OBD stands for On-Board Diagnostics, which is a computer system found in modern vehicles. Main purpose of an OBD (including OBD II, OBD I, EOBD) system is to monitor emissions and diagnostic related information in the vehicle - which is monitored by thousands of sensors throughout.

Therefore OBD2 data can provide a plethora of benefits for both home vehicle owners and technicians, because it provides an instant analysis of vehicles condition... without having to guess or manually search for the problem (called DTC) when MIL "check engine" light engages on the dashboard.

This also means an OBD 2 diagnosis scan can detect fault errors early - before serious damage occurs to the vehicle. When a fault is detected, the OBD2 system can provide information about the cause of the fault, including a snapshot of the conditions, leading up to the fault.

OBD-2 diagnosis also provide real-time sensor readings from the vehicle, letting users record and measure variables like vehicle speed, engine RPM, 0-60/100, torque strength and calculate fuel economy/usage.

To get started, you simply plug a OBD2 16-pin diagnostic connector (either USB, Bluetooth or WIFI) - which is located on the driver side below the steering wheel. Using a OBD2 scanner/scan tool, code reader, or OBD-2 software - you can access the OBD-2 computer system.

There are two basic types of scan tools: Stand alone handheld (and) PC/software-based. Stand alone scan tools are typically handheld devices that do not require a computer or mobile device for operation. They are often limited in functionality, lack advanced diagnostic features, are not upgradeable, and come with a high price tag.

PC/software-based scan tools require a laptop or mobile phone or tablet with OBD software to read OBD diagnostic data.

The scantool connects to the laptop or mobile device (Android, iOS) using either ELM327 USB, ELM327 Bluetooth or EL327 WiFi version. PC/Mobile-based scan tools are very flexible and powerful because they harness the power and upgradeability for future vehicle support.