I'm still looking around. I did a search for it as well, but if somebody knows where the access port is, please post. I just bought an OBD II scanner and am trying to get it hooked up to my on-board computer.

Never mind, I just found it. If anybody else is looking, it's just below the fuse cover facing down towards the floor. I'll have to move it since I want to hook this up indefinately and I don't want the wire riding on my shin.
Edited to add:
Oh baby, This is sweet! Real time gas mileage information as well as a whole slew of other info. Best of all, I can diagnose and reset my own engine trouble codes. This thing will pay for itself the first time I avoid the dealership for a reset. Now I just need a serial to USB adaptor so I can still run my GPS at the same time.(I only have one serial port on my computer at this time.)

That's the ticket! You get a five rating for doing my research for me!

OOPs, You have your ratings turned off. How about a big thank you? THANK YOU!

np

In another thread somewhere was mentioned serial-usb adapther and radio shack so it might be financially viable to check that out.

I can tell you that the gpscity one installs as a COM port of your choice with adjustable everything settings-wise plus the added bonus of flashing led activity lights. I haven't tried it on XP but there ARE newer drivers available.

OBD II???

On-Board Diagnostics, version 2.

It's a serial interface to the engine computer that was almost standardized in 1995.

You might want to take a look at:
http://pfranc.com/usb/usb.shtml

This is a cool site started by a guy selling kits to make the proprietary connectors for various Garmin GPS receivers. I bought a couple of connectors for my Etrex for about 5 dollars, soldered them to junked mouse cables and saved 40 bucks.

He sells a USB to serial port adapter that looks like it might be the same one mentioned in a previous post, for less money.

Can you post a photo of the adapter you're using?

real time gas mileage! ok... i have absolutely no idea what you are talking about. where does one get an obdII... how much are they and what information can you get besides the gas mileage? this thing sounds cool. i hate it when i dont know what is going on.

thanks!

An OBD II scanner hooks up to your truck's ECU and allows you to query the processor for information. If you click on the link in my post in Parts and Accessories it will take you to the site where I bought mine. There are pictures and specifications available there. You can get trouble codes and reset them as well as monitor a lot of stuff going on with your truck. There are many other units available elsewhere. I'm having fun with mine and it will pay for itself the first time I diagnose a problem and reset the code myself.

Hi Xterrian,

What kind of adapter and software are you using to get the information from the On Board Diagnostic Computer ?

Are you using a Monitor (OTC Monitor 2000) or a software on a regular laptop and an adapter ?

Dude, read my last post. It gives all of that info.

thanks xterrain.... very sweet. i might have to look into it. i have a laptop (not hooked up in the truck) and a palm. i think i might look into getting it for the palm - that would be quite hand and since the palm is so small and portable, it would be perfect.

thanks again!

That serial to usb looks exactly the same (only a lot cheaper!). The drivers ARE from the same place. Looks like a good way to save some money. Lots of sites seem to claw back some of their discounted products profit by screwing you heavily on the accessories.

Does someone knows if this device can work on a Canadian Xterra.

(I'm also e-mailing the maker of the converter to ask them)

[Edited] In less than 1 hour, they have answered me. These guys are great. Not only they answer really fast to e-mail but they also gave me the price for the less expensive setup for my specific vehicle (you can buy only the connector for a limited range of vehicle instead of a universal kit).

The device works also on Canadian XTerra.