Rotunda Diagnostic Strategy - MotorCraftService.com

Rotunda Diagnostic StrategyThe future is here.

Rotunda’s Diagnostic StrategyRotunda has developed a Diagnostic Strategy to allow dealers to takeadvantage of continuous advancements in computer technology. Instead of alarge custom system with built-in computer technology, you can use our newFamily of Modules with the computer platform that best suits your needs.You decide which computer platform is right for you.AvailableAvailableAvailableThe Rotunda Family of ModulesThe VDRThe Vehicle Data Recorder (VDR) was developed to capturediagnostic readings while customers are on the road, helping tosolve drivabilty concerns that only occur intermittently and inspecific circumstances. The VDR works with the WDS today, andwill be part of the Diagnostic Strategy in the future.The VCMThe Vehicle Communications Module (VCM) handles allcommunications with the vehicles onboard modules. It is theheart of the Diagnostic Strategy.The VMMThe Vehicle Measurement Module (VMM – targeted foravailability in late 2005) will provide measurementcapabilities for guided diagnostics, fuel and ignitionsystems and more. When used in conjunction with a VCM,it will provide WDS level functionality.

Flexible Software SubscriptionEven the Software Subscription is loaded with flexibility. The subscription istied to the VCM, not the computer platform you choose to use it with. Youdon’t need a subscription for each computer platform or each user. Manytechnicians can use the same VCM, even if one uses a Pocket PC and oneuses a PC*.*Each VCM requires a software subscription dedicated to that VCM.Optimize Your InvestmentThe Diagnostic Strategy and flexibility enable you to optimize your overall investmentin Diagnostics. The incremental cost to add more capability is lowered because youcan share modules across several technicians. For instance, it is anticipated that asingle VMM can be shared among several technicians. You can get the equivalentthroughput of two WDS units for less.

You Choose The SoftwareOne Software Subscriptionallows you to choose thesoftware you want to use withthe VCM. New options will bePDS runs on standard PocketPC devices to provideultimate portability with fullcolor sunlight viewablegraphics display andmade available over time.2003 2004 touchscreen interface. 2005Introducing Pocket Diagnostic Software (PDS) in 2004Typical Non-FordFord NGS+ with VCM Ford PDS with VCM PDA-Based ToolsSelf-Test/CMDTCs X X XLive Data Display/Active Commands All All LimitedNon-Powertrain Modules All All LimitedPATS Keys/FOB Programming X XCAN Vehicle Protocol X X XUBP Vehicle Protocol X XService Functions/Calibrations 13 13+ABS Brake Bleed X XModule Configuration X XModule ReprogrammingXVehicle SessionsXPower Balance X*Wireless Capable X**Future Planned ContentQuestionsIs the VCM competitively priced?How does VCM compare to non-Ford PDA tools on the market?What is the five-year cost of theVCM hardware and software?Can I move from using a VCM withmy NGS T-handle to a Pocket PC orLaptop/Desktop PC later?ROT-04-301-0105Frequently Asked QuestionsAnswersYes, a Rotunda survey of competitive tools revealed the following:Aftermarket Scan ToolsHardware Price Range $1,750 to $6,000Yearly Software Price Range $400 to $1,300OEM Scan ToolsHardware Price Range $3,800 to $5,700Yearly Software Price Range $800 to $2,200The VCM with NGS+ or PDS software provides significantly more functionality and vehiclecoverage than non-Ford tools as shown in the table above. In addition, Ford software isreleased to support vehicle sale date, while non-Ford tools are delayed many months.Five-Year VCM Cost:Hardware and 2 years of software* $2,400Software years 3 – 5 ($500 per year x three years) $1,500Total $3,900Yearly Cost ($3,900/five years) $780Daily Workday Cost:(Five days x fifty weeks x five years = 1,250 days)($3,900/1,250 workdays) $3.12 per workday*Not including cost of display deviceInitially, only NGS+ software to operate your VCM with the NGS will be available. Softwarewill eventually be available for all of these platforms. All that will change is the software youload and the VCM cable. There will be no extra software cost. Depending on the Pocket PCyou choose, you might have to buy a new cable to connect your VCM to it.