Hey All-

just bought an OBD II cable from scantool.net. I downloaded their software, hooked it up to the computer and attempted to run it. As I choose a com port it says that the device isnt working. I have tried a few other software programs, but same problem. It is having trouble connecting to the interface. Any suggestions. Any one know where to get something more specific to BMW /MINI? Any info would be great. Thanks!!!!

 

Skoobee - Need more info. Laptop? Have you ever used you serial port for anything else? I'm trying to confirm that it works. Was it designated Port 1 or 2 or 3. Sometimes laptops like to keep port 1 for the mouse. Have you checked and configured the port? If not do so, set it at 4800,8,none,1,hardware. Do you have any other software running that is hogging the port like palm transfer software? You may have to shut that stuff off.

The problem is probably the configuration of your machine.

Try it with a machine that you know has a working and properly configured port.

Sorry, not much help but hard to do remotely.

 

first off I should say that I am using a desktop, set up in the garage. I dont have a laptop. all the ports are free. I am using scan tool's software, but I think that I need an ISO board. I just have the OBD II cable (serial) plugged into the back of the computer. I feel like a dork because I am missing that other part. I had a feeling that I was in too cheap for OBD II scanning. DO I need the interface board (ISO)? or is there a cheat way to figure it out. Any info would be great. Thank you!!

 

first off I should say that I am using a desktop, set up in the garage. I dont have a laptop. all the ports are free. I am using scan tool's software, but I think that I need an ISO board. I just have the OBD II cable (serial) plugged into the back of the computer. I feel like a dork because I am missing that other part. I had a feeling that I was in too cheap for OBD II scanning. DO I need the interface board (ISO)? or is there a cheat way to figure it out. Any info would be great. Thank you!!

 

sorry for the double post.

 

try a serial to USB convertor (~$30), it worked for me on a different branded OBDII cable when I couldn't get the onboard COM1 or 2 to work.

 

>> I think that I need an ISO board.
>> I just have the OBD II cable (serial) plugged into the back of the computer.
>> I feel like a dork because I am missing that other part.
>> I had a feeling that I was in too cheap for OBD II scanning.
>> DO I need the interface board (ISO)?

Oh, no...

You can't just plug the cable into the serial-port.

You need this:


They NEVER should have used a DB-9 connector on the end of the OBD-II cable.

The GOOD news is that the whole package costs only $85 ELMscan-ISO

 

Do you have a Plazma Booster or a piggy back ECU?

I say this because the plazma booster can affect the ecu (when on) and impede the communication between your car and the computer.

L

 

If it does that, it's is severely broken. Contact ignition solutions for a full
refund, and if your ECU is damaged by this accessory, I would contact
the better business bureau and complain.

The PB hookes up to just the ignition coil primary outputs from the ECU,
and in no way should affect the OBD-II communications.

In fact, (IMHO) the PB in no way affects anything in the car. :smile: