[sci.electronics] scan tool for auto computer?

kerr@tron.UUCP (Dave Kerr) (08/07/90)

I'm posting for a friend who doesn't have access to the net. 
Please reply to him directly at the following address(es).
Thanks in advance,

Tom Diviney
Westinghouse Electric Corp.
PO. Box 746, MS. 60
Baltimore, MD 21203
(301)765-4453, (WIN) 285-4453
VAX-mail: diviney%eclus.dnet@tron.bwi.wec.com
Unix-mail: diviney@sky00.bwi.wec.com

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        I would like to find information on the technical details of the 
diagnostic serial data link used by all the major auto manufacturers.  I have 
experimented with this "Scan" link in my 1988 Olds Calais, and discovered that 
it uses a standard serial format (1-start, 8-data, and 1-stop bit).  The logic 
levels are TTL (0-5V), and the baud rate is around 8000.  The data is send in 
25 character bursts spaced every 200 mS.  The service manual lists about 23 
parameters which can be read by a "Scan tool".  I can read the raw hexadecimal 
numbers, but I would like to know how to interpret them.  Does anyone know 
where I can obtain the following information:

        1. How are these 25 bytes of information mapped into the
           measured parameters?

        2. What are the conversion factors (ie. volts per quanta etc.) ?

        3. Is this a standard format for all GM cars with ECM's ?
           (Other Olds models in my manual seemed to have a different
            list of parameters than mine).

        4. Is this a standard for all american cars (Ford, Chrysler, and GM) ?

        5. If not standardized, what are the formats for the other 
           manufacturers?

     P.S.-  Sears does sell a "Scan Tool", but the cost is around $370
            plus $130 for each ROM (unique to each auto manufacturer).
            I am convinced than a simple PC program can do the job of
            the "Scan Tool" without the $500 price tag.

        Thank you for any related information.

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Dave Kerr (301) 765-4453 (WIN)765-4453
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