How to get the scanner tool assessment

The process of choosing the right diagnostic obd scanner tool for the shop is challenging, to say the least.Prior to 1996, the choices were simple: the Snap-on MT2500, the OTC Monitor 4000, the Vetronix Mastertech or any of the OE scan tools, if you could get them. The introduction of the OBD II generic standard in 1996 and subsequent updates to the OBD II standard, like the single CAN communications protocol, have resulted in an increased number of companies introducing scan tools. The updated EPA Clean Air legislation and NASTF’s efforts have made access to the factory scan tools a little easier. In May, I scanned MOTOR Magazine and several other publications and counted more than 60 advertisements for scan tools. It was the most heavily advertised type of equipment in those magazines.The most commonly asked question

at the PWR Training events I conduct is: “What scan tool should I buy?” The honest answer to the question is: “As many as you can afford.” Why? Because I don’t believe a do-it-all scan tool exists and we’re not likely to see one anytime
soon. Some aftermarket scan tool manufacturers may claim to have the total solution, but what you may find is an adequate engine diagnostic scan tool that falls short in body and chassis system diagnosis. The diagnostic capabilities of the GM Tech 2, Ford NGS and Chrysler DRB III are difficult to duplicate in an all-inclusive aftermarket combination scan tool. With all this confusion, how do you know which scan tool will provide the greatest value? There are many factors
to consider before you upgrade or purchase a new scan tool. This article will focus on developing a strategy that will
make the decision a little easier. I have broken scan tools into three general categories: OBD II generic scan tools, aftermarket combination scan tools and vehicle manufacturer scan tools. Let’s take a look at the categories:

OBD II Generic Scan Tools:

The term OBD stands for On Board Diagnostics. OBD-II is a system that the Society of
Automotive Engineers (SAE) developed in order to standardize automotive electronic
diagnosis so technicians could use the same scan tool to test any make and model without
special adapters.
The SAE established guidelines that provide the following:
• A universal diagnostic test connector, known as the data link connector (DLC), with
dedicated pin assignments.
• A standardized location for the DLC, visible under the dash on the driver’s side.
• A standardized list of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
• The ability of the vehicle system to record a snapshot of operating conditions when an
emissions-related fault occurs.
• Expanded diagnostic capabilities that record a code whenever a condition occurs that
affects vehicle emissions.
• The ability to clear stored codes from vehicle memory with the scan tool.
• A glossary of standard terms, acronyms, and definitions used for system components.

In addition, SAE has published hundreds of pages defining a standard communications
protocol that establishes the hardware, software, and circuit parameters of OBD-II systems.
Unfortunately, the vehicle manufacturers have different interpretations of this protocol. As a
result, the generic OBD-II communications scheme used varies, depending on the vehicle.

Combination Scan Tools

If you’re operating a general repair shop and service many vehicle makes and models, it makes sense to own at least one combination scan tool. Examples of this type of tool include the SPX/OTC Genisys, Snap-on Solus, EASE PC-based combination scan tool, etc. These scan tools generally work best when diagnosing engine control systems on domestic vehicles. Some scan tool manufacturers also offer upgrades for Asian and European vehicles.Are you getting everything possible out when you plug it in? Here’s how to evaluate your current scan tool capabilities, determine shop needs
and plan purchase decisions.manufacturer-specific.

For example,
the Vetronix Mastertech works well on Toyota and Honda vehicles, and Baum makes tools that work well on European vehicles. There are other examples, but the point is that when looking for the right scan tool, knowing what vehicle makes you work on or don’t work on can simplify your options.

In an example I came across recently,one scan tool manufacturer’s marketing materials claimed to offer air bag diagnostics for Nissan vehicles. The scan tool was connected to a 1997 Nissan Altima. In this case, the scan tool did not actually communicate with the air bag module, but did provide information on how to retrieve the fault
codes manually. Although retrieving the fault codes was a good first step,the fault code diagnosis required additional tests that needed to be performed with the Nissan factory scan tool. Most of us have run into similar issues, and it can be frustrating.
More other car tools like MB Star C3 from www.vtoolshop.com.
Refer: http://www.obdscanner.us/how-to-get-the-scanner-tool-assessment.html