Just got the cables and Carsoft software from obdii365 in yesterday and got it all installed on an $84 IBM Thinkpad I picked up off of eBay. This evening, instead of installing my rear shocks, I had a chance to test out my BMW Carsoft 6.5 software on my 1999 540it BMW. I decided to set up another garage tool via a laptop running Carsoft and various other reference applications.

I purchased:

An IBM T23 laptop with 512mb from eBay. I installed a copy of Windows 2000 SP4. I chose this configuration as it was CHEAP and came with a serial port needed for Carsoft 6.5. Actually, I used one of these every day and know they were fairly durable. Good for the garage, so I wouldn't have to worry about banging it around. $86 US plus shipping. It came with a DVD player and AC power supply. I added a removable 2nd battery in place of the DVD to permit about 4 hours of total runtime away from an outlet.

A set of interface cables from Chinese seller obd365 and 6.5 software. It included two diagnostic port cables and a serial cable to connect to the Laptop. There is an interface that goes in-between the cables. Less than $50 shipped.

A neoprene slip case to not only protect the laptop, but protect it and the engine cover when I set the laptop up away from my garage, on top of my plastic engine cover. $16

I had:

A copy of Win 2000, SP4. I used it as it uses less memory than XP and has more than enough performance for Carsoft.

A Linksys N wireless card for connecting to my network.

There are two cables, one for the 20 pin connector on the passenger side aft of the airbox. The second cable is to pull data from the OBDII connector under the lower drivers side connector. This evening, I connected to and ran full diagnosis from the 20 pin connector.

A Targus AC/DC power supply to connect wherever.

A soft laptop carrying case for all the pieces.

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I won't go into all the tests, but I will mention that I was able to run a general retrieve of all stored codes.

I was able to run some more specific retrieves on supported modules and erase status codes

Observe some live engine and switch data. All live data was done at engine idle. Went from cold to 109c operating temperature.

I found where you could roll windows up/down, lock doors and set preferences for locking the central locking system.

It will reset the service intervals as well. (I had none to reset...)

I'll try the OBDII connector a different day. I'll likely use it from inside the car to observe engine activity when underway.

Thanks to DavidMC in Australia for making an easy install for many folks. Installed on first try with your terrific instructions... Anyone really wanting more information on Carsoft installs can read this post.

www.obdii365.com

Enjoy!

Posted by: jean at 02:57 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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