Autel®, MaxiSys®, MaxiDAS®, MaxiScan®, MaxiTPMS®, MaxiRecorder®, and
MaxiCheck® are trademarks of Autel Intelligent Technology Corp., Ltd., registered in
China, the United States and other countries. All other marks are trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective holders.
Copyright Information
No part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted,
in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or
otherwise, without the prior written permission of Autel.
Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liabilities
All information, specifications and illustrations in this manual are based on the latest
information available at the time of printing. Autel reserves the right to make changes at
any time without notice. While information of this manual has been carefully checked
for accuracy, no guarantee is given to the completeness and correctness of the
contents, including but not limited to the product specifications, functions, and
illustrations.
Autel will not be liable for any direct damages or for any special, incidental, or indirect
damages or for any economic consequential damages (including lost profits).
IMPORTANT: Before operating or maintaining this unit, please read this manual
carefully, paying extra attention to the safety warnings and precautions.
For Services and Support:
http://pro.autel.com
www.autel.com
1-855-288-3587/1-855-AUTELUS (North America)
0086-755-86147779 (China)
Support@autel.com
For technical assistance in all other markets, please contact your local selling agent.
i
Safety Information
For your own safety and the safety of others, and to prevent damage to the device and
vehicles upon which it is used, it is important that the safety instructions herein
presented throughout this manual be read and understood by all persons operating, or
coming into contact with, the device.
There are various procedures, techniques, tools, and parts for servicing vehicles, as
well as in the skill of the person doing the work. Because of the vast number of test
applications and variations in the products that can be tested with this equipment, we
cannot possibly anticipate or provide advice or safety messages to cover every
circumstance. It is the automotive technician’s responsibility to be knowledgeable of the
system being tested. It is crucial to use proper service methods and test procedures. It
is essential to perform tests in an appropriate and acceptable manner that does not
endanger your safety, the safety of others in the work area, the device being used, or
the vehicle being tested.
Before using the device, always refer to and follow the safety messages and applicable
test procedures provided by the manufacturer of the vehicle or equipment being tested.
Use the device only as described in this manual. Read, understand, and follow all
safety messages and instructions in this manual.
Safety Messages
Safety messages are provided to help prevent personal injury and equipment damage.
All safety messages are introduced by a signal word indicating the hazard level.
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury to the operator or to bystanders.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury to the operator or to bystanders.
Safety Instructions
The safety messages herein cover situations Autel is aware of. Autel cannot know,
evaluate or advise you as to all of the possible hazards. You must be certain that any
condition or service procedure encountered do not jeopardize your personal safety.
DANGER: When an engine is operating, keep the service area WELL
VENTILATED or attach a building exhaust removal system to the engine exhaust
system. Engines produce carbon monoxide, an odorless, poisonous gas that
causes slower reaction time and can lead to serious personal injury or loss of
life.
ii
Safety Information Important Safety Instructions
Do Not Turn the Volume Up Too Loud When Using Headphones
Listening at high volumes that over-stimulate the ear for long periods of time
may result in loss of hearing.
SAFETY WARNINGS:
Always perform automotive testing in a safe environment.
Wear safety eye protection that meets ANSI standards.
Keep clothing, hair, hands, tools, test equipment, etc. away from all
moving or hot engine parts.
Operate the vehicle in a well ventilated work area, for exhaust gases are
poisonous.
Put the transmission in PARK (for automatic transmission) or NEUTRAL
(for manual transmission) and make sure the parking brake is engaged.
Put blocks in front of the drive wheels and never leave the vehicle
unattended while testing.
Use extreme caution when working around the ignition coil, distributor cap,
ignition wires and spark plugs. These components create hazardous
voltages when the engine is running.
Keep a fire extinguisher suitable for gasoline, chemical, and electrical fires
nearby.
Do not connect or disconnect any test equipment while the ignition is on or
the engine is running.
Keep the test equipment dry, clean, free from oil, water or grease. Use a
mild detergent on a clean cloth to clean the outside of the equipment as
necessary.
Do not drive the vehicle and operate the test equipment at the same time.
Any distraction may cause an accident.
Refer to the service manual for the vehicle being serviced and adhere to
all diagnostic procedures and precautions. Failure to do so may result in
personal injury or damage to the test equipment.
To avoid damaging the test equipment or generating false data, make
sure the vehicle battery is fully charged and the connection to the vehicle
DLC is clean and secure.
Do not place the test equipment on the distributor of the vehicle. Strong
electro-magnetic interference can damage the equipment.
iii
Contents
SAFETY INFORMATION ............................................................................................ II
CHAPTER 1 USING THIS MANUAL ...................................................................... 1
This manual contains device usage instructions.
Some illustrations shown in this manual may contain modules and optional equipment
that are not included on your system. Contact your sales representative for availability
of other modules and optional tools or accessories.
1.1 Conventions
The following conventions are used.
1.1.1 Bold Text
Bold emphasis is used to highlight selectable items such as buttons and menu
options.
Example:
Tap OK.
1.1.2 Terminology
The term ―select‖ means highlighting a button or menu item and tapping it to
confirm the selection.
1.1.3 Notes and Important Messages
The following messages are used.
Notes
A NOTE provides helpful information such as additional explanations, tips,
and comments.
Important
IMPORTANT indicates a situation which, if not avoided, may result in damage
to the test equipment or vehicle.
1.1.4 Hyperlinks
Hyperlinks, or links, that take you to other related articles, procedures, and
illustrations are available in electronic documents. Blue colored text indicates
a selectable hyperlink.
1
Using This Manual Conventions
1.1.5 Procedures
An arrow icon indicates a procedure.
Example:
To use the camera:
1 Tap the Camera button. The camera screen opens.
2 Focus the image to be captured in the view finder.
3 Tap the blue circle. The view finder now shows the captured picture
and auto-saves the taken photo.
2
Chapter 2 General Introduction
The MaxiSys® Elite Diagnostic Platform is the next generation of smart solution for
specialized automotive diagnosis. Featuring the NVIDIA’s Tegra® 4-PLUS-1 quad-core
1.90GHz processor, a 9.7‖ Retina display with a super sensitive capacitive screen,
combined with an optimized array of powerful applications, and the best possible
coverage of OE-level diagnostics, the MaxiSys Elite performs every job from
comprehensive vehicle diagnostics and analysis, to advanced ECU programming
quickly and efficiently.
There are 3 main components to the MaxiSys Elite system:
MaxiSys Display Tablet – the central processor and monitor for the system
Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) – the J2534 ECU Programming Device
for accessing vehicle data with programming capabilities
Docking Station – provides optimum visibility and convenient charging
This manual describes the construction and operation of the devices and how they
work together to deliver diagnostic solutions.
2.1 MaxiSys Display Tablet
2.1.1 Functional Description
Figure 2-1 MaxiSys Display Tablet Front View
1. 9.7‖ Retina display with capacitive touch screen
2. Built-in Microphone
3. LED Indicator Light – indicates battery level & charging or system status
3
The LED Indicator Light displays differently in response to the 4 status below:
A. Charged – indicated by steady green light
B. Charging – indicated by steady yellow light
C. Low Battery – indicated by steady red light
D. Standby – indicated by flashing blue light
Figure 2-2MaxiSys Display Tablet Top View
6. USB Port – for Ethernet adapter and/or VCI connection
7. HDMI Port
8. Mini USB OTG Port
9. Head Phone Jack
10. DC Power Supply Input Port
11. Lock/Power Button – turns the device on & off with long press, or locks
the screen with short press
Figure 2-3 MaxiSys Display Tablet Back View
12. Collapsible Stand – extends from the back to allow hands-free viewing of
the display tablet at a 30-degree angle
13. Removable Battery
4
General Introduction MaxiSys Display Tablet
Item
Description
Operating System
Android 4.4.4 KitKat
Processor
NVIDIA Tegra® 4 (4-PLUS-1 Quad-core
Processor) 1.8GHz with ARM Cortex – A15 CPU
Memory
2GB RAM & 32GB Embedded Memory
14. Mini SD Slot – optional module
15. Camera Lens
16. Camera Flash/Torch
2.1.2 Power Sources
The MaxiSys Elite can receive power from any of the following sources:
Rechargeable Battery Pack
AC/DC Power Supply – using power adapter or docking station
Vehicle Power
Rechargeable Battery Pack
The display tablet can be powered with the rechargeable battery, which if fully
charged can provide sufficient power for about 4 hours of continuous
operation.
AC/DC Power Supply
The display tablet can be powered from a wall socket using the AC/DC power
adapter or the docking station. The AC/DC power supply also charges the
battery pack.
Vehicle Power
The display tablet can be powered from the cigarette lighter or other suitable
power port on the test vehicle through a direct cable connection. The vehicle
power cable connects to the DC power supply port on the top side of the
display unit.
2.1.3 Technical Specifications
5
General Introduction MaxiSys Display Tablet
Item
Description
Display
9.7‖ Retina display with 2048X1536 resolution &
Capacitive touch screen
Connectivity
802.11a/b/g/n/ac WIFI
Version 2.1 3Mbs BT
RJ45 Ethernet Connection
3.0 USB (2.0 Compatible)
HDMI 1.4a
SD Card (Support up to 32GB)
Camera
Rear: 8.0 Megapixel, Autofocus with Flashlight
Front: 2.0 Megapixel
3.7V/13600mAH Lithium-polymer battery
DC/12V/3A Power Supply
Input Voltage
DC/12V/3A
Power Consumption
Max 20W
Operating Temperature
-10 to +55°C
Storage Temperature
-20 to +70°C
Dimensions (W x H x D)
309 X 225 X 35 (mm)
Weight
1.59 kg
Protocols
ISO 9142-2, ISO 14230-2, ISO 15765-4, K/L lins,
Flashing Code, SAE-J1850 VPW, SAE-J1850
PWM, CAN ISO 11898, Highspeed, Middlespeed,
Lowspeed and Singlewire CAN, GM UART, UART
Echo Byte Protocol, Honda Diag-H Protocol, TP
2.0, TP 1.6, SAE J1939, SAE J1708,
Fault-Tolerant CAN
6
General Introduction VCI – J2534 ECU Programming Device
2.2 VCI – J2534 ECU Programming Device
2.2.1 Functional Description
Figure 2-4 J2534 ECU Programming Device
1. Ethernet Port
2. USB Port
3. Power LED - illuminates solid green when powered on
4. Error LED - illuminates solid red when serious hardware failure occurs
5. BT LED - illuminates solid green when connected with the MaxiSys
display tablet through BT communication
6. Ethernet LED - illuminates solid green when connected with the MaxiSys
display tablet or an existing LAN via the Ethernet serial cable
7. USB Status Light - illuminates solid green when the device is properly
connected and communicating with the MaxiSys display tablet or the PC
via the USB cable
8. Vehicle LED - flashes green when communicating with the vehicle’s
network
IMPORTANT: Do not disconnect the reprogramming device while this status
light is on! If the flash reprogramming procedure is interrupted while the
vehicle’s ECU is blank or only partially programmed, the module may be
unrecoverable.
9. BT Antenna
10. DC Power Supply Input Port
11. Vehicle Data Connector (DB26-Pin MVCI)
7
General Introduction VCI – J2534 ECU Programming Device
12. External Programming Voltage Output Port
13. A/D Input Port
J2534 Reprogramming Capability
The J2534 ECU Programming Device is a SAE J2534-1 & -2 compliant
PassThru reprogramming interface device. Using the updated OEM software,
it is capable of replacing the existing software/firmware in the Electronic
Control Units (ECU), programming new ECUs and fixing software-controlled
drivability issues and emission issues.
Communication
The J2534 ECU programming device supports BT, Ethernet and USB
communication. It can transmit vehicle data to the MaxiSys display tablet with
or without a physical connection. The working range of the transmitter through
BT communication is 755 feet (about 230 m). A signal lost due to moving out
of range automatically restores itself when the display tablet unit is brought
closer to the VCI unit.
2.2.2 Power Sources
The J2534 programming device can receive power from both of the following
sources:
Vehicle Power
AC/DC Power Supply
Vehicle Power
The J2534 programming device operates on 12-volt vehicle power, which it
receives through the vehicle data connection port. The device powers on
whenever it is connected to an OBD II/EOBD compliant data link connector
(DLC). For non OBD II/EOBD compliant vehicles, the device can be powered
from a cigarette lighter or other suitable power port on the test vehicle using
the auxiliary power cable.
AC/DC Power Supply
The J2534 programming device can be powered from a wall socket using the
AC/DC power adapter.
8
General Introduction VCI – J2534 ECU Programming Device
Item
Description
Communications
Ethernet: RJ45 Ethernet connection
BT
USB 2.0
Input Voltage Range
6 VDC to 26 VDC
Supply Current
300 mA @ 6 VDC
200 mA @ 12 VDC
110 mA @ 24 VDC
Operating Temperature
0°C to +60°C (ambient)
Storage Temperature
-65°C to +100°C (ambient)
Dimensions (L x W x H)
183.8 x 135.5 x 41 (mm)
Weight
0.54 kg (1.20 lb)
2.2.3 Technical Specifications
NOTE: For additional information, please refer to the accompanied user
manual for the J2534 ECU Programming Device.
2.3 Docking Station
2.3.1 Functional Description
1. DC Power Port - connects to the AC/DC adapter for power supply
2. Charging Dock – holds the MaxiSys tablet while providing optimum
visibility and convenient charging
Figure 2-5 Docking Station
9
General Introduction Accessorires Kit
Item
Description
Input Voltage
DC/12V/3A
Operating Temperature
-10°C to +55°C (ambient)
Storage Temperature
-40°C to +85°C (ambient)
Dimensions (L x W x H)
326.5 x 128.5 x 49 (mm)
Weight
0.79 kg (1.74lb)
3. Status Indicator Light
The Indicator Light displays differently in response to the tablet status
described below:
A. Green light – battery power of the tablet is sufficient (≥90%);
B. Yellow light – battery level is between 90% to 14%;
C. Red light – battery level is lower than 14%;
NOTE: Please make sure no small metal or other conductive parts are around
the Charging Dock to avoid short circuit damage to the device.
2.3.2 Technical Specifications
2.4 Accessories Kit
2.4.1 Main Cable
The VCI device can be powered through the Main Cable when connected to
an OBD II/EOBD compliant vehicle. The Main Cable connects the VCI device
to the vehicle’s data link connector (DLC), through which the VCI device can
transmit vehicle data to the MaxiSys display tablet.
Figure 2-6 Main Cable – 1.5 m in length
10
General Introduction Accessorires Kit
VW/Audi-2+2
Chrysler-16
BMW-20
Kia-20
Nissan-14
GM/Daewoo-12
Honda-3
Fiat-3
PSA-2
Benz-38
Mitsubishi/Hyun
dai-12+16
Benz-14
Standard 2.0 USB Cable
Connects the display tablet to the VCI unit.
Mini USB Cable
Connects the display tablet to the PC.
AC/DC External Power Adapter
Connects the display tablet to the external DC power
port for power supply.
2.4.2 OBD I Adapters
The OBD I adapters are for Non-OBD II vehicles. The adapter used depends
on the type of vehicle make being tested. The most common adapters are
shown below.
2.4.3 Other Accessories
11
General Introduction Accessorires Kit
Compact Disc (CD)
Includes the User Manual, Printing Services Program
and Update Application, etc.
Ethernet Serial Cable
Connects the display tablet to the VCI unit.
Cigarette Lighter
Provides power to the display tablet or the J2534
programming device through connection to the
vehicle’s cigarette lighter receptacle, as some
non-OBD II vehicles cannot provide power via the
DLC connection.
Clipper Cable
Provides power to the display tablet or the J2534
programming device, through connection to the
vehicle’s battery.
Lighter Fuse
A safety device for the cigarette lighter.
Screwdriver
Unscrews the rear cover of the display tablet for easy
replacement of the battery or the Mini SD card.
USB Ethernet Adapter
Connects the device to an Ethernet network
12
Getting Started Powering Down
Chapter 3 Getting Started
Make sure the MaxiSys Display Tablet has a charged battery or is connected to the DC
power supply (see2.1.2 Power Sources on page 5).
3.1 Powering Up
Press the Lock/Power button on the top right side of the display tablet to
switch the unit on. The system boots up, and shows the lock screen. Pressing
the inner ring with a Lock icon at the center displays 3 entry options:
1. Unlock – Drag the inner ring to the right edge of the circle to enter the
Android System’s Home Screen.
2. MaxiSys – Drag the inner ring to the bottom edge of the circle to enter
the MaxiSys Job Menu.
3. Camera – Drag the inner ring to the left edge of the circle to launch the
camera.
Figure 3-1 Sample MaxiSys Job Menu
1. Application Buttons
2. Locator and Navigation Buttons
3. System Status Icons
4. App Switcher
NOTE: The screen is locked by default when you first turn on the display tablet.
It is recommended to lock the screen to protect information in the system and
reduce battery usage.
13
Getting Started Installing Computer Software
Name
Button
Description
Diagnostics
Configures the unit to operate as a diagnostic tool. See
Diagnostics Operations on page 20.
Data Manager
Opens the organization system for saved data files.
SeeData Manager Operations on page 63.
MaxiFix
Launches the MaxiFix platform which provides the most
compatible and abundant repair techniques and
diagnostics database. See MaxiFix Operations on page
68.
Settings
Allows you to set the MaxiSys system settings, and to
view the general information about the Display Tablet.
See Settings Operations on page 77.
Shop
Manager
Allows you to edit and save workshop information and
customer data, as well as reviewing test vehicle history
records. See Shop Manager Operations on page 82.
Update
Checks for the latest update available for the MaxiSys
system, and performs updating procedures. See
Update Operations on page 90.
VCI Manager
Establishes and manages BT or wired connections to
the VCI device. See VCI Manager Operationson page
92.
Almost all operations on the display tablet are controlled through the touch
screen. The touch screen navigation is menu driven, which allows you to
quickly locate the test procedure, or data that you need, through a series of
choices and questions. Detailed descriptions of the menu structures are found
in the chapters for the various applications.
3.1.1 Application Buttons
The Application buttons configure the MaxiSys for the type of operation or
activity to be performed. The table below gives brief descriptions of the
available applications.
Use the stylus pen or your finger tip to select an application from the Job
Menu.
Table 3-1 Applications
14
Getting Started Installing Computer Software
Name
Button
Description
Remote Desk
Configures your unit to receive remote support using
the TeamViewer application program. See Remote
Desk Operations on page 96.
Support
Launches the Support platform which synchronizes
Autel’s on-line service base station with the MaxiSys
tablet. See Support Operations on page 98.
Training
Allows you to store and play technical tutorial and
training videos about the device usage or vehicle
diagnostic techniques. See
Training Operations
on
page
108
.
Quick Link
Provides associated website bookmarks to allow quick
access to product update, service, support and other
information. See Quick Link Operations on page 110.
Oscilloscope
Configures the unit to operate as an automotive
oscilloscope to perform electrical and electronic circuit
tests and monitor signal activities. See Oscilloscope
Operations on page 111.
Digital
Inspection
Configures the unit to operate as a video scope device
by connecting to an Imager head cable for close vehicle
inspections. See
Digital Inspection Operations
on
page 111.
Name
Button
Description
Locator
Indicates the location of the screen. Swipe the
screen left or right to view the previous or next
screen.
Back
Returns to the previous screen.
Android Home
Returns to Android System’s Home screen.
Recent Apps
Displays a list of applications that are currently
working. To open an app, touch it. To remove
an app, swipe it to the right.
3.1.2 Locator and Navigation Buttons
Operations of the Navigation buttons at the bottom of the screen are described
in the table below:
Table 3-2 Locator and Navigation Buttons
15
Getting Started Installing Computer Software
Name
Button
Description
Chrome
Launches the Chrome browser.
Camera
Opens the camera with short press; takes and
saves screenshot image with long press. The
saved files are auto-stored in the Data
Manager application for later reviews. See
Data Manager Operations on page 63.
Display & Sound
Allows you to adjust the brightness of the
screen and the volume of the audio output.
MaxiSys Home
Returns to MaxiSys Job Menu.
VCI
Opens the VCI Manager application. The tick
icon at the bottom right corner indicates the
display tablet is communicating with the VCI
device, otherwise a cross icon displays.
Diagnostics
Shortcut
Returns to the Diagnostics operation interface
from other Android applications.
Name
Button
Description
Calculator
Launches calculator when pressed.
Clock
Launches clock when pressed.
BT Enables/disables BT when pressed.
WiFi
Enables/disables WiFi when pressed.
3.1.3 System Status Icons
These are the standard status icons of the Android operating system. Your
MaxiSys display tablet is a fully functional Android Pad. Refer to Android
documentation for additional information.
By tapping on this area (bottom right corner), a Shortcuts Panel will be
displayed, on which you are allowed to set various system settings of the
tablet. Operations of each button on the panel are described in the table
below:
Table 3-3 Shortcuts Panel Buttons
NOTE: The shortcuts buttons will be highlighted when enabled, and dimmed
when disabled.
16
Getting Started Installing Computer Software
Name
Button
Description
Ethernet
Enables/disables Ethernet when pressed.
Only displays when the Ethernet adapter is
connected to the USB port.
Torch
Turns on/off the torch when pressed.
Auto Rotate
Enables/disables auto-rotate screen when
pressed.
Power Control
Launches the Power Saving settings interface
when pressed.
Airplane Mode
Enables/disables Airplane Mode when
pressed.
System Settings
Launches the Android System Settings
interface when pressed.
3.1.4 App Switcher
The App Switcher can be enabled or disabled on Android System Settings.
Short pressing this button opens a control panel.
Tapping a specific app shortcut button enables you to switch directly to
the selected application screen.
Long pressing a specific app shortcut button displays the app menu, on
which you can select and change the app shortcut.
Pressing and dragging the App Switcher around allows you to change
the button position alongside the edge of the screen.
3.2 Powering Down
All vehicle communications must be terminated before shutting down the
MaxiSys display tablet. A warning message displays if you attempt to shut
down while the VCI unit is communicating with the vehicle. Forcing a shut
down while communicating may lead to ECM problems on some vehicles. Exit
the Diagnostics application before powering down.
To power down the MaxiSys tablet:
1. Press and hold the Lock/Power Button.
2. Tap OK; the tablet will turn off in a few seconds.
17
Getting Started Installing Computer Software
3.2.1 Reboot System
In case of system crash, press and hold the Lock/Power button for 8 seconds
to reboot the system.
3.3 Installing Computer Software
The MaxiSys Elite Diagnostic Platform allows you to realize some of its
functions on a computer to enhance capabilities and improve user experience.
To realize these functions on a computer, you need to install certain software.
There are two Setup.exe program packages contained in the CD provided
with the MaxiSys Elite tool kit. The package includes the following
applications:
1. PC Link - launches a Printing Services program which receives and
allows editing the files sent from the MaxiSys tablet for printing
2. Driver Program - setup driver program for the VCI device
3. Network Configuration Program and Update Agent - network
configuration program and firmware update agent for the VCI device
To install the Setup.exe program
1. Insert the CD into the CD-ROM of the computer. The driver
installation wizard will load momentarily.
2. Click on Next on the welcome page.
3. Click the Change button, and select a destination folder to install the
program, and click Next to continue. Or directly click Next to
continue without changing the default installation folder.
4. Click Install and the Setup.exe program will be installed onto the
computer.
3.3.1 Printing Operation
This section describes how to receive file from the MaxiSys tablet and perform
printing through the computer:
To perform printing through the computer
1. Install the PC Link (Printing Services program) to the computer.
18
Getting Started Installing Computer Software
2. Make sure the display tablet is connected to the computer network,
either via Wi-Fi or LAN, before printing. See7.1.3 Printing Setting on
page 78 for more information.
3. Run the Printing Services program on the computer.
4. Tap the Print button on the toolbar displayed in various applications
of the MaxiSys system. A temporary file will be created and sent to
the computer for printing.
5. Click the Printer Server tab on the top of the program interface on
the computer, and wait for the printing file to load.
6. Click the Print button to start printing.
NOTE: Make sure the computer installed with the Printing Services program is
connected to a printer.
Refer to the accompanied user manual for the corresponding VCI device for
detailed information about the operation of the network configuration program
and/or the update agent.
19
Chapter 4 Diagnostics Operations
By establishing a data link to the electronic control systems of the vehicle being
serviced through the VCI device, the Diagnostics application allows you to retrieve
diagnostic information, view live data parameters, and perform active tests. The
Diagnostics application can access the electronic control module (ECM) for various
vehicle control systems, such as engine, transmission, antilock brake system (ABS),
airbag system (SRS) and more.
4.1 Establishing Vehicle Communication
The Diagnostics operations require connecting the MaxiSys Elite Diagnostic
Platform to the test vehicle through the VCI device using the main cable, and
test adapters (for non-OBD II vehicles). To establish proper vehicle
communication to the MaxiSys display tablet, you need to perform the
following steps:
1. Connect the VCI device to the vehicle’s DLC for both communication and
power source.
2. Connect the VCI device to the MaxiSys display tablet via BT pairing,
USB connection, or Ethernet connection.
NOTE: To prevent short circuit damage to the device, it is recommended to
connect the USB or the Ethernet cable between the VCI and the tablet before
connecting the vehicle’s DLC.
3. When these are done, check the VCI navigation button at the bottom bar
on the screen, if the button displays a green tick icon at the lower right
corner, the MaxiSys Elite diagnostic platform is ready to start vehicle
diagnosis.
4.1.1 Vehicle Connection
The method used to connect the VCI device to a vehicle’s DLC depends on
the vehicle’s configuration as follows:
A vehicle equipped with an On-board Diagnostics Two (OBD II)
management system supplies both communication and 12-volt power
through a standardized J-1962 DLC.
A vehicle not equipped with an OBD II management system supplies
communication through a DLC connection, and in some cases supplies
12-volt power through the cigarette lighter receptacle or a connection to
the vehicle battery.
20
Diagnostics Operations Establishing Vehicle Communication
OBD II Vehicle Connection
This type of connection only requires the main cable without any additional
adapter.
To connect to an OBD II vehicle
1. Connect the main cable’s female adapter to the Vehicle Data
Connector on the VCI device, and tighten the captive screws.
2. Connect the cable’s 16-pin male adapter to the vehicle’s DLC, which
is generally located under the vehicle dash.
NOTE: The vehicle’s DLC is not always located under the dash; refer to
the user manual of the test vehicle for additional connection information.
Non-OBD II Vehicle Connection
This type of connection requires both the main cable and a required OBD I
adapter for the specific vehicle being serviced.
There are three possible conditions for Non-OBD II vehicle connection:
DLC connection supplies both communication and power.
DLC connection supplies communication and power is to be supplied via
the cigarette lighter connection.
DLC connection supplies communication and power is to be supplied via
connection to the vehicle battery.
To connect to a Non-OBD II Vehicle
1. Connect the main cable’s female adapter to the Vehicle Data
Connector on the VCI device, and tighten the captive screws.
2. Locate the required OBD I adapter and connect its 16-pin jack to the
main cable’s male adapter.
3. Connect the attached OBD I adapter to the vehicle’s DLC.
NOTE: Some adapters may have more than one adapter or may have test
leads instead of an adapter. Whatever the case, make the proper connection
to the vehicle’s DLC as required.
21
Diagnostics Operations Establishing Vehicle Communication
To connect the cigarette lighter
1. Plug the DC power connector of the cigarette lighter into the DC
power supply input port on the device.
2. Connect the male connector of the cigarette lighter into the vehicle’s
cigarette lighter receptacle.
To connect the clipper cable
1. Connect the tubular plug of the clipper cable to the male connector
of the cigarette lighter.
Figure 4-1 Connection between Cigarette Lighter and Clipper Cable
2. Plug the DC power connector of the cigarette lighter into the DC
power supply input port of the J2534 programming device.
3. Connect the clipper cable to the vehicle’s battery.
NOTE: After the VCI device is successfully connected to the vehicle, the
Power LED on the device illuminates, and a brief beep sound will be heard.
4.1.2 VCI Connection
After the VCI device is properly connected to the vehicle, the Power LED on
the VCI device illuminates solid green light, and is ready to establish
communication with the MaxiSys display tablet.
The J2534 ECU Programming Device, which comes with the MaxiSys Elite
tool kit, supports 3 communication methods with the MaxiSys display tablet:
BT, USB, and Ethernet connection.
22
Diagnostics Operations Establishing Vehicle Communication
Pairing Up via BT
Among all methods, BT pairing is recommended as the first choice for the
communication between the MaxiSys display tablet and the VCI device. The
working range for BT communication is about 755 feet (230 m); this means
you can perform vehicle diagnosis freely around the workshop with greater
convenience.
If you use more than one VCI device to connect to the test vehicles when
customers are many, you can perform vehicle diagnosis on various vehicles
conveniently, by pairing the MaxiSys display tablet separately to each of the
VCI devices connected to the different test vehicles, via BT, without the need
to repeat the plugging and unplugging procedure, which is unavoidable
through traditional wired connection, thus saves you more time and provides
more efficiency.
To pair up the MaxiSys display tablet with the VCI device via BT
1. If not already done, power up the MaxiSys display tablet.
2. Select the VCI Manager application from the MaxiSys Job Menu.
3. When the VCI Manager application is opened, the device
automatically starts scanning for available VCI devices around for
BT pairing. The found devices are listed in the Setting section on
the right side of the screen.
NOTE: If no VCI device is found, this may indicate that the signal strength
of the transmitter is too weak to be detected. In this case try to get closer
to the device, or reposition the VCI device, and remove all possible
objects that causes signal interference. When these are done, tap the
Scan button at the top right corner to start searching again.
4. The device name may display as Maxi suffixed with a serial number.
Select the required device for pairing.
5. When paring is successfully done, the connection status displayed
to the right of the device name is shown as Paired.
6. Wait for a few seconds, and the VCI button on the system
Navigation bar at the bottom of the screen shall display a green tick
icon, indicating the display tablet is connected to the VCI device,
and is ready to perform vehicle diagnosis.
Refer to 10.1 BT Pairing on page 93 for additional information.
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