Have a question? Please see our FAQ. Print this Mini Logger Page as a PDF DAWN Mini-Logger Video

Click image to enlarge.

Overview

The DAWN OBD Mini Logger™ is a compact, low-cost data logger to acquire CAN bus data from cars and trucks. The logger installation is simple since it snaps directly on the J1962 OBD connector. The logger is so small that it fits in the palm of your hand.

DAWN software comes standard with the OBD-II database which defines over 100 parameters according to the SAE J1979 standard; 40+ being available on a typical car. It also includes the full J1939 database. The DawnEdit™ software determines which parameters are available on the vehicle to create a unique database for each vehicle model. The user selects which parameters to acquire. Also, the user can add custom messages and parameters in DawnEdit to acquire proprietary messages.

The OBD Mini Logger can simultaneously acquire four types of messages:

1. Generic OBD-II – standard on all cars and light trucks after 1996 (mode $01) as defined by J1979
2. Enhanced OBD – similar to a service scan tool database; specific to each OEM (mode $21 and $22)
3. Normal messages – transmitted for normal vehicle operation; no request messages required (These can be any CAN format including J1939 and CANOpen)
4. Direct Memory Reads (DMRs) – highly proprietary (mode $23); reads controller’s memory

Acquiring Data Beyond Standard OBD-II Parameters…

Soft LED indicators show the logger status without distracting the driver. A real-time clock with a battery backup syncs with GPS.

The DAWN Mini-Logger Video demonstrates how to configure the logger and convert the messages to scaled engineering parameters.
 

Standard Parameters

List of OBD-II parameters

OBD Mini Logger Specifications

Data Storage & Transfer

The OBD Mini Logger comes standard with 4GB internal storage (up to 64GB option). Manually transfer message files to a PC using USB. The oldest file is removed if the logger runs out of disk space. How to estimate data size
 

Automated Data Transfers with WiFi and Cellular

WiFi or cellular are options to automate the file transfers to a website or local server. Files are removed from the logger after a successful transfer. If you prefer to use an HEM Data website to store and display data click here for a description of features and benefits. For details on the WiFi and cellular options click here.
 

GPS

GPS data is an option for the OBD Mini Logger. GPS Data syncs with vehicle data on conversion. Click here for details on GPS that is housed within the Mini Logger.
 

Stand-alone Data Logger or Real-Time Display

If you need real-time display of the data on a PC or smartphone, then you can use the DAWN Mini Streamer™ and logger together. The smartphone can then upload the necessary information over cellular to a website for summary and analysis. The Mini Streamer sends OBD, CAN and J1939 data.

Analog Data

The Mini ADAQ acquires analog data directly from sensors and outputs CAN data to a Mini Logger. Input types including voltage, current, temperature (thermocouple & thermistor), digital, frequency, PWM, and inclination. Click here for ADAQ details. The logger can store analog and vehicle data simultaneously.

Hybrid Test Data

To learn about DAWN and hybrid test data see this page.
 

Future Enhancements

Check with HEM Data for availability for support of these future enhancements: Bluetooth, and smartphone.

Options

Options include:

• Internal GPS receiver and antenna
• Internal WiFi receiver and antenna
• Cellular
• DawnPlot
• Enhanced OBD (EOBD) databases relating transmitted messages to parameters of interest

Connectors

OBD Mini Logger	J1962 Automotive Adapter

Logger Comparison

 
Print this Mini Logger Page as a PDF

DAWN Mini-Logger Video

Have a question? Please see our FAQ.