Serial Data
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2003 Pontiac Bonneville, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 2003 Chevrolet Impala, and 2003 Buick Regal. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
PCM is equipped with a serial data line. Serial data is a stream of electrical impulses which can be interpreted by special testers or other control modules. When the ignition is turned to RUN position, each module sends a state of health message to the other modules using the serial data line. Ensuring the modules are working properly. If a module stops communicating, other control modules expecting information from that module will set a DTC. Serial data and codes must be accessed using a scan tool connected to the Data Link Connector (DLC). Update intervals and information contained within the data stream vary with model application.