Chapter 26.indd - Automotive Electronics Services

Chapter 26 

PC-Based Diagnostic Equipment 

Overview 

From its inception, portable automotive 

diagnostic equipment has been built 

on proprietary hardware. Two popular 

examples are the Vetronix MasterTech 

(Figure 26-9) and the OTC Genisys (Figure 

26-1). 

Figure 26-1: OTC Genisys - Photo Courtesy of OTC 

For the price paid, display screens were 

relatively small, processors were slow, 

and the storage capacity was small. 

This all changed when EASE Diagnostics 

introduced one of the first PC-based 

scan tools to the automotive service 

industry in the late 1990s. A scan tool 

from EASE included a CD-ROM, a cable, 

and an interface box. The user supplied 

the core hardware – a computer. 

PC-based diagnostic equipment has 

continued to grow in popularity. This 

platform is now used for scan tools, 

digital storage oscilloscopes (DSOs), and 

powertrain control module (PCM) reprogramming. 

Most original equipment 

manufacturers (OEMs) have switched to 

a PC based scan tool. 

Advantages to the Developer 

• Quick Development Cycle - By getting 

out of the hardware business, 

the developers can concentrate their 

efforts on software development, 

not hardware design. The result is a 

quicker development cycle. 

• Lower Manufacturing Costs - With 

proprietary hardware, an investment 

had to be made in the design 

and manufacturing of the hardware 

which tied up a significant amount 

of a manufacturer’s capital. 

• Popular Development Platform - It 

is easier to develop on the most 

popular computer platform in the 

world, using some of the most popular 

programming languages, than 

to develop for proprietary hardware. 

• Superior Hardware - With larger 

screens and more powerful processors, 

manufacturers are able to 

include popular features that are not 

Resource links, and other web enhanced features, are available at digitalliteracyproject.com/book.

358 

Part III: Automotive Applications of Technology 

practical on proprietary platforms. 

For example, the level of detail displayed 

on a EASE Diagnostics scan 

tool (Figure 36-25) is virtually impossible 

to deliver on a smaller screen 

size. 

The added storage capacity of a 

computer’s hard drive also allows for 

longer recordings of data. Recording 

time is now measured in hours, 

rather than minutes on proprietary 

equipment. 

Advantages to the User 

• Lower Cost - By allowing the enduser 

to supply a computer in lieu of 

expensive proprietary hardware, the 

total cost of the equipment is lower. 

• Easy Hardware Replacement - If 

there is a catastrophic failure of the 

hardware, moving the software and 

cabling over to a new computer is 

simple, fast, and easy. 

• Superior Platform - With large 

screen sizes, full keyboards, and 

large storage capabilities, PC-based 

diagnostic equipment offers a superior 

platform over the typical proprietary 

platform. 

Ruggedized Laptops 

A desktop computer can be used to 

connect to a vehicle using a relatively 

long cable or a wireless connection, but 

laptop computers are the most popular 

solution. 

Some technicians prefer to use a ruggedized 

laptop such as the Dell Latitude 

XFR (Figure 26-2) or the Panasonic 

Toughbook (Figure 26-3). 

The high cost of these models is their 

only disadvantage. With a ruggedized 

model costing three to four times more 

than a standard laptop, most technicians 

use standard laptops. Even if they 

broke a few, it would still be cheaper 

than buying a ruggedized model. 

Figure 26-2: Dell Latitude E6400 XFR - Image Courtesy of Dell 

Figure 26-3: Panasonic Toughbook CF-19 

© 2009 - All Rights Reserved | DLP Publishing | Grant Swaim

Chapter 26: PC-Based Diagnostic Equipment 359 

 

Dell XFR Series 

www.dell.com/xfr 

Panasonic Toughbook Series 

www.panasonic.com/business/Toughbook/fully-rugged-computers.asp 

Rugged Notebooks 

www.ruggednotebooks.com 

Diagnostic Tool Carts 

Any laptop used in an automotive shop 

environment, whether it is a standard 

or ruggedized model, needs protection. 

The most popular solution is to use a 

tool cart, (Figure 26-4). 

This diagnostic cart is in use at Guilford 

Technical Community College in Jamestown, 

NC. It is made up the following 

equipment. 

• Standard Dell Laptop Computer 

• AutoEnginuity Scan Tool 

• 4-Channel PicoScope DSO 

• CarDaq Plus J-2534 Gateway Box 

The computer is stored inside the top 

lid which protects it against the shop 

environment. All the other components 

and cables fit in the lower drawers. 

Figure 26-5: Custom Built Automotive Diagnostic Cart 

Some technicians have even set up 

diagnostic carts with a large LCD monitor 

mounted to the inside of the cart’s 

lid. The video out signal from the laptop 

is sent to the monitor for easy viewing. 

This would be a good setup in a school 

environment where many students are 

trying to view the small screen of a laptop 

at the same time. 

In the quest for the perfect automotive 

diagnostic cart, some automotive 

technicians modify existing tool carts or 

even custom-build carts (Figure 26-5). 

Figure 26-4: Diagnostic Tool Cart 


360 


Figure 26-6: John Anello, of Auto Tech on Wheels, and his customized Hummer H2 mobile diagnostic rig 

PCs in Mobile Diagnostics 

Educational Applications 

PC-based information systems and diagnostic 

equipment deliver a lot of power 

and portability in a small package. This 

is a winning combination for those involved 

in mobile diagnostics and one of 

the most successful mobile diagnostic 

businesses is John Anello’s Auto Tech on 

Wheels located in New Jersey. John has 

equipped an H2 Hummer with an impressive 

array of diagnostic equipment, 

much of which is PC-based. 

If you want to get “up close and personal” 

with John’s rig (Figure 26-6), attend 

one of his week-long “Boot Camp” 

sessions. 

 

John Anello’s “Boot Camp” 

www.autotechonwheels.com/bootcamp.htm 

PC-based diagnostic equipment is also 

a favorite among automotive educators 

since anything on the screen can be 

projected to a large screen for the entire 

class to see. 

PDA-Based Equipment 

In the past, scan tool and DSO systems 

were available for hand-held personal 

digital assistants (PDAs). In most cases, 

both the PalmOS and the Pocket PC 

platform were supported. While some 

of these systems are still available, 

popularity seems to be quickly fading. 

This can be attributed to at least three 

reasons, including: 

• Limited Capabilities - The screen 

size and power of a PDA, in most 



cases, is less than a standard scan 

tool or DSO. Choosing the PDA 

platform over a PC platform forfeits 

power and features. 

• Public Perception - The appeal to 

PDA-based diagnostics seemed to 

be its compactness. These “shirt 

pocket” sized tools were often used 

in the service drive, in the full view 

of the motoring public, for a quick 

diagnostic trouble code (DTC) read. 

Problems arose when most observers’ 

perceived their cars were being 

diagnosed with “toys,” thus trivializing 

the complexity of operations in 

the service bay. 

• Availably of PDAs - Today’s smartphone 

can do more than a PDA, plus 

functions as a telephone; therefore, 

the PDA market is on life support 

and new PDAs are scarce. Most PDA 

users have moved to a smartphone 

for an all-in-one gadget solution. 

In February 2009, Palm announced 

they would not release any new 

products powered by the PalmOS, 

the operating system that established 

the PDA market. 

• Netbook Computers - The popular 

“netbook” laptop computer is a 

much better choice than a PDA for a 

low cost and portable platform. For 

details, see the next section. 

To learn more about PDAs see Chapter 

14 - Other Digital Devices. 

Netbooks Are The New PDA 

When the first netbooks hit the market 

in 2007, their screens were just too 

small and their processing power was 

inadequate to be used with PC-based 

diagnostic equipment. However, some 

of the current netbook models are now 

approaching laptop specifications and 

meet the minimum requirements for 

PC-based scan tool and DSO programs. 

A netbook with a 10” screen, such as the 

Lenovo S10 shown in Figures 26-7 and 

26-8 is a viable platform. This netbook 

was tested with the AutoEnginuity scan 

tool and the PicoScope 4423 DSO and 

worked flawlessly with both pieces of 

equipment. 

Figure 26-7: Lenovo S10 Netbook Using AutoEnginuity 

Figure 26-8: Lenovo S10 Netbook Using PicoScope DSO 


362 


If you are looking for a low cost hardware 

solution, a high end netbook is 

likely your best choice. 

PC-Based Scan Tools 

Scan Tool Overview 

Covering scan tools in depth is beyond 

the scope of this book, so this section 

will focus on scan tools that are based 

on the PC platform. To better understand 

the contemporary PC-based 

automotive scan tool, some core OBD-II 

information is needed. 

While scan tools first appeared in the 

mid-1980s, they were primarily used by 

the domestic OEMs to display very basic 

information from the powertrain control 

module (PCM). Each manufacturer used 

a different data link connector (DLC), a 

different communication protocol, and 

even a different diagnostic trouble code 

(DTC) set. 

Scan tools passed a major milestone in 

1996 when OBD-II regulations standardized 

many of these variables. From 1996 

forward, OEMs are required to provide 

certain emissions-related information 

on a standardized DLC using a standardized 

communication protocol. They 

were also required to use a standardized 

DTC set and use common terminology 

for all the fuel and emissions components. 

This level of standardization 

and functionality is often referred to as 

Global or Generic OBD-II. 

Functionality/Platform Classification 

Since 1996, all scan tools, regardless of 

their form factors (e.g. proprietary or 

PC-based hardware) have fallen into 

one of three classifications: OEM level, 

Global OBD-II Level, and Enhanced 

Global OBD-II Level. 

OEM Level Scan Tool 

As stated earlier, every car sold in the 

U. S. since 1996 must support Global 

OBD-II functionality. Yet, every OEM 

develops an OEM level scan tool that 

supports functionality far above the 

Global OBD-II level. For example, OBD- 

II regulations mandate that approximately 

25 specific parameters must be 

made available on the OBD-II DLC in the 

Global OBD-II protocol; however, most 

OEM level scan tools can retrieve well 

over 500 parameters. These additional 

parameters are not retrieved using 

the Global OBD-II protocol. They are 

supported by a protocol of the OEM’s 

choosing. 

The actual functionality supported by 

any scan tool is determined by two key 

factors: 

• Control Module Software - Every 

scan tool function available on 

a given car is supported by software 

code written by the OEM and 

embedded into the PCM’s processor. 

Literally, every single piece of 

information or bidirectional control 

made available on a scan tool 

requires corresponding embedded 

code on the processor. 

Scan Tool Software 

• - A scan tool’s 

ability to display information, and 

activate a bidirectional control, supported 

on the PCM is determined by 

its software. 



Therefore, the highest level of functionality 

is achieved from an OEM developed 

scan tool since the OEM developed 

the software on both the scan tool 

and the car. 

Global OBD-II Level Scan Tool 

Some scan tools only support Global 

OBD-II functionality, retrieving information 

mandated by OBD-II regulations. 

These scan tools tend to be inexpensive 

($100 - $200) and are often targeted at 

the consumer market. 

Enhanced Global OBD-II Scan Tool 

Scan tools are available that exceed 

Global OBD-II functionality, but do not 

match the OEM level. This additional 

functionality is usually achieved by purchasing 

enhanced modules for specific 

car lines such as: GM, Ford, Honda, Toyota, 

BMW, and others. Some scan tool 

vendors also sell modules for bundled 

car lines such as: domestic, Asian, and 

European. 

The level of functionality supported by 

an enhanced module will vary among 

scan tool manufacturers. Regardless of 

what marketing material may imply, an 

enhanced module for a given car line 

does not support the same functionality 

level as the OEM’s scan tool. 

OEM Scan Tools 

Overview 

Early OEM scan tools were based on 

proprietary hardware; however, many 

OEMs have since moved to PC-based 

platforms. Even more are planning to 

move to PC-based scan tools for their 

next generation of diagnostic equipment. 

Information about each OEM’s scan tool 

program is always evolving and acquiring 

accurate information on the source, 

cost, and model coverage on a given 

OEM scan tool can be a bit of a challenge. 

One good resource to use to find 

this information is the National Automotive 

Service Task Force (NASTF) web 

site, which maintains a matrix providing 

information about each OEM’s scan tool 

program. 

One of the best ways to get “real world” 

information on an OEM scan tool is 

through the “Tools and Equipment Forum” 

on the iATN website. 

 

NASTF Tool Matrix 

nastf.org 

iATN’s Tool & Equipment Forum 

members.iatn.net/forums/read/index. 

aspx?f=forum8 

OEM Aftermarket Support 

OBD-II legislation only regulates information 

that relates to emission 

control systems. OEMs may provide 

non-emissions related information via 

their service information websites and 

scan tool functions, at their discretion; 

therefore, the level of information made 

available to the aftermarket does vary 

significantly among the OEMs. 

Ultimately, a given OEM’s support for 

the aftermarket service industry is 

revealed in the implementation of their 

service information website and scan 

tool functionality. For a fair evaluation 

of an OEM’s support for the aftermarket, 


364 


the factors to consider include: 

• Web Portal Content - How deep 

does the information go above and 

beyond the mandated emissions 

requirement? Does the information 

cover models older than 1996 (pre 

OBD-II models)? 

• Service Information Cost - Does the 

access cost seem reasonable, or is it 

prohibitive? In May 2010, OEM website 

access varied from $350 per year 

(very reasonable), to over $4,000 per 

year (very prohibitive). 

• OEM Scan Tool Functionality - What 

level of functionality does the OEM 

scan tool deliver to the aftermarket? 

Is it just like the one used by a dealership 

technicians or have some of 

the functions been crippled? 

• Reprogramming Program - What is 

the cost of the reprogramming software? 

How affordable is the OEM 

reprogramming hardware? How well 

does the OEM support the J2534 

reprogramming standard? 

The current trend in the aftermarket 

service industry is to specialize in one 

car line or a group of related car lines. 

When choosing which lines of cars to 

service, it would be prudent to include 

the OEM’s level of support to the aftermarket 

in the selection process. 

Evaluating each OEM’s support of the 

aftermarket goes beyond the scope of 

this book; however, Toyota deserves 

recognition based on a presentation 

delivered at the Congress of Automotive 

Repair & Service (CARS) convention 

held during Automotive Industry Week 

in 2007. 

The Environmental Protection Agency 

(EPA) and Automotive Service Association 

(ASA) hosted an OEM Tool Forum. 

The purpose of the forum was to give 

OEMs an opportunity to present information 

about their aftermarket programs 

for diagnostic tools and service 

information systems. While BMW, 

Subaru and Toyota made presentations, 

it was Toyota’s program that “knocked 

it out of the ball park” for the independents. 

Mark Saxonberg, the Service Technology 

Department Manager for Toyota 

Motor Sales, made the presentation. 

Part of the presentation focused on 

Toyota’s philosophy towards the independent 

service industry. The title of the 

presentation, “Building Brand Loyalty 

Through Outstanding Service Support 

in the Aftermarket”, set the stage. 

The following quotes were taken from 

Mark’s PowerPoint presentation and 

used with his permission. 

On Toyota’s Philosophy Towards 

the Aftermarket: 

“A reputation for a positive lifetime 

ownership experience is one of the 

more important distinguishing attributes 

that can set an auto maker 

apart from its competitors. Positive 

ownership experiences sell cars! If 

auto makers expect independent 

shops to deliver positive ownership 

experiences, we have to create effective 

and affordable service support 

systems for you.” 



Toyota’s Challenge to the Aftermarket 

“The industry is changing at an astonishingly 

fast pace – and if you haven’t 

already, it’s time to get on-board and 

start changing with it. Here are a few 

suggestions to help get you started: 

First, get yourself a broadband connection 

to the Internet in your shop 

and connect it by a secure wireless 

network to your service area so you 

can begin taking advantage of the 

wealth of service support resources 

available there. 

Use your third-party and OEM website 

service information resources regularly 

– the days of fixing cars without 

service information are gone. 

Come to grips with the fact that the 

increasing incremental costs of service 

information and diagnostic tools are 

eroding your bottom line – it is time to 

understand just how much and begin 

building these costs into your fee 

structures. 

And finally, become accustomed to 

using PCs in your service environment 

– a great deal of your service support 

will be delivered by them in the future. 

Toyota’s Glimpse at the Future 

“Assuming we maintain the cooperative 

working relationships between 

auto makers and the aftermarket, I 

foresee: 

I see a growing use of OEM websites 

as complete service support portals, 

providing access not only to service 

information, but also to subscription 

based diagnostic software, just in time 

training resources, and manufacturer 

specific technical assistance. 

Historically, auto makers have relied 

on aftermarket tool and equipment 

suppliers to create service support 

systems for the aftermarket. With the 

complexity of today’s vehicles and 

service support systems, this model is 

becoming more of a challenge. 

I see more collaboration on standardization 

in vehicle diagnostic interfaces, 

movement toward Windows 

based diagnostic applications and 

development of diagnostic appliances 

- capable of supporting all auto 

maker diagnostic systems - offer the 

best hope in realizing this vision for 

the future. 

Turn Key Vs Interface Solutions 

When an OEM moves to a PC-based 

scan tool program, it can follow one of 

two models: 

• Turn Key Solution - With this model, 

the OEM provides a fully-engineered 

package. 

• Interface Solution - With this model, 

the OEM provides an interface unit 

and software only. The end user is 

responsible for providing all other 

hardware. 

Honda and Toyota both used Vertronix’s 

Mastertech (Figure 26-9) to power their 

original OEM scan tools. Both OEM’s 

have since moved to a PC-based platform. 

This section will showcase the 

evolution of these two programs, which 


366 


are representative of most other OEM 

PC-based scan tool programs. 

Honda’s Scan Tool Program 

Honda’s first 

scan tool, based 

on Vertonix’s 

Mastertech, was 

launched in 1992. 

Migration from 

this original platform 

to today’s 

PC-based system 

took a few twists 

and turns. 

The Mastertech 

was first replaced 

with the Honda 

Diagnostic System 

(HDS) tablet. 

This Windowspowered, 

rugge- 

Figure 26-9: Mastertech MTS3100 

dized tablet was 

custom built by Teradyne Inc. and was 

an impressive piece of equipment. The 

titanium case looked like it could survive 

anything that got thrown at it. This 

hardware option is no longer available, 

but it still works with Honda’s current 

scan tool software. 

Figure 26-10: Honda HIM Unit 

Sometime after 

the HDS Tablet 

was released, the 

Honda Interface 

Module (HIM) 

was offered 

(Figure 26-10). 

This hardware 

interface solution 

is no longer 

Figure 26-11: HDS Pocket Tester 

(Figure 26-11). 

available, but 

still works with 

Honda’s current 

scan tool software. 

Honda offered 

one more scan 

tool option – the 

Pocket Tester - 

that targeted the 

aftermarket and 

was based on 

the PDA platform 

This option was not particularly well-received 

due to its glitchy nature and less 

than stellar tech support from Teradyne, 

the manufacturer. This hardware option 

is no longer available, but it still works 

with Honda’s current scan tool software. 

The current Honda scan tool is based on 

the interface model. Honda’s gateway 

device (Figure 26-12), is manufactured 

by Teradyne and called the GNA600. 

This device has a USB cable on one end 

and a 16-pin OBD-II DLC connector on 

the other. 

The OEM Honda scan tool is made up of 

the following components: 

• Subscribe to Service Express - Subscribe 

to Honda’s service information 

website, Service Express. This 

subscription is required, before you 

can purchase the GNA600 or the 

HDS software. The cost of an annual 

subscription to Service Express is 

$350 which includes access to both 

Honda and Acura information. 



Figure 26-12: Honda’s GNA600 Gateway Device 

• Purchase GNA600 - Purchase the 

GNA600 interface directly from Teradyne 

for $1,997. 

• Purchase HDS Software - Purchase 

the HDS software package from 

Helm, Inc. for $840 per year. When 

changes in the software are made, 

updated versions are available. 

This puts the initial cost of the Honda 

scan tool system at approximately 

$2,837, not including a computer and 

the annual Service Express subscription 

price of $350 per year. The HDS software 

will also cost $840 per year to renew. 

This system can also be used to perform 

PCM reprogramming at no additional 

cost. 

 

Honda’s Service Express 

techinfo.honda.com 

Teradyne GNA Website 

www.teradyne-ds.com/GNA600Sales/ 

tabid/83/Default.aspx 

Toyota’s TIS Techstream 

Toyota’s first scan tool, based on Vetronix’s 

Mastertech, was launched in 1993 

and replaced with the TIS Techstream in 

the spring of 2007. 

As shown in Figure 26-13, the TIS Techstream 

is made of three main parts. 

The core is a Panasonic Toughbook 

Model 19 computer, an industry standard 

among ruggedized computers. 

Notable ruggedized features include: 

• Full magnesium alloy case 

• Moisture and dust resistant keyboard 

and touch pad 

• Sealed port and connector covers 

• Shock-mounted removable hard 

drive. 

The Backpack 

The ruggedized Toughbook is further 

toughened with a second frame (backback) 

that adds big, corner bumpers 


368 


Service Information 

Service information from Toyota’s 

Technical Information System (TIS) is 

delivered to the scan tool using industry 

standard wireless network technology. 

Techstream will also notify the technician 

if a PCM update is available for the 

car being scanned. The technician is 

given the option of reading the technical 

service bulletin (TSB) that addresses 

the details of the PCM software update 

before updating the PCM’s software. 

The TIS Techstream integrates a robust 

OEM level scan tool, a service information 

system, and PCM reprogramming 

into one bay side tool! 

Currently this system is sold as a complete 

package for $7,995 and includes 

a two-year subscription to TIS with 

Techstream software updates and ECU 

Reprogramming Calibrations. 

Figure 26-13: Toyota’s TIS Techstream Courtesy of Toyota Motor 

Sales USA, Inc. and University of Toyota 

and additional padding. The backpack 

also holds the Vehicle Interface Module 

(VIM) and a charging module to provide 

power to the computer from the 12-volt 

source that is available from the OBD-II 

data link connector. 

The Docking Station 

When not in use, the computer/backpack 

unit is placed in the docking 

station to recharge. The backpack can 

also be locked to the docking station for 

security. 

 

Toyota TIS Website 

techinfo.toyota.com 

Toyota’s Techstream Lite 

In November 2009, Toyota became 

one of the first OEMs to use the J-2534 

platform to support vehicle diagnostics 

(scan tool operations). The J-2534 platform 

was initially developed to support 

PCM reprogramming across all car lines 

using a single gateway device. To learn 

more about J-2534 reprogramming, see 

Chapter 27. 

The system, Techstream Lite, is an inexpensive 

alternative to the full Toyota 

Information System (TIS) Techstream diagnostic 

tester which does not use the 



J-2534 standard to communicate with 

the car. Techstream Lite provides factory 

level support for Toyota/Scion/Lexus 

vehicles with the following exceptions. 

• Techstream Lite supports OBD-II 

based diagnostic functions on 1996 

and later vehicles, while the full TIS 

Techstream supports diagnostics 

from 1989 using two pre-OBD-II 

data link connectors 

• Techstream Lite provides support 

for new vehicles nine months after 

launch, while TIS Techstream supports 

new vehicles at launch 

Toyota offers Techstream Lite as a package 

consisting of the following components: 

• Mongoose MFC VIM - This is a 6-foot 

long innovative cable that includes 

an integrated J-2534 gateway (Figure 

26-14.) The Mongoose cable was 

developed and is supplied by Drew 

Technologies. 

• 1 Year Pro Subscription to TIS - You 

must have an active professional 

level subscription to use the Techstream 

software. For each subscription 

you can use one installation of 

Techstream Lite on one computer. 

The professional TIS subscription 

includes access to the TIS Library (repair 

manuals, wiring diagrams, etc), 

Techstream Diagnostic Software, 

and ECU reprogramming calibration 

files. 

• IDENTIFIX Direct Hit - Access to 

the IDENTIFIX Direct Hit program 

for Toyota/Scion/Lexus models is 

Figure 26-14: Drew Technologies’ Mongoose Cable 

included. 

Based on information posted on Toyota’s 

website, as of May 2010, the price 

of this kit was $1,590. Toyota was offering 

the kit at an introductory price of 

$1,345; however, there was no indication 

about the length of this introductory 

offer. 

The Mongoose MFC cable can be purchased 

directly from Drew Technologies 

and other vendors, such as AES Wave. 

The Professional Subscription to TIS 

must be purchased directly from Toyota. 

In addition to performing scan tool 

diagnostics, Techstream Lite can be 

used for ECU reprogramming. Access to 

the reprogramming calibration files are 

included in the Professional TIS Subscription. 

The Techstream Lite diagnostic software 

is J-2534 compliant; however, Toyota 

is recommending it be used with the 

Mongoose MFC cable, since this is the 

only J2534 device that they have tested 

and will support. However, based on 

this statement taken from the Drew 

Technologies website, Techstream Lite 


370 


will work with their CarDAQ-Plus J2534 

gateway device: 

If you service vehicles besides 

Toyota, you may want to Consider 

CarDAQ-Plus. CarDAQ-Plus is a universal 

J2534 reprogramming tool for 

all-makes. CarDAQ-Plus is also compatible 

with Toyota’s Techstream 

software. 

For additional information about Techstream 

Lite, including minimum computer 

requirements, visit Toyota’s TIS 

website. 

 

Toyota TIS Website 

techinfo.toyota.com 

Drew Technologies 

www.drewtech.com/products/Mongoose/mongoosemfc.html 

ASE Wave 

aeswave.com/Products/Product. 

asp?i=817 

Aftermarket Scan Tools 

Industry Wide Issues 

The aftermarket scan tool industry has 

brought several viable PC-based scan 

tools to market, with the two major 

players being AutoEnginuity and EASE 

Diagnostics. 

With many PC-based scan tool products, 

there seems to be a large group of supporters 

and a large group of disgruntled 

former users. Some of the issues consistently 

plaguing the aftermarket PCbased 

scan tool industry include: 

• Inconsistent OBD-II Connections - 

The scan tool may establish communication 

with the OBD-II system on 

a given car type on most occasions, 

and then, for no apparent reason, be 

unable to establish communication. 

The scan tools will typically perform 

well if communication is established. 

• Glitchy Software - The scan tool 

may stop working or hang up on 

a screen. This usually requires the 

computer to be rebooted. 

• Short of Expectations - Marketing 

departments tend to oversell PCbased 

scan tools’ capabilities. Some 

people buy them, believing these 

tools will deliver OEM level feature 

sets, when they won’t. 

Almost all of these industry-wide issues 

improve with each new software 

release, and disgruntled customers 

often are basing their opinions on older 

software versions. 

Scan Tool Comparison Overview 

Discussing the intricacies of how an automotive 

scan tool works is beyond the 

scope of this book. Therefore, this section 

will focus on examining the experience 

of using a PC-based scan tool in 

lieu of a scan tool based on proprietary 

hardware. 

All OBD-II compliant scan tools perform 

the Global OBD-II functions similarly; 

therefore, the information provided will 

focus on features unique to the PCbased 

platform. 

The areas of comparison include: 

• Company Overview - Basic information 

will be included about each 



company’s background. 

• Noted Strengths - This information 

is based on user comments aggregated 

from multiple online sources. 

• Min. Hardware Requirements - 

Minimum hardware requirements 

for all of the supported platforms. 

• Unique Features - This section identifies 

any significant feature that is 

not offered by other vendors. 

• Enhanced Coverage - This section 

identifies the Year/Make/Model 

coverage of features that exceed the 

Global OBD-II level. 

This feature set is the one most 

exploited by the tool vendor’s marketing 

departments and is the root 

cause for many disgruntled users. 

What does “enhanced” really mean? 

How can two products be compared 

that offer enhanced coverage on the 

same cars? 

To make an accurate comparison, 

it is necessary to dig deep into the 

specifications: 

• Parameter Set - OBD-II regulations 

mandate the availability 

of about 25 parameters, while 

some OEMs can deliver well 

over 500 parameters to the OEM 

scan tool. How close to the OEM 

parameter set is the aftermarket 

tool delivering? 

• Bidirectional Controls - The 

ability to control events on the 

car directly from a scan tool is 

known as bidirectional control. 

Enhanced coverage should support 

the bidirectional controls 

that are supported on the car. 

Again, how close to the actual 

number of OEM supported bidirectional 

controls are supported 

on the aftermarket tool? 

• OEM Like Features - The level of 

“enhanced” functionality is really 

a comparison of the aftermarket 

scan tool’s capabilities against 

the OEM scan tool. So the closer 

an aftermarket scan tool feature 

set mimics the feature set of the 

OEM scan tool, the better. 

• Connectivity - This section will list 

all the ways the scan tool’s hardware 

platform can connect to the car. 

• Upgrade Program - This section 

looks at how the software is upgraded, 

including the actual process and 

cost (when available). 

• Screen Captures - Several screen 

captures of each tool are included at 

the end of this chapter. 

Equipment Overview Statement 

Information about the AutoEnginuity, 

EASE Diagnostics. and ATS EScan diagnostic 

equipment is listed in this section 

simply as examples of full-featured 

pc-based scan tools. This information 

should not be considered a “buyers 

guide” and the author of this book is not 

endorsing any equipment. 

Most of the product information was 

taken from their websites in May 2010. 

For the most current information on 

these scan tools, or any other pc-based 


372 


scan tools, contact the tool manufacturer. 

AutoEnginuity 

Company Overview 

AutoEnginuity was founded in 2002 by 

a computer hardware engineer who 

also tuned and raced his own cars. 

AutoEnginuity has grown to become a 

leading provider of PC-based scan tools 

in the world. 

Figure 26-15: AutoEnginuity 

Noted Strengths 

AutoEnginuity, considering its level 

of enhanced coverage, has one of the 

most affordable upgrade plans in the 

industry. 

Minimum Hardware Requirements 

Windows PC 

• Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7 

• 50 MB of free drive space 

• CD-ROM or DVD-ROM 

• 1 GB of memory 

• USB 2.0 

Handheld Platforms 

AutoEnginuity does offer software for 

Windows Mobile (2003SE / Mobile 5) 

hand-held devices; however, due to 

hardware and operating system limitations 

of these devices, not all features 

are supported. For a complete list of 

compatible hand-held units and the 

limitations of specific units, contact 

AutoEnginuity’s tech support. 

Unique Features 

Every AutoEnginuity purchase includes 

SpeedTracer which can measure vehicle 

performance including: 

• 0-60 ft time 

• 0-60 MPH 

• 1/8 mile time 

• 1/8 mile speed 

• 1/4 mile time 

• 1/4 mile speed 

• G Forces 

• SAE Horsepower 

• Torque 

• Boost Pressure 

• SAE Horsepower and Torque vs RPM 

graphing 

• Speed vs Time graphing 

Enhanced Coverage 

• Audi / VW (1996-2009) 

• BMW and MINI (1996-2009) 

• Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth/Eagle 

(1996-2009) 

• Ford (1995-2009) 

• GM (1995-2009) 

• Honda and Acura (1996-2009) 

• Hyundai and Kia (1998-2009) 

• Isuzi (1996-2009) 

• Jaguar (1995-2009) 



• Land Rover (2002-2009) 

• Mazda (1996-2009) 

• Mercedes (1998-2009) 

• Mitsubishi (1996-2009) 

• Nissan and Infiniti (2000-2009) 

• Porsche (1997-2009) 

• Subaru (1999-2009) 

• Toyota/Scion/Lexus (1995-2009) 

Connectivity 

• USB 2.0 (True Plug & Play) 

• Bluetooth Wireless 

• Proprietary Wireless Radio 

Update Program 

AutoEnginuity is noted for having one 

of the more affordable update programs 

in the industry. After a full year of 

free updates, annual update plans are 

available for $50-$150, depending on 

the number of enhanced modules that 

are being covered. 

Screen Captures (At End of Chapter) 

Figure 26-25 Monitor Status View 

Figure 26-26 DTC & Freeze Frame View 

Figure 26-27 Digital Data View 

Figure 26-28 Graphing view 

AutoEnginuity 

autoenginuity.com 

EASE Diagnostics 


EASE Diagnostics began in 1993 with a 

dream by its founder, Stephen Golenski, 

to provide training equipment for 

educators training students how to diagnose 

electronic problems in automobiles. 

Soon EASE evolved into a diagnostic 

tool manufacturer and unveiled the 

Figure 26-16: EASE Diagnostics Generic Kit 

industry’s first Windows PC-Based Scan 

Tool in 1998. 

EASE continues to bring innovative 

products to the market and is a leading 

provider of PC-based scan tools in the 

world. 


EASE has a strong feature set; however, 

the company is best noted for its graphing 

capabilities which are extremely 

configurable and consistently the best 

in the industry. 


Windows PC 

• Windows 2000 / XP / Vista / 7 

• Pentium II 400 MHz 

• 1 GB RAM 

• 500 MB HDD space 

• CD-ROM Drive 

• Monitor 

• Mouse 

• Keyboard 

• USB 

Windows PocketPC / PalmOS 

Note that the Windows PocketPC and 

PalmOS products do not support all the 


374 


EASE features. You will need to contact 

EASE for additional information. 


EASE offers an innovative 

accessory for the 

EASE scan tool called 

the Data Logger. This 

compact hardware 

device (Figure 26-17) 

can record up to 12 

hours of data from the 

OBD-II data link connector 

(DLC) without a 

computer. This allows 

for easy collection of 

data while road testing 

a vehicle for intermittent 

problems. 

Figure 26-17: D. Logger The data logger is 

equipped with four 

buttons which allow the technician to 

“mark” the recordings to easily find a 

point when analyzing the information 

with the EASE scan tool software. 

The indisputable record of parameters 

mined from a long recording period is 

great for verifying performance, verifying 

customer complaints, and resolving 

customer-perceived drivability issues. 


• Chrysler (1992 to 2008) 

• Ford (1984 to 2008) 

• General Motors (1982 to 2008) 

• Hyundai (2005-2007) 

• Isuzu (1996 to 2008) 

• Kia (2005-2007) 

• Mazda (1996 to 2008) 

• Nissan (2000-2008) 

• Toyota (1996 to 2008) 

Connectivity 

• USB 

• Wireless - Radio Frequency (RF) 


Yearly software updates are available 

that include vehicle data for the current 

year as well as new functions and 

software enhancements. Updates are 

purchased through an EASE sales representative. 

If an update plan is not maintained, the 

software continues to work; however, 

upon the reestablishment of an update 

plan you will be charged for all time that 

was not previously covered. 

EASE now supports built-in automatic 

web updates for their scan tool software. 


Figure 26-29 Graphing View 

Figure 26-30 Parameter List View 

Figure 26-31 Freeze Frame View 

Figure 26-32 Bidirectional Control View 

 

ATS EScan 

EASE Diagnostics 

www.obd2.com 


Automotive Test Solutions (ATS) was 

formed by Bernie Thompson and Neal 

Pederson in 2001. Bernie is a graduate 

of Lincoln Tech and owns a 10-bay 

repair facility in Albuquerque, NM. Neal 

is an electrical engineer/computer 

programmer who has experience in 



Figure 26-18: ATS EScan With Bluetooth 

designing control systems for equipment 

ranging from particle accelerators 

to nuclear reactors. 

Together, Bernie and Neal have released 

patented and proven technologies that 

have been recognized by Motor Magazine’s 

prestigious Top 20 Awards. 


The EScan is an interesting tool that 

works at the Global OBD-II level. The 

software processes the generic data and 

displays it in a way that no other Global 

OBD-II scan tool has ever done. 

Many seasoned professional drivability 

technicians rave about this tool. John 

Anello of Scan Tool on Wheels stated, 

“I own 19 factory scan tools and 

several aftermarket scan tools. For 

drivability problems, my first choice 

is EScan by ATS. This tool is simply 

incredible!” 


Windows PC 

• XGA (1024x768) 

• 1 GHz Processor Speed (faster is better) 


• 1 GB RAM 

• 500 MB Available Hard Disk Space 

• RS-232 Serial Port or USB/RS-232 

Adaptor 


This tool is unique in the ways it processes 

and displays global OBD-II data. 


ESCan only works at the Globel OBD- 

II level; therefore, it does not support 

enhanced coverage. 

Connectivity 

• USB 

• RS232 (9-pin Serial Port) 

• Bluetooth Wireless 


This software is relatively static; therefore 

there is no official update program. 


Figure 26-33 Adv Fuel Trim Analysis 

Figure 26-34 Volumetric Efficiency View 

 

ATS’s EScan 

atsnm.com/escan.htm 

Other PC-Based Scan Tools 

AutoTap 

www.autotap.com 

OBDLink CI 

www.scantool.net 

OBD Pros 

www.obdpros.com 


376 


PC-Based Oscilloscopes 

Overview 

Digital storage oscilloscopes (DSOs) are 

migrating toward the PC platform for all 

of the same reasons that scan tools are, 

including: 

• Bigger display screens 

• More processing power 

• Lower overall equipment cost 

With PC-based DSOs, all of the test leads 

plug into an interface box. The interface 

box, in turn, communicates with a computer 

over a USB connection. 

In most cases one PC could be used to 

support both a scan tool and a DSO. 

PicoScope 

Overview 

One of the best examples of a PC-based 

DSO is the PicoScope by Pico Technology. 

The company was established in 

1991, offering PC-based DSOs and data 

loggers for general electronics testing. 

Tom Roberts of Autonerdz posted the 

first screen capture of a PicoScope on 

the International Automotive Technicians’ 

Network (iATN) in August 2001. 

The use of PicoScopes has since grown 

to the point that Pico Technology now 

offers automotive kits. Everything needed 

to turn a laptop or desktop PC into a 

powerful automotive diagnostic tool is 

Figure 26-19: Typical PicoScope Diagnostic Automotive Kit 



Current Automotive PicoScope Kits 

Feature 4223 Kit 4423 Kit 4423 Adv Kit 

Channels 2 4 4 

Accuracy ± 1% ± 1% ± 1% 

Memory 32 M1 32 M1 32 M1 

Max Sample Rate 1-2 Channels 80 MS/s 80 MS/s 80 MS/s 

Max Sample Rate 3-4 Channels — 20 MS/s 20 MS/s 

60A DC Current Clamp 1 1 2 

600A AC/DC Current Clamp 1 1 1 

20:1 Attenuator 2 4 4 

TA000 BNC to 4mm Test Lead 2 4 4 

Secondary Ignition Pickup 2 4 4 

Spark Plug Leads — — 4 

COP Probe — — 1 

2-Pin Break Out Lead 1 1 1 

Breakout Cable Small — — 1 

Breakout Cable Medium — — 1 

Breakout Cable Large — — 1 

Fuse Buddies - ATC — — 1 

Fuse Buddies - Mini ATC — — 1 

60 MHz Oscilloscope Probe — — 2 

Multi-Meter Probes 42 42 42 

Small Alligator Clips 42 42 42 

Dolphin Clips 23 23 23 

Insulation Piercing Probes 1 1 1 

Acupuncture Probes 1 1 1 

S-Hook 1 1 1 

Cable Identifier Kit 1 1 1 

Electronics Diagnostic CD-ROM 1 1 1 

Automotive Software CD-ROM 1 1 1 

Powered by USB 2.0 X X X 

Carrying Case 1 1 1 

1 32 Million Sample Buffer 

2 2 Red and 2 Black 

3 1 Red and 1 Black 

Table 26-1: Current Automotive PicoScope Kits 


378 


included in these kits (Figure 26-19). 

The first automotive kit, offered in 2002, 

was an adaptation of existing testing 

and measurement units. In 2005, Pico 

Technology offered the first dedicated 

automotive DSO kit which was based on 

their 3000 series. Automotive kits based 

on the more powerful 4000 series are 

now available. 

Models 

The PicoScope is available as a twochannel 

input or a 4-channel input built 

on two different platforms, the 3000 series 

and the 4000 series. The 4000 series 

is significantly more powerful than the 

3000 series and for the small difference 

in price (less than $200), the 4000 series 

should be the professional’s choice. 

A matrix showing the contents of the 

three current 4000 series diagnostic 

kits is shown in Table 26-1. Additional 

specifications for the PicoScope 4223 

and 4423 units are available at the links 

provided in the section resource box. 


Windows PC 

• 1 GHz processor, or equivalent 

• 1GB Memory (XP) - more is better 

• 2GB Memory (Vista/7) - more is better 

• 500 MB of free drive space 

• Windows XP SP2 / Vista / 7 

• USB 2.0 compliant port 

Training & Support 

Even though the PicoScope DSO is 

manufactured in England, the training 

and support of this product in the United 

States is excellent. The PicoScope 

website offers a full list of U.S. distributors, 

but the two most supportive of the 

automotive service industry are Autonerdz 

of East Olympia, WA and AES Wave 

of Fresno, CA. 

Tom Roberts, of Autonerdz, is a nationally 

recognized PicoScope expert and 

his website offers many PicoScope training 

and information resources, most of 

which are free. 

The PicoScope website also offers a 

large amount of training and support 

material. Their Automotive Library is 

excellent and contains: 

• 10 Tutorials on engine management 

• 15 Real world case studies 

• Waveform Library (130+ Examples) 

• 7 Articles about DSO usage 

• 6 Videos - PicoScope DSO Guide 



• 100 second capture at 690x zoom 

• More than 16.5 million samples per 

channel 


• 50 second capture at 264x zoom 

• More than 16.6 million samples per 

channel 



 

PicoScope Automotive Home Page 

www.picoauto.com 

Diagnostic Kit Home Page 

www.picoauto.com/diagnostic-kits. 

html 

3000 Series Specifications 

www.picoauto.com/labscopes.html 

4000 Series Specifications 

www.picoauto.com/diagnosticscopes.html 

Automotive Library 

www.picoauto.com/automotivelibrary.html 

Autonerdz - U.S. Distributor 

autonerdz.com 

AES Wave - U.S. Distributor 

www.aeswave.com 

Figure 26-20: EScope Limited Kit 

ATS EScope 

CRAG Technologies - U.S. Distributor 

www.pc-oscilloscopes.com 


Automotive Test Solutions (ATS) was 

formed by Bernie Thompson and Neal 

Pederson in 2001. Bernie is a graduate 

of Lincoln Tech and owns a 10-bay 

repair facility in Albuquerque, NM. Neal 

is an electrical engineer/computer programmer 

with experience in designing 

control systems for equipment ranging 

from particle accelerators to nuclear 

reactors. 

Together, Bernie and Neal have released 

patented and proven technologies that 

have been recognized by Motor Magazine’s 

prestigious Top 20 Awards. 

Models 

ATS offers EScope Limited, a 4-channel 

DSO (Figure 26-21) and EScope Pro, an 

Figure 26-21: 4-Channel EScope Limited 

Figure 26-22: 8-Channel EScope Pro 

8-channel DSO (Figure 26-22). Detailed 

specifications on the scope’s capabilities 

are on the ATS website, but the contents 

of each kit and minimum hardware 

requirements are: 


380 


4-Channel EScope Limited 

Kit Includes: 

• 4 - 9 ft BNC - Banana Plug Leads 

• 4 - 12 ft Extensions 

• 1 - Ground Lead 

• 8 - Back Probes 

• 1 - Banana Plug Adapter 

• 4 - Alligator Clips 

• 4 - “T” Wire Piercers 

• 1 - 3 ft USB Cable 

• 2 - Extra EScope Fuses 

• EScope & Software 

Minimum hardware requirements: 

• XGA Screen Resolution 

(1024x768) 

• 1 GHz Processor Speed 


• 1GB RAM (more is better) 

• 500 MB Available Hard Disk 

Space 

• USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Port 

8-Channel EScope Pro 

Kit Includes: 

• High Current Amp Clamp (600A 

Max) 

• Low Current Amp Clamp (60A 

Max) 

• 9 - 12 ft Color Coded Cable 

Extensions 

• 9 ft Battery Ground Cable 

• 8 - Color Coded Back Probes 

with Banana Jacks 

• 2 - Banana Plug Adapters 

• 12 - Color Coded Alligator Clips 

with Banana Jacks 

• 2 - Test Probes with Banana 

Jacks (One Black, One Red) 

• 10 - Color Coded 6 ft BNC Ba- 

nana to Plug Leads 

• 8 - Color Coded T Wire Piercers 

• AC Coupler 

• 12V DC Power Supply (Battery Clips) 

• Power Supply to Cigarette lighter 

• Power Cord 

• USB Cable 

• Bracket Set for Laptop 

• 2 - Extra EScope Fuses 

• EScope Pro and Software 

• Hard Plastic Case with Foam Padding 

for Accessory Kit 

Minimum Hardware Requirements: 

• XGA Screen Resolution (1024x768) 

• 2 GHz or Duo Core Processor) 


• 1GB RAM (more is better) 

• 500 MB Available Hard Disk Space 

• USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Port 


Figure 26-37 8 Graph View 



 

Screen Capture Software 

Overview 

ATS’s EScope Home Page 

automotivetestsolutions.com/scopes. 

htm 

With screen capture software a technician 

can easily add a known good pattern, 

or a known bad pattern, from diagnostic 

equipment into a database for 

future reference. These programs make 

it possible for a technician to build up a 

large library of information that is easy 

to manage. 



Capturing Image vs. Data Points 

Screen capture software stores information 

either as an image or as a set of 

data points. 

• Image Capture - With this technique, 

the result of a print command 

is sent to a PC instead of a printer. 

The screen capture software converts 

the printer output to a graphic 

image. 

While this technique will produce 

an accurate representation of the 

screen it is difficult, to manipulate 

any of the information in the screen 

capture. 

• Data Point Capture - With this technique 

the data points originally used 

to draw the waveform on the tester’s 

screen are sent to a PC. Screen 

capture software can then recreate 

a waveform dynamically using these 

data points. 

Since this technique stores data 

points, and not a static image, 

manipulation of the output is supported. 

Changing the scale of a 

waveform or combining multiple 

waveforms into one chart are just 

a couple of ways to manipulate an 

image saved using use data point 

capture. However, not all diagnostic 

equipment will output data point 

sets. 

AES Wave 

The Automotive Electronic Services 

(AES) Wave program is among the 

more popular choices used to store 

waveforms. This software was written 

by Jorge Menchu a former automotive 

technician and owner of AES, which is 

one of the best sources for automotive 

testing equipment and accessories. 

Jorge is also a popular presenter at automotive 

conferences and has contributed 

much to the industry. 

Using the AES Wave program is straightforward 

as indicated in these steps: 

• Install- Install the AES software on a 

Windows PC 

• Configure - Follow the detailed 

instructions to configure both the 

software and the test equipment 

• Connect - Connect the test equipment 

from the tester’s printer 

output port to a serial port on the 

computer 

• Print - Use the tester’s print feature 

to send the screen to the PC where 

AES will add the image to a database. 

When the screen capture is saved in the 

AES Wave program, a prompt asks for 

information such as: Year, Make, Model, 

Symptom, Test Point, and Testing Conditions. 

This information can then be used 

later to filter a search. 

The AES Wave proggram not only captures 

images, but can optionally capture 

data points from Fluke 97 and Fluke 98 

testers. AES Wave can also be used to 


382 


Figure 26-23: The Single Record View of the AES Wave Software 

store and manage any image on the 

computer. 

A built-in report generator makes it easy 

to print copies of any information stored 

in the program. 

AES Wave is compatible with the following 

automotive testers: 

• ADL 7100 Sensor Scope 

• Counselor 2 

• Edge PAC unit 

• ET-2020 

• Fluke 190-series 

• Fluke 97/97a 

• Fluke 98 and 98 series 2 

• Interro PDA 

• KAL 575/565a/565 

• LS-2000 

• Mac Quick Scope 

• MasterTech 

• Matco Insight 

• NGS (Power User Module required) 

• OTC Genisys (screen capture from 

REMOTE DISPLAY software) 

• OTC Perception (screen capture from 

GTI software) 

• OTC Vision and Vision II 

• Snap-On/Edge PAC unit 

• Snap-On Scanner (frame captures 

only) 

• Snap-On Vantage PGM 

• Snap-On MODIS, SOLUS and VantagePro 

(via CF card) 

• Tek 565/575 

• Tek THS 710/720 

 

AES Wave Software 

www.aeswave.com/Products/Product. 

asp?i=97 



Waveform Manager Pro 

Waveform Manager Pro is a screen capturing 

program offered by Metratek. The 

program is based on the data capture 

model; however, the program is also 

able to capture screen images. 

Progressive Diagnostics Co. initially 

marketed the program as WaveFile AutoPro 

and a large library of automotive 

waveforms saved with this program, 

is available on the Metratek site as a 

free download. This waveform library is 

compatible with the current version of 

Waveform Manager Pro. 

Waveform Manager Pro’s strength is its 

ability to manipulate waveforms at any 

point in the future. Some of the ways 

to control the display of a stored set of 

data points include: 

• Change the scale of waveforms 

• Combine multiple waveforms on 

one screen 

• Change the color of a waveform 

• Add annotations 

• Control of colors fonts, styles 

• Drag & Drop waveform placement 

The program supports the printing of 

waveforms and can also output waveforms 

as graphics files. 

System Requirements 

Windows PC 

• Windows: 2000 / XP / Vista / 7 

• One serial port 

Figure 26-24: Waveform Manager Pro - Record View 


384 


Supported Test Equipment 

• Bosch - PMS100 

• Cornwell - TechTrace 

• Ferret - Model 91 

• Fluke - Series 97A, 98 

• Hickock - NGS 

• ITTI - L110 

• Kenwood - DLS505 

• Mac Tools - ET2010, ET2020, ET2025 

• Matco - InSight, Reality 

• OTC - Vision, Perception 

• Snap-On/Sun - LS2000, LS2000a, 

• Snap-On EEOS306A 

• Snap-On Vantage 

• Snap-On Counselor II 

• Snap-On MT2500 Scanner 

• Summit - SAS 6000 

• Sun - LS2000 

• Tektronix - THM571U (Mac ET2020), 

• TektronixTHM575 (Kal-Equip) 

• UEI - ADL7100 

• Vetronix - Mastertech 

 

Waveform Manager Pro 

www.metratek.com/ds_pro.html 

WaveFile AutoPro Library 

www.metratek.com/WfmLib.htm 



PC- Based Equipment Screen Captures 

Figure 26-25: AutoEnginuity’s Monitor Status View 

Figure 26-26: AutoEnginuity’s DTC & Freeze Frame View 


386 


Figure 26-27: AutoEnginuity’s Digital Data View 

Figure 26-28: AutoEnginuity’s Graphing View 



Figure 26-29: EASE Diagnostic’s Graphing Mode 

Figure 26-30: EASE Diagnostic’s Parameter List View 


388 


Figure 26-31: EASE Diagnostic’s Freeze Frame View 

Figure 26-32: EASE Diagnostic’s Bidirectional Control Screen 



Figure 26-33: EScan’s Advanced Fuel Trim Analysis 

Figure 26-34: EScan’s Volumetric Efficiency View - 2000 GM 3.1 Liter With Bad MAF Sensor 


390 


Figure 26-35: PicoScope Graphing View - 100 Second Capture at 690x Zoom - More Than 16.5 Million Samples per Channel 

Figure 26-36: PicoScope Graphing View - 50 Second Capture at 264x Zoom - More Than 16.5 Million Samples per Channel 



Figure 26-37: EScope 8-Graph View - Toyota With Failing Injectors 

Figure 26-38: EScope 2-Graph View - Chevy Injector and O2 Sensor Signal 


392 


Figure 26-39: EScope 8-Graph View - Jeep Injectors Out of Sync

Chapter 26.indd - Automotive Electronics Services

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?