STN1110 OBD2 Scanner: The Compact Multiprotocol Interpreter IC

The Stn1110 Obd2 Scanner is a multiprotocol OBD to UART interpreter integrated circuit (IC) designed for accessing vehicle diagnostic data. While OBD Solutions now recommends the STN2100 for new projects, the STN1110 remains a robust and cost-effective solution for existing applications. This interpreter IC provides a streamlined method to retrieve crucial vehicle information, including diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) status, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), inspection and maintenance (I/M) readiness, in-use performance tracking (IPT) data, and a wide array of real-time parameters. The STN1110 is engineered to be fully compatible with the widely-used ELM327 command set, ensuring seamless integration with numerous existing software applications. Moreover, it surpasses the original ELM327 IC in terms of stability, performance, and an expanded feature set.

Please Note: For all new hardware development initiatives, OBD Solutions suggests utilizing the STN2100 as a direct replacement for the STN1110. The STN2100 offers all the functionalities of the STN1110 without any additional cost. OBD Solutions will continue to offer sales and support for the STN1110 for the foreseeable future, but future feature enhancements will be focused on the STN21xx series ICs.

STN1110 Multiprotocol OBD2 to UART Interpreter IC Chip

Unmatched Performance of the STN1110 OBD2 Scanner

The STN1110 OBD2 scanner IC is engineered for superior performance in vehicle diagnostics and data acquisition.

• Advanced Hardware Platform: At its core, the STN1110 is powered by a modern 16-bit processor. This advanced processor delivers significantly faster operation compared to competing ICs, resulting in quicker data processing and response times. It also boasts substantially larger flash program memory and RAM, enabling more complex operations and data handling capabilities within the OBD2 interpreter.

• Exceptional Data Throughput: The enhanced hardware translates directly into superior data throughput. The STN1110 allows for faster data retrieval, providing up to a 100% increase in samples per second compared to previous generation OBD2 interpreter solutions. This rapid data acquisition is critical for real-time vehicle monitoring and advanced diagnostic applications.

• High-Speed UART Communication: To ensure rapid data transfer beyond the vehicle’s communication bus, the STN1110 supports UART baud rates up to 10 Mbps. This high-speed UART interface is 20 times faster than the quickest OBD protocol, eliminating data bottlenecks and ensuring efficient communication with external microcontrollers or processing units.

Key Features of the STN1110 OBD2 Scanner IC

The STN1110 OBD2 scanner IC is packed with features designed for robust and versatile OBD2 interpretation.

• Secure and Reliable Bootloader: The integrated safe and secure bootloader is a critical feature for firmware management. It allows for in-field firmware updates, even over unreliable communication links. This capability minimizes the risk of bricking devices during updates and avoids costly product recalls for firmware revisions.

• Full ELM327 Command Set Compatibility: Maintaining compatibility with existing OBD2 software is paramount. The STN1110 is fully compatible with the ELM327 command set. This ensures out-of-the-box compatibility with a vast ecosystem of OBD2 software applications already on the market, simplifying integration and development.

• Extended “ST” Command Set for Advanced Functionality: Beyond ELM327 compatibility, the STN1110 features an extended “ST” command set. This proprietary command set unlocks access to enhanced functionalities and advanced features not available through the standard ELM327 commands. This allows developers to leverage the full potential of the STN1110 without sacrificing backward compatibility.

• Intelligent PowerSave Mode for Low Power Consumption: For applications requiring permanent in-vehicle installation, power efficiency is crucial. The STN1110 incorporates a sophisticated PowerSave mode with multiple sleep and wakeup triggers. This allows devices based on the STN1110 to remain connected to the vehicle for extended periods without causing excessive battery drain. The intelligent wakeup triggers ensure the device can quickly resume operation when needed.

• Compact Form Factor Options: Versatility in physical implementation is important for diverse applications. The STN1110 is offered in multiple package options, including SPDIP, SOIC, and QFN. These various form factors ensure that the STN1110 can be easily integrated into a wide range of OBD2 adapter designs and hardware configurations, regardless of size constraints.

Comprehensive OBD2 Protocol Support

The STN1110 OBD2 scanner IC supports all major OBD protocols, ensuring broad vehicle compatibility.

• Legislated OBD-II Protocols:

  • ISO 15765-4 (CAN): The Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol, as specified in ISO 15765-4, is fully supported, covering modern vehicles using CAN for diagnostics.
  • ISO 14230-4 (Keyword Protocol 2000): Support for ISO 14230-4 (KWP2000) ensures compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, particularly those adhering to European standards.
  • ISO 9141-2: Compliance with ISO 9141-2 extends compatibility to Asian, European, and Chrysler vehicles that utilize this protocol.
  • SAE J1850 VPW (GM vehicles): The SAE J1850 Variable Pulse Width (VPW) protocol, used extensively in General Motors (GM) vehicles, is fully supported.
  • SAE J1850 PWM (Ford vehicles): Support for SAE J1850 Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) ensures compatibility with Ford vehicles and others employing this protocol.

• Non-Legislated OBD Protocols:

  • ISO 15765: Beyond the legislated ISO 15765-4, the STN1110 also supports the broader ISO 15765 protocol, offering flexibility in implementation.
  • ISO 11898 (raw CAN): For advanced applications requiring direct CAN bus access, the STN1110 supports ISO 11898, enabling raw CAN communication capabilities.

• SAE J1939 for Heavy-Duty Vehicles: Expanding beyond passenger vehicles, the STN1110 also supports the SAE J1939 OBD protocol. This is crucial for applications involving heavy-duty vehicles, trucks, and buses that utilize J1939 for diagnostics and communication.

Enhanced Stability and Reliability

Stability and reliability are paramount in automotive applications. The STN1110 OBD2 scanner IC is built for dependable performance.

• Proven and Field-Tested Software: The STN1110 runs the same robust and field-tested firmware that powers the OBDLink family of PC-based OBD interfaces. This shared codebase benefits from extensive real-world usage and continuous improvement based on a large user base. Any potential issues are quickly identified and resolved, ensuring a highly stable and reliable OBD2 interpreter.

• Large OBD Message Buffer to Prevent Data Loss: To prevent data overflow and ensure complete data capture, the STN1110 incorporates a large OBD message buffer. This buffer has over five times the RAM capacity of competing ICs, virtually eliminating BUFFER OVERFLOW errors, especially under heavy data loads or during rapid data acquisition.

• Fine-Tuned Automatic Protocol Detection: Connecting to a wide variety of vehicles, even those with slight deviations from OBD standards, requires intelligent protocol handling. The STN1110 features a sophisticated automatic protocol detection algorithm that is continuously refined. This algorithm ensures successful connection to the broadest range of vehicles, even those that may not strictly adhere to all aspects of the OBD standard.

PowerSave Sleep/Wakeup Triggers for STN11xx Series

The STN11xx family of ICs, including the STN1110, offers versatile PowerSave modes with multiple wakeup triggers, as illustrated in the diagram below. Detailed information on PowerSave functionality can be found in the STN11xx PowerSave Functionality documentation.

Cost-Effective Solution

The STN1110 OBD2 scanner IC provides exceptional value and cost savings.

• Significant Cost Savings: The STN1110 offers a cost-effective solution, with potential savings of up to 200% compared to competing OBD2 interpreter ICs. This makes it an attractive option for cost-sensitive applications without compromising on performance or features.

• Volume Discounts Available: Generous volume discounts are available, making the STN1110 even more economical for larger production runs. Detailed pricing tiers can be found by requesting a quote or visiting the current pricing tiers page.

• Request Free Samples: To evaluate the STN1110 firsthand, developers can request free samples. This allows for direct testing and integration assessment before committing to larger orders.

Downloads and Resources

Access datasheets, manuals, and other resources for the STN1110 OBD2 scanner IC:

STN1110 Datasheet
STN1100 Family Reference and Programming Manual
STN11xx PowerSave Functionality
STN1110 Press Release
Firmware Update Specification for Devices with STN Bootloader
STN1110 vs. ELM327 Comparison

Open Hardware Project Integrations

Explore open hardware projects utilizing the STN1110:

Arduino Vehicle OBD2 Shield (Kostas Sigalas/Sigalabs)
Sparkfun OBD-II UART board
STN1110 Bluetooth OBD-II Adapter by Andy Honecker
STN1110 Bluetooth OBD-II Adapter on GitHub (Nabil Tewolde)

Tutorials and Guides

Sparkfun STN1110 tutorial for getting started with the STN1110.