I just picked up a cable, and I want to be able to scan the pcm, as well as program somewhere down the line. Are there any free programs that can be used? I'm aware of LT1 edit, but I don't need that for a while, I really just want to read all of the parameters from the pcm.

 

Nothing free that I am aware of. I started a list of OBD-II software, so here's a cut and copy:
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OBD-II SOFTWARE :
(Obviously, works best with a laptop. Requires an interface cable…. See AKM Electronics link, at bottom.)

AutoTap scan software.
http://www.obdii.com/obdii.html

***AutoTap has expanded their product line. They now sell several scan packages:

AutoTap for Windows - KAT1WG ($200 list) - GM only, "generic" parameters:
http://www.autotap.com/generic_parameters.asp

AutoTap for Windows - KAT1WEPT ($290 list) - GM only, "enhanced" parameters:
http://www.autotap.com/enhanced_parameters_gm.asp

EFILive V5 Standard - KAT1EFISTD ($305 list) - Special features for LS1 engines
http://www.autotap.com/EFILiveV5.html

EFILive V5 Bi-Directional - KAT1EFIPRO - As above, but adds "bi-directional" communication, allowing you to temporarily alter parameters like idle speed, fuel maps, timing maps, etc….

AutoTap for PALM - KAT1PG ($200) - Appears to be the generic parameter version.
http://www.autotap.com/autotap_for_palm.html


***Virtual Dashboard
http://www.obd-2.com/


***Auterra scan software for Palm:
http://www.auterraweb.com/


***CABLES:
http://www.akmcables.com/

Top quality products.

 

You can save bucks on logging and tuning software by converting to a obdi pcm.
for more info go to www.pcmforless.com

 

A lot of states are going to the new OBD2 emissions test, where they scan the PCM and check the status of the emissions equipment monitors. So don't be too hasty about swapping to OBD1 until your sure your state isn't planning on switching to the new test.