Page 2 - A Closer Look - Hardware
The Lemur BlueDriver hardware module, along with a corresponding that app that runs on your Android or iOS device, instantly turns your smartphone into a fully featured advanced diagnostic and scan tool for all cars equipped with OBD-II ports. This means it is compatible with all cars made in 1996 or later. I will go over the software features in just a moment. But before we get to that, let us take a closer look at the hardware module itself first. Physically, there is a not a whole lot to discuss when it comes to the Lemur BlueDriver. And what else do you expect me to talk about for a device that plugs one end into your car's OBD-II port, and wirelessly links to your Android or iOS device via Bluetooth on the other? Well, for one thing, the male OBD-II socket does occupy a large portion of the module. It is to be installed plug-and-play. Meanwhile, the Lemur BlueDriver is constructed primarily out of black plastic, and feels quite solid to behold. At no point did I find it flimsy feeling; I have no problems saying its build quality is automotive-worthy. As you can see in our photo above, one side has all the regulatory labels; which contains Lemur's logo, model number, Bluetooth logo, CE markings, and so forth. The module is designed in Canada, but as with everything in the world, it is made in China.
Here is a shot at the other side of the Lemur BlueDriver turned around one hundred and eighty degrees to give it a better view. Measuring in at 4.7cm wide, 2.4cm deep, and 5.5cm high at its longest dimensions, the OBD-II to Bluetooth module is not physically symmetrical; nor was it made it this way. Personally, I think the device can be made a bit smaller, but at this size, I am not complaining much. Again, depending on the size and resolution of the monitor you are reading this review on, the image of the BlueDriver above may actually be bigger than it is in real life. A curved notch occupies the top for a little more style. There are grooves integrated into the plastic for better grip, in case you want to remove it from your car. A small blue LED is located adjacent to the notch at the top. It starts off blue initially, and blinks when there is initial activity. Thankfully, the LED will shut off after everything is initialized, so it will not distract the driver at night. Meanwhile, a QR code appears on the label on this side, so you can easily install the smartphone app. Personally, I never bothered scanning it -- finding the Lemur BlueDriver app in Apple's App Store for my iPhone was easy enough.
To install the Lemur BlueDriver, as I have mentioned earlier, is merely a plug-and-play procedure. In my particular case, I plugged it into the OBD-II port on my 2013 Honda Accord Touring sedan (Yes, that is a clutch pedal you see in background of the photo), which was conveniently located next to the fuse box on the driver's side footwell. Unfortunately, the BlueDriver's socket was really tight with the female receptacle in my car. Therefore, while it had no problems making electrical contact with the metal pins inside, and staying snug while we are at it, it sticks out quite a bit. If I really tried, I could probably push it in an extra centimeter or two, but I chose not to go that route, since I may want to transfer the monitor between vehicles in the near future. With that in mind, I fired up my Accord, connected the Lemur BlueDriver to my phone via Bluetooth, and launched the software.
Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. A Closer Look - Hardware
3. A Closer Look - Software
4. Conclusion
