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DIAGNOSTIC
EQUIPMENT
ROUNDUP
BY KARL SEYFERT
To keep pace with evolving vehicle
technology, a shop must periodically
evaluate its diagnostic equipment, then
update or replace as needed. This report
provides information on recent tool
manufacturer and supplier offerings.
ith the increasing complexity of
today’s automotive systems,
technicians must make a conscious effort to stay ahead of the
game. You must rely on your ability to manage and
make the most of what you have. This includes your
shop’s diagnostic tools and equipment. It’s important to understand the capabilities of the tools you
already own, your diagnostic style and the kinds
of vehicles you work on. You also need to know
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April 2007
what new technology is coming up—
both short term and long term—then
decide whether it suits your needs.
What follows is an overview of recent offerings in underhood diagnostic
equipment. This report emphasizes the
key features of more than two dozen
pieces of equipment. For more detailed information and to gain a complete understanding of specific tools,
contact the manufacturers or suppliers
(we’ve included their contact information). We also extend our thanks to
those companies for their cooperation
in gathering this information.
The AutoEnginuity ProLine bundle
is a professional Windows PC and Pocket PC-based diagnostics scan tool offering both OBD II-generic and manufacturer-specific coverage for BMW, Ford,
GM, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, Honda,
Land Rover, Hyundai, Kia and Mazda
Illustration: Harold A. Perry; photo: Jupiter Images
vehicles. It includes access to ABS, air
bag, instrument cluster, transmission
and other controllers on all supported
makes. Key features include fully translated Mode 6 data, bidirectional controls that can be operated from any window, live data in graph, grid and meter
formats, and color-coded results for
quicker data interpretation.
The hardware is a Plug-n-Play USB
2.0 device for backwards compatibility
and faster throughput. It requires no
device drivers or complex installation
process. The software interface includes VIN decoding to help you retrieve the proper vehicle model information, perform network tests to verify system availability before a selected
system is accessed, and the ability to
retrieve/clear DTCs from all systems
with a single request. Live data
screens can be printed to create extensive trouble code and emissions reports for customers. The software is
updated as often as four times a year,
with free updates to the enhanced interfaces for the first year.
Tools available from Autoland Scientech range from OBD II-generic
and oil reset scan tools to dealer-level
diagnostics. The company stresses its
ability to provide the aftermarket with
such dealer-specific applications as
coding and programming. Scan tools
offered include the VeDiS, iScan
(CS2000), VScan and D21. Most recently, the company has added coding
for European models, as well as
OEM-specific functionality for driveby-wire systems, steering angle sensors, throttle body relearn procedures,
tire pressure monitors, seat sensor calibration, key programming, brake
bleeding and deactivation of Sensotronic brake control and more.
The Autologic Diagnostic System is
designed to replicate the functionality
of OEM tools used by dealer techs. The
system is designed to run on the same
platform as Autologic for BMW, and
adds dealer-level software for Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Land Rover and
Volvo vehicles. Autologic provides
datastream, reading and clearing of diagnostic trouble codes and component
activation. The system also provides access to immobilizer key coding, module
replacement (including coding and programming) and performance tuning.
A built-in data logger records software data transfer and unidentified
ECUs and e-mails the details to the Autologic technical support center. Utilizing Internet communication with the
Autologic system, a fix file is created
and e-mailed back to the user, usually
within 24 hours. Subsequently, a new
software version is then created and
posted for all users to download.
All Autologic software revisions and
upgrade modules are available free
during the warranty period, via the
website. Technical support/updates for
the Autologic tool are available to customers within the U.S., and factorytrained, master technicians are available to answer vehicle-specific questions and/or concerns.
Automotive Electronics Services
(AES) has introduced the LineSpi, an
OBD II DLC breakout box. The LineSpi includes LEDs to monitor power,
grounds and OBD II data lines. The
tool includes two modes of operation—
diagnostic mode and activity mode.
In diagnostic mode, the tool decouples the OBD II line LEDs from the
data lines so they don’t interfere with
any diagnostics—such as looking for an
open or short. In activity mode, the
dataline LEDs are active, allowing you
to monitor scan tool/data line activity.
The tool’s ground LEDs (pins 4 and
5) allow you to quickly determine if
there’s a current flow problem. The
power LED (pin 16) allows you to
quickly determine if there’s a power
source problem, such as a blown fuse. If
there’s a blown fuse to pin 16, you can
jumper power into the breakout box to
power up your scan tool. All data lines
can be monitored with a lab scope while
a scan tool is connected. Use the breakout box any time you need to jumper
pins at the DLC without having to
crawl under the dash or risk shorting
the wrong pins together.
Automotive Test Solutions (ATS)
has introduced several new pieces of
equipment. The first is the EScan with
Sharpshooter technology. This scan
tool has the ability to convey critical information on the fuel injection system
to the technician. It accomplishes this
through alert lights and special testing
features such as: decrypted Mode 6
data, load charts for fuel trim, vacuum,
volumetric efficiency, catalytic converter and temperature, and the soon-tobe-enabled automated troubleshooting
capability. This tool will connect to all
bus types from 1996 to 2007.
The second new tool is a Pressure
Transducer Kit. These pressure transducers open up a variety of new diagnostic possibilities. By placing a transducer in the spark plug hole, the valve
timing can be viewed. Another transducer is a new style exhaust pressure
transducer designed specifically to
dampen the exhaust fluctuation and
amplify the misfiring cylinder. When
connected to a vacuum source on the
intake manifold, these pressure transducers can determine if the engine has
valve deposits or intake guide problems.
They’ll also indicate which cylinder has
a blown head gasket. In the case where
the pressure transducer is connected to
the dipstick hose, a piston blowby problem can quickly be evaluated. There are
many other uses for these devices.
The third tool is the EScope Limited,
a four-channel, dual-time-base, 14-bit
PC-based oscilloscope. The tool has the
ability to power, ground and read the
signals of up to four pressure transduc-
April 2007
37
DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT ROUNDUP
AutoEnginuity ProLine Package
AES LineSpi
ers at one time. The software is automated, so choosing the transducer to be
used will automatically convert the voltage to the correct pressure readings.
The software also allows special grids to
be placed over the transducer waveform, to help when checking camshaft
timing or misfiring cylinders.
Finally, there’s the EScope Pro, an
eight-channel, dual-time-base, 16-bit
PC-based oscilloscope with bidirectional control of electrical devices. The PC
notebook is mounted directly to the
scope case for complete mobility. Wireless connections can be made to the
EScan tool and Emission analyzer, allowing the technician to view live waveforms, control electrical functions and
view scan tool and exhaust gas data all
on one screen at the same time. This
platform also will simultaneously power
up to eight pressure transducers.
Because this device is PC-based, it
also can be networked to the shop’s
database or Web-based information
systems. This allows the technician to
view manufacturer-specific wiring diagrams or information on the Internet
and access live information from the
vehicle without leaving the vehicle’s
side. The company can also remotely
control the technician’s tools and view
live waveforms via the Internet.
Baum Tools has introduced a CANcompatible adapter and Bluetooth
transmitter for remote operation of the
IScan/CS2000 family of scanners. CANenabled software and PC software for
capturing diagnostic sessions has also
been introduced for the same range of
equipment. These new product enhancements allow the IScan/CS2000
scanner to be used on 2005 and newer
Volkswagen and Audi models, as well as
Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Mini CAN
systems. Model coverage in most cases
is through 2007 models. The company
also has introduced the GS300 and
GS500 hand-held OBD II scanners and
the Terminator frequency probe, which
is well-suited for CAN bus diagnostic
tracing.
Delphi Integrated Service Solutions offers its Universal ECM Reflash
Tool, which can be used for on-board or
off-board programming of ECM/PCMs
for GM, Ford and Chrysler applications. A unique wizard feature simplifies the flash process and provides important relearn capabilities, virtually
eliminating the need for a bidirectional
scan tool to complete the reflash/relearn
procedure. The system also is capable
of accomplishing on-vehicle engine
control module programming for Toyota and Lexus applications. With the addition of the optional scan tool software
module, the Universal ECM Reflash
Tool can be used as a fully bidirectional
enhanced scan tool. A wireless-to-thePC option enables the equipment to be
used with any shop or office PC.
Electronic Specialties has introduced the Model 550 Insulation Tester,
which is designed to test hybrid electri-
Autoland Scientech VeDis Base Unit
ATS Pressure Transducer Kit
Baum Tools Bluetooth
Communication Module
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April 2007
DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT ROUNDUP
Delphi Universal ECM Reflash Tool
Electronic Specialties
Insulation Tester
Injectronic CJ4 Scantool
cal systems for voltage leaks to ground.
Voltage leak tests are performed by connecting the tester between the highvoltage wire and ground. The best way
to check for any high-voltage leak is with
a high-voltage test source. The Model
550 can supply 250-, 500- and 1000-volt
test voltages into a circuit that may be
leaking to ground. The following hybrid
components can leak high voltage to
ground: battery pack, power inverter,
DC-DC converter, high-voltage a/c
compressor, power steering pump, highvoltage cables and connectors.
The 550 is rated at CAT III 1000 Volt
level for overvoltage protection. A CAT
III rating is an OEM requirement. The
tool also serves as a capable volt/ohmmeter with backlit LCD display.
The Hickok New Generation Star
tester with WebFlash (NGS 8008FXLC)
offers complete access to all Ford and
Lincoln/Mercury vehicle on-board diagnostic functions. Unique functions of
the on-board diagnostic system accessed by the NGS include: programmable module installation, module
configuration, flash reprogramming,
power balance, active commands and
bidirectional controls, proprietary PID
data and fault codes and PATS Key
programming.
The unit also provides access to CAN
and non-CAN module reprogramming
functions. The NGS WebFlash cable
provided with the unit is fully compatible with the Motorcraft service website
for the download and pass-thru of calibration files. It provides the capability
used for configuring replacement body
control modules, PCM flash reprogramming, PATS Key programming and an
assortment of other diagnostic functions.
Injectronic has introduced the CJ4
Scantool with integrated two-channel
oscilloscope. The scan tool application
allows the CJ4 to communicate with the
vehicle’s control units to retrieve such
diagnostic information as trouble codes,
freeze frame data, live data and more.
Once data is retrieved, the oscilloscope
application allows the technician to verify the failure, “viewing” the waveforms
present on the inputs and outputs of
sensors, actuators and electronic circuits. A pass-thru function allows the
CJ4 to act as an interface between the
vehicle and a laptop/desktop computer
for real-time monitoring.
The CJ4 features a 128x128-pixel illuminated screen that displays numeric
data and graphs of live data retrieved
from OBD II and CAN-compliant vehicles and doubles as an oscilloscope wave
viewer. When you need to test a particular sensor, actuator or voltage to a circuit that has set a code, the oscilloscope
is readily available in the same tool.
The tool can be flash-updated using
the included USB cable and is compatible with the company’s Model 4514
Battery Tester. Software updates are
provided free.
The X-431 Infinite scan tool from
Launch offers dealer-level coverage for
25 domestic, Asian and European vehicle manufacturers. For example, 148
Mercedes-Benz systems are covered,
and the tool can be upgraded anywhere
in the world via the Internet. The scanner has a color touch screen, built-in
printer and 10-hour rechargeable battery and is compatible with CAN busequipped vehicles, including Volvo.
Hickok New Generation Star Tester Kit
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April 2007
SenX Technology Engine Diagnostic Sensor
DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT ROUNDUP
Launch X-431 Top
Wireless connection and data exchange
are accomplished via Bluetooth technology, and a compact flash card stores diagnostic results. Sensors can be simulated and tested with the optional Sensorbox and battery condition can be tested
and analyzed with the optional Batterybox. The optional X-431PCLINK offers
an interface between the X-431 Infinite
and a PC to store vehicles’ service
records. The X-431 has a built-in printer.
By the time you read this report, the
X-431 Top also will be available. This
automotive diagnostic workstation is an
upgrade to the X-431 diagnostic scanner. Features include a dealer-level scan
tool, four-channel oscilloscope, ignition
analysis, sensor signal simulator and
technical repair information. Diagnostic
capabilities are included for 25 domestic, Asian and European manufacturers.
The tool includes a CAN bus II connector and will interface with most CAN
bus vehicles. Bluetooth wireless communication offers users a 300-ft. range
of operation. New software releases are
offered frequently and can be downloaded via the Internet.
The Taskmaster 2007 (Model
ET3007) from Mac Tools includes the
following features: a 320x240 monochrome graphic display; data graphing;
OBD I and OBD II enhanced domestic
coverage (1984 through 2006); global
OBD II Asian and European coverage
(1996 through 2006); OBD II enhanced
data and DTCs for engine, transmission, ABS and air bags; CAN-enabled
OBD II Mode 6 capability; repair information; a record/playback function; and
ScanMate Lite PC software.
The following vehicle protocols are
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April 2007
supported: CAN, J1850 VPN, J1850,
PWM, ISO 9142, Keyword 2000,
UART, SCP, SCI, CCD and more. Domestic vehicle coverage includes GM
1984-2006, Ford 1984-2006, Chrysler
1986-2006, Jeep 1991-2006 and Saturn
1991-2006. U.S.-market Asian and European vehicles are covered from 19962006 (Global OBD II).
The 2007 Mac Mentor Deluxe Kit
(Model ET5007) includes AST—the
Automated System Test. This one-button test performs a system check of all
available vehicle controllers. Any trouble codes found are reported, along
with other vital scan data. Repair-Trac
pattern failures and available repair information are linked to trouble codes.
Pico Technology
Diagnostic Software
Ross Tech VAG-COM
Pro-Kit Software
Thompson Automotive Labs ACE
Detective Pro Diagnostic Software
Mac Tools ET5007 Mentor
The kit includes the following vehicle
coverage: Domestic ’06, Asian ’06,
ABS/air bag ’05, Infotech ’06 and a
coupon for a free ’07 Domestic update.
In the last year, Pico Technology
has released three new companion
products to complement its PC Oscilloscope diagnostics kits: the Mixmaster
12-channel ignition signal mixer, SixWay Universal Breakout Leads and Pico Diagnostics software.
Mixmaster expands a standard Pico
two-channel or four-channel scope into
a 12-channel ignition analyzer, with additional features to make working on
wasted-spark ignition systems easier.
The Six-Way Universal Breakout Leads
can replace a large collection of vehiclespecific breakout leads, and are available in three blade sizes to fit almost
any connector and engine. The Pico Diagnostics software, now in a beta version that all Pico Automotive scope
owners can download from the Web
free of charge, can analyze engine performance using a simple connection to
the battery terminals. The program can
indicate battery condition, cylinder balance and relative compression, and can
detect misfires. A printed chart of the
results can be shared with a customer.
The VAG-COM Pro-Kit from Ross
Tech is fully compatible with the latest
Volkswagen and Audi models, which require a direct CAN connection for diagnostics. The tool has a database of more
than 8900 fault-codes and measuringblock texts and can use the new sevendigit PIN/SKC codes to match new
keys in all immobilizer-equipped
VW/Audi models.
The Pro-Kit allows you to view, log
DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT ROUNDUP
and graph three groups of Measuring
Blocks simultaneously. The tool can access all control modules that require
proprietary VAG modes running the
new KWP-2000 protocols (2001 and
later Teves Mk.60 ABS and numerous
2002 and later modules).
The VAG-COM Pro-Kit contains a
HEX-COM+CAN Intelligent Interface
to connect the PC’s serial port with the
diagnostic port in the vehicle or a HEXUSB+CAN Intelligent Interface to connect the PC’s USB port with the diagnostic port in the vehicle. Also included
are VAG-COM diagnostic software and
common diagnostic information on CD,
a printed user’s manual, a 2x2 adapter
for older vehicles (many 1990-95
VW/Audi vehicles), a 25-ft. serial extension cable or 15-ft. active USB extension cable and a carrying case.
The FirstLook Pulse Sensor from
SenX Technology is designed to look
at variations in pressure and ignore the
average, or static, pressure in any given
environment. In other words, it sees
SPX/OTC Service Solutions
Genisys Automated System Test
only the changes in pressure from the
recent average pressure measurements.
The FirstLook ES-100 Sensor can
be used in the tailpipe, intake manifold and vacuum pressure regulator
to monitor engine condition and perform diagnostics. The sensor can also
monitor engine condition on a cylin-
der-by-cylinder basis, allowing onthe-run diagnosis of core engine issues
in both diesel and gasoline engines.
The Genisys Productivity Package
from SPX/OTC Service Solutions includes updated Global Vehicle Software
Coverage, the new Smart Cable and the
Automated System Test. The Genisys
OBD II Smart Cable represents the
next generation of controller pin communication and can be used with the
Genisys Automated System Test, which
allows technicians to save valuable time
in performing even the most complex
diagnostic testing.
The Genisys European 2005 Software release also is now available. It
boasts expanded coverage for older vehicles (1992), expanded coverage to
2005 and exclusive BMW OEM data
not found in any other aftermarket scan
tool. The Genisys Asian Import 2006
Software release offers expanded diagnostics coverage with access to RepairTrac tech-tips (all years available), Fast
Fixes (all years available), engine and
continued on page 67
Circle #44
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April 2007
DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT ROUNDUP
continued from page 44
transmission coverage, as well as updates to air bag and ABS codes for Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Toyota and other major manufacturers.
Thompson Automotive Labs recently introduced the ACE Detective
Pro Diagnostic Unit, which includes a
Windows-based PC, printer and LCD
monitor mounted in an industrial cabinet, along with cables and sensors to
perform all tests. The Pro software includes the ACE Misfire Detective software and a Combustion Efficiency Analyzer to determine the need for fuel injector and induction cleaning services,
as well as an automated Mechanical Integrity Test. The focus on fuel system
cleaning includes analysis after cleaning
to report efficiency changes in combustion over previous samples.
The software can determine the need
for fuel injection service in 30 seconds,
according to the maker. It also analyzes
and reports in bar graph form changes
in combustion efficiency over the previous sample. An automated Mechanical
Integrity (Relative Compression) Test
can quickly rule out (or identify) compression problems, and the Misfire
Analysis function quickly identifies the
from the 2000 model year forward has
been added. The following ECUs are
supported by the 6.1 release:
Vetronix/Bosch Group
MTS 3100 Mastertech
misfiring cylinder as well as the root
cause on any make or model vehicle.
Printed reports with graphic charts can
be shared with customers and actual
analysis files can be saved and replayed.
The Vetronix/Bosch Group MTS
3100 Mastertech has migrated to a
database-driven design, which provides a more uniform user interface
among vehicle brands. In addition to
releasing software coverage for 2005
vehicles, coverage for a large list of
previously unsupported body ECUs
Where to Get ’Em
AutoEnginuity
Injectronic
480-827-TOOL
www.autoenginuity.com
915-342-8666
www.injectronic.com
Autoland Scientech
Launch
512-336-5152
www.autolandscientechusa.com
877-LAUNCH9
www.x431.com
Autologic
Mac Tools
877-94-LOGIC
www.autologic.us
800-MAC-TOOLS
www.mactools.com
Automotive Electronics Services (AES)
SPX/OTC Service Solutions
559-292-7851
www.aeswave.com
800-533-6127
www.otctools.com
Automotive Test Solutions (ATS)
Pico Technology
800-572-6112
www.automotivetestsolutions.com
800-591-2796
www.picotech.com
Baum Tools
Ross Tech
800-848-6657
www.baumtools.com
215-361-8942
www.ross-tech.com
Delphi Integrated Service Solutions
SenX Technology
800-247-1099 ext. 4
www.delphi-iss.com
866-832-8898
www.senxtech.com
Electronic Specialties, Inc.
Thompson Automotive Labs
562-279-1400
www.esitest.com
877-432-1122
www.acemisfire.com
Hickok, Inc.
Vetronix/Bosch Group
800-342-5080
www.hickok-inc.com
800-321-4889 ext. 4
www.vetronix.com/aftermarket
General Motors: BCM, CCP, DIM,
HVAC, IPC, IPM, RIM, VTD
Ford: ACM, DDM, EATC/DATC,
GEM/FEM, ICM/HEC/VIC, LCM,
LPSDM, LTM, MCM/OTC, PAM,
PATS, RAP, RCM/ECS/IABM, REM
DaimlerChrysler: AMP, ARKEM,
CCN, DDM, MIC/EMIC, EOM,
FCM, HFM, HSM, HVAC, MSMD,
OCM, ORC, PDM, RADIO, SDAR,
SKIM, SKREEM, VES, WCM
In addition to new ECU support,
the following vehicle networks can be
accessed using the latest Module Status function:
General Motors: Class 2, HSCAN
(GMLAN), SW CAN
Ford: SCP (J1850PWM), ISO 9141-2,
HSCAN, MSCAN, UBP
DaimlerChrysler: HSCAN
The Tech 2 is identical to the tool
used in GM franchised dealerships
worldwide. The company will be offering Internet access for both tool updates and SPS reprogramming. This
will allow aftermarket shops to have access to data and diagnostics on-demand
just like a dealer. Saab software and service information will also be available
through this portal.
The European diagnostics KTS 550
was superseded last fall by the KTS 570,
and includes Bluetooth wireless capability as well as improved DSO hardware to accommodate high-speed vehicle sensor diagnosis.
As the SAE J2534 flash reprogramming standard practice has become
more widely adopted, updated firmware for the company’s J2534 Flasher
allows on-board programming of GM,
Ford, DaimlerChrysler and Toyota
vehicles. The J2534 Flasher is fully
compliant with J2534-1, and includes
the hardware to accommodate the
J2534-2 requirements, specifically
GM UART and SW CAN.
Visit www.motor.com to download
a free copy of this article.
April 2007
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