With more and more OEM diagnostic equipment going to PC-based hardware, is that driving a parallel change in the aftermarktet equipment also? I sure hope, so. There really isn’t a good justification for continuing to use an expensive, custom built diagnostic tool with a tiny screen, small processor, with limited inputs and outputs.

While Dell has jumped into the ruggedized notebook market with the Lattitude XFR D630, I really like the look of Toyota’s TIS techstream, as shown in the image to the left. It is based on the legendary Panasonic ToughBook Model CF-19. This ruggedized computer has a reversible screen that lets you use also use it like a tablet computer. The computer is held in a cradle that encompasses the vehicle communication module (VCM), a charging system, and an OBD-II cabling system.

This is Toyota’s OEM scan tool that is also tied into Totoya’s service information system so you can access service information right from the scan tool. Currently this setup is available from Toyota for $7995 which includes a 2-year subscription to Toyota’s information system. Also note that this OEM scan tool is the same hardware and software that is used by the Toyota dealership technicians.

PC-based solutions are readily available for scan tool operations and scope operations. While there are many products to choose from, the two following solutions seem to be the best of breed.

Scan Tool

While Ease Diagnostics was one of the first major suppliers of a PC-based scan tool, AutoEnginuity seams to currently be the predominate and most popular PC-based scan tool.

They offer enhanced coverage for Ford, GM, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mazda, Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, BMW, Land Rover, Jaguar and Porche. One of the more attractive features of AutoEnginuity is the low cost for upgrades. Based on the package you buy access to all upgrades  for 1 year are between $50-$150.

PC-Based Digital Storage Oscilliscope

PC-based digital storage oscilloscopes (DSO) really make sense. The larger screen size of a computer is nice when you start graphing several waveforms and need to see the details.

PicoScope is the predominate pc-based DSO. You can get this DSO as a 2-channel unit or a 4-channel unit. This DSO is built in England and is available from several sources in the USA including a trainer who specializes in the PicoScope, Tom Roberts of AutoNerdz.

While there are many sources of automotive test equipment, I have to put in a plug for my friends Jorge and Carlos Menchu of AES Wave. They offer all the latest and greatest in automotive testing equipment and equipment accessories. They also support the industry by attending most major trade shows and delivering quality training.

In Summary

Are You using PC-based diagnostic equipment? If so, what are you using? Do you like it? Should you buy a ruggedized laptop (often at 3 times the price of a standard laptop) or buy a solid standard laptop and replace it if it gets broken?

Join in on the conversation and help make the decision easier for those wanting to make the transition to PC-based diagnostics.