For owners of classic cars eager to integrate modern telemetry systems, a common challenge arises: how to translate analog sensor readings into a digital language that devices like RaceCapture/Track can understand. This is especially pertinent when trying to monitor critical engine parameters such as Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), RPM, and temperature. Many older vehicles lack a Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, the backbone of modern automotive communication, leaving enthusiasts searching for solutions to bridge this analog-digital gap.
The discussion in a Grassroots Motorsports forum thread highlights this very problem. The user, Gearhead_42, sought a “plug-n-play CAN bus converter” to feed analog signals from their racecar into a RaceCapture/Track telemetry system. They noted that while reading CAN signals is relatively straightforward, converting analog signals – particularly from multiple sensors with varying voltage requirements – into a pollable CAN data stream presents a more complex hurdle. The idea of using an Arduino with a CAN shield was floated, but the complexity of managing multiple analog inputs was a concern.
Initial suggestions in the forum included exploring Dakota Digital, known for their OBD-II adapter solutions, and upgrading to a RaceCapture Pro, which directly supports analog inputs. However, cost considerations were a major factor. Gearhead_42 specifically mentioned a desire for a sub-$100 solution capable of handling RPM, TPS, oil pressure, and water temperature inputs and converting them to a CAN output.
The discussion then turned towards more DIY and budget-friendly options. One participant, blizazer, pointed to the potential of using an Arduino for an OBD2 CAN solution. While acknowledging it’s not a single “1 board solution,” they presented a compelling grassroots approach for those comfortable with a bit of DIY. This involves leveraging the Arduino platform, combined with readily available and inexpensive components sourced from online marketplaces.
Blizazer shared links to essential components for building an Arduino-based OBD2 simulator and analog-to-CAN converter. These included:
- Arduino Nano: A compact and affordable microcontroller board, the brain of the operation.
- CAN Bus Shield: This shield enables the Arduino to communicate over the CAN bus network, crucial for OBD2 integration.
- 16Bit 4 channel analog input card: This card expands the Arduino’s analog input capabilities, allowing it to read signals from multiple sensors like the TPS, RPM sensor, and temperature sensors simultaneously.
By adapting an Arduino OBD2 simulator project, as demonstrated in an Instructables tutorial, enthusiasts can create their own custom analog-to-CAN converter. The core idea is to replace the random number generation in the simulator code with analog readings from the TPS and other sensors. The Arduino then processes these analog signals and transmits them as CAN data, effectively making the analog sensor data accessible to OBD2 compliant systems and telemetry devices.
This DIY Arduino Obd2 Tps solution offers a cost-effective and flexible way to bring classic cars into the age of digital telemetry. While it requires some technical aptitude and willingness to tinker, the potential to monitor vital engine parameters and integrate with systems like RaceCapture, all while staying within a budget, makes it an attractive option for grassroots motorsport enthusiasts and DIY car lovers. For those seeking a deeper dive, exploring Arduino CAN bus libraries and OBD2 protocol documentation will be invaluable in tailoring this solution to specific vehicle and sensor configurations.
