Live data from your car’s onboard computer can provide valuable insights into its performance and health. A car scanner allows you to tap into this data stream, record it, and analyze it for potential issues. This article will guide you through the process of using a car scanner to record, view, and export live data, focusing on Car Scanner app as an example.
Recording Live Data with Car Scanner
Before connecting your car scanner, navigate to the “Data recording” section within the Car Scanner app and enable the “Data recording” toggle. While recording can be activated after connecting, enabling it beforehand is recommended.
Keep these key principles in mind:
- Displayed Data is Recorded: Car Scanner records parameters currently visible on the screen. To capture specific data like engine load or RPM, ensure they are displayed on the “Dashboard” or “Live data” screens.
- Associated Data is Included: Along with requested data, related parameters are also recorded. Requesting oxygen sensor voltage, for example, will likely also capture short-term fuel trim (STFT).
- Dependent Parameters are Recorded: Requesting a parameter calculated from others will record all involved parameters. Selecting “Vehicle speed” will also record “Average speed” and “Total distance”.
- Fuel Consumption Recording: Enabling “Always calculate and save fuel consumption” will record all related fuel parameters and their dependencies.
- Saving Recorded Data: Data is saved when you disconnect the scanner or manually disable “Record data.” Exiting the app prematurely will not save the current session.
- Numeric Data Only: Only numerical data is recorded; text-based values are excluded.
Viewing and Interpreting Recorded Car Scanner Data
To access recorded data, go to “Data Recording” in Car Scanner and select the desired file. Choose the parameters you wish to analyze and visualize them in one of two ways:
- Individual Charts: Each selected parameter is displayed on a separate chart for detailed analysis.
- Combined Graph: All selected parameters are plotted on a single graph for comparison and trend identification. Zoom options allow focusing on specific areas within the X and Y axes. Hovering over a point on the graph reveals the parameter’s value at that specific time.
Exporting Car Scanner Live Data for Further Analysis
Car Scanner allows data export in two formats:
- CSV: A universally compatible spreadsheet format readable by applications like Microsoft Excel or Notepad.
- BRC: Car Scanner’s proprietary format, readable only within the app.
Export methods differ between iOS and Android:
iOS: Share directly from the file list using the “Share” option. Alternatively, connect your device to a computer via iTunes and transfer BRC files through the “Shared Files” section.
Android: Use the “Share” option within the file list to export in either CSV or BRC format.
Importing Recorded Data into Car Scanner
Important: Only BRC files can be imported.
iOS: Connect your device to a computer with iTunes and transfer the BRC file to the “Shared Files” section for Car Scanner.
Android: Simply open the BRC file; Car Scanner will automatically launch and import the data.
Managing Recorded Data Files
Car Scanner allows renaming and deleting recorded files. Use the appropriate options within the file list to perform these actions.
Conclusion: Leveraging Car Scanner Live Data for Diagnostics
Car Scanner Live Data offers a powerful tool for understanding your vehicle’s performance. By recording, viewing, and analyzing this data, you can gain valuable insights into potential issues, optimize maintenance, and ensure optimal vehicle health. Using Car Scanner’s features, you can effectively manage and utilize this data for informed decision-making regarding your car’s maintenance and repair.
