OBDII extension, high visibility life hack

   #1  

Jef

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Life-hack.... or more often than not, simple common sense... at any rate for professionals using our HEX-NET, it is highly suggested to use the OBDII extension. The HEX-NET can often times be "out of sight, out of mind" and get left in the car. The OBDII extension helps to reduce that risk.

https://store.ross-tech.com/shop/obdext-1a/

So here is a simple and cheap way to make the OBDII extension stand out even more in the car:

bgrvui0.jpg

hXnN74M.jpg


Just slip some colored 1/4" split loom over the cable part. 1/4" is just a touch small, but as a result, it is secure on the cable, doesn't slide or slip around.

edit - Since it seems it needs to be pointed out... do not drive with your HEX-NET plugged up to the OBDII extension while it is on the dash and with the driver's door wide open. Please put the the HEX-NET safely down beside the seat with the door wide open when you test drive.
 
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DV52

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^^^ Jeff: any thought by RT to re designing the LEDs on the HEX-NET housing so that they are blindingly obvious to the user when plugged-into the OBD socket? It might obviate the need for the extension cable (perhaps)

The current configuration of LEDs is great if the end-of-the-dongle is visible, but on most cars that I have used HEX-NET (mostly MQB), the LEDs point to the floor-pan (which kind-of makes them superfluous). I've gotten into the habit of throwing a piece of mirror onto the floor to compensate, but it's not ideal.

Just a thought

Don
 
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Bruce

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Hi Don,

Yes, much thought has been given and even attempted. A minor improvement will be coming yet this minor improvement is not the home run we wished to have. To reach the land of Nirvana, we would have to make some very large scale changes in our tooling and in the circuits. We feel it is not prudent to burden the part costs with all new tooling and complete redesign at this time. Rather, we have made modifications to the existing tooling for the plastics limiting our options. At some point, when justified, we may do a complete redesign. At that time, we will make the lamps more visible. On all future products, we will consider the placement of the lamps so as to never limit the viewing angle.

Thanks for the suggestion Don.

Best,

Bruce
Director of Operations, Sales & Marketing
 
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Jack@European_Parts

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Oh be more adaptive people .......... WTF!

Just double side tape, use a rubber band or tie wrap a small folding compact or inspection mirror to the interface........... "if it's that big a deal" or get your ass down on all fours and look.



More than half the US the on dash cams and GPS mounted devices are considered illegal.

Laying a projectile in the view ( OBD extension cable ) of or on the dash in such a manner is unsafe & a liability and can get you a ticket in most states.

https://www.dot.ny.gov/divisions/operating/osss/truck/vehicle?nd=nysdot
Loose objects in cars can turn into dangerous items when a car accident happens. If you think you cannot be hurt by loose objects during a car accident, think again.
Our firm’s car accident lawyers want to remind you that when you are loading your car, it is essential to make sure that all loose objects in your car do not become lethal weapons in a crash. Unsecured or loose objects in a vehicle are one of the top causes of car accidents. Chances are that your car has one or two loose objects in it right now that can potentially transform into projectiles with lethal power when the force of a car accident is applied.
Always remember to never store objects in the driver’s foot-space because. During under heavy braking or cornering, these items can move and reduce your ability to use the pedals. They may get lodged under either the brake or the gas pedal, causing the driver to possibly lose control. Even improperly designed or placed floor mats can slide forward each time you get in the car which could ultimately lead to a possible wrongful death accident.
Loose objects on the dashboard or center console such as CD cases, loose change, and mobile phones can be distracting as they slide around while the driver turns a corner. Put these items in your car’s storage compartments. Also, use the drink holders so you do not need to hold a drink between your legs while driving. Avoid the temptation created by leaving your handbag or briefcase on the front passenger’s seat for convenience in reaching over and grabbing something. Store it safely so that you have to stop the car to get at objects inside.
You should always keep the inside of your car clean and organized. Being aware of everything under your seat can prevent a car accident caused by a loose object. An empty bottle, tennis ball or various objects can move from under the seat and cause a pedal jam and lead to a car accident. Also, never leave large objects unrestrained on the backseat. Even in a small car accident, a light object could go flying through the air, striking and killing the occupants. Large items should be placed to make sure that the maximum amount of surface area makes contact with the backseats. Stowing luggage any other way causes heavy force in an automobile accident.
 
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Uwe

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Laying a projectile in the view ( OBD extension cable ) of or on the dash in such a manner is unsafe & a liability and can get you a ticket in most states.
I do not think anyone is suggesting leaving it like that while driving on public roads. That is however, the optimal place for it while the car is in the shop being diagnosed via WiFi.

-Uwe-
 
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Jack@European_Parts

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Best to clarify............not everyone has common sense. :p
 
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