Data Link Connector: Description and Operation

The DLC is a standardized 16 way connector located below the instrument panel and close to the steering column. Both the connector design and location are dictated by industry wide agreement to follow SAE J1962 standards.

All DLCs are required to provide a power supply, hot at all times, to Pin 16. This circuit is used to power the scan tool. All DLCs supply a power ground at Pin 4 and a clean signal ground at Pin 5.

The Class 2 serial data circuit is provided at Pin 2 of the DLC.

The microprocessor-controlled modules in the vehicle communicate with each other through the serial data lines. This vehicle uses 2 serial data lines:
^ The Entertainment and Comfort serial data line
^ The Class 2 serial data line