An onboard diagnostic memory module is configured to plug into the OBD II
port and has a real-time clock and power supply, a microprocessor powered
from a standard OBD II port, microprocessor operating firmware, and an
attached memory (7 MB). In operation, the onboard diagnostic memory module
is preprogrammed with data collection parameters through microprocessor
firmware by connection to a PC having programming software for the module
firmware. Thereafter, the onboard diagnostic memory module is moved into
pin connection with the OBD II port of a vehicle. Data is recorded on a
"trip" basis, preferably using starting of the engine to define the
beginning of the trip and stopping of the engine to define the end of the
trip. Intelligent interrogation occurs by interpretive software from an
interrogating PC to retrieve a trip-based and organized data set including
hard and extreme acceleration and deceleration, velocity (in discrete
bands), distance traveled, as well as the required SAE-mandated operating
parameters.
