What kind of metrics do our OBD II ports measure from the computer?

 

Basically anything that the computer monitors can be retrieved from the OBD port via PST2 or PIWSIS [and Durametric for the most part] for maintentance and problem diagnosis.

In addition to the typical OBD trouble codes and Porsche specific codes, you can get real time readouts of various engine values, electric values, exhaust values, temperatures, etc. [Durametric is not as robust as Porsche testers, but is much cheaper. For example, Durametric cannot read actual values for the alarm system, seat memory, convertible top, and a few other minor data points. The last I checked, you could find a PST2 for around $2000-3000. A PIWIS comes from Porsche for $15,000+, but I'm not sure if they are for sale on the comsumer markets. Durametric costs like $300].

In the last few months I've used my Durametric to track system voltage, RPM, and various O2 sensors, as well as check my buddy's engine DME for hours in service and overrevs.

-td