What is a good source for an OBDII dongle / reader software?

Several years ago, I had a laptop with Windows Vista on an IDE hard drive that I decided to upgrade to Windows 7 on a solid state drive. After I removed the old hard drive, I kept it, just in case I was not happy with my new system. I still had it lying around when I discovered I would need a dedicated system for Techstream. Now I have Techstream installed on that drive and I simply swap it back into my laptop when I want to use it. You might be able to do something similar.

 

The key to making it work is to use a 32-bit OS on your PC laptop, not necessarily dedicated to just using it for that purpose. It's also helpful to install the software/drivers in the correct order or it can cause issues. The software is available online so no issues if your cable comes with outdated CDs.

 

I believe the reason some in this forum have recommended using a dedicated PC with no internet access is that we have no assurance the software that emulates Toyota's Techstream is free of viruses (it being a creation of Chinese hackers). It's best not to risk your personal data just to use (what we call) Techstream, which is of course not the real version.

 

Where did you get this information? Do you know something of which I'm unaware?

It not correct Chinese hackers have created a TS emulation, even though you might hear some make that claim. The fear is that some think this might happen but the reality is that there is no reason to do that (very costly) when the real thing is freely available.

What is cloned/knocked off/hacked or whatever you want to call it, is the cable and it's driver. But again, you don't have to purchase that either, you could purchased a genuine Mongoose (for example) cable and drivers for much more.

It is not helpful to regurgitate unsubstantiated misinformation, so if you are posting please research for accuracy before doing so. There are enough internet legends because people repeat "something" they head from "them" or "someone".

 

Hmm, I was under the impression that the system supplied by Toyota to their dealers costs thousands, based on this thread What is Techstream? | PriusChat. I was laughing so hard about someone's moral compass swinging 180 degrees I did not think to check the real price against a reputable source. Now when I try to check my "facts" on Wikipedia, I can find no mention of it at all (which seems like it must be a first). I guess if you make an incorrect statement on this board, someone else will correct you, in a similar process to what would occur on Wikipedia, anyway. I do see (what I believe) is a genuine Mongoose cable on Amazon for $482, not thousands and I must admit I did not think too long and hard before I bought the knockoff one a year or so ago. Thanks for setting the record straight.

 

I've never seen the Techstream software available online flagged by any AV or anti-malware programs that I've ever used, I would feel safe using it on a laptop which had my data assuming you did have good AV and anti-malware programs on there too.

 

No, you can not read the hybrid battery details on the Automatic. I think you need a different adapter.

 

When you get the dongle post back how you like it. I really want to get something as well.

 

Like you, id really like it for the battery. I'd love to know what all battery into it will show.