Measurement The Measurement application can provide all the features needed for performing electrical and electronic circuit tests as well as monitoring signal activities on today’s vehicles. After properly connecting with a test vehicle and communicating with MaxiSys Ultra, the VCMI (Vehicle Communication and Measurement Interface) is used as an integrated device that functions as an oscilloscope, a waveform generator, a multimeter and a digital OBDII breakout box. 1.
specifically rated for battery use. WARNING: B. Operation outside of the safe input range is likely to cause permanent damage to the oscilloscope and other connected equipment. Grounding DANGER: The scope’s ground connection through the USB cable is for measurement purposes only. The oscilloscope does not have a protective safety ground. Do not connect the ground input (chassis) to any electrical power source.
The product contains no user-repairable parts. Repair, servicing and calibration require specialized test equipment and must be performed by Autel Tech Support or an approved service provider. DANGER: To prevent injury or death, do not use the product if it appears to be damaged in any way. Stop using the product when any abnormal operations occur. WARNING: Do not tamper with or disassemble the oscilloscope, connectors or accessories. Internal damage will affect performance.
5. Input Channel C 6. Input Channel D The oscilloscope LED is located on the front panel of the VCMI device. When the VCMI is properly connected and powered on, the oscilloscope LED flashes green when operating in the oscilloscope mode. VCMI Front View 1. Power LED 2. Battery LED 3. Waveform Generator LED 4. Multimeter LED 5. Oscilloscope LED 6. Vehicle LED 1.1.2.
Item Description 1 or 2 channels: 80MS/s* 3 or 4 channels: 20MS/s* * MS/s = mega samples per second Maximum Sample Rate 1) Select arbitrary one channel, maximum sample rate is 80MS/s. the 2) Select two channels (AC, BC, AD, or BD), the maximum sample rate is also 80MS/s. 3) Select two channels (AB/CD) or more than three channels, the maximum sample rate is 20MS/s.
signal transmission. Secondary Ignition Pickup (SA273) The BNC connector is connected to the oscilloscope to measure the secondary ignition voltage of conventional ignition systems and most HEI (High Energy Ignition) and DIS (Distributorless Ignition) systems. Scope Test Lead (Red: SA005, Green: SA006, Blue: SA007, Yellow: SA008) The BNC connector is connected to the oscilloscope, and the 4mm banana plug is connected to various probes.
Small Crocodile Clips (Red: SA057, Black: SA058) Used to connect exposed wires or terminals. SA059 (red) and SA060 (black) for larger terminals. Large Dolphin Clips (Red: SA059, Black: SA060) Used to connect exposed wires or terminals, including battery terminals. SA057 (red) and SA058 (black) for smaller terminals. Attenuators 20:1 (SA020) Passive 20:1 attenuator, can output 1V when inputting a 20V signal. Battery Clip (Optional) (Red: SA061, Black: SA062) Dedicated to connecting car battery terminals.
HT Extension Lead (Optional) (SA275) Fit the HT extension leads between the coil pack and the plugs of the independent ignition system (COP), and then place the (SA273) secondary ignition pickup on each lead to obtain the secondary ignition voltage. 1.1.3 Getting Started Before opening the Oscilloscope application, the VCMI device must be connected to the tablet via the provided USB cable or Wi-Fi network. Figure 1-1 Sample Connection Diagram To open the oscilloscope application 1.
NOTE Please check the oscilloscope LED status indicator on the front panel of VCMI device. The oscilloscope LED flashes green when operating in the oscilloscope mode. Message Prompt A message showing “Are you sure to open the waveform of Demo mode?” displays after tapping the Oscilloscope icon and opening the oscilloscope menu. Please tap “OK” to enter the demo mode or tap “Cancel” to exit.
Figure 1-2 Sample Help Screen 2. Tap the Update the APK in the dropdown menu. A confirmation message displays. Figure 1-3 Sample Update Confirmation Screen 3. Tap OK to update the software or tap Cancel to exit. 1.1.4.
1. Tap the Help button on the upper half of the screen. A dropdown menu displays. (Figure 1-2) 2. Tap Update Firmware in the dropdown list. The screen will switch to the Update section in the VCMI Management application. NOTE Please DISCONNECT the MaxiScope from VCMI before updating. A message displays and tap “OK” to confirm that you have disconnected MaxiScope from VCMI. Figure 1-4 Sample Firmware Update Screen 1 3.
Figure 1-5 Sample Firmware Update Screen 2 1.1.5 Screen Layout and Operations The Oscilloscope application measures changing voltages of an electrical system over a period of time. This signal is depicted as a shape. The grid on the screen shows divisions of voltage and time to enable measurements to be made. Tap the Measurement icon on the home screen then select Oscilloscope in the menu, the oscilloscope page displays. The screen typically includes the following sections.
Figure 1-6 Sample Oscilloscope Menu Screen 1. Upper Toolbar Buttons - see Upper Toolbar Buttons on page 13 for details. 2. Main View Section – see Main View Section on page 41 for details. 3. Lower Toolbar Buttons - see Lower Toolbar Buttons on page 49 for details. 1.1.5.1 Upper Toolbar Buttons The upper toolbar buttons are used for configurations of various settings and operations. The following table provides brief descriptions of each button.
Name Button Description Waveform Library Search, upload, share and follow the waveforms in the waveform library. See Waveform Library on page 18 for more information. Settings Configurations of mode setting, math channels, waveform generator, decoding setting, startup setting and demo setting. See Settings Menu on page 22 for more information. Window Display Set the layout and channel position. See Window Display Menu on page 34 for more information.
Name Button Stop Description Tap to stop the oscilloscope and sampling. terminate Presets Menu Tap the vehicle icon button in the top navigation bar to enter the Presets Menu. This menu offers a wide variety of preset guided information for you to view. The frequently used test components and options are listed in the presets menu: Actuators - Test the common car actuators such as injectors, fuel pumps, and canister purge solenoids.
Figure 1-7 Sample Presets Menu Screen 1 3. Tap the appropriate sub-options from the column that displays. Tap the icon to download the preset guided information. Figure 1-8 Sample Presets Menu Screen 2 4. View the preset guided information. A reference signal waveform displays (an injector selection is used here as an example) on the Main Screen and the preset guided information on the right side of the screen.
Figure 1-9 Sample Presets Display Screen 5. Tap the arrow button to hide the preset guided information and display the waveform. Figure 1-10 Sample Reference Signal Waveform Display NOTE Parameter values such as the ranges of voltage and time divisions are automatically set for presets. 6.
preset guided information such as the general description, connection guidance, connection diagram, test guidance, real vehicle connection, waveform analysis and related DTCs in full screen. Tap again to exit full screen. NOTE Images in the preset guided information can be displayed in a full screen for viewing in details. Figure 1-11 Sample Image Display (Full Screen) 7. Tap the Start/Stop button. The oscilloscope will perform waveform acquisition according to the preset parameters.
The search result displays the information such as the waveform picture, waveform code, VIN code, vehicle code, etc. The waveform in the online library can also be loaded as reference waveform for better waveform analysis. There are two methods to search for waveforms: Condition-based search and keyword-based search.
bad. (3) Search result The search result will automatically display in the lower section of the page after selecting the model and conditions, showing the image of waveform, waveform ID (waveform code), VIN or the screening conditions. Tap the corresponding buttons on the lower right side to share, follow or open the waveform. Tap the Load As Ref. Waveform to load the waveform as a reference waveform for better waveform analysis.
Figure 1-13 Sample Keyword-based Search Screen My Upload Your own waveforms can be saved and uploaded to the online server. The uploaded waveforms can be searched from “My Upload” tab. Please input the waveform code, VIN, vehicle code, or screening conditions and then tap the “Search” button to search the waveform(s) you have uploaded. The waveform can be opened, shared, followed, reviewed and loaded as a reference waveform once you have found it.
Figure 1-14 Sample Local Waveform Library Screen Settings Menu Tap the gear icon button in the top navigation bar to open the Setting Menu. The Mode, Math Channels, Waveform Generator, Decoding Settings, Startup Settings and Demo Settings can be manually configured in the menu. Mode Settings Two modes and three display views are available: normal mode, demo mode, oscilloscope view, XY view and spectrum view.
Figure 1-15 Sample Mode Setting Screen In Normal Mode, the actual waveform is displayed on the screen when a test component is connected to the oscilloscope. You can real-time monitor the signal waveform of sensors in the normal mode. NOTE The oscilloscope is required to be connected in the normal mode. In Demo Mode, a demo waveform is displayed on the screen. The sine wave or square wave can also be displayed if you do not connect with the oscilloscope.
Figure 1-16 Sample XY View Setting Screen In the Spectrum View, the waveform shows the signal level on a vertical axis against frequency on the horizontal axis in a graphical way. One or more spectra with a common frequency axis can be displayed in the spectrum view. NOTE The Wi-Fi connection does not support the XY View and Spectrum View. Please use the USB cable to connect the device, instead of the Wi-Fi connection.
Figure 1-17 Sample Spectrum View Setting Screen 1 Spectrum Bins: It allows you to set the number of frequency bins into which the spectrum is divided. Window function: It allows you to select one of the standard window functions to reduce the impact of running on a time-limited waveform. Table 1-3 Window Function Table Window Highest side lobe (dB) Side lobe roll-off (dB/octave) Description Rectangle Main peak width (bins @ -3dB) 0.89 -13.
Window Main peak width (bins @ -3dB) 1.20 to 1.86 Highest side lobe (dB) Side lobe roll-off (dB/octave) Description -23 to -47 12 to 30 Used for audio and vibration work Hamming 1.30 -41.9 6 Triangle 1.28 -27 12 Also called raised sine-squared; used for speech analysis Also called Bartlett window Hann Display mode: The Magnitude Mode displays the frequency spectrum of the last waveform. Scale: the scaling of the vertical axis. Logarithm: the vertical axis is scaled in decibels.
Figure 1-18 Sample Spectrum View Setting Screen 2 Math Channels A math channel is a virtual channel generated by a mathematical function of the input channel. It can be displayed in an oscilloscope in the same way as an input signal, and like an input signal it has its own measure axis, scale and color.
To set the math channel Using Invert A as an example. 1. Tap Settings button in the top navigation bar. A dialog box opens. 2. Select the Math Channels option in the dialog box. 3. To select the Invert A, tap the check box. Figure 1-19 Sample Math Channel Setting Screen 1 4. Close the dialog box, the waveforms are displayed on the screen.
Waveform Generator Settings The waveform generator operates simultaneously with the oscilloscope. Use the waveform generator to simulate the DC voltage, square wave, square wave (X+Y), triangle wave, and actuators drive. Figure 1-21 Sample Waveform Generator Setting Screen To set the waveform generator 1. Tap the Settings button in the top navigation bar. A dialog box opens. 2. Select the Waveform Generator option in the dialog box. 3. Swipe the OFF to ON to enable the waveform generator.
Figure 1-22 Sample Waveform generator Settings Screen 4. Close the dialog box. The waveform generator settings are displayed on the screen. Figure 1-23 Sample Waveform generator Display Screen Decoding Settings When the oscilloscope mode is selected, the decoding settings are available. Up to 8 different protocols are supported in the decoding settings.
Figure 1-24 Sample Decoding Settings Screen 1 8 protocols are available: CAN High, CAN Low, LIN, FlexRay, RS232/UART, I2S, I2C, and USB (1.0/1.1). The detailed setting options vary by each protocol. CAN High / CAN Low: Controller Area Network (CAN) is a serial protocol used in automotive to allow microcontrollers to communicate with each other. It typically uses differential signaling (with signals named CAN High and CAN Low) to increase noise immunity.
I2S: Inter-IC Sound (I2S) is a serial protocol used in digital audio devices for communications between circuits such as CD transports and audio DACs. I2C: Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C) is a way to connect peripheral chips in consumer electronics products and is widely used in embedded systems. USB (1.0/1.1): Universal Serial Bus (USB) is widely used in personal computers and tablets for communication.
Figure 1-25 Sample Decoding Settings Screen 2 Startup Settings This function allows the user to choose the startup configuration when launching the oscilloscope application. On the Startup Settings screen, there are three options: Load the user default configuration at startup, Load the previous session configuration at startup, and Load the factory configuration at startup. Select one option according to the specific need.
Demo Settings This function allows the user select the demo waveform for each channel in Demo mode. Select one demo waveform from Nozzle voltage, Nozzle current, Ignition signal, Sinusoidal signal, Square signal and signal of the crankshaft. The rotating speed can be set by tapping the “-” or “+” icon to adjust the value. Tap “OK” to confirm the settings. Figure 1-27 Sample Demo Settings Screen Window Display Menu A display window with grid displays the data captured by the oscilloscope.
Figure 1-28 Sample Single Window Screen Double Window – displays two separate traces horizontally, one below the other. Figure 1-29 Sample Double Window Screen Triple Window – displays three separate traces horizontally, one below the other.
Figure 1-30 Sample Triple Window Screen Quadruple Window – displays four separate traces, two horizontally, two vertically. Figure 1-31 Sample Quadruple Windows Screen To set the display mode 1. Tap the Window Display button in the top navigation bar. A dialog box opens. 2. Select the Display Mode in the dialog box. 3.
traces onscreen. Figure 1-32 Sample Display Mode Selection Screen 4. Close the dialog box. The window is displayed as selected. Channel Settings The channel settings allow you to arrange the display position of the activated channels. Select which channels are visible in the display window. The display status is set to ON, the input channels are enabled, otherwise, the input channels (set to OFF status) are not available for viewing. To set the channel setting 1.
Figure 1-33 Sample Channel Setting Screen 4. Close the dialog box and the activated channel is displayed in the selected window. Figure 1-34 Sample Channel Display Screen File Menu The File button allows you to print, open, save, and delete the waveform data. The File Menu supports the following functions.
Figure 1-35 Sample File Menu Screen Print – Tap to create and print a temporary PNG picture of the current waveforms. NOTE 1. Make sure the tablet is properly setup to print and is connected to the printer. 2. Make sure the network is available. Waveform Operation This section allows you to save and open the waveforms. Save waveform – Tap to capture and save the current waveforms or the latest 5 frame waveforms.
The configurations can be saved and imported, or set to default. Save the configuration – Tap to save the configuration values of waveforms on the current screen including the amplitude, the time base, the number of samples, etc. Import the configuration – Tap to import the saved configuration values of waveforms. Tap the System Default Configuration option to cancel the current setting values and refresh the screen to retrieve the default setting values.
About – displays the model number of the oscilloscope and the installed versions of the software and firmware. Number of Samples This button allows you to set the maximum number of samples that will be captured by each channel. The sampling rate of current time base can be adjusted by changing the number of samples. Review the sampling interval, sampling rate, and sample size in the Parameter and Help sheet. Tap the minus or plus icon to adjust the number of samples.
Figure 1-37 Sample Overrange Indicator Screen Select an appropriate scale setting for the signal being sampled to avoid an overrange condition. IMPORTANT To prevent electric shock, do not exceed voltage limits between inputs. Channel Selection In the main view section, a channel has two conditions: selected and unselected. A channel must be selected in order for the waveform to be movement, to use the zoom-in or to add voltage rulers.
Figure 1-38 Sample Channel Selection 1 (Selected) Tap the zero baseline marker or the Y-axis again to exit the channel selection. Figure 1-39 Sample Channel Selection 1 (Unselected) Waveform Zooming The zooming function allows you to change the size and position of a signal during or after capturing a waveform to examine it in greater details. It does not change the stored data, but the way it displays.
The X-axis and Y-axis can be zoomed using your fingertips. The waveform can be zoomed during or after capturing the signal. Measurement Rulers The coordinate Rulers allow the voltage and time duration of a waveform to be measured precisely. They are useful when determining signal characteristics such as amplitude at specific points, the cycle time (duration) and frequency.
Figure 1-40 Sample Rulers Display Screen To configure angle settings 1. Drag Angle Activator to generate the angle rulers. 2. Tap the start or end angle value to open the Phase Setting box. 3. Input the desired phase value and the ruler value in the field. Figure 1-41 Sample Phase Setting Screen 4. Tap Confirm in the upper right corner to save the settings, or tap Cancel to exit without saving.
Zero Baseline The zero baseline is marked the 0 value in the Y-axis, showing the ground level of each channel waveform. After the channel is selected, the Zero Baseline can be adjusted by dragging the zero baseline marker up/down along the Y-axis, or dragging the waveform up/down, or moving the screen up/down in the grid.
NOTE To reposition waveform or to move the screen, tap the zero baseline marker to select. The line will display thicker when selected. Parameter and Help Tap the arrow button in the lower right corner of the screen to open the Parameter and Help windows. The Parameter function allows you to view the values of parameters including sampling interval, sampling rate, sample size, channel, range and coupling mode. The Help function displays the user manual of the oscilloscope.
Figure 1-45 Arrow Button Position Screen 2. The parameter and help window displays. 3. To close, tap the arrow button again or tap any space outside of the window. Note The preset guided information is also displayed on the right side of the screen when the specific options and test components have been selected from the Presets menu. Real-time Help The real-time help button is a bulb-shaped button that can be dragged and moved on the screen.
Figure 1-46 Sample Real-time Help Screen 1 3. View the information by dragging it up and down using your fingertips. The real-time help information can be displayed in a full screen by tapping the four-directional arrow icon in the lower right corner. Tap it again to recover the half-screen display. Figure 1-47 Sample Real-time Help Screen 2 (Full Screen) 1.1.5.
The buttons in the lower toolbar include the channel control buttons, trigger setting buttons, buffer button, time base button and measurement button. The following table provides brief description of each button. Table 1-4 Lower Toolbar Buttons Name Button Description Channel Control Tap to configure the settings of each channel. Active channel icons display in color; inactive icons display in gray. See Channel Control on page 50 for more information. Trigger Tap to open the trigger setting menu.
2. Tap the right column of the channel control button to open the settings dialog box. Figure 1-48 Sample Activate Channel Screen 3. Tap the left column of channel control button again to close the channel. The closed channel button displays gray. Channel Color Identify each channel waveform by color.
indicator will be displayed. Select Auto to enable the device to adjust the vertical scale automatically. It only changes the vertical scale, while the horizontal scale is not changed. AC and DC voltage can be toggled to set up the input circuitry. Note The vertical scale is ALWAYS divided into 10 major divisions, and all scale settings reflect in these 10 divisions. The division set of 10 cannot be changed. There are two modes available to set the amplitude value.
Figure 1-50 Sample Amplitude Setting Screen (DC 5V) Mode 2: Select the ## /div button to adjust value incremented by each division. For example, selecting DC 1.0V/div, sets the channel amplitude to 1.0V/div DC (seen at the right side of the channel control button). Each segment increases by 1V. As the vertical scale is divided into 10 segments, the entire vertical scale range is from -5V to +5V. Figure 1-51 Sample Amplitude Setting Screen (DC 1.
Figure 1-52 Sample Amplitude Setting Screen (DC 1.0V/div) Probe Settings A probe is an accessory that connects to your oscilloscope and to detect signals to be measured. It can pick up different forms of signal, but generally delivers a voltage signal. This oscilloscope has built-in definitions of standard probes. By default, the probe is set to be x1, which means 1V signal at the input to the probe will display as 1V.
Coil-On-Plug Ignition Probe [COP]: select when using the COP ignition probe (SA271) Secondary Ignition Probe [ignition]: select when using the secondary ignition probe (SA273) Secondary Ignition Probe (inverted) [R_ignition]: select when using the secondary ignition probe (SA273) and inverting the secondary ignition signal You can select the inner standard probes in the probe settings.
Figure 1-54 Sample Probe Edit Screen 1 To add custom probes Add a 20∶1 Attenuator as an example: 1. Tap the right column of the channel control button at the bottom of the screen to open the setting dialog box. 2. Select the Probe Edit option in the left column of the dialog box. 3. Tap each field to open the virtual keyboard and input the required information.
4. Tap Add to save the settings, or tap Clear to exit without saving. 5. The added probe will be listed in the Probe Settings window. Figure 1-56 Sample Probe Edit Screen 3 LPF (Low-pass Filtering) The low-pass filtering (LPF) is an independent digital low-pass filter for each input channel used to remove noise from the signal. It is helpful to find and reject low frequencies from the selected input channel for more accurate measurements.
Figure 1-57 Before Setting Low-pass Filtering Screen Figure 1-58 After Setting Low-pass Filtering Screen To configure the low-pass filtering settings 1. Tap the right column of the channel control button to open the setting dialog box. 2. Select the Low-pass Filtering option from the left column of the dialog box. 3. Tap the checkbox of the appropriate channel and adjust frequency by tapping the minus or plus. The unit can be switched to Hz, KHz or MHz from the dropdown list.
Figure 1-59 Sample Low-pass Filtering Screen 4. Tap Yes to save the settings or close the dialog box directly to exit without saving. DLC Channel The DLC (Data Link Connector) channel enables data to be collected from the vehicle's OBDII pins for analysis of vehicle communications. The DLC channel icon displays on the input channel D button.
To open and set the DLC channel 1. Tap the right column of the channel D button at the bottom of the screen to open the setting dialog box. 2. Select the DLC Channel in the left column of the dialog box. 3. Swipe the Enable DLC channel to ON. Select the appropriate pins. NOTE If the Enable DLC channel button CAN NOT be swiped to ON, please remember to connect the VCMI power adapter and keep it charging. Figure 1-61 Sample DLC Channel Setting Screen 1 4.
Figure 1-62 Sample DLC Channel Setting Screen 2 5. Swipe the Enable DLC channel to OFF to close the DLC channel and switch to the oscilloscope function. Figure 1-63 Sample DLC Channel Setting Screen 3 Trigger The trigger feature is used to stabilize repetitive waveforms to obtain a clear signal characterization.
A trigger is activated when a signal crosses set thresholds. Trigger points can also be set manually as the user views a waveform. When the oscilloscope is capturing the signal, tap the left column of the Trigger button to activate the trigger function. A trigger point displays as a blue point. Figure 1-64 Sample Trigger Point Screen When the oscilloscope is capturing the signal, tap the right column of the Trigger button to open the trigger settings dialog box.
Edge Triggering The edge trigger is one of the most common trigger modes and is activated when voltage rises above or falls below a preset threshold. This trigger type allows you to configure the trigger mode, threshold, trigger channel and pulse direction settings. Tap Done to save the settings or tap Cancel to exit without saving. NOTE The oscilloscope switches to the continuous mode if the time base is set to more than or equal to 200ms/div. The Edge Triggering is supported in the continuous mode.
Trigger Mode Description Repeat In this trigger mode, the oscilloscope waits until a trigger event occurs. If there is no trigger event, nothing will be displayed on the screen. Single In this trigger mode, the oscilloscope stops capturing data once a trigger event occurs. Channel Select the applicable trigger channel from the dropdown menu. The selected channel is the one that the oscilloscope monitors for the trigger condition.
Figure 1-68 Sample Pulse Direction Screen Rise Edge Trigger - Indicates trigger is turned on to start the trace on the rising edge of the waveform. Fall Edge Trigger – Indicates trigger is turned on to start the trace on the falling edge of the waveform Threshold The Threshold allows you to set the voltage threshold for the trigger. To precisely position the trigger point, input the value in the Threshold field in the trigger settings dialog box.
Rising or Falling option in the dropdown menu of the pulse direction: Dual edges of a waveform can be triggered. This mode is especially useful for monitoring pulses of both polarities at once. Hysteresis option: It is used to reduce false triggering on noisy signals. When hysteresis is enabled, a second trigger threshold voltage is used in addition to the main trigger threshold. The trigger fires only when the signal crosses the two thresholds in the correct order.
Figure 1-70 Sample Window Settings Screen Pulse Width This trigger type allows you to monitor pulses of a specified width. Figure 1-71 Sample Pulse Width Settings Screen To set the pulse width 1. Tap the Trigger button at the bottom of the screen to open the Trigger Settings dialog box.
2. Select the Pulse Width in the left column of the dialog box. 3. Select the desired trigger mode and channel mode. 4. Set the pulse direction to either Positive pulse or Negative pulse according to the polarity of the pulse. 5. Select one of the four Conditions: More than: triggers on pulses wider than the specified time. Less than: triggers on pulses narrower than the specified time. In the time range: triggers on pulses wider than Time 1 but narrower than Time 2.
Window Pulse Width This trigger type combines with the window trigger and the pulse width trigger. It detects when a signal enters or exits an input range and stays for a specified period of time. Two Region options can be selected: In range and Out of range. Figure 1-73 Sample Window Pulse Width Settings Screen Horizontal Distortion This trigger type helps to monitor an edge that occurs after a specified time with on edges. It is useful for triggering at the end of a pulse train.
Figure 1-74 Sample Horizontal Distortion Settings Screen Window Distortion This trigger type monitors when a signal enters a specified voltage range and stays within that range for a specified period of time.
Underthrow This trigger type monitors a pulse that exceeds one threshold and then drops below the same threshold without exceeding the second threshold. This type of trigger is typically used to find pulses that do not reach a valid logic level. Figure 1-76 Sample Underthrow Settings Screen Buffer The waveform buffer shows which signal waveform is displayed on the current screen and how many signal waveforms are captured and stored in the buffer memory. The oscilloscope can capture and store waveforms.
Figure 1-77 Sample Buffer Screen Name Button Description Previous Tap to display the previous waveform in the buffer. Buffer Index Displays the number of the waveform currently displayed onscreen out of the total number of buffered waveforms. Next Tap to display the next waveform in the buffer. Time Base The time base controls the time interval across the oscilloscope display. Tap the Time Base button at the bottom to open the setting dialog box.
Figure 1-78 Sample Time Base Screen 1 (Normal Mode) Continuous Mode: if the time base is set to more than or equal to 200ms/div, the oscilloscope switches to the continuous mode. In this mode, the oscilloscope updates the trace continuously as each capture progresses, rather than waiting for a complete capture before updating the trace.
Measurement The available measurements for each channel are (from left to right): Figure 1-80 Sample Measurement Screen 1 Maximum – the highest level that the signal reaches Minimum – the lowest level that the signal reaches Peak To Peak – the difference between maximum and minimum Amplitude – the top value minus the bottom value Period – the duration of one cycle in a repeated pattern in the waveform Frequency – the number of signal occurrences per second Positive Duty Ratio – t
Rising Rate – the rate at which the signal level rises Falling Rate – the rate at which the signal level falls Rise Time – the time the signal takes to rise from the lower threshold to the upper threshold Fall Time – the time the signal takes to fall from the upper threshold to the lower threshold X@Max – the corresponding value of X axis when the amplitude is the maximum X@Min – the corresponding value of X axis when the amplitude is the minimum Positive Acreage – the waveform ac
Figure 1-81 Sample Measurement Screen 2 (Spectrum View) Frequency Peak Value – the frequency of the peak signal value Amplitude Peak Value – the amplitude of the peak signal value Average Amplitude Peak Value – the amplitude of the peak signal value captured over multiple times Total Power – the power of the entire signal captured in the spectrum view Total Harmonic Distortion Percentage (THD) – the ratio of the sum of harmonic powers to the power of fundamental frequency THD = √V12 +
THD + N THD + N = 10log10 ( ) Vf Spurious-free Dynamic Range (SFDR) - the ratio of the amplitude of the highest peak in the spectrum to that of the second highest peak SINAD – signal to noise and distortion ratio.
Figure 1-82 Sample Measurement Setting Screen 4. Close the dialog box, and the corresponding measurement readings are displayed on the right-hand side of the screen. Adjust the whole track or ruler track on the displayed screen or delete the measurement directly by tapping the X button. Figure 1-83 Sample Measurement Display Screen To set the measurements in Spectrum View 1. Tap the Settings button in the top navigation bar. A dialog box opens.
Figure 1-84 Sample Spectrum View Selection Screen 2. Tap the Measurement button at the bottom of the screen to open the measurement dialog box. 3. Select the channel to be measured. 4. Select the appropriate measurement options. Figure 1-85 Sample Measurement Setting Screen (Spectrum View) 5. Close the dialog box, and the corresponding measurement readings are displayed on the right-hand side of the screen.
directly by tapping the X button. Figure 1-86 Sample Measurement Display Screen (Spectrum View) 1.1.6 Troubleshooting A. If the oscilloscope cannot communicate with the MaxiSys Tablet: Ensure the VCMI device is properly connected to the MaxiSys Tablet via Wi-Fi or with the supplied USB cable. Restart the MaxiSys Tablet and reconnect the VCMI device if communication between the two continues to fail. B.
1.1.7 Glossary AC/DC Control Each channel can be set to either AC coupling or DC coupling. With DC coupling, the voltage displayed onscreen is equal to the true voltage of the signal with respect to ground. With AC coupling, any DC component of the signal is filtered out, leaving only the variations in the signal for the AC component. Aliasing When the signal frequency gets higher than half the scope’s maximum sampling rate and exceeds the limit, a distorted waveform displays.
Voltage Range The range between the maximum and minimum voltages that can be accurately captured by the oscilloscope. Sampling Rate The number of samples per second captured by the oscilloscope. The faster the sampling rate of the scope, the more frequently it measures the signal voltage, and so the more detailed will be the trace that appears on the scope screen.
1.2 Multimeter A multimeter is an electronic measuring instrument that is used to measure voltage, resistance, frequency, diode, duty cycle and pulse width and continuity test. The VCMI (Vehicle Communication and Measurement Interface) working with MaxiSys Ultra can function as a multimeter to provide precise measurements. 1.2.1 Safety Information Follow the instructions below to reduce the risk of injury from electric shock and prevent equipment damage.
Do not add voltage to the input terminal when measuring resistance. To avoid electric shock, turn off the power to the component before connecting. To prevent damage, always use and store your multimeter in appropriate environments. Do not use in wet or damp conditions, or around explosive gas or vapor. Do not tamper with or disassemble the multimeter, connectors or accessories. Internal damage will affect performance.
The multimeter LED is located on the front panel of the VCMI device. When the VCMI is properly connected and powered on, the multimeter LED lights green when operating in the multimeter mode. VCMI Front View 1. Power LED 2. Battery LED 3. Waveform Generator LED 4. Multimeter LED 5. Oscilloscope LED 6. Vehicle LED 1.2.2.
Item Description Current Range 0 to 65A (65A current clamp) 0 to 650A (650A current clamp) 1.2.2.3 Accessories The following accessories are compatible with the multimeter and oscilloscope. Please refer to Accessories on page 5 for details.
1.2.3 Getting Started Before opening the Multimeter application, ensure the VCMI device is connected to the tablet via Wi-Fi network or with the supplied USB cable. Figure 1-1 Sample Connection Diagram To open the multimeter application 1. Insert the applicable test leads or probe terminal ends into the multimeter jacks to complete the connection. 2. Tap the Measurement icon on the Home screen of the MaxiSys Ultra Tablet. The Measurement screen opens. 3.
1.2.4.1 APK Update NOTE The acronym APK (Android Package Kit) is used on the tablet and in this manual. This file contains all the assets of a particular app. To update the APK, is to install the latest version of the app on your tablet. To update the APK 1. Tap the Help button on the upper half of the screen. A dropdown menu displays. Figure 1-2 Sample Help Screen 2. Tap the Update the APK in the dropdown menu. A confirmation message displays.
Figure 1-3 Sample Update Confirmation Screen 3. Tap OK to update the software or tap Cancel to exit. 1.2.5 Screen Layout and Operations Tap the Measurement icon on the home screen then tap the Multimeter icon in the menu, the multimeter page displays. The screen typically includes the following button sections. NOTE The Multimeter application can also be opened via the Android home screen. Tap the Measurement icon at the top of the Android home screen. Tap Multimeter icon.
Figure 1-4 Sample Multimeter Menu Screen 1. Upper Toolbar Buttons - see Upper Toolbar Buttons on page 90 for details. 2. Main View Section – see Main View Section on page 94 for details. 3. Lower Toolbar Buttons - see Lower Toolbar Buttons on page 100 for details. 1.2.5.1 Upper Toolbar Buttons The upper toolbar buttons are used for configurations of various settings and operations.
Name Button Description Help View the user manual, update the APK and firmware. See Help Menu on page 94 for more information. Reset Reset the digital readouts displayed in the figure mode. Multimeter Button This Multimeter status button displays the multimeter connection status. A green check mark means the tablet and the Multimeter are connected; a red X means the device and the tablet are not connected. Start/Stop Button Press this Start/Stop Button icon to start and stop the multimeter device.
Figure 1-5 Sample Display Mode Menu Screen 2. Select one of the three display modes. 3. The corresponding display mode will be shown on the screen. Table 1-2 Display Mode Table Icon Mode Description Digital Mode Displays the digital readouts only. Waveform Mode Displays the waveform only. Digital + Waveform Mode Displays both the digital readouts and waveform. File Menu The file menu supports the following functions.
Figure 1-6 Sample File Menu Screen Print – Tap to create and print a temporary PNG picture of the current waveforms. NOTE Ensure the tablet is configure to print (see Printer setup instructions) and is connected to the printer. Ensure the tablet and printer share the same network. Waveform File Operation Save and open the waveform files in this section. Only Waveform mode and Digital + Waveform mode support this operation. Save Waveform – Tap to capture and save the current waveforms.
Configuration Operation The configurations can be saved and imported. Save the Configuration – Tap to save the configuration settings (i.e., the amplitude, the time base, the number of samples) of waveforms on the current screen. Import the Configuration – Tap to import the saved configuration settings for waveforms. Help Menu The Help Menu allows you to view the user manual, update the software, and view versions of the device.
Digital Mode The main view section in the digital mode displays only the digital readouts such as values of current measurement, maximum measurement, minimum measurement, peak to peak measurement and average measurement.
Figure 1-9 Sample Main View Section Screen (Waveform Mode) The main view section features a coordinate grid with the X-axis representing the time duration and the Y-axis representing the voltage level. The voltage level on the Y-axis can be configured in the Amplitude Settings while the time duration on the X-axis can be set in the Time Base Settings. Channel Selection In the main view section, a channel has two conditions: selected and unselected.
The X-axis and Y-axis can be zoomed using your fingertips. The waveform can be zoomed during or after capturing the signal. Measurement Rulers In the coordinate grid, there are two kinds of measurement rulers, which allow the voltage and time duration of a waveform to be measured precisely. They are useful when determining signal characteristics such as amplitude at specific points, the cycle time (duration) and frequency.
Zero Baseline The zero baseline is marked the 0 value in the Y-axis, showing the ground level of each channel waveform. After the channel is selected, the zero baseline can be adjusted by dragging the baseline marker up/down along the Y-axis, or dragging the waveform up/down or moving the screen up/down in the grid. NOTE Tap the baseline marker to make the vertical scale line thinner. In this case, the waveform is unselected and cannot be dragged. Tap the baseline marker again to select.
Figure 1-12 Sample Wiring Diagram and Help Screen To open and close the Wiring Diagram and Help window 1. Tap the arrow button on the right-hand side of the screen. Figure 1-13 Arrow Button Position Screen 2. The Wiring Diagram and Help window displays. 3. Tap the arrow button again or tap any space outside of the window.
Digital + Waveform Mode In this mode, the main view section displays the digital readouts on the top and the waveform in the grid. Figure 1-14 Sample Main View Section Screen (Digital + Waveform Mode) 1.2.5.3 Lower Toolbar Buttons The measurement, buffer and time base can be configured in the lower toolbar. Table 1-3 Lower Toolbar Buttons Name Button Description Measurement Tap to select an appropriate measurement. See Measurement Setting on page 101 for more information.
Measurement Setting This multimeter can be used to measure or test AC voltage, DC voltage, resistance, AC electricity, DC electricity, diode, frequency, duty cycle, pulse width, continuity and period.
Figure 1-15 Sample Measurement Setting Position Screen 2. Select the measurement type you want to measure or test in the right column of the dialog box. The blue color indicates the option is selected. Figure 1-16 Sample Measurement Setting Screen 3. Close the dialog box, the measurement type you set displays on the screen. Amplitude Setting Amplitude value can be configured for the selected measurement type excluding resistance measurement.
The amplitude settings allow you to set up the multimeter to capture signals within the specified range. If the input signal exceeds the selected range, an over-range indicator will be displayed. Select Auto to enable the device to adjust the vertical scale automatically. There are two modes available to set the amplitude value. Mode 1: For example, selecting DC 10V sets the amplitude to Voltage 10V (displays on the amplitude button). The vertical scale range is from -10V to +10V.
Figure 1-18 Sample Amplitude Setting Screen (DC 2.0V/div) Testing Procedures The following section describes how to use the multimeter. The testing procedures are the same for each measurement type. The following directions are for measuring AC voltage. To measure AC voltage 1. Insert the supplied multimeter probes into the VCMI multimeter jacks. 2. Hold the probes to the correct points of the circuit. 3.
Figure 1-19 Sample Probe Edit Screen 1 To add custom probes 1. Tap the Measurement Setting button in the lower left corner of the screen to open the setting dialog box. 2. Select the Probe Edit option in the left column of the dialog box. 3. Tap each field to open the virtual keyboard and input the required information. 4. Tap Add to save the settings, or tap Clean to exit without saving.
5. The added probe will be listed in the Measurement Settings window. Figure 1-21 Sample Probe Edit Screen 3 Buffer The waveform buffer displays the number of the waveform currently displayed on-screen out of the total number of stored waveforms. The multimeter can capture and store up to 32 waveforms. Tap the Previous or Next button to review waveforms.
Name Button Description Previous Tap to display the previous waveform in the buffer. Buffer Index Displays the number of the waveform currently displayed onscreen out of the total number of buffered waveforms. Next Tap to display the next waveform in the buffer. 1.2.6 Troubleshooting If the multimeter cannot communicate with the MaxiSys Tablet: Check if the VCMI device is properly connected to the MaxiSys Tablet via Wi-Fi or the supplied USB cable.
Frequency The number of signal occurrences per second. Frequency is measured in Hz (hertz). Duty Cycle The length of a signals on time. Specified as a percentage (ratio), of the total cycle time. Peak to Peak The difference between maximum and minimum value. Cursor The onscreen markers used to measure time and amplitude. Diode A semiconductor device that allows current flow only in one direction.
1.3 Waveform Generator The VCMI (Vehicle Communication and Measurement Interface) working with MaxiSys Ultra can function as a waveform generator to send out electric signals to the vehicle’s sensor or actuator for testing or measuring. 1.3.1 Safety Information Follow the instructions below to reduce the risk of injury from electric shock and prevent equipment damage. Use the waveform generator only as specified in this manual.
1.3.2 General Introduction 1.3.2.1 Component Locations The multimeter jacks are used when operating the waveform generator. The two multimeter jacks are located on the top of the VCMI device. VCMI Top View 1. Multimeter Jacks – for ground and signal cables 2. USB Port 3. Hook 4. DC Power Supply Input Port 5. Power Button The waveform generator LED is located on the front panel of the VCMI device.
1. Power LED 2. Battery LED 3. Waveform Generator LED 4. Multimeter LED 5. Oscilloscope LED 6. Vehicle LED 1.3.2.2 Technical Specifications Item Description Voltage Range 0.1 to 12V Frequency Output 1Hz to 30KHz Duty Cycle Range 1% to 99% (1Hz to 30KHz) 1.3.2.3 Accessories The following accessories are compatible with the waveform generator and oscilloscope. Please refer to Accessories on page 5 for details.
Multimeter Test Lead Used to connect the waveform generator and the probe. 1.3.3 Getting Started Before opening the waveform generator application, the VCMI device must be connected to the Tablet via the provided USB cable or Wi-Fi network. For more information, see Establish Vehicle Communication. Figure 1-1 Sample Connection Diagram To open the waveform generator application 1. Insert the multimeter test lead ends into the multimeter jacks on the top of the VCMI device to compete the connection. 2.
NOTE Please check the waveform generator LED status indicator on the front panel of VCMI device. The waveform generator LED lights green when operating in the waveform generator mode. 1.3.4 Waveform Generator Update The operating software of the waveform generator is continually optimized. Tap the Help button in the upper half of the screen to update. 1.3.4.1 APK Update NOTE The acronym APK (Android Package Kit) is used on the tablet and in this manual.
Figure 1-3 Sample Update Confirmation Screen 3. Tap OK to update the software or tap Cancel to exit. 1.3.5 Screen Layout and Operations Tap the Measurement icon on the home screen and select Waveform generator from the menu, the waveform generator page displays. The screen typically includes the following button sections. NOTE The Waveform generator application can also be opened via the Android home screen. Tap the Measurement icon at the top of the Android home screen. Tap Waveform generator icon.
Figure 1-4 Sample Waveform Generator Menu Screen 1. Upper Toolbar Buttons - see Upper Toolbar Buttons on page 115 for details. 2. Main View Section – see Main View Section on page 118 for details. 3. Lower Toolbar Buttons - see Lower Toolbar Buttons on page 121 for details. 1.3.5.1 Upper Toolbar Buttons The upper toolbar buttons are used to configure settings and operations. The following table provides brief descriptions of each button.
Name Button Description Help View the user manual, update the software and view version numbers. See Help on page 117 for more information. Reset Reset the configurations and refresh the screen. Waveform generator Button This Waveform generator Icon displays the waveform generator connection status. A green check mark means the tablet and the waveform generator are connected; a red X means the device and the tablet are not connected.
Figure 1-5 Sample File Menu Screen Print – Tap to create and print a temporary PNG picture of the current waveforms. NOTE Ensure the tablet is configure to print (see Printer setup instructions) and is connected to the printer. Ensure the tablet and printer share the same network. Save Waveform – Tap to capture and save the current waveform. On the Save File screen, tap each item to input the corresponding information and then tap Save or Save Default to finish.
Figure 1-6 Sample Help Menu Screen User Manual – displays instruction for the prosper use of the waveform generator. Update the APK – connects to the Autel server and check for latest application software. About – displays the model numbers of the waveform generator and the installed versions of the software and firmware. 1.3.5.2 Main View Section The main view section screen displays as a coordinate grid with X-axis and Y-axis, representing the duration and voltage level respectively.
Waveform Zooming The zooming function allows you to change the size and position of a signal during or after capturing a waveform to examine it in greater details. It does not change the stored data, only the way it displays. The X-axis and Y-axis can be zoomed using your fingertips. The waveform can be zoomed during or after capturing the signal. Measurement Ruler In the coordinate grid, there are two types of measurement rulers, which allow the voltage and duration of a waveform to be measured precisely.
Zero Baseline The zero baseline is marked as the 0 value in the Y-axis, showing the ground level of each channel waveform. After the channel is selected, the Zero Baseline can be adjusted by dragging the zero baseline marker up/down along the Y-axis. Wiring Diagram and Help Tap the arrow button in the lower right corner of the screen to open the Wiring Diagram and Help window. The Wiring Diagram function provides the connection diagram, operation steps and operation notes.
Figure 1-9 Arrow Button Position Screen 2. The Wiring Diagram and Help window displays. 3. Tap the arrow button again or tap any space outside of the window. 1.3.5.3 Lower Toolbar Buttons The signal mode, voltage, frequency and duty cycle can be configured via the lower toolbar buttons. Table 1-2 Lower Toolbar Buttons Name Button Description Signal Mode Setting Tap to select an appropriate signal mode. See Signal Mode Setting on page 122 for more information.
Signal Mode Setting The waveform generator supports numerous signal modes including the DC voltage, square wave, square wave (X+Y), triangle wave, and actuators drive, and arbitrary waveform.
Set the DC voltage in the waveform generator interface. The waveform generator can simulate the signals of numerous sensors including the water temperature sensor, oil pressure sensor and position sensor and then feed back to the engine ECU.
NOTE The maximum current supported by Actuator Drive cannot exceed 2A. Square Wave Figure 1-13 Sample Square Wave Connection Diagram Once the voltage and frequency are set in the waveform generator interface, the square wave signals simulate the signals of various Hall sensors.
This function is mainly used to simulate the missing tooth signals of Hall-type crankshafts and camshafts. The X value represents the normal tooth signal and the Y represents the missing tooth signal. The default setting is 58+2, which can be adjusted as needed. Triangle Waveform Figure 1-15 Sample Triangle Waveform Connection Diagram This is a symmetrical triangular waveform, which is mainly used to simulate the triangle wave signals. The amplitude and frequency can be configured in this waveform.
Arbitrary Waveform Figure 1-16 Sample Arbitrary Waveform Connection Diagram Any type of the mentioned waveforms can be loaded again after the waveform and parameter settings are saved. Voltage Setting After you select the waveform mode, you can also set the amplitude value for that mode. There are three methods to adjust the voltage value: Method 1: Tap the “+” and “-” buttons at the bottom of the screen in the Voltage Setting.
Figure 1-17 Sample Voltage Setting Screen 1 Range Button Description Raises the voltage by 0.1V 0.1V to 0.9V Lowers the voltage by 0.1V Raises the voltage by 1V 1V to 12V Lowers the voltage by 1V Method 2: Tap the Voltage Setting button at the bottom of the screen to open a dialog box. Adjust the voltage value by tapping the positive or negative value at the bottom of the dialog box. Then tap OK to confirm or Cancel to exit without saving.
Figure 1-18 Sample Voltage Setting Screen 2 Value Description +0.1V Raises the voltage by 0.1V -0.1V Lowers the voltage by 0.1V +1.0V Raises the voltage by 1V -1.0V Lowers the voltage by 1V Method 3: Input the voltage value using the virtual keyboard. Tap the voltage field to clear the current value and input the new value. Tap OK to confirm or Cancel to exit without saving.
Figure 1-19 Sample Voltage Setting Screen 3 Frequency Setting When the waveform mode is selected and the waveform generator is operating, you can also set the frequency value for that mode. There are also three methods to adjust the frequency value: Method 1: Tap the “+” and “-” buttons at the bottom of the screen in the Frequency Setting.
Range Button Description Raises the frequency by 1Hz 1Hz to 10Hz Lowers the frequency by 1Hz Raises the frequency by 10Hz 10Hz to 100Hz Lowers the frequency by 10Hz Raises the frequency by 100Hz 100Hz to 1000Hz Lowers the frequency by 100Hz Raises the frequency by 1KHz 1.0KHz to 30.0KHz Lowers the frequency by 1KHz Method 2: Tap the Frequency Setting button at the bottom of the screen to open a dialog box.
Value Description +1.0Hz Raises the frequency by 1Hz -1.0Hz Lowers the frequency by 1Hz +10.0Hz Raises the frequency by 10Hz -10.0Hz Lowers the frequency by 10Hz +1.0KHz Raises the frequency by 1KHz -1.0KHz Lowers the frequency by 1KHz +10.0KHz Raises the frequency by 10KHz -10.0KHz Lowers the frequency by 10KHz Method 3: Input the frequency value using the virtual keyboard. Tap the frequency field to clear the current value and input the new value.
There are three methods to adjust the duty cycle ratio: Method 1: Tap the “+” and “-” buttons at the bottom of the screen in the Duty Cycle Setting. Figure 1-23 Sample Duty Cycle Setting Screen 1 Range Button Description Raises the duty cycle ratio by 1% 1% to 99% Lowers the duty cycle ratio by 1% Method 2: Tap the Duty Cycle Setting button at the bottom of the screen to open a dialog box. Adjust the duty cycle by tapping the positive or negative ratio at the bottom of the dialog box.
Figure 1-24 Sample Duty Cycle Setting Screen 2 Value Description +1.0% Raises the duty cycle ratio by 1.0% -1.0% Lowers the duty cycle ratio by 1.0% +10.0% Raises the duty cycle ratio by 10% -10.0% Lowers the duty cycle ratio by 10% Method 3: Input the duty cycle ratio using the virtual keyboard. Tap the duty cycle field to clear the current value and input the new value. Tap OK to confirm or Cancel to exit without saving.
Figure 1-25 Sample Duty Cycle Setting Screen 3 1.3.6 Troubleshooting If the waveform generator cannot communicate with the MaxiSys Tablet: Check if the VCMI device is properly connected to the MaxiSys Tablet through the supplied USB cable. IMPORTANT To avoid damaging the vehicle and/or the equipment, all vehicle communications must be terminated before resetting the connection. The Internet connection may be aborted during resetting.
Waveform Type Description A Square Wave non-sinusoidal Sample Waveform periodic waveform with the duty cycle of 50% Square Wave (X+Y) A special square waveform with normal and missing teeth signals Triangle Wave A asymmetrical triangular waveform 135
1.4 OBDII CAN Bus Check The VCMI (Vehicle Communication and Measurement Interface) working with MaxiSys Ultra is designed with the OBDII CAN Bus Check function by checking the indicator light illumination status on the tablet screen. The indicator light flashes if the signals are detected. The indicator light displays in gray if no signal is detected. Generally, the vehicle’s electronic control systems are designed to comply with the specific communication protocols.
1.4.2 General Introduction 1.4.2.1 Component Locations The main connectors are located at the bottom of the VCMI device. 1. Ethernet Connector 2. Vehicle Data Connector 3. Input Channel A 4. Input Channel B 5. Input Channel C 6. Input Channel D 1.4.3 Getting Started Before opening the OBDII CAN Bus Check application, you have to complete three steps below: 1) Connect the VCMI device to the Tablet via Wi-Fi or the supplied USB. 2) Connect the VCMI device to the vehicle’s OBDII connector.
Figure 1-1 Sample Connection Diagram To open the OBDII CAN Bus Check application 1. Please refer to Figure 1-1 Sample Connection Diagram to complete the connection. Place the ignition in the key on position. 2. Tap the Measurement icon on the Home screen of the MaxiSys Ultra Tablet. The Measurement screen opens. 3. Tap the OBD icon to open the OBDII CAN Bus Check Menu. 4. Select a communication protocol to test. 1.4.4 Update The operating software of the device is continually optimized.
Figure 1-2 Sample Help Screen 2. Tap Update the APK in the dropdown menu. A confirmation message displays. Figure 1-3 Sample Update Confirmation Screen 3. Tap OK to update the software or tap Cancel to exit. 1.4.5 Screen Layout and Operations The OBDII CAN Bus Check application allows you to select the communication protocols, the signal pins and voltage value for testing.
Tap the Measurement icon on the home screen and select OBD in the menu, the OBDII CAN Bus Check window displays. The screen typically includes the following button sections. NOTE The OBDII CAN Bus Check application can also be opened via the Android home screen. Tap the Measurement icon at the top of the Android home screen. Tap the OBD app icon. Figure 1-4 Sample OBD Communication Line Inspection Menu Screen 1. Upper Toolbar Buttons - see Upper Toolbar Button on page 140 for details. 2.
Table 1-1 Upper Toolbar Buttons Name Button Description OBD Icon Displays the device connection status. See OBD Button on page 141 for more information. Start/Stop Start or stop the device. See Start/Stop Button on page 141 for more information. Settings Set the communication protocol manually. See Settings Menu on page 141 for more information. File Print, open and save the waveform data. See File Menu on page 143 for more information. Help View the user manual and update the software.
Figure 1-5 Sample Settings Menu Screen 1 At the bottom of the settings menu screen, the Protocol, Reset, Save and Close buttons are displayed. The protocol varies according to the protocol you set. Take CAN protocol as an example.
Figure 1-6 Sample Settings Menu Screen 2 3. Tap the correct pin number in the OBDII Connector Assignment image to match the test vehicle’s actual communication signal pins. Figure 1-7 Sample Settings Menu Screen 3 4. Tap Save to save changes or tap Close to exit without saving. File Menu The File button allows you to print, open and save the waveform data. The File Menu is enabled in the Waveform Mode and supports the following functions.
Figure 1-8 Sample File Menu Screen Print – Tap to create and print a temporary PNG picture of the current waveforms. NOTE Ensure the tablet is configure to print (see Printer setup instructions) and is connected to the printer. Ensure the tablet and printer share the same network. Save Waveform – Tap to capture and save the current waveforms. On the Save File screen, tap each item to input the corresponding information and then tap Save or Save Default to finish.
Figure 1-9 Sample Help Menu Screen User Manual – displays instruction for the prosper use of the OBDII CAN Bus Check application and the Ultra tablet. Update the APK – connects to the Autel server and check for latest application software. About – displays the model number of the OBDII CAN Bus Check application and the installed versions of the software and firmware. 1.4.5.
Figure 1-10 Sample Indicator Mode Screen Main View Section The CAN-High line is assigned to Pin 6 and the CAN-Low line is assigned to Pin 14 of the OBDII adapter by default according to the CAN-Bus standard protocol. If the test vehicle’s actual communication signal pins are assigned differently, you can select OBDII connector’s signal pins manually in the Settings Menu. When the electronic control units send out signals properly, the left and right indicator lights will flash consecutively on the screen.
Figure 1-11 Sample Protocol Button Screen The following protocols are included: High Speed CAN - offers baud rates from 40 Kbit/s to 1 Mbit/sec, depending on cable length. This is the most popular standard for the physical layer, since it allows for simple cable connection between devices. High speed CAN networks are terminated with 120 ohm resistors on each end of the network. Low Speed CAN - offers baud rates from 40 Kbit/s to 125 Kbits/sec.
In the right lower corner of the screen, you can enter to the Waveform Mode by tapping the View Waveform button. Figure 1-12 Sample View Waveform Button Screen Test Procedure The test procedure is the same for all the protocols. To test the communication line Using High speed CAN-bus line as an example. 1. Make sure the VCMI is connected to the vehicle’s OBDII connector. The VCMI is connected with tablet successfully. Please refer to the Connection Diagram. 2.
The screen is displayed in the Indicator mode by default. Tap the View Waveform button in the lower corner of the Indicator Mode screen to switch to the Waveform Mode. The screen is shown as below. Figure 1-13 Sample Waveform Mode Screen Main View Section The main view section features as a coordinate grid with X-axis and Y-axis, representing the time duration and voltage level respectively.
The zooming function allows you to change the size and position of a signal during or after capturing a waveform to examine. It does not change the stored data, only the way it displays. The X-axis and Y-axis can be zoomed using your fingertips. The waveform can be zoomed during or after capturing the signal. Measurement Rulers In the coordinate grid, there are two types of measurement rulers, which allow the voltage and time duration of a waveform to be measured precisely.
The zero baseline is marked as the 0 value in the Y-axis, showing the base level of each channel waveform. After the channel is selected, the zero baseline can be adjusted by dragging the baseline marker up/down along the Y-axis, or dragging the waveform up/down or moving the screen up/down in the grid. NOTE Tap the baseline marker to unselect (the vertical scale line displays thinner). The waveform cannot be moved once unselected. Tap the baseline marker again to select.
Name Button Description Trigger Tap to open the trigger setting menu. See Trigger on page 154 for more information. Buffer Tap the Previous or Next button to switch to the previous or the next waveform. See Buffer on page 158 for more information. Time Base Tap to select an appropriate time per division. See Time Base on page 159 for more information. Indicator Tap to switch to the Indicator mode.
Figure 1-17 Sample Protocol Setting Screen 3. Tap the X icon to close the dialog box. Communication Line The communication line selection varies according to the protocol selected. Tap the appropriate communication line at the bottom of the screen. Figure 1-18 Sample Communication Line Button Screen Amplitude Setting After selecting the protocol type, you can also set the amplitude value for that type.
To set the amplitude 1. Tap the Amplitude button at the bottom of the screen. A dialog box displays. Figure 1-19 Sample Amplitude Button Screen 2. Select the appropriate amplitude for the protocol. Figure 1-20 Sample Amplitude Setting Screen 3. Tap the X icon to close the dialog box.
The trigger feature is used to stabilize repetitive waveforms to obtain clear signal characterization. The device is triggered when the signal crosses a threshold or meets set conditions. When the device is capturing the signal, tap the left column of the Trigger button to activate the trigger function. A trigger point displays as a blue point.
Figure 1-22 Sample Trigger Settings Screen Trigger Mode Three trigger modes are available: None, Auto and Repeat. Figure 1-23 Sample Trigger Mode Screen The table below offers brief description of each trigger mode.
Table 1-3 Trigger Mode Table Trigger Mode Description None The device can continuously capture data, without waiting for a trigger event. Auto The device will wait for a trigger before capturing data. It can automatically update after a short period, even if the signal does not cross the trigger point. Repeat trigger The device waits until a trigger event occurs. If there is no trigger event, nothing will be displayed on the screen.
Threshold The Threshold allows you to set the voltage threshold for the trigger. To precisely position the trigger point, input the value in the Threshold field in the trigger settings dialog box. To roughly position the trigger point, drag the trigger point to a desired position. To configure the trigger settings 1. Tap the right column of the Trigger button to open the trigger settings dialog box. 2. Select the trigger mode, trigger channel and pulse direction in the dropdown list. 3.
Name Button Description Buffer Index Shows which waveform is currently being displayed and how many waveforms are in the buffer. Next Tap to display the next waveform in the buffer. Time Base The time base controls the time interval across the device display. Tap the Time Base button at the bottom to open the setting dialog box.
Continuous Mode: if the time base is set to more than or equal to 200ms/div, the device switches to the continuous mode. In this mode, the device updates the trace continuously as each capture progresses, rather than waiting for a complete capture before updating the trace. Indicator Button In the lower corner of the screen, you can enter the Indicator Mode by tapping the Indicator button. Figure 1-28 Sample Indicator Button Screen 1.4.
vehicle, ship, or aircraft). Protocols include Controller Area Network (CAN), Local Interconnect Network (LIN) and others. CAN Bus A Controller Area Network (CAN bus) is a robust vehicle bus standard designed to allow microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other in applications without a host computer. SAE International Initially established as the Society of Automotive Engineers, is a U.S.
OBD-II diagnostic connector The OBD-II DLC (post-1996 vehicles) is usually located under the instrument panel on the driver side, though there are several exceptions. The SAE J1962 specification provides for two standardized hardware interfaces, called type A and type B. Both are female, 9-pin (2x8), D-shaped connectors, and both have a groove between the two rows of pins.
