Gadget users are sometimes interested in how to properly connect the ELM327 Bluetooth to an Android device. This tool offers an easy way to scan the OBD-II system and read the PID.
The ELM327 is an inexpensive computer diagnostic tool. It can be useful even for experienced specialists who, for some reason, do not have access to specialized scanning tools. But before installing it, you need to find out all the nuances.
What gadgets are compatible with this device?
The most common problem with the ELM327 is that some budget scanners have unauthorized copies of the microcontroller. These chips often exhibit strange behavior. In addition, even legal equipment refuses to work with some devices. If a user wants to use an iOS or Android gadget as a diagnostic tool, then he should pay attention to the above problems.
The scanning tools, which include an ELM327 microcontroller and Bluetooth chip, can connect to many devices, but there are certain limitations. Mostly smartphones, tablets and laptops work with this tool. The most convenient way to connect the ELM327 Bluetooth is to connect the scanner to your phone. But not all smartphones support this technology. Products are blacklisted Apple iOS, such as iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.
The reason why the above devices usually do not work with ELM327 scanners is that they have a unique approach to Bluetooth signal processing. Most Bluetooth scanners can't connect to Apple products, which means they're better off using USB and Wi-Fi protocols. The exception is Jailbroken devices, but their use can lead to unpleasant side effects. In some cases, other smartphones may also have problems with ELM327 scanners. Typically, these problems are associated with unauthorized copies of microcontrollers that do not contain updated code.
How to connect the device
If the scanner is compatible with a smartphone, tablet or PC, then connecting it will be very simple. You need to follow these steps:
In most cases, the documentation that comes with your scanner will contain the connection code and special instructions required for your particular model. If the documentation doesn't include a password, you can try one of the following combinations:
- 0000;
- 1234;
- 6789;
- 9999.
If you cannot find the code, you should contact the scanner developer for help. If the ELM327 device cannot be connected to a smartphone, you need to keep in mind that there may be various reasons for this. First of all, you need to try alternative connection codes. After this, you can try to connect the scanner with another gadget. Some faulty copies of microcontrollers cannot connect to certain smartphones, but at the same time fit perfectly with laptops.
Another reason that can lead to a failed connection is the limited time for discovery. Most ELM327 gadgets can be detected immediately after they are connected, but after some time they are no longer accessible.
If the user connects within 1 minute of connecting of this device to the OBD-II socket, then no problems should arise.
If the scanner still does not connect, then at least 1 of its nodes is damaged. In this regard, it is recommended to refrain from using cheap copies, which may initially have built-in defects. The main alternative to ELM327 are gadgets that use Wi-Fi connections and USB. Wi-Fi scanners are usually more expensive than Bluetooth scanners, but they can be used with Apple products. Most USB gadgets are not designed for iOS, but some functions are still supported.