Code Reader Cable

**msreyes** · 06-22-2006, 01:17 PM

I have the following Code Reader, which appears to have attached on the one end a Parallel Port connection (actually have not connected it, but will try)

http://www.iequus.com/item.asp?cid=7&pid=3100

So the obvious question is can you plug this into a PC and use it with software like streetdeck? I do not want to "Try" it in case it does something to the parallel port.

**digimotojoel** · 06-22-2006, 01:49 PM

If you are asking if you can plug the OBDII cable from that unit directly from your vehicle into your computer, no you can not. There are no brains in that cable, in fact you could damage your computer interfacing to a vehicle directly with an OBDII cable like that. The brains of that device are in the unit.

**joeyoravec** · 06-22-2006, 01:56 PM

A vehicle interface box/cable will always contain some electronics to change voltages, translate protocols. It acts as a translation gateway between protocols on your PC (ethernet, serial, etc) and the Vehicle (K-line, Class2, CAN, etc). This requires more than a simple wiring adapter; some circuitry is necessary.

It would be quite unwise to detach the cable from your scantool and plug the vehicle directly into the parallel port. At best it would do nothing, and worst-case it could short the 12v battery to the wrong pin and fry your laptop.