hobdrive-docs

English | Russian hobdrive.com | support@hobdrive.com

HobDrive User’s Manual

HobDrive is a software complex working with your vehicle via standard OBD-II adapter and giving you the functionality of a powerful trip computer on your Windows (Windows Phone 8 / WinCE / WinMobile), Android or Car PC (Linux/XP/Vista/7).

Table of Contents

  1. HobDrive Features
  2. Interface Basics
  3. Before Start
  4. HobDrive Usage
  5. Customization of the Sensors
  6. Vehicle Calibration
  7. Beta-functionality
  8. Typical Issues
  9. Hardware Requirements (Windows)
  10. Hardware Requirements (Android)
  11. Optional Requirements
  12. Installation and Setup Requirements

HobDrive Features

Interface Basics

Speed Navigation Bar

Screen title

ELM Connection status

HUD Mode activation

Trips and tracking intervals

Extra screens and settings

HobDrive is controlled by tapping the touch-screen elements and screen controls or by touching and scrolling (panning) the elements for browsing and accessing the information outside of the current screen.

You may change the four main screens with different actions:

Tapping on the “Screen” tap button gives you access to the extra controls:

These are:

Before Start

Connect Your Vehicle

The very first thing you must do after installing hobDrive is setting it up to find and link with your OBD-II ELM adapter and vehicle.

During the first run hobDrive will ask you to choose ELM adapter’s serial port or Bluetooth address (in case of Bluetooth ELM).

You may always open this screen later by going Screens ➧ Settings ➧ OBD Port Settings.

Restart Bluetooth scan

ELM327-USB

For USB-ELM OBD-II adapter you have to find and select the COM port number it is attached to. Please notice Android now does not support this.

ELM327-Bluetooth

For Bluetooth - ELM adapter you have to choose its name from the list. PIN code screen is used for entering PIN code for adapter link (found in adapter documentation). On some WinCE devices you have to add adapter to “trusted” list, and enter PIN code in system bluetooth dialog.

On Android and Windows Phone devices you should always first pair your ELM in system bluetooth dialog, and only then choose it in hobdrive.

ELM327-WiFi

To connect ELM327 WiFi adapter you should first setup WiFi network with your adapter (read adapter’s manual for that). Some devices require manual TCP/IP configuration for that. Next, you should choose/enter an IP address of your adapter:

Android/Windows Phone: 192.168.0.10:35000

Windows CE: tcp://192.168.0.10:35000

After you choose the correct device to connect and press the OK button, the status should change to Yellow (the hobDrive link information should show the status string INIT - initialization), followed by Green OK signal indicating successful hobDrive connection.

Red indicator and ERROR message means you have adapter or car connection problems. See the Typical Issues section of the Manual.

Bluetooth “fail” status may mean that your device does not support full Bluetooth stack required by hobDrive, or that you did not enable BT stack (you need to enable it manually in the system manager).

Some devices with widcomm stack require you to link the smartphone/navigator to the ELM adapter prior to linking hobDrive to the ELM adapter from the hobDrive configuration dialog.

The additional parameter “ELM Connection Delay” is used for problem ELM adapters which can not operate at high speeds and often “break off” the connection. Please find optimal link interruption timing.

Settings Screen

After successful connection you may configure extra parameters by activating the Settings screen. This gives you the access to the following screens: “OBD Port Settings”, “Vehicle Settings”, “System Settings”, “Network”, “Theme”, “Language”, “Units”, “About”.

Vehicle Settings Screen

This screen allows you to choose a specific type of vehicle to work with.

If you are unsure which method is best for your vehicle, start one-by-one from the top of the list and monitor the “Liters per Hour” sensor in out-of-gear mode.

If you own Toyota car and «Injector Sensor» option does show fuel consumption, this method is preferable.

For diesel vehicles, only the Engine Load method calculates adequate readings.

Each option has its own calibration parameters. Empty fields mean default values, which must be calibrated for more precise calculation (see Vehicle calibration section for details).

All other parameters are optional and could be used to tuneup the hobDrive operation:

Example: if speedometer shows 57, but you’re actually going 60, then the Speed Correction parameter should be set to 1.05. But the odometer can also be wrong (for example, thinking you’re driving when you’re actually spinning in a snowbank). If possible, it’s better to measure mileage by GPS. Speed accuracy can also be checked via GPS.

Discrepancies with reality within 1% are acceptable, but discrepancies up to 10% are possible. This can happen if you have non-standard tires, for example. HobDrive cannot count mileage and consumption when not connected to the car. If HobDrive starts with a delay, or there are frequent connection resets (due to hardware problems, for example), then discrepancies in odometer readings will accumulate.

This practically does not affect statistics, since with each new refueling you synchronize the readings.

You can find out the volume of fuel corrected in this way at any time by touching the “fuel per hour” sensor.

Attention: on some vehicles this state may be read incorrectly; you will have to confirm the correct operation of the sensor manually.

Default setting is off.

Default setting is off.

Default setting is off.

Default setting is off.

System Settings Screen

This screen allows to change system hobDrive options. Touch any option label to get a detailed explanation of what this option does.

Any change requires restart of the hobDrive.

Version and Updates Tab

Setting up automatic software update options.

If on, hobDrive will check for updates once a week (depending on the license). You may disable this and perform only manual checks.

When “Beta Channel” option is enabled, the program will check for the presence of beta versions and offer to update to them. Updating to beta versions is recommended only for experienced users.

Theme Tab

Visual theme selection screen.

Themes are split into groups for day and night driving. Day/night switching is automatic, and pre-defined (by default - 7am and 8pm).

Light themes are preferable for bright sunny day and reduce light glares, also improving the readability of the screen.

Dark themes are better to use at night.

During long night rides it is recommended to enable HUD mode with a dark theme, since in this mode the brightness is minimal and your eyes are better adopted to road conditions.

On changing the theme a small hobDrive delay is possible.

Language Tab

In this section you may choose the interface language.

When changing, a small delay is possible.

Note: On Android systems, the language is determined automatically.

Units Tab

Here you may choose to work either with European or US imperial units.

HobDrive Usage

Attention! A vehicle is a source of increased danger. Be careful and do not get distracted while driving by working with the program and detailed data analysis. We are not responsible for any accidents or injuries caused by using this program.

All accumulated data in the program is saved - you can always view it in detail after the trip, after stopping.

HobDrive, in addition to displaying data, constantly monitors the engine condition and warns of possible malfunctions. When a problem occurs, you will hear a warning sound signal and visual indicator. See the “Diagnostics” section for a more detailed description.

General Screen

Screen with common vehicle sensors.

All sensors are read sequentially, reading speed depends on the performance of your ELM adapter and target device. Delay of 1-2 seconds is often normal.

By clicking on the status popup panel (circle at bottom left), you will see:

All OBD2 sensor values are transferred from ECU (Engine Control Unit) to the hobDrive. They may not be absolutely correct, some may even be entirely incorrect. This is not hobDrive’s limitation but rather particular features of your vehicle’s ECU.

Different hobDrive sensors have different update interval. For instance RPM updated most often, while antifreeze temperature sensor normally updated once every 10 seconds.

Detailed sensors description:

Various sensors use the most appropriate formatting for graphical display of their status. On sensors with background graphics (like speed), you can see a couple of small labels - these are the current minimum and maximum achieved values.

Trip Computer Screen

The screen gives you the key values on your current trip or other selected time interval, enabling evaluation of overall trip efficiency and cost, as well as instant consumption values. Most of the parameters are displayed for the currently selected time interval (current trip by default).

On pressing the “Trip” tab hobDrive gives you a selection of possible tracking intervals. After the new selection all sensors will change their values to reflect the data stored for the new interval.

Available trip intervals:

Manual reset is possible for values of “Auto Trip” and «Trip A, Trip B” modes.

Fuel Consumption Details Screen

This screen gives you detailed information on fuel consumption.

Displayed values include:

Green-shaded sensors may be tuned up for extra precision.

Pressing the price sensor will open screen with current fuel price per liter and currency selector.

Fuel Details Screen

This screen gives you detailed information on fuel in tank.

Estimated level of fuel and fuel volume are calculated using the entered information on fueling and consumption data.

Pressing one of the fuel level sensors opens up a calibration dialog for fuel tank. On first program usage you must enter the volume of your tank, and (approximate) volume of already consumed fuel.

From here on, hobDrive automatically compute fuel volume. To keep the calculations correct you must record the fueling data. On every fueling you must enter a new fueling record by choosing “Trip” → “New fueling “. In the dialog box you should enter:

The hobDrive uses these records to give you stats on fueling cost per station, total cost of vehicle ownership, total cost per kilometer, etc.

This screen also shows the estimated mileage the car will run on the remaining fuel and the time left for continuous movement of the car on the remaining fuel.

The “Next fuel station” parameter estimates approximate time till the next filling. The assessment is calculated using weekly consumption average and the current fuel level.

The Maximum Temperature and Maximum Speed parameters keep the data of maximum respective value.

The Average Speed parameter is calculated for the currently selected time interval, taking into account all idling time.

Some cars transmit the real fuel level indicator from the ECU. This sensor is called ECUFuelLevel.

In hobDrive, the “real” indicator is not used, but is overridden by the calculated one, based on manually entered data and fuel consumption data.

You can display the readings of the native fuel level sensor: in the default-landscape.layout file, change FuelLevel to ECUFuelLevel. If this sensor shows nothing for you, then your car does not support displaying the real fuel level in the tank.

Extra Screens

Beside the described above key parameters, hobDrive provides a number of optional screens for more detailed fine-tuning.

To activate these, choose Screens tab and then select the required screen:

Fueling and Events Screen

The screen is used for the analysis of information on filling stations and hobDrive-stored events.

Data on filling stations and maintenance records are entered in the appropriate screens activated from the “Trip” tab:

The table shows the following fields:

The last displayed entry is a line with totals: the total mileage, the total amount of money spent, the total fuel consumption per gas station.

Vehicle Records Management

For each refueling, select “Actions” → “New Refueling”, and in the dialog you need to enter data about the fuel filled:

HobDrive can compare its own estimated odometer values with the actual readings from your vehicle (entered by you).

HobDrive uses the difference between odometers to compensate for the time it wasn’t running and during which it lost readings. It can do this automatically or “In Dialog” by manually entering the missed trip. The “Fix” option is just correcting the odometer value without entering lost fuel/mileage. This may be needed if, for example, there is a discrepancy in speed/mileage readings between HobDrive and the ECU on your vehicle.

Entering missed trips allows compensating for data not accounted for by HobDrive and more accurately calculating real fuel consumption.

Using refueling records, HobDrive allows you to estimate your fuel costs per gas station, estimate the total cost of vehicle ownership, total cost per kilometer of mileage, etc.

By pressing the “New Record” button, you can enter an arbitrary vehicle maintenance record.

The “Missed Trip” action allows you to make a correction to the program’s calculated data by adding a trip that wasn’t accounted for for some reason (for example, when you forgot to turn on HobDrive).

In the dialog you need to independently enter the current odometer reading. After this, hobDrive will calculate the approximate amount of fuel consumed (you can correct it yourself). When saving, this data will be added to your current calculated data.

In vehicles with a fuel level sensor working through the ECU, hobDrive will automatically enter this value in the dialog.

If your vehicle provides readings of the “real” odometer, this data will also be automatically entered in the fields, you just need to check them.

Diagnostics Screen

This screen gives you a MIL code reading functionality.

Upon activation it reads and describes the Check Engine codes:

Active error codes need immediate attention and diagnostics.

Pending error codes are potential errors that may trigger at a later point.

Tapping Clear DTCs button will reset all the current DTC codes. Prior to deletion please make sure you don’t need this information anymore as deleting the codes will remove the “Freeze Frame” data, which could be useful in diagnostics during car servicing.

Please be aware that deleting the error from the list does not solve the problem itself, therefore the error will probably reappear later.

On some vehicles for complete reset of error codes you should restart the car ignition.

HUD Mode

HUD mode is a special layout to be used with windscreen projection.

You may activate the mirrored HUD mode by pressing the HUD button.

This mode disables all extra control elements and theme elements.

If you place the you smartphone or navigation unit on a panel, it’ll reflect the data to the windscreen, enabling you to read all the data reflected.

This mode provides enhanced comfort on long night journeys, since even with the night themes the display is usually very bright in the darkness, which distracts the eye from the road.

On many cars, simple reflection on the windscreen would “double” or even “triple” the image, but eyes adapt very fast; the blurred background provides a comfortable perception of information, without distracting the driver.

To return back, click the Back button.

Fuel Trims Screen

STFT and LTFT fuel trims are the parameters that define engine efficiency in using the air-fuel mix.

For old or unclean engines their absolute value may be high (20per cent and more). This could trigger error codes.

Fuel trims within several per cent margin indicate normal engine operation.

More Sensors Screen

This screen gives you some detailed sensors which could be of interest to professional servicing teams.

Lambda Sensors Screen

Shows the readings of oxygen sensors (depending on the car less than four values are possible).

Toyota Sensors Screen

Screen with Toyota specific sensors.

Sensor List Screen

Screen with all available sensors and their descriptions. Tapping any of the sensors will activate its reading. Tap once again to deactivate the sensor.

Zero to 60 Miles

This screen is used to measure vehicle efficiency in 0-100 km/h acceleration.
The measurement starts automatically when you start driving.
Depending on the refresh rate of movement sensors, the end result may not be entirely accurate.

Quarter Time

Measuring the time needed for passing quarter-mile distance (402 m).

Brake Time

The measurement of braking time and distance at a certain speed. Helps to estimate the efficiency of the braking system, and to experiment with braking styles in dangerous road conditions.

Customization of the Sensors

Calibration mode is activated via «Screens» → «Settings» → «Edit sensors layout».

After activation, pressing any sensor on any screen will get you a configuration dialogue.

The dialogue mode is used for setting the widget type (text, bar graph, circular graph, chart) and its various parameters.

Each parameter has a description which can be activated by pressing the parameter label (left). Typical parameter values can be either selected from drop-down lists or entered manually.

Vehicle Calibration

Fuel Economy calculation method calibration is required for more precise MPG calculations or when hobdrive shows incorrect fuel economy values.

First, make sure distance and speed values are calculated correctly (f.e. by comparing short trip distance in hobdrive and in car’s builtin odometer or GPS device). Sometimes speed calibration is required because of nonstandard tires size or speed value mistakes. Speed (and distance) play important role in fuel economy calculations, as well as total fuel consumed value.

For fuel consumption calibration, first know your real fuel economy: using full tank method, enter fueling records for a couple of full tanks and hobdrive will show your average fuel economy on “Events and Fillups” screen.

Then, you should compare these numbers with what you get on main hobdrive screen, applying the difference coefficient into appropriate method’s coefficient field.

Parameter Calibration

The simplest way to adjust coefficients and precise fuel consumption calibration is to compare HobDrive readings with real fuel consumption from the tank.

To calculate real fuel consumption from the tank, you need to enter refueling records with accurate amounts of liters filled and odometer readings. After two refuelings, HobDrive will be able to calculate real fuel consumption from the tank. You can see it on the “Events and Refuelings” screen. If there is enough data and the consumption values are adequate, they can be used for calibration.

The obtained value should be compared with the consumption readings on the “Trip Computer” screen for a relatively long interval: “refueling”, “month”, “all time”, and based on the discrepancies, correct your parameter (AFR, VE, or “injector performance”).

For example, with a real consumption reading of 12 L/100km, HobDrive shows consumption for the month of 11 L/100km.

This means that when using the MAF method, you need to multiply the current AFR by (12/11 = 1.09). When using MAP, you likewise need to multiply the current VE by 1.09. When using Injector, the injector performance is corrected (multiplied by 1.09).

When using EngineLoad, in the simplest case, you need to similarly change the “Load Fuel Consumption Coefficient”.

The obtained value should be compared with the consumption readings on the “Trip Computer” screen for a relatively long interval: “refueling”, “month”, “all time”, and based on the discrepancies, correct your parameter (AFR, VE, or “injector performance”).

For example, with a real consumption reading of 12 L/100km, HobDrive shows consumption for the month of 11 L/100km.

This means that when using the MAF method, you need to multiply the current AFR by (12/11 = 1.09). When using MAP, you likewise need to multiply the current VE by 1.09. When using Injector, the injector performance is corrected (multiplied by 1.09).

When using EngineLoad, in the simplest case, you need to similarly change the “Load Fuel Consumption Coefficient”.

Another quick way to select a correction coefficient is to look at fuel consumption in liters/hour on a warmed-up engine at idle speed. For many gasoline engines, it should be equal to half the engine volume. For example, if hobDrive shows 1 liter per hour and you have a 1.6L engine, then idle consumption should be 0.8 liters per hour. New VE value = 95 * 0.8/1 = 76.

It may also be worth calibrating speed - since mileage is calculated from it, and therefore consumption also depends on it.

Attention! All non-integer parameters are entered with a dot as the decimal separator.

Calibration for «MAF Sensor»

Examples for different fuels:

Air:Fuel (AFR)

Fuel Type AFR Ratio
Unleaded gasoline 14.7:1
Propane (LPG) 15.5:1
Methane (CNG) 17.2:1
Diesel fuel 14.6:1
Methanol (methyl alcohol) 6.4:1
Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) 9.0:1

Calibration for «MAP Sensor»

Calibration for «Injector Sensor»

Calibration for «EngineLoad Sensor»

Beta-functionality

Part of the hobDrive functionality is still in active development and is being tested. You can experiment with it (we give no guarantees whatsoever).

Logging the sensor data to the file.
Set up via «user.track» file.
The contents of the file can be exported from the default configuration - «default.track» file.

The file lists the sensors used to record data. By default, only cumulative sensors data is recorded.

Data is written to the “track” folder in binary format and can be converted to Excel spreadsheets with «track2csv.exe» utility found here:
https://github.com/cail/hobd/raw/master/lib/Track2CSV.exe

You need to run this program with the full path parameter to the “track” folder:

Optional Requirements