A car scanner app, paired with an OBD-II adapter, allows you to access your vehicle’s diagnostic data. But what about the “terminal” feature often found within these apps? This article explores how the terminal function enhances the capabilities of car scanner apps like Torque Pro and Car Scanner, going beyond basic diagnostics.
Beyond Basic Diagnostics: Unlocking Advanced Features with the Terminal
While pre-defined Parameter IDs (PIDs) within car scanner apps provide valuable insights into your car’s performance, the terminal unlocks a deeper level of customization and control. It allows direct communication with your vehicle’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) using specific commands.
Initially, apps like Car Scanner lacked the advanced functionalities found in Torque Pro. Torque Pro allowed users to leverage word/value substitution in equations, enabling customized displays for binary data (0 or 1) representing ON/OFF states. It also facilitated the creation of “virtual” PIDs by utilizing data from existing PIDs in custom equations. For instance, calculating the difference between transmission output shaft speed and engine RPM was possible. This feature also allowed for complex calculations, like determining 4WD intermediate shaft speed using data from front and rear propshaft speeds.
Car Scanner has since incorporated these advanced features. The terminal in Car Scanner, similar to Torque Pro, now allows for:
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Custom PID Creation: Develop “virtual” PIDs based on existing data, enabling you to monitor unique parameters tailored to your specific needs.
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Value to Text Conversion: Transform numerical data into meaningful text descriptions, enhancing readability and understanding of diagnostic information. For instance, convert “1” to “ON” and “0” to “OFF” for clarity.
This terminal functionality expands the scope of data analysis beyond pre-set options, empowering users with a more granular understanding of their vehicle’s performance.
Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of the Terminal
The terminal function in car scanner apps like Car Scanner empowers users to move beyond basic diagnostic readings. By enabling custom PID creation and value to text conversion, the terminal unlocks a deeper level of vehicle analysis. This enhanced functionality offers greater flexibility and customization in monitoring and understanding your car’s performance. While understanding the specific commands and syntax is crucial for utilizing the terminal effectively, it opens up a world of possibilities for advanced diagnostics and data analysis.
