I'm wondering what kind of data I can get from my 97 Civic with a Palm based OBD2 scanner (like from Autotapp). I want more than just a code reader.

 

Anything other then a code reader should have that info in your owners manual of your scanner. I guess you get what you pay for ?? I know the cost of the scanners I use every day cost at least $6k, but Im betting you can get one from a tool manufactor like Snap On, Matco, Mac tools for a lot less. Im guessing $500.. I saw one thsat would give you live data stream,, was really slow, not real suitable for tricky problems, but at least gave you something??

 

yaep you get what you pai for good scaners cost some were around $3k-$10k
depens what you want to do with your scaner

 

I've used another manufacturer's factory scan tool on my GS-r and could look at a few handy things.
1) Live data list: engine rpm, engine load, fuel trim (long, short, total), coolant temp, ignition timing, map sensor output, bunch of other things. Looking at ingition timing is especially helpful here instead of using a timing light. I set my base ingition timing to 17°. I would expect that palm based scanner would be able to see these too. The factory Honda tool will be able to see an extended data list which includes things like ABS.
2) Looking at and resetting codes. It gives you the SAE trouble code (PXXXX).