An automotive scan tool (scanner) is an electronic tool used to interface with, diagnose and, sometimes, reprogram
vehicle control modules.
There are many types from just as many manufacturers, one of the most familiar being the
Snap-On Inc. "brick", or MT2500/MTG2500. Snap-On, Hella Gutmann Solutions, OTC/SPX, Xtool india, Autel, Launch, Vetronix/Bosch and a number of other companies produce various types of scan tools, from simple code readers to highly capable bi-directional computers with programming capabilities.
The scan tool is connected to the vehicle's
data link connector (DLC) and, depending on the particular tool, may only read out diagnostic trouble codes or DTC's (this would be considered a "code reader") or may have more capabilities. Actual scan tools will display live data stream (inputs and outputs), have bi-directional controls (the ability to make the controllers do things outside of normal operations) and may even be able to calibrate/program modules within certain parameters. However, a typical scan tool does not have the ability to fully reprogram modules because it requires a J-2534
pass-through device and specific software.
Voltas IT created a new generation diagnostic tool – OBDeleven, the device which easily connects to the car, monitors all systems, and activates new car's features. It supports
Audi,
Volkswagen,
SEAT
A seat is a place to sit. The term may encompass additional features, such as back, armrest, head restraint but also headquarters in a wider sense.
Types of seat
The following are examples of different kinds of seat:
* Armchair (furniture), ...
,
Å koda
Å koda means ''pity'' in the Czech and Slovak languages. It may also refer to:
Czech brands and enterprises
* Škoda Auto, automobile and previously bicycle manufacturer in Mladá Boleslav
** Å koda Motorsport, the division of Å koda Auto respons ...
,
Lamborghini
Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. () is an Italian brand and manufacturer of luxury sports cars and SUVs based in Sant'Agata Bolognese. The company is owned by the Volkswagen Group through its subsidiary Audi.
Ferruccio Lamborghini (1916–1993) ...
, and
Bentley
Bentley Motors Limited is a British designer, manufacturer and marketer of luxury cars and SUVs. Headquartered in Crewe, England, the company was founded as Bentley Motors Limited by W. O. Bentley (1888–1971) in 1919 in Cricklewood, North ...
.
OBD 1 vs OBD 2 the vehicle will also dictate what the scan tool is able to display. If the vehicle is equipped with OBD 1 it will have significantly less available data when compared to a vehicle equipped with OBD 2.
When a vehicle detects a problem, it generates a DTC code which is a unique code that corresponds to the specific problem detected. The code is usually a combination of letters and numbers.
DTC codes are read by a diagnostic tool, such as an OBD 2 scanner, which is plugged into the vehicle's diagnostic port. The tool communicates with the vehicle's onboard computer and retrieves the DTC codes. The codes are then interpreted by the mechanic or technician to determine the specific problem with the vehicle.
See also
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OBD-II PIDs
OBD-II PIDs (On-board diagnostics Parameter IDs) are codes used to request data from a vehicle, used as a diagnostic tool.
SAE standard J1979 defines many OBD-II PIDs. All on-road vehicles and trucks sold in North America are required to support a ...
list of data readable with a scan tool
*
ELM327 very common integrated circuit inside scan tools
*
OBDuino onboard computer made with Arduino that has the scan tool functions
*
Data link connector (automotive)
The data link connector (DLC) is the multi-pin diagnostic connection port for automobiles, trucks, and motorcycles used to interface a scan tool with the control modules of a given vehicle and access on-board diagnostics and live data streams. ...
standard connector for OBD
*
On-board diagnostics#OBD-II last specification for OBD
*
Pass through device (automotive) A passthrough device is used in conjunction with a computer to reprogram vehicle control modules through the OBD-II/CANbus port. Each manufacturer has their own type, but SAE International
SAE International, formerly named the Society of Auto ...
References
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Automotive electronics