Hey all,

I spend a lot of time in my car (as most of you probably do), but I'm also big into computers and such.

I'm ordering a laptop stand for my car (I haven't settled on which one yet, so if anyone has any suggestions PM me).

My question is, what would I need to setup something that could/would monitor the car, eg fuel, engine, etc etc. Is it possible to fool with the ECM on-the-fly, and get instant results while driving?

(Safety Note: I would not be reading/watching the laptop while driving, I'd bring a co-pilot for that)

Or is something like this way too complicated and expensive, and not really worth it.

With the right software, anything is possible, my Padwan learner....quite a few of the monitors that are on the market now are VB based. They are easily "opened up" and tied into other software. Anyone care to take on a challenge?

In terms of the OBD-2 generic information, you would be able to datalog without much of a problem. The major problem with messing with the ECM is that GM holds that information close to their chest, so it would be up to you to hack the system. Do you REALLY want to **** up your ECM on your daily driver, by trying to update parameters?

I'm no expert on the ECM.... but isn't it just data... can't that data be saved into a BIN file or something, and then flashed again later. IE, if I goof the data on the ECM, I would have a backup copy and just reflash it.

I'm assuming the ECM is like a BIOS chip....... just flash it.

You are correct. It is just data stored on an EEPROM that is then executed by the processor. It works much like a computers BIOS, because it is the same basic thing. THe problem is, if you screw up the data, you most likely WONT be able to upload a new BIN to the EEPROM via the OBD2 connector. It will require a ROM flasher hooked up to a computer. I think the best way to start with a project like this is to get a ROM reader/flasher, and install a socket for the EEPROM so that you can take the chip out, save the original BIN info, and tweak from there. Just remember. If you change certain items, there is nothing saving your butt from killing your engine....

I didn't know you couldn't upload via the OBD2.... hrm... and you make a very good point about "nothing saving your butt from killing your engine"....

I think I'll just hook something up to monitor the engine/etc first... then maybe later look into mods on the fly.

Thanks

you, my friend, do not have OBD II (2). Its only 96+. You have OBD I i beleive. I know i do and i was thinking about doing the same thing, only reading tho, no programing. Now anyone out there that can help me make the interface for my OBD I-II transition car lemme know im trying to make one.
Here is some nice info for making your own if your the least bit electronically inclined:

http://pweb.de.uu.net/pr-meyer.h/aldl.htm

( I had two but apparently the other one no longer exists)

I need to figure which pins match what on my 16pin connector so i can make this interface match my car....

Hope this helps!
~B

Merlin1 - where can you get a laptop stand for your car??? i have a friend who'* looking for one.

http://www.mobileofficesolutions.com/trek.htm

Check that site out..... the stands are kinda pricey..... but they look ok.

Yeah I dont think you can get instant readings from a pre OBD II car. I could be wrong....I have been wrong before but I think im right about this. :?