, optimize, and even understand your driving habits. An Obd2 Logger is the key tool to access this information, allowing you to record and visualize critical parameters from your car’s engine and systems.
This article provides an in-depth exploration of OBD2 logging, covering its benefits, applications, and how to get started. We’ll delve into how an OBD2 logger works, the advantages it offers, and real-world use cases. Discover how tools like the CANedge OBD2 logger empower you with 100% free software and APIs to process your car data exactly as you need.
OBD2 Telematics Dashboard Browser Free Open Source
Learn why an OBD2 data logger is an indispensable tool for anyone from car enthusiasts to professional automotive engineers.
Understanding OBD2 Data Logging: How It Works
Before diving into the benefits, let’s clarify the fundamentals of OBD2 data logging. OBD2, or On-Board Diagnostics II, is a standardized system in most modern vehicles that provides access to a wealth of data related to vehicle performance and diagnostics. This system uses a set of standardized parameters known as OBD2 PIDs (Parameter IDs), which are consistent across a wide range of car manufacturers and models.
Logging OBD2 data is a straightforward process involving three key steps:
- Configuration: Start by configuring your OBD2 logger with the specific OBD2 PIDs you wish to record. These PIDs represent various engine and vehicle parameters, such as speed, RPM, engine temperature, and more. You can find a comprehensive list of OBD2 PIDs here.
- Connection: Physically connect the OBD2 logger to your vehicle’s OBD2 port, typically located under the dashboard. You may need an OBD2 adapter cable to facilitate this connection depending on the logger. Once connected, the logger begins recording data as you drive.
- Data Extraction and Decoding: After your drive, extract the recorded data from the OBD2 logger. This often involves removing an SD card or connecting the logger to a computer. Utilize free software or APIs to decode the raw data using an OBD2 DBC file, translating it into human-readable values and insights.
For detailed instructions and guides, refer to these resources:
The Top 4 Advantages of OBD2 Data Logging
Why should you consider using an OBD2 data logger? Here are four compelling benefits:
1. Driver, Vehicle, and Part Optimization
OBD2 logging provides invaluable data for optimizing various aspects of vehicle operation. For individual drivers, it can be used to monitor and refine driving habits, leading to improved fuel efficiency and safer driving. Car enthusiasts can leverage this data to fine-tune their vehicles for optimal performance. Furthermore, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) can utilize OBD2 data loggers to rigorously analyze the real-world performance of prototype parts and equipment in field testing scenarios. This allows for data-driven improvements in vehicle design and component reliability.
2. Diagnosing Intermittent and Rare Issues
Troubleshooting elusive car problems that occur sporadically can be a major headache. These intermittent issues often happen while driving but are absent when the vehicle is being inspected at a repair shop. An OBD2 logger provides a solution by continuously recording vehicle data. When a rare issue occurs, you can analyze the logged data from the period surrounding the event. This enables you to pinpoint the root cause of the problem by examining parameter fluctuations and anomalies that would otherwise be missed.
3. Efficient Car Fleet Management
For businesses managing vehicle fleets, OBD2 telematics offers a powerful tool for enhanced efficiency and cost savings. By deploying OBD2 WiFi loggers across a fleet, managers can gain insights into driver behavior, optimize fuel consumption, reduce vehicle breakdowns through predictive maintenance, ensure regulatory compliance, and even facilitate dispute resolution in case of accidents or incidents. The aggregated data provides a holistic view of fleet performance, enabling data-driven decisions for improved operational effectiveness.
4. Data Control and Customized Integration
Unlike many closed-system OBD2 dongles, an OBD2 WiFi logger gives you complete control over your vehicle data. It records raw time-series data, which can be extracted via SD card or wirelessly uploaded to your own server. This open approach facilitates seamless custom integration with your existing systems and platforms through open APIs. You are not locked into proprietary software or cloud services, empowering you to analyze and utilize your data in a way that best suits your specific needs.
Considering which of these benefits aligns with your objectives is the first step in leveraging OBD2 logging. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your specific use case!
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Introducing the CANedge OBD2 Data Logger
The CANedge series of CAN bus data loggers are ideally suited for OBD2 data logging applications, particularly for fleet telematics. These robust devices offer a range of features, including optional GPS/IMU, WiFi, and 3G/4G connectivity.
PLUG & PLAY: CANedge devices are designed for ease of use, offering out-of-the-box logging capabilities in a standalone format. Effortlessly link your vehicles to your server infrastructure.
PRO SPECS: These loggers boast professional-grade specifications, including extractable SD card storage (8-32 GB), dual CAN/LIN channels, CAN FD support, zero data loss, high-precision RTC (50 µs), error frame logging, and MF4 file format support.
COMPACT & RUGGED: The CANedge loggers are remarkably compact (only 8 x 5 x 2 CM) and rugged, featuring a robust aluminum enclosure and high shock resistance (100G). They include 5+ LEDs for status indication and configurable 5V power output on CH2.
WIFI/LTE CONNECTIVITY: Seamlessly push recorded data via WiFi or 3G/4G to your designated server. Benefit from end-to-end security and Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.
GNSS + 3D IMU: Integrated GPS/IMU provides accurate location and motion data. Leverage 3x accuracy through sensor fusion, capturing position, speed, distance, and more.
INTEROPERABLE & OPEN: Utilize free and open-source software and APIs. Supports MF4 to ASC/CSV conversion, DBC integration, Python compatibility, and dashboard creation.
Learn more about CANedge
Software Spotlight: Custom OBD2 Dashboards
The CANedge ecosystem simplifies the creation of custom browser dashboards for visualizing your OBD2 data and setting up alerts. Combined with a CANedge with GNSS/IMU, you can overlay location and motion data with your OBD2 parameters for comprehensive insights.
Explore the online playground to see example dashboards, and delve deeper into our introductory guide.
Playground Dashboards Intro
Get Your OBD2 Data Pack
Ready to work with real OBD2 data examples? Download our free ‘OBD2 Data Pack’ which includes:
- OBD2 DBC file
- 25+ car DBCs (reverse engineered)
- 100+ MB of data from over 10 cars
Download Now
OBD2 data pack
Practical Use Cases for OBD2 Loggers
Let’s examine some real-world applications of OBD2 data loggers:
OEM Field Testing of Vehicle Components
Need to log CAN/OBD2 data from vehicles operating in real-world conditions?
For OEMs in the automotive industry, late-stage field testing of prototype components is crucial. This often necessitates collecting OBD2 and CAN data from multiple vehicles over extended periods, such as months. The CANedge1 excels in this scenario due to its compact size, plug-and-play simplicity, and easy pre-configuration. Data can be collected periodically and analyzed using industry-standard CAN tools or the free asammdf GUI/API.
CANedge1
Vehicle Telematics for On-Road Fleets (OBD2 + GNSS/IMU + 3G/4G)
Looking to implement OBD2 telematics for your on-road vehicle fleets?
The CANedge3 is designed for seamless OBD2 telematics deployments. It can wirelessly upload recorded OBD2 data via 3G/4G using your own SIM card, enabling near real-time data transfer from vehicles to your cloud server. The open APIs facilitate automated data processing, including OBD2 DBC decoding. CANedge3 devices support over-the-air updates for remote management. The integrated GPS/IMU adds valuable location, motion, and orientation data to your telemetry stream.
CANedge3
Case Study: OBD2/CAN Telematics Implementation
Volkswagen logo case study
Explore how Volkswagen utilizes the CANedge2 to log both OBD2 and raw CAN data to SD cards and automatically push data to their self-hosted servers for in-depth analysis.
“The CANedge2 got us up-and-running at a rapid pace with robust config options – and the support was outstanding!“
Learn More 100+ Case Studies
OBD2 MDF4 Data Logger Pro
OBD2 Data Sample from an Audi A4
To help you get started, we provide downloadable OBD2 data samples recorded with a CANedge from an Audi A4. You can also access free open-source OBD2 software to practice decoding raw data.
Raw OBD2 Data Decoded OBD2 Data Software
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About OBD2 Loggers
What OBD2 parameters can I typically log?
The OBD2 protocol (SAE J1979) standardizes a range of vehicle data parameters. However, the specific parameters supported vary between car models, with older vehicles often supporting fewer parameters. Common OBD2 parameters include:
- Fuel system status
- Engine load
- Coolant temperature
- Fuel trim
- Fuel pressure
- Intake manifold pressure
- Engine RPM
- Vehicle speed
- Intake air temperature
- MAF air flow rate
- Throttle position
- Air status
- Oxygen sensor status
- Runtime since engine start
- Distance with MIL on
- Fuel tank level input
- System vapor pressure
- Absolute load value
- Hybrid battery pack life
- Engine oil temperature
- Engine fuel rate
- Torque
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Various DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes)
For comprehensive details, consult the OBD2 PID Wiki page or the SAE J1979 standard.
How do I decode raw OBD2 data?
To convert raw OBD2 data into meaningful values, you need a database of decoding rules and appropriate OBD2 software. We offer a free OBD2 DBC file containing decoding rules for most standardized Mode 01 OBD2 PIDs. This file utilizes extended multiplexing for efficient OBD2 decoding. Refer to our DBC intro and OBD2 intro for more information.
You can load your raw OBD2 data and the OBD2 DBC file into our free software tools like asammdf or our OBD2 dashboard integrations to visualize decoded parameters like speed, RPM, and fuel level. This approach allows for easy modification of the OBD2 DBC to include proprietary PIDs and combine it with proprietary CAN DBC files for comprehensive vehicle data logging.
What is UDS and how does it relate to OBD2 logging?
Unified Diagnostic Services (UDS) is another communication protocol used in automotive ECUs. While OBD2 is designed for on-board diagnostics during vehicle operation, UDS is typically used for off-board diagnostics when the vehicle is stationary. UDS allows for more complex diagnostic requests than OBD2.
Can I use an OBD2 logger to make UDS requests?
Yes, advanced OBD2 loggers like CANedge can be configured to send UDS requests over ISO-TP (ISO 15765-2). This enables accessing extended parameters beyond standard OBD2 PIDs, sometimes referred to as ‘extended OBD2 PIDs’. This is particularly relevant for accessing data like State of Charge (SoC%) in electric vehicles. Logging UDS data requires the logger to handle request frames, flow control frames, and reconstruction of multi-frame UDS responses. The logged data can be decoded using tools like CANalyzer or our Python API and visualized in dashboards. Our EV data logger article provides further details.
Will an OBD2 logger work with my car?
Most cars and light trucks utilize the OBD2 standard, especially vehicles manufactured after 1996 (USA) or 2003 (EU – EOBD). However, OBD2 support and the availability of specific parameters vary. Some manufacturers are also restricting OBD2 data access. The CAN protocol is the dominant signal protocol for OBD2, but older vehicles might use different protocols.
To verify compatibility, check your OBD2 connector for “metal pins” in positions 6 (CAN High) and 14 (CAN Low) as illustrated in our OBD2 connector diagram. If unsure, contact us with a picture of your connector. You can also use online tools like OBD2 compatibility checkers for a preliminary check.
What are the different OBD2 signal protocols?
There are five main OBD2 signal protocols:
- ISO 15765 (CAN): Most common, mandatory in US vehicles since 2008.
- SAE J1850 (PWM & VPW): Used by Ford and General Motors.
- ISO 9141-2: Used by Chrysler and some EU/Asian vehicles.
- ISO 14230 (KWP2000): Primarily used by European manufacturers.
CANedge/CLX000 supports CAN-based OBD2. Contact us if you have protocol compatibility questions.
What is the difference between OBD2 logging and J1939 logging?
OBD2 logging is primarily used for cars and light trucks, while J1939 logging is typically required for heavy-duty vehicles like trucks, tractors, and construction equipment. J1939 is a standardized protocol for heavy-duty vehicles, similar in concept to OBD2 but tailored for different vehicle types and data sets. A J1939 DBC file is needed to decode J1939 data. CANedge/CLX000 can function as both OBD2 and J1939 data loggers.
Which OBD2 logger is right for me: CANedge or CLX000?
For standalone OBD2 data logging to SD card, the CANedge series is recommended due to its optimization for logging and advanced features. For OBD2 telematics applications with auto-upload to server, the CANedge2 is ideal.
If you also need real-time OBD2 data streaming to a PC via USB, the CLX000 series, such as the CL2000, is a suitable choice. Contact us for personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.
Can I stream OBD2 data in real-time?
Yes, the CLX000 series enables real-time streaming of raw CAN and OBD2 data via USB. Refer to our OBD2 streaming intro for more details.
What’s the difference between raw CAN data and OBD2 data logging?
Connecting an OBD2 logger like CANedge to your car will, by default, record raw CAN bus data. This is the low-level communication network within your vehicle. OEMs use raw CAN data with proprietary DBC files. For non-OEM users, decoding raw CAN data often requires reverse engineering. OBD2 data logging, in contrast, is based on standardized requests and responses, making the data more readily interpretable using OBD2 DBC files. OBD2 data is accessed “on-request,” while raw CAN data is continuously broadcasted.
What are the different types of OBD2 devices?
The OBD2 device market includes several categories:
- OBD2 Scanners: Primarily for diagnostics, reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
- OBD2 Dongles: Consumer-grade, Bluetooth-based readers for real-time data display via smartphone apps, often using ELM327 chips.
- OBD2 Data Loggers: Standalone devices recording OBD2 time-series data to SD cards for later analysis.
- OBD2 WiFi/LTE Loggers: OBD2 data loggers with wireless data transfer capabilities for telematics applications and cloud integration.
- OBD2 Interfaces: CAN interfaces that also support real-time OBD2 data streaming to PCs.
Will an OBD2 logger drain my car battery?
Typically, OBD2 loggers connected via the OBD2 port will power on/off with the vehicle’s ignition, minimizing battery drain. However, in some vehicles, the OBD2 port may be constantly powered. CANedge has minimal power consumption and usually does not cause battery drain issues. You can verify ignition-based power control by observing the logger’s LEDs after turning off your car. If continuous power is a concern, CANedge offers configuration options for ignition-based start/stop or external power solutions.
Can I log GPS data with an OBD2 logger?
While some cars have built-in GPS, accessing this data via OBD2 is often limited. For reliable GPS logging alongside OBD2 data, we recommend using a CANedge with GNSS/IMU. This allows for synchronized recording of GPS/IMU data with OBD2 parameters.
Ready to start logging OBD2 data from your vehicle?
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