Frequently Asked Questions

What is a DataCam2?

A Datacam is a device that gathers performance data from an automobile and overlays that data on a video signal from a video camera which is then sent to a video recorder. The DataCam2 consists of a OBD connector and a processor module.

How does the DataCam2 get the data?

The DataCam2 communicates with the Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) computer in the car to retrieve car performance data. Some other data like selected gear and brake activity are gathered from sensors or switches in the car that come with the DataCam2 package.

The DataCam2 uses the OBD computer that is required to be installed in all cars manufactured and sold in the US since 1996. The OBD computer is required by the USEPA to monitor certain engine and performance data to ensure that the environmental performance that of the car meets federal and/or state environmental regulations. The OBD II standards are an outgrowth of the original California state CARB standards developed in 1984.

What do I need to use the DataCam2?

You need a DataCam2, a video camera, a video recorder and a car that is OBDII compliant and utilizes the ISO 1941. The ISO 1941 spec covers almost all european and japanese cars sold in the US.

What data can I get?

You can get almost any data that the OBD system can get. The basic DataCam2 gets rpm, vehicle speed and throttle position from the OBD system. The EPA OBD II implementation requires certain data to be captured by all cars and these three are part of that dataset. There are other data points that are manufacturer specific that may be able to be retrieved.

The basic DataCam2 also retrieves barke activity by tapping into the brake light 12 volt line. The Gear Selected option retrieves the currently selected gear by scanning a switch matrix that is supplied with the DataCam2. In some OBD implementations, the selected gear is stored in the OBD computer. Other do not store it. For those that do, the DataCam2 gets the data from the OBD system. For the ones that don't, the gear switch matrix is used.

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