The AEM 30-0334 wideband, renowned for its OBDII compatibility and seamless integration with HPTuners MPVI/MPVI2 scanners, revolutionized data logging for CAN-based vehicles. This innovation, born from a forum project, enabled direct communication between the wideband and scanners via a standard OBDII pass-thru cable. However, a significant limitation existed for vehicles manufactured before 2007, predominantly relying on J1850 (VPW and PWM) interfaces.
This article explores a potential solution for integrating AEM widebands with HPTuners for pre-CAN OBDII vehicles. This adapter aims to bridge the compatibility gap, offering tuners a streamlined approach to wideband data acquisition in older vehicles.
Bridging the Gap: J1850 to OBDII for AEM Widebands
The challenge with pre-2007 vehicles stems from the AEM 30-0300’s original design, prioritizing the AEMNet protocol over J1850 compatibility. Consequently, direct integration with HPTuners for these vehicles was not possible. Workarounds, such as using the Pro version with ProLink CAN, serial data, or analog wiring techniques, presented their own set of complexities and limitations, particularly for dual-channel wideband logging.
To address this issue, a dedicated hardware adapter is being developed. This device would replace the standard pass-thru cable used by the 30-0334, acting as an interface between the AEM 30-0300/30-0310 widebands and the HPTuners scanner’s OBDII connection.
Proposed Adapter Functionality and Features
The proposed adapter envisions a housing with screw terminals for connecting the CANH and CANL wires from the AEM 30-0300 or 30-0310 widebands. This design allows for multiple widebands to be connected and logged simultaneously.
Furthermore, a potential cold-start safety feature is being considered. This functionality would delay the heating of the wideband sensors until after engine start, mitigating the risk of thermal shock to the sensitive ceramic elements.
Cost and Availability
Preliminary estimates, considering the current chip market, place the adapter’s price in the $70-$80 range, contingent on production volume. However, this cost is offset by the price difference between the AEM 30-0334 and the more affordable 30-0300/30-0310 widebands.
Addressing the Demand for Pre-CAN Wideband Integration
This project seeks to gauge the interest within the tuning community for a dedicated J1850-enabled OBDII adapter for AEM widebands. This solution aims to simplify the process of logging wideband data on pre-CAN vehicles (1996-2007), specifically targeting earlier GM, Ford, and Chrysler models utilizing J1850 variants. While development and production timelines are still being determined, this adapter promises a more accessible and efficient solution for Aem Obd2 Wideband Hptuners integration in older vehicles.
