Want to track your fuel efficiency in your pre-OBD2 car? The MPGuino, an open-source project from opengauge.org, offers a DIY solution to add an MPG display and monitor fuel consumption. This article explores how the MPGuino works and provides resources to help you build your own.
The MPGuino provides various screens displaying real-time and trip data, including instant/current trip MPG, instant/tank MPG, and detailed tank and trip information. It boasts impressive accuracy in tracking fuel usage and distance. This project leverages the Arduino platform, making it accessible for those interested in microprocessors and DIY electronics.
The MPGuino code incorporates several advanced concepts, including:
- Event Scheduler: This feature predefines event functions and schedules their execution in milliseconds, useful for tasks like debouncing in an interrupt scheme.
- Microsecond Precision: Functions provide microsecond timing for precise event tracking, significantly more accurate than millisecond timing. This custom implementation utilizes Timer2 on the Arduino.
- Advanced Programming Techniques: The code utilizes arrays of function pointers, object-oriented programming with class definitions, namespaces, interrupts for injectors, buttons, and speed signals, EEPROM for storing settings, Progmem for efficient RAM usage, string formatting, 64-bit math routines, double-digit display precision, button/screen navigation, a value editor, and support for non-consecutive LCD data pins. It even includes a CPU utilization and free RAM monitor.
The MPGuino provides a practical solution for drivers seeking to improve fuel efficiency and monitor their gas consumption.
The project’s open-source nature allows for customization and community contributions. The code is designed for ease of use, promoting a “cut and paste” approach for implementation.
Building your own MPGuino can be cost-effective, with component costs around $20 for those familiar with electronics.
For detailed information on installation, schematics, code, and community support, visit the following resources:
- Source Code: http://opengauge.googlecode.com/svn/trunk/mpguino/mpguino.pde
- Ecomodder Wiki: http://ecomodder.com/wiki/index.php/MPGuino This wiki provides comprehensive information on building and installing the MPGuino.
The MPGuino offers a powerful and customizable solution for adding an MPG display to your pre-OBD2 vehicle. Leveraging the Arduino platform, this DIY project empowers drivers to monitor fuel consumption and improve their driving efficiency.
