Automotive Software Applications for Diagnostics Tools
Firstly, automotive software applications are computer programs that help to interpret data, edit data and create data. Diagnostic scanning software interpret data (interpret data from the ECU), edit data and create data (Reprogramming of the ECU).
The features and functions of a Diagnostic Software depend on the standard of its Scanner. A powerful scan tool would work with a powerful software application.
Now, many Diagnostics tools manufacturers also manufacture specific software programs that can only work with their tools, others give the licenses to only a few software developers. Most times when you buy a Diagnostic tool they come along with the software to run it.
Although these software applications are not usually free, there are many cracked versions online, just as there are many cloned Diagnostics tools online.
Cracked software version and Cloned scan tools
Now, I will talk about disadvantages of cracked Software Version and cloned scan tool.
Cracked Software Version maybe useful until you try to upgrade it, or try to access the manufacturer online database, then it may get blocked, or it won’t be able to access it. Sometimes you need some Access online to do some powerful Diagnostics such as SCN coding.
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Same thing goes for cloned scan tool, as it may not be able to access every component of the vehicle, it may not also perform some typical reprogramming of the ECU. But some bad software developers are constantly finding ways to break these protocols, just as the manufacturer is also ensure strictly protocols to secure their products.
IMMOBILIZERS
Immobilizer is a security device in vehicles placed in the Ignition key System that does not allow another key to turn on or start the engine of the vehicle. It is an anti-theft security device but sometimes it fails and it needs to be configured or reprogrammed.
When the user of a vehicle loss the keys of the vehicle, the immobilizer needs to be reprogrammed in order to use a new key to access the vehicle, same thing goes for creating a spare key. There are related other security devices that can be attached to it to provide more security functions.
Diagnostics technicians also engage in Immobilizers reprogramming operations.
VIN- VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
It is a number peculiar with every vehicle; it is used to identify a vehicle. From reading the VIN, you can identify the brand, model and other details. It is also important in acquiring spare parts; it is also used for Registration of vehicles. In fact when cars are stolen their VIN are removed from the body so that it cannot be easily located.
SCN- SOFTWARE CALIBRATION NUMBER coding
This is a protocol used for manufacturers to secure their spare parts. It happens when you are to change a spare parts you must Program the new spare part to the vehicle computer before it would work properly, it is familiar with MB 2005- till date, and in some specific system like Transmission.
The VIN and SCN are important for diagnostics and Immobilizer Operations.
