Help on checking ecu fault code on 2kse

I just purchased a 2k SE 5spd as a replacement for my 1992 SE two months ago. It has just under 55K miles. The "check engine" light just came on this evening. It doesn't appear that the "screwdriver" method of checking diagnostic codes applies to the gen 5's since they seem to have removed that feature (My ECU looks different than the ones on the websites referrenced in the "vbmax" website). Will I need a scan tool to check the fault code. If so, its too bad Nissan eliminated that feature. My car is still running great with the light on. I would greatly appreciate anyone's input on this.

1) Is there a method to check the fault codes without a scan tool?

2) If a scan tool is required can anyone recommend a good one that is reasonably priced that works well with the gen 5's?

Thanks in advance for any input.