Many car enthusiasts and users of OBD2 diagnostic tools prefer their adapters to power down when the vehicle is off. This article provides a straightforward guide on how to modify your BAFX Products PIC18F2480 Bluetooth OBD2 adapter, focusing on adjusting the Bafx Obd2 Circuit Board to draw power only when the ignition is switched on. This modification ensures that the adapter doesn’t continuously draw power from your car battery, preventing potential battery drain.
Why Modify Your OBD2 Adapter for Switched Power?
OBD2 adapters, while incredibly useful for vehicle diagnostics and performance monitoring, typically draw power directly from your car’s battery through the OBD2 port. This constant power draw, even when minimal, can lead to battery drain over extended periods, especially if your vehicle is not driven frequently or if your battery is older. By modifying your bafx obd2 circuit board to draw power from a switched source, you ensure that the adapter is only active when the car is running or in ACC (Accessory) mode. This not only conserves battery life but also adds a layer of security by disabling the adapter when the vehicle is off.
Step-by-Step Guide to Modify the BAFX OBD2 Adapter Circuit Board
Modifying your BAFX OBD2 adapter for switched power is a relatively simple process that can be completed in about 15 minutes with basic tools. Here’s how to do it:
Tools You Will Need:
- Phillips head screwdriver (small size)
- Small, flat-head screwdriver or similar tool for gently moving wires
Procedure:
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Open the Adapter Casing: Locate the blue label on your BAFX OBD2 adapter. Beneath this label, you will find four screws. Carefully peel off the adhesive label and unscrew these four screws using your Phillips head screwdriver.
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Separate the Unit and Disconnect the Connector: Once the screws are removed, gently separate the two halves of the adapter casing. Inside, you will see a white connector linking the OBDII port to the bafx obd2 circuit board. Carefully unplug this white connector from the circuit board.
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Remove the OBDII Connector: With the white connector unplugged, you can now lift the OBDII connector assembly completely out of the adapter’s shell. This will give you easy access to the wiring.
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Relocate the Power Wire: Identify pin 16 and pin 8 on the OBDII connector. Pin 16 (typically a thicker gauge wire) is the constant 12V power supply. Pin 8 is the switched ACC 12V power. Gently move the wire currently connected to pin 16 and insert it into the pin 8 slot. In the provided images, pin 16 is on the top left, and pin 8 is on the bottom left, making this wire relocation straightforward.
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Reassemble the Connector and Casing: Place the OBDII connector back into the adapter shell and reconnect the white connector to the bafx obd2 circuit board. Carefully reassemble the two halves of the casing and secure them with the four screws you removed earlier. Be mindful of the five LEDs on the circuit board to avoid bending them during reassembly.
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Reapply or Discard the Label: You can choose to stick the blue label back onto the adapter or leave it off, depending on your preference.
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Test Your Modified Adapter: Plug the modified BAFX OBD2 adapter back into your vehicle’s OBD2 port and turn your car’s ignition to the ACC or ON position. Verify that your adapter now powers up and functions correctly with your chosen OBD2 software or app, such as Turbo3’s App mentioned in the original context.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you have successfully modified your BAFX OBD2 adapter to operate on switched power. This simple modification to the bafx obd2 circuit board ensures that your adapter only draws power when your vehicle is in use, eliminating concerns about battery drain and providing a more energy-efficient and secure setup for your OBD2 diagnostics. This modification is particularly beneficial for users who leave their OBD2 adapters plugged in for extended periods.
