Switchable Power for OBD Sensors

I would like to develop a manual (i.e toggle switch) and automated (i.e fusion brain) power controller for OBD sensors. I have found that one of the biggest drawbacks to using integrated OBD software and a car PC is the power drain by leaving the OBD sensor connected.

I plan to use :
http://www.scantool.net/accessories/...1962f-5ft.html

Along with a fusion brain as well as the manual option to allow me to keep the cable connected but turn it on or off without it draining the battery.

Once I have all the wiring figured out and pin outs I would publish it up so the community could create they own to augment their car pcs.

I would like the fusion brain and the cable as part of the grant if possible

Questions or thoughts?

oddly enough, my buddy steve already has a working prototype of such a device.

just having occasional problems with a relay. didn't need a fusionbrain. just plugs between the obd2 port and the obdlink device.

OBDPros now sell a device that powers down when the computer powers off. $85 and an option to make it bluetooth for additional $$

The obdpro one is nice but it would require us to buy a new scanner. I want something as an add on to the obi tool that Is already owned. Plus as with everything in this hobby I would love to see something not cost $60+

Yes, as mentioned above I have a working prototype. This is a really simple device, not to put down the idea but it is not really necissary to connect any kind of a "brain" to this circuit. With a little luck and a radio shac you can make one for like 20$. Ill post some pics and a description later.

I did not really need the brain, just to have it turn off. I thought it would be cool to be able to turn it on and off from the front end. I would love to see the pics and description.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by obstacleman

I did not really need the brain, just to have it turn off. I thought it would be cool to be able to turn it on and off from the front end. I would love to see the pics and description.

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uglymonkey aka steve told me last night that he'd take a pic and give a basic description of the device.


soooo stay tuned.

This should be easy...Get a relay(s) and route the OBD lines barring ground through the relay contacts and just energize the relay using ACC line.

Edit: On second thoughts, instead of switching all the lines, It may just be a bit easier to switch just the +12V line from the OBD port going to the OBD Scanner but I havent tried any of it yet.

Pair16 is the power, so you would just need a relay to break that connection and you would be good to go.

Here is a pic of the prototype Ive been working on.
http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/5264/sam1091.th.jpg