The Freematics OBD-II Emulator MK2 is a sophisticated tool designed for professionals and enthusiasts working with automotive diagnostics and OBD-II technology. This device expertly mimics a standard 16-pin OBD-II port, supporting a wide array of data protocols including KWP2000, ISO9141, CAN bus, and J1850. It accurately responds to requests for standard OBD-II PIDs, encompassing crucial data points like Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), just as a vehicle’s ECU would. It goes further by simulating up to 6 active DTCs across Mode 03, 07, and 0A, mirroring real-world scenarios of vehicle malfunctions.
This OBD2 emulator is invaluable for developing and testing OBD-II applications right on your workbench. Moreover, when paired with an external data source, it can bridge the gap for vehicles lacking a native OBD-II port. This enables existing OBD-II devices and software to seamlessly interface with a broader range of vehicles, expanding compatibility and testing possibilities.
Control of the emulator is versatile, offering options via a user-friendly GUI software through a USB connection, or wirelessly via BLE using the Freematics Controller app, available for both iOS and Android platforms. For advanced users and developers, programmatic control is also available via USB or serial UART interface, opening up a realm of custom applications and integrations.
Key Features of the OBD2 Emulator
- Standard OBD-II Port Simulation: Equipped with a powered 16-pin OBD-II female port, ensuring compatibility with standard OBD-II devices.
- Comprehensive Vehicle Data Bus Emulation: Simulates various vehicle data bus protocols including CAN, KWP2000, ISO9141-2, J1850 PWM, and J1850 VPW, offering broad protocol support.
- Extensive OBD-II Mode 01 PID Simulation: Emulates a wide range of OBD-II Mode 01 PIDs (0100-0163), covering essential diagnostic parameters.
- Realistic DTC Simulation: Simulates OBD-II DTCs across modes 03/07/0A, supporting up to 6 concurrent active DTCs to replicate fault conditions.
- Readiness Monitors Simulation: Allows simulation of OBD-II readiness monitors, crucial for emissions testing application development.
- VIN Data Simulation: Simulates Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) data in Mode 09, essential for vehicle identification and diagnostic processes.
- Flexible Control Options: Operated via intuitive GUI software (over USB) or a convenient iOS/Android App (via BLE), catering to different user preferences and use cases.
- Programmable Control via AT Commands: Offers programmable control through a serial UART or USB interface using AT command-set, ideal for custom integrations and automated testing.
- Firmware Upgradeable via USB: Ensures the emulator can be updated with the latest features and protocol enhancements via a simple USB firmware upgrade process.
- Versatile Power Supply: Powered by DC 12-24V pass-through up to 5A, accommodating various power environments and connected OBD devices.
The OBD2 emulator implements a range of crucial protocols, ensuring compatibility with a wide variety of automotive systems:
- CAN/ISO15765 (500Kbps/11bit, 250Kbps/11bit, 500Kbps/29bit, 250Kbps/29bit)
- ISO9141-2
- KWP2000/ISO14230 (Fast and 5Kbps)
- J1850 VPW (optional)
- J1850 PWM (optional)
It’s important to note that the emulator is designed to respond to requests and does not actively generate CAN signals unless an OBD device is connected and initiating communication.
The physical interfaces on the emulator are thoughtfully designed for ease of use and connectivity:
- 16-pin female OBD-II port for device connection.
- DC 12V input for power supply.
- USB port for PC connectivity and control.
- I/O socket (XH-2.54) for serial and power interface.
The I/O socket, available in 6-pin (J1850 version) and 4-pin configurations, provides a versatile interface for serial TTL communication and DC power. This feature allows microcontrollers like Arduino to interact with the emulator in real-time via the AT command-set, enabling advanced and customized control scenarios. For the 6-pin socket, pin definitions are Tx, Rx, GND, 3.3V, 5V (left-to-right). For the 4-pin socket, they are Tx, Rx, GND, 5V (left-to-right).
User-Friendly PC GUI for OBD2 Emulator Control
To simplify configuration and control, an open-source GUI software has been developed for this OBD2 emulator. For Windows users, the binary can be downloaded here. Simply download the compressed file, extract its contents, and run FreematicsEmulator.exe to launch the intuitive GUI.
Mobile App Control via Bluetooth
For wireless control, the OBD2 emulator is compatible with the Freematics Controller app, leveraging Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). This app is readily available for both Android and iOS devices. Android users can download the APK here, and iOS users can find the “Freematics Controller” app by searching in the App Store.
Quick Start Guide for Your OBD2 Emulator
To begin using your OBD2 emulator, follow these straightforward steps:
1. Powering Up: Connect a DC power adapter to the emulator.
The emulator requires external DC power to operate and to provide power to any connected OBD device. For devices with power demands exceeding 1A, it’s recommended to use a power source with a higher rating. The DC input socket is conveniently located next to the USB port.
2. PC Connection via USB: Plug in the provided USB cable and connect it to your PC.
On Windows 7/8 and later, driver installation is typically automatic. For Windows XP users, drivers can be downloaded from here.
3. Establish Connection with GUI Software: Launch the Freematics OBD-II Emulator GUI software by running FreematicsEmulator.exe. Click the “Connect” button within the software to establish a connection with the emulator. Upon successful connection, the “Connect” button will toggle to “Disconnect”.
4. Connect Your OBD-II Device: Plug your OBD-II device (with a male OBD-II connector) into the female OBD-II port on the emulator.
Your OBD-II device should now function as if it were connected to a real vehicle’s OBD-II port. Utilize the GUI to modify OBD-II PID values, set diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and adjust the VIN as needed for your testing or development purposes.
For mobile control using the Freematics App, these are the steps:
1. Power Connection: Ensure the OBD2 emulator is powered by connecting a DC power adapter.
2. App Installation: Download and install the Freematics Controller App on your Android or iOS mobile device. The app is available for Android (APK download here) and iOS (search “Freematics Controller” on the App Store).
3. Emulator Discovery and Connection: Launch the Freematics App. It will automatically scan for nearby emulators. Select your emulator from the list of discovered devices and tap “Connect”. The control interface will then load on your mobile device.
4. OBD-II Device Integration: Plug in your OBD-II device into the emulator’s OBD-II port. It will now operate as if connected to a vehicle. Use the Freematics App on your mobile device to remotely adjust PID values and interact with the simulated vehicle data.
Advanced Serial Control Interface
Communication between the OBD2 emulator and a host device (PC or other systems) is facilitated through a robust AT command-set. The GUI software itself is built upon this command-set, making it straightforward for developers to create custom GUIs or integrate the emulator into larger systems. Detailed information about the AT command-set is available here.
Power Considerations
The OBD2 emulator accepts a DC power input of up to 30V. A 12V/1A power adapter with a 5.5/2.1mm connector (center positive) is optionally available. However, for demanding OBD-II devices or to simulate voltage variations, a higher-rated or adjustable power supply is recommended. Crucially, the input voltage is directly passed through to pin 16 of the OBD port (battery power pin) and is unfused unless the external power supply is fused.
If you require the stock power adapter, please select the desired type from the “Available Options” at the top of the product page before placing your order. Otherwise, the order will be shipped without a power adapter.
Package Contents
- Freematics OBD-II Emulator MK2 x 1
- USB Cable x 1
- DC 12V/1A Power Adapter (5.5/2.1mm) x 1 (Optional)
Helpful Resources
- Freematics OBD-II Emulator MK2 Product Page
- Freematics OBD Emulator GUI Software
- Freematics Controller App (Android)
- [Freematics Controller App (iOS)](Search “Freematics Controller” on the App Store)
- USB to UART Bridge VCP Drivers
- OBD-II PIDs Explained
- AT Command Set for OBD-II Emulator
