There's a connector right besides the "Service check connector" (C442 - 2 cavities) called "Data link connector" or "DLC" (C443 - 3 cavities) - both located under the middle of the dash.

Does anyone know what this "Data Link Connector" is for or better how to make use of it? - I mean - it's clear that it can be used for some kind of data-exchange but I would like to know what it links to, which data can be exchangend and - the most important question: how is it done? Is it possible to connect that thing to a notebook using some kind of interface and some special software or something like that? - And if yes - where can I get these things - or how can one "make" them?

 

You'd probably need a Honda specific scan tool to read through that port. I'm pretty sure it's just for diagnosing any CEL's or electrical problems.

If you want to tinker with the ECU program itself, there are a few options like Hondata/AEM EMS that would meet your needs.

 

The "Service check connector" is used for diagnosing CEL's and these kinds of things as far as I know - I'm almost convinced that one using the "Data link connector" in the propper way can do far more or even different things. I'm just wondering 'cause none of my Civics (and I've had 5 of them from 90 to 160 HP) had anything similar as far as I remember.

PS: Hondata/AEM EMS - can you give me more infos?

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by cyberxnet &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote"> I'm almost convinced that one using the "Data link connector" in the propper way can do far more or even different things. ?</TD></TR></TABLE>

Well, not actually. The Data Link Connector is more of a "window" into the CEL's that are stored in the ECU, which is why you would need a Honda specific OBD diagnosis tool to download the CEL's into. There is no way to get direct access to the ECU's main programs and alter it to your liking...at least not through that port.

BUT, that is why they invented Hondata and AEM EMS! Hondata.com is a good start. It's a fully programmable system where you can do all sorts of thing to your Honda!