Technical Overview of OBD Synapse

Foundation & Architecture

OBD Synapse is written in Python 3.11 and utilizes the PyQtGraph framework for real-time visualizations. The backend handles data collection and processing, while the GUI layer presents structured diagnostics.

The system is designed to run on lightweight Linux environments such as Raspberry Pi OS (Raspbian), but can also be deployed on standard desktop distributions.

Architecture Diagram

Protocol & Baudrate Support

  • ISO 15765-4 (CAN)
  • SAE J1850 PWM / VPW
  • ISO 9141-2
  • ISO 14230-4 (KWP2000)

Baudrate detection and configuration is automatic. Standard baudrates such as 500k, 250k, and 10400 baud are supported, with fallback to manual override.

Supported Protocols

Core Features

  • Live sensor data streaming
  • Graphical display of selected PIDs via PyQtGraph
  • DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) detection & lookup
  • AI-assisted interpretation of fault codes (in development)
  • Service interval tracking & digital logbook
  • Offline storage of scan sessions in SQLite
Feature Preview

Platform Compatibility

The application has been tested on:

  • Raspberry Pi 4 / 400 (32 & 64-bit)
  • Ubuntu 22.04 LTS
  • macOS Ventura (Python venv)

Interfaces with ELM327 over USB and Bluetooth (BLE support planned).

Screenshots & UI

UI elements are focused on readability and interaction in workshop conditions. Screenshots will follow here:

Dashboard UI DTC Viewer