OBD2 to DB9 Cable for CAN Loggers
This OBD2 to DB9 cable is the quickest way to connect a logger or interface to a car. The quickest way onto a vehicle CAN bus is the OBD2 diagnostic socket, usually found under the dashboard near the steering wheel. This 1.5 m cable connects that socket to the standard DB9 port of a CANedge logger, CANsub interface or other CiA 303-1 device.
It uses a Type B OBD2 plug, whose split center pin fits both 12 V cars and 24 V vans and trucks. The flat connector head fits tight footwells, and the overmolded DB9 end stands up to daily use.
Highlights
- OBD2 16-pin (Type B) to DB9 female
- Fits 12 V cars and 24 V commercial vehicles
- Powers a CANedge directly from the OBD2 socket (pin 16 to DB9 pin 9)
- 1.5 m cable, 22 AWG
- Flat plug head for tight spaces
- Overmolded, RoHS-compliant cable
- Works with the CANedge loggers, CANsub interfaces and CANmod modules, and any device with a CiA 303-1 DB9 port
Pin-out
| DB9 pin | Signal | Vehicle side |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | CAN-L | OBD2 pin 14 |
| 3 | GND | OBD2 pin 4 |
| 7 | CAN-H | OBD2 pin 6 |
| 9 | Power (VCC) | OBD2 pin 16 |
DB9 pins follow CiA 303-1. Other pins are not connected.
Where it earns its keep
- OBD2 data logging: record speed, RPM, fuel and other OBD2 PIDs from cars
- Raw CAN access: log or stream the CAN traffic present on the diagnostic port
- Fleet installations: plug-and-play connection without touching vehicle wiring
- Development and diagnostics: connect a CANsub to a test vehicle in seconds
Key Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Connectors | OBD2 16-pin (Type B) to DB9 female |
| DB9 pin-out | CiA 303-1 (CAN-L 2, GND 3, CAN-H 7, power 9) |
| Cable length | 1.5 m |
| Wire gauge | 22 AWG (0.5 mm²) |
| Vehicles | 12 V and 24 V (Type B) |
| Operating temperature | -20 °C to +80 °C |
| Weight | 100 g |
| Compliance | RoHS |
Frequently asked questions
Does it power the logger?
Yes. OBD2 pin 16 (battery power) is routed to DB9 pin 9, which powers a CANedge directly. Some vehicles cut this power when the ignition is off, others keep it on, so check the behavior on your vehicle. The CANsub is powered over USB or PoE instead.
Will it work on a truck?
Yes. The Type B plug fits 24 V vehicles. For heavy-duty vehicles with a 9-pin Deutsch diagnostic socket, use the J1939-to-DB9 cable instead.
Need a quote or help choosing the right setup? Contact Pertech, the CSS Electronics distributor in Israel.
