OBD2 Data Logging: A Comprehensive Guide for Vehicle Diagnostics and Performance Analysis

Want to unlock the wealth of data hidden within your car’s systems?

This guide delves into the world of OBD2 data logging, outlining its core principles, significant advantages, and practical applications. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a professional mechanic, or a fleet manager, understanding OBD2 data logging can revolutionize how you interact with and maintain vehicles. We’ll explore how you can record and interpret crucial vehicle parameters, using tools like the CANedge, which offers unparalleled flexibility and open-source software solutions for processing your car data.

Unlike many OBD2 dongles and scanners that limit your data access and analysis, the CANedge empowers you to log and utilize your vehicle’s data on your terms. With completely free software and APIs, including customizable browser dashboards, you have full control over your data.

Discover below why the CANedge stands out as the ideal solution for CAN and OBD2 data logging and advanced telematics applications.

Quick Tip: Get started with our 4-minute introductory video for a visual overview!

Understanding OBD2 Data Logging: How It Works

Let’s begin with a concise overview of OBD2 fundamentals. On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) is a standardized system present in most modern vehicles, providing access to a wealth of diagnostic and performance data. It utilizes a defined set of parameters, known as OBD2 PIDs (Parameter IDs), which are universally readable and decodable across a wide range of car manufacturers and models.

Initiating OBD2 data logging is a straightforward process, typically involving just three key steps:

1. OBD2 Logger Configuration: Start by configuring your OBD2 data logger with the specific OBD2 PIDs you wish to record. This selection depends on your diagnostic or performance monitoring needs, and can include parameters like engine speed, vehicle speed, coolant temperature, and many more.
2. In-Vehicle Connection: Connect the configured OBD2 logger to your vehicle’s OBD2 port using an OBD2 adapter cable. This port is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Once connected, the logger begins recording data as per your configuration.
3. Data Extraction and Decoding: After logging your data, extract the SD card from the logger and utilize the provided free software or API to decode the raw data. This software translates the recorded OBD2 PIDs into human-readable values, allowing for analysis and interpretation.

For more in-depth guidance, refer to our detailed documentation:

CLX000 OBD2 Guide
CANedge OBD2 Guide

Caption: The OBD2 data logging process involves configuration, connection, and data extraction for analysis.

Top 4 Key Benefits of OBD2 Data Logging

OBD2 data logging offers a multitude of benefits for various users, from individual car owners to large automotive corporations. Here are four of the most significant advantages:

Caption: OEM part analysis and performance benchmarking using OBD2 data logging.

1. Enhance Vehicle and Driver Performance Optimization

OBD2 data provides invaluable insights for optimizing both driving habits and vehicle performance. By logging parameters such as speed, RPM, throttle position, and fuel consumption, drivers can gain a deeper understanding of their driving style and identify areas for improvement in fuel efficiency and safety.

For automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), OBD2 data logging is crucial for evaluating the real-world performance of new prototype components. By collecting data during field tests, OEMs can benchmark prototype parts against existing ones, identify potential issues under diverse driving conditions, and refine designs for optimal performance and durability. This data-driven approach significantly accelerates the development cycle and ensures higher quality vehicle components.

Caption: Diagnosing intermittent vehicle issues using OBD2 data logger and SD card analysis.

2. Advanced Diagnostics for Intermittent Issues

Diagnosing rare or intermittent vehicle problems can be incredibly challenging, especially when they occur sporadically while driving but not during static diagnostic checks in a repair shop. OBD2 data logging provides a powerful solution for these elusive issues.

By continuously logging OBD2 data, you capture a comprehensive record of vehicle behavior over time. When a rare issue occurs, you can analyze the logged data from the period surrounding the event. This allows mechanics and technicians to pinpoint the exact conditions and parameters leading up to the problem, facilitating accurate troubleshooting and effective repairs. Instead of relying on guesswork, data-driven diagnostics significantly reduce repair time and costs, enhancing customer satisfaction.

Caption: OBD2 data logging for fleet management, insurance, and predictive maintenance applications.

3. Revolutionize Fleet Management

For vehicle fleets, OBD2 data logging and telematics offer transformative benefits. Implementing OBD2 WiFi telematics across a fleet enables a wide array of applications, including:

• Driver Behavior Analysis: Monitor driving habits across the fleet to identify risky behaviors, promote safer driving, and reduce accident rates.
• Fuel Cost Reduction: Analyze fuel consumption patterns to optimize routes, identify inefficient driving, and implement fuel-saving strategies.
• Minimize Breakdowns: Track vehicle health metrics to proactively identify potential maintenance needs and prevent costly breakdowns.
• Compliance and Reporting: Easily generate reports for regulatory compliance, mileage tracking, and operational transparency.
• Dispute Handling: Utilize logged data as objective evidence in accident investigations or disputes.
• Predictive Maintenance: Employ data analytics to forecast maintenance needs, schedule servicing proactively, and minimize vehicle downtime.

By leveraging OBD2 data in fleet management, businesses can achieve significant improvements in operational efficiency, cost savings, and vehicle longevity.

Caption: Open source and customizable OBD2 data logging system for custom integrations.

4. Unparalleled Data Control and Custom Integration

Choosing an OBD2 WiFi logger that prioritizes data control and open integration is crucial for users who require flexibility. With a system like CANedge, you gain complete ownership of your raw time-series data. Data can be conveniently extracted via SD card or automatically uploaded to your private server.

This open architecture facilitates seamless custom integration with your existing systems and platforms through open APIs. You’re not locked into proprietary software or cloud services. This level of control is essential for research institutions, automotive developers, and businesses that require bespoke data processing and visualization solutions. The ability to tailor the entire data pipeline, from logging to analysis, opens up endless possibilities for innovation and data-driven decision-making.

Considering which of these benefits aligns with your OBD2 logging objectives? Reach out to us for a free consultation to discuss your specific needs and how OBD2 data logging solutions can be tailored for you.

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Introducing the CANedge OBD2 Data Logger Series

The CANedge series of CAN bus data loggers offers advanced features and robust performance, making them exceptionally well-suited for OBD2 data logging and demanding telematics applications. Select models include integrated GPS/IMU, WiFi, and 3G/4G capabilities, further enhancing their versatility for fleet telematics and remote data acquisition.

Caption: CANedge offers plug-and-play setup for immediate data logging and cloud connectivity.

PLUG & PLAY: CANedge devices are designed for ease of use right out of the box. Their standalone operation simplifies deployment, allowing you to quickly connect your vehicles and begin logging data, seamlessly linking your vehicle data to your server infrastructure.

Caption: CANedge pro-level specifications including high storage capacity and advanced features.

PRO SPECS: Engineered for demanding applications, CANedge loggers boast impressive specifications. They feature extractable SD cards with capacities ranging from 8 to 32 GB, dual CAN/LIN channels, CAN FD support, zero data loss recording, high-precision 50 µs RTC, and error frame logging. They record data in the industry-standard MF4 format for robust and reliable data capture.

Caption: Compact and rugged design of CANedge data loggers for reliable performance in harsh environments.

COMPACT & RUGGED: Despite their powerful capabilities, CANedge loggers are remarkably compact (only 8 x 5 x 2 CM) and robust. With a 100G shock rating and a durable aluminum enclosure, they are built to withstand harsh automotive environments. Integrated LEDs provide clear status indication, and configurable 5V power output on Channel 2 expands their application versatility.

Caption: Secure wireless data transfer via WiFi/LTE for vehicle telematics applications.

WIFI/LTE: For remote data access and telematics solutions, CANedge devices offer WiFi and 3G/4G options. They can automatically push data to your server over wireless networks, enabling near real-time data insights. End-to-end security protocols ensure data integrity, and Over-The-Air (OTA) update capabilities simplify device management and feature enhancements.

Caption: Integrated GNSS/GPS and 3D IMU for comprehensive location and motion data logging.

GNSS + 3D IMU: Select CANedge models incorporate a built-in GNSS/GPS and 3D IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit). This integration provides high-accuracy location, speed, distance, acceleration, orientation, and more through advanced sensor fusion algorithms, enriching your OBD2 data with valuable contextual information.

Caption: Open source software and APIs for seamless data processing and integration.

INTEROPERABLE: CANedge prioritizes open standards and interoperability. It comes with free, open-source software and APIs. Data is recorded in the MF4 format, which can be converted to ASC or CSV for compatibility with various analysis tools. DBC file support simplifies data decoding, and Python libraries and pre-built dashboards further streamline your workflow.

Learn More about CANedge

Visualize Your OBD2 Data with Custom Dashboards

The CANedge ecosystem extends to user-friendly data visualization. With CANedge, you can effortlessly create free, customized browser-based dashboards to visualize your logged OBD2 data and configure alerts for critical parameters.

For applications requiring location data, you can combine OBD2 parameters with GPS/IMU data using a CANedge model equipped with GNSS/IMU. This integration provides a holistic view of vehicle performance and location context.

Explore the capabilities of CANedge dashboards through our online playground or delve deeper into our comprehensive dashboard introduction.

Online Playground
Dashboards Introduction

Access the ‘OBD2 Data Pack’

Ready to get hands-on with real OBD2 data?

Download our comprehensive ‘OBD2 Data Pack’ which includes:

• Our OBD2 DBC file for easy decoding
• 25+ car-specific DBC files (reverse engineered)
• Over 100 MB of real-world data collected from more than 10 cars

Download OBD2 Data Pack Now

Real-World Use Case Examples of OBD2 Data Logging

Let’s examine practical examples illustrating how CANedge devices are effectively used in OBD2 data logging scenarios across different industries:

OEM Vehicle Part Field Testing

Do you require robust CAN/OBD2 data logging from vehicles operating in real-world conditions?

Automotive OEMs often conduct late-stage field tests of prototype components to validate their performance and durability. This necessitates collecting OBD2 and CAN data from multiple vehicles over extended periods, sometimes months. The CANedge1 is ideally suited for this application due to its ultra-compact size, plug-and-play simplicity, and easy pre-configuration capabilities. Data can be collected periodically and analyzed using industry-standard CAN tools or with the free asammdf GUI/API.

Learn more about CANedge1

Caption: OBD2 data logging for OEM field testing of prototype vehicle equipment.

Caption: OBD2 telematics for fleet management of trucks and vehicles.

Advanced Vehicle Telematics with OBD2, GNSS/IMU, and 3G/4G

Looking to implement comprehensive OBD2 telematics for on-road vehicle fleets?

The CANedge3 is engineered for advanced telematics applications. It can wirelessly upload recorded OBD2 data via 3G/4G networks using your own SIM card. This enables near real-time OBD2 data transfer from vehicles to your cloud server, facilitating immediate data analysis and insights.

The open APIs (including OBD2 DBC decoding support) allow for automated data processing. CANedge3 devices support Over-The-Air (OTA) updates for remote management and feature enhancements. Furthermore, the integrated GPS/IMU in CANedge3 adds valuable location and motion data, such as precise position, speed, trip distance, and acceleration metrics to your telematics data stream.

Explore CANedge3 features

Case Study: OBD2/CAN Telematics Implementation

Discover how Volkswagen utilizes the CANedge2 to log both OBD2 and raw CAN data to SD cards and automatically push data to their self-hosted server for in-depth analysis.

“The CANedge2 allowed us to rapidly deploy a robust data logging solution with flexible configuration options, and the level of technical support was outstanding!”

Read the Volkswagen Case Study
Explore 100+ Case Studies

Caption: Illustration of OBD2 telematics implementation using WiFi data logger.

Sample OBD2 Data from an Audi A4

To help you get started, we provide downloadable OBD2 sample data recorded using CANedge from an Audi A4.

You can also download our free, open-source OBD2 software tools to experience the process of decoding raw OBD2 data firsthand.

Raw OBD2 Data
Decoded OBD2 Data (Google Sheets)
Free OBD2 Software Tools

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about OBD2 Data Logging

The OBD2 protocol (SAE J1979) defines a standardized set of vehicle parameters accessible for logging. However, it’s important to note that the specific OBD2 data supported can vary significantly between vehicle makes, models, and years. Older vehicles often support a more limited range of parameters compared to newer models.

Here are some common OBD2 parameters that are frequently available:

• Fuel system status

• Engine load

• Coolant temperature

• Fuel trim (short and long term)

• Fuel pressure

• Intake manifold pressure

• Engine RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)

• Vehicle speed

• Intake air temperature

• MAF (Mass Air Flow) air flow rate

• Throttle position

• Secondary air status

• Oxygen sensor status

• Engine runtime since start

• Distance traveled while MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) is active

• Fuel tank level input

• System vapor pressure

• Absolute load value

• Hybrid battery pack life (for hybrid vehicles)

• Engine oil temperature

• Engine fuel rate

• Engine torque

• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

• Various Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

For a comprehensive list and detailed descriptions, refer to the OBD2 PID Wiki page or the official SAE J1979 standard.

To convert raw OBD2 data from a CANedge OBD2 data logger into meaningful physical units (e.g., km/h, RPM), you need a database of decoding rules, typically in the form of a DBC file, and compatible OBD2 software.

We provide a 100% free OBD2 DBC file that encompasses the majority of standardized Mode 01 (Service 01) OBD2 PID decoding rules, aligned with resources like the OBD2 PID Wiki page.

Our OBD2 DBC file utilizes extended multiplexing to facilitate efficient OBD2 data decoding. For a deeper understanding of DBC files, consult our DBC introduction, and for insights into OBD2 data interpretation within raw CAN frames, see our OBD2 introduction.

You can seamlessly load your raw OBD2 data and the OBD2 DBC file into our free software tools, such as asammdf or our OBD2 dashboard integrations. This enables you to visualize decoded OBD2 parameters like Speed, Engine Speed, MAF, and Fuel Level in intuitive formats.

A significant advantage of this approach is the ease of modifying the OBD2 DBC file to incorporate proprietary or extended OBD2 PIDs specific to certain manufacturers or vehicle models. Furthermore, you can combine the OBD2 DBC with proprietary CAN DBC files to enable comprehensive car data logging, encompassing both CAN and OBD2 data streams simultaneously.

What is UDS (Unified Diagnostic Services)?

The Unified Diagnostic Services protocol (UDS, ISO 14229-1) is a more advanced communication protocol used extensively within automotive Electronic Control Unit (ECU) communication for diagnostics and control. Unlike OBD2, which is designed for on-board diagnostics during vehicle operation, UDS is primarily intended for off-board diagnostic activities when the vehicle is stationary, typically in a service or repair context. A UDS diagnostic tool can send request messages over the CAN bus to retrieve information from specific ECUs or command them to perform actions.

How to Send UDS Requests over ISO-TP (ISO 15765-2)

Requesting standard OBD2 PIDs is relatively straightforward, involving a single request-response CAN frame exchange. An OBD2 scan tool or logger sends a specific CAN frame (the OBD2 request), and if the vehicle ECU supports the requested PID, it responds with a single CAN frame containing the data.

In contrast, UDS requests often involve more complex communication sequences due to the potential for larger data payloads. UDS may require utilizing the ISO-TP (ISO 15765-2) transport protocol to handle multi-frame messages. For example, using UDS service 0x22 (Read Data By Identifier) to request data involves a multi-frame communication flow:

1. Request Frame: The ‘UDS data logger’ initiates communication by sending a request CAN frame specifying the Service ID (SID) 0x22 and the Data Identifier (DID) of the desired parameter.
2. First Frame: The vehicle ECU responds with a ‘First Frame’. This frame contains the SID, DID, the total message length of the complete UDS response, and the initial bytes of the data payload.
3. Flow Control Frame: Upon receiving the First Frame, the UDS logger sends a ‘Flow Control Frame’ to acknowledge receipt and signal readiness to receive subsequent data frames.
4. Consecutive Frames: Following the Flow Control Frame, the ECU transmits ‘Consecutive Frames’ containing the remaining payload of the UDS response message, segmented across multiple CAN frames.

Therefore, effectively logging UDS data necessitates a UDS tool capable of sending custom CAN frames, managing flow control frames, and reconstructing multi-frame UDS responses. Software tools must be able to reassemble these fragmented responses to extract the complete data payload for decoding and analysis.

UDS and Extended OBD2 PIDs for Advanced Car Data Logging

The UDS Service ID (SID) and Data Identifiers (DID) are sometimes combined into a single extended identifier, often referred to as an ‘extended OBD2 PID’. For example, 0x220101 might represent an extended PID. Utilizing UDS service 0x22 requests allows access to a broader range of vehicle data beyond the parameters accessible through standard service 01 OBD2 PID requests. For instance, some electric vehicles (EVs) provide access to critical parameters like State of Charge (SoC%) through UDS requests under service 0x22.

Utilizing CANedge as a Versatile UDS Data Logger

CANedge devices can be configured to function as UDS data loggers, enabling the initiation of UDS requests. This involves sending a carefully crafted request frame and ensuring timely transmission of a flow control frame within a specified timeframe after the request. When implemented correctly, this triggers the complete sequence of UDS responses from the vehicle ECU.

The resulting log files, containing UDS response data, can be analyzed using professional tools like CANalyzer (by converting the MF4 data to Vector ASC format) for detailed decoding and interpretation. Alternatively, the multi-frame UDS response data can be processed programmatically using our free Python CAN bus API. This API can be used to extract specific parameters and push them to visualization platforms like Grafana for creating custom UDS dashboards.

Our github API examples library includes sample UDS response data and a UDS DBC file specifically designed for decoding State of Charge (SoC%) from a Hyundai Kona EV. To learn more about UDS data logging for electric vehicles, refer to our dedicated EV data logger article or contact us for expert guidance.

Will OBD2 Data Logging Work on My Car?

In most cases, yes. The OBD2 standard is widely adopted across passenger cars and light trucks as the primary on-board diagnostics system. OBD2 compliance has been mandatory in the USA since 1996 and in the European Union since 2003 (where it is known as EOBD but is functionally equivalent to OBD2).

However, even if your vehicle supports OBD2, several factors can influence your ability to log the specific data you require:

• Vehicle-Specific Parameter Support: The range of OBD2 parameters supported varies significantly across vehicle makes, models, and model years. Older vehicles often have limited support for real-time parameters like speed and RPM.
• Manufacturer Restrictions: Some car manufacturers have started implementing measures to restrict access to OBD2 data to enhance control over vehicle data and potentially limit aftermarket access.
• OBD2 Protocol Variations: While CAN (ISO 15765) is the dominant signal protocol for OBD2 communication in modern vehicles, older US vehicles (pre-2008) and some EU brands may utilize alternative protocols.

Important Check: Visually inspect your vehicle’s OBD2 connector. For CAN-based OBD2 logging with a CAN logger, ensure that “metal pins” are present in the CAN High (pin 6) and CAN Low (pin 14) positions of the OBD2 connector. Refer to our OBD2 connector illustration (red pins indicate CAN pins). If unsure, send us a picture for verification.

There are five primary OBD2 signal protocols in use:

• ISO 15765 (CAN): The most prevalent protocol, mandatory in all vehicles sold in the USA since 2008.
• SAE J1850 VPW: Standard used by General Motors.
• SAE J1850 PWM: Standard used by Ford Motor Company.
• ISO 9141-2: Used by Chrysler and some European and Asian vehicles.
• ISO 14230 (KWP2000): Primarily used by European manufacturers.

CANedge and CLX000 series loggers support CAN-based OBD2. If you are uncertain about your vehicle’s compatibility, please contact us for assistance.

For a preliminary protocol check based on your vehicle details, you can use online resources like OBD2 compatibility checkers. For foundational information, explore our simple introduction to OBD2.

Pro Tip: An OBD2 logger can also be used to determine the specific Mode 01 OBD2 parameter IDs supported by your vehicle. By requesting ‘Supported PIDs’ parameters (IDs 00, 20, 40, 60, 80, A0, C0), logging the responses, and analyzing the data bytes bit-by-bit, you can identify supported PIDs (refer to the Wikipedia OBD2 PID article for detailed interpretation).

OBD2 vs. J1939 Data Logging: Heavy-Duty Vehicles

OBD2 data logging is generally applicable to cars and light trucks. For heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, buses, agricultural equipment, and construction machinery, the J1939 protocol is the prevailing standard for data communication and diagnostics. J1939 is a standardized protocol across most heavy-duty vehicle manufacturers, enabling data decoding across different brands, similar to OBD2 in the light vehicle sector. Decoding J1939 data requires a dedicated J1939 DBC file. CANedge and CLX000 devices can also function as J1939 data loggers for heavy-duty vehicle applications.

Choosing the Right OBD2 Data Logger: CANedge vs. CLX000

Both the CANedge and CLX000 data logger series are capable OBD2 data logging solutions.

For primary data logging to SD card, the CANedge series is recommended. As the second generation following the CLX000, CANedge is optimized for efficient and reliable data logging. For applications requiring automatic log file upload to your server, the CANedge2 is particularly well-suited. It excels in OBD2 telematics deployments and OBD2 dashboard integrations for remote vehicle monitoring.

If real-time streaming of OBD2 data via USB to a PC is also a requirement, the CLX000 series, such as the CL2000, is a strong choice, offering both logging and streaming capabilities.

If you’re unsure which series best fits your needs, please contact us. We can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific use case requirements.

Real-Time OBD2 Data Streaming

Yes, the CLX000 series supports real-time streaming of raw CAN data and decoded OBD2 data via USB. See our OBD2 streaming introduction for detailed instructions.

Raw CAN Data vs. OBD2 Data Logging

When you connect a CAN logger like CANedge or CLX000 to a vehicle’s OBD2 port, it will, by default, begin recording raw CAN bus data in most vehicles. This raw CAN data represents the fundamental communication network within the vehicle, carrying signals from various sensors and ECUs.

In some specialized cases, logging this raw CAN data is necessary, particularly for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) who possess in-depth knowledge of the vehicle’s CAN network. OEMs typically have CAN databases (DBC files) that define the meaning of each CAN ID and data byte, enabling them to decode raw CAN data directly. However, for users outside of the OEM context, decoding raw CAN data typically involves reverse engineering the vehicle’s CAN bus, a complex and time-consuming process. In some instances, partial databases for specific vehicle models may be available online from open-source projects like opendbc, but their coverage can be limited.

For most users, especially outside of vehicle manufacturing, OBD2 protocol-based data collection is the most practical and accessible approach. Modern OBD2 communication in nearly all vehicles is based on CAN bus. Unlike raw CAN data, which is continuously broadcast, OBD2 data is accessed “on-request.” To log OBD2 data, the logger sends specific custom CAN frames into the vehicle’s CAN bus, essentially sending commands to the vehicle to respond with the requested OBD2 parameters. The vehicle ECU will respond if the requested OBD2 PID is supported, as determined by the vehicle manufacturer.

Types of OBD2 Devices: Scanners, Dongles, Loggers, and Interfaces

The market offers a wide array of OBD2 devices catering to different needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:

OBD2 Scanners: Primarily used by mechanics and technicians for vehicle diagnostics, OBD2 scanners are designed to read and interpret Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that trigger the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL). They often include built-in DTC databases and functionalities for clearing codes. OBD2 Bluetooth and WiFi scanners provide wireless connectivity to smartphones for convenient access to diagnostic information.

OBD2 Dongles: Typically small, affordable, and user-friendly Bluetooth OBD2 readers aimed at consumers. OBD2 dongles usually interface with smartphone apps to provide real-time displays of basic vehicle parameters. They are plug-and-play for consumer applications but offer limited flexibility and customization. Many utilize the ELM327 microcontroller.

OBD2 Data Loggers: OBD2 data loggers are designed to record OBD2 time-series data to an SD card in standalone mode, without requiring a continuous PC or smartphone connection. Data is extracted via USB or SD card for later analysis. The CANedge1 exemplifies a CAN bus data logger that can be used effectively for OBD2 data logging.

OBD2 WiFi/LTE Loggers: Advanced OBD2 data loggers, such as the CANedge2/CANedge3, incorporate WiFi or 3G/4G connectivity. They can log OBD2 data to an SD card and automatically transfer data to a server (cloud or self-hosted) via wireless networks. These loggers are ideal for OBD2 telematics applications, enabling remote access to vehicle parameters, DTCs, and creating OBD2 dashboards for fleet-wide vehicle monitoring and management.

OBD2 Interfaces: Some CAN interfaces can also function as OBD2 interfaces, facilitating real-time streaming of OBD2 data to a PC via USB. The CLX000 series, for example, enables USB streaming of OBD2 data to PC-based software like SavvyCAN.

OBD2 Data Logger Power Consumption and Vehicle Battery Drain

In most vehicles, OBD2 data loggers, including CANedge devices, are designed to power on and off with the vehicle’s ignition system. The OBD2 connector typically provides power through the ignition (IGN) circuit. This means that the logger will generally not draw power from the vehicle battery when the ignition is off, preventing battery drain.

However, in some vehicle models, the OBD2 connector power supply may be directly connected to the battery (constant 12V). In such cases, the CANedge might remain powered on even when the vehicle is turned off. Under normal circumstances, the power consumption of CANedge loggers is minimal (<2W), and this usually does not pose a significant battery drain risk, especially for vehicles in regular use.

To verify if your logger powers down with the ignition, observe the device LEDs after the vehicle has been off for 15-20 minutes. If the LEDs are off, the CANedge is powered down.

If the CANedge/CLX000 remains powered on when the vehicle is off, and you anticipate extended periods of vehicle inactivity, you can either disconnect the device or configure the CANedge to automatically start/stop data transmission based on specific CAN bus signals related to ignition status. Alternatively, using a DB9-DC splitter cable and a DC-cigarette receptacle adapter to power the logger from the cigarette lighter socket (which is typically ignition-switched) can ensure the device powers down with the vehicle. Consult the CANedge documentation for detailed power management options.

Integrating GPS Data with OBD2 Logging

While some vehicles have built-in GPS systems, accessing this GPS data via OBD2 or proprietary CAN data is often not feasible. For practical purposes, we recommend using a CANedge model with integrated GNSS/IMU. This enables simultaneous and time-synchronized recording of GNSS/IMU data alongside CAN/OBD2 data from your vehicle on separate channels (Channel 1 for CAN/OBD2, Channel 2 for GNSS/IMU).

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