Useful programs for the motorist. Software for your car Modern software for your car

automotive world not as simple as it seems at first glance. There are a lot of incomprehensible and ambiguous things in the world of the automotive industry. Confusing car manuals, various incomprehensible abbreviations for new technologies, abbreviations for options and much more confuse us. And in all this variety of technology, what we understand most is the new electronic innovations in the field of in-car entertainment electronics. The motto of the modern world is better to live with the help of technology than to abandon it.

When it comes to new consumer automotive technologies, many of us get confused by the multitude. To shed light on many technical innovations in cars and not let consumers get confused, our online publication has prepared for you a special overview of the freshest, latest and newest automotive technology. Having learned about them in more detail, it will be easier for you to navigate and use them in new cars.

If you are only, then almost certainly when making final decision new electronic technologies will play a key role. We have selected the most common modern technologies(functions) that have been installed on modern cars in recent years. Most of the functions in the review are present in new cars, the cost of which is no more than 1.5 million rubles.

Therefore, it will be easy for you to determine which features you would like to see in your car.

1) Bluetooth

Bluetooth has recently become a symbol of wireless car speakerphone. But this wireless technology can also connect various modern gadgets to the car's on-board computer at a short distance. If you have a modern smartphone running modern operating systems: Ios Android, BlackBerry or Windows Phone, then most likely your device has a Bluetooth function.

Also, almost any modern smartphone has a profile for setting up an SMS message profile using Bluetooth technology. These settings will help you configure how you want to send an SMS message using the car speakerphone. How? Everything is very simple. You can create short templates of SMS messages in drafts in advance. With the help of a voice command, you will send a message in response to the received message, which in many cars you can read on the LCD screen of the multimedia system.

Also, for example, users of Apple phones can use the phone using the built-in Siri (receive, read, send SMS, receive calls, etc.) through a wireless speakerphone. To activate it, you must press the speakerphone button on the steering wheel. Of course, for this, the phone must first be connected via Bluetooth to the car system.

Almost all cars equipped with Bluetooth can receive streaming music from your gadgets. This type of connection allows you to play music from your phone, smartphone, tablet or MP3 player on the car's speakers. As a convenience on many modern cars, there is no need to use electronic gadgets that wirelessly stream music to control music and volume. You can do all this on the car's multimedia system.

While streaming music from your mobile device, you can see the song name, timer, and other important information on the screen of your in-car infotainment system.

2) USB ports

USB ports are excellent for charging electronic gadgets and for connecting electronic devices (for example, for playing music) that do not have the ability to connect to the car system using Bluetooth technology. For example, old MP3 players, mobile phones. Also, using this port, you can connect your flash drive with music recorded to the car.

Playing music via a USB port has a number of advantages over Bluetooth. For example, when transmitting a music stream wirelessly, the Bluetooth system compresses the audio file for fast transmission over a wireless radio channel, which degrades the sound quality of melodies.

3) Proximity car key and ignition

We have more important things to do than dig through our pockets or bags for our car keys. To do this, there is a wireless electronic car key technology. The principle of operation is simple. There is an electronic key in your pocket or bag, which, when you approach the car, sends it to the car special code to open the door. Approaching the car, you simply open the door, get into the car and press the engine start button without inserting the key into the ignition. Very handy feature, which has recently been installed on many new cars.

4) Application integration

Unfortunately, such technologies are not yet highly developed in our country due to the high cost and quality of mobile Internet. Abroad, the picture is completely different. So, in some premium cars, special blocks began to appear, where a mobile Internet modem is built in, distributing Internet via WiFi, both to electronic user gadgets and to be able to access the network using the infotainment system. For example, network access can be useful for listening to online music or watching online video streaming by passengers.

5) Voice recognition

Interaction with the software of the car using voice at first was not a very reliable and high-quality technology. At first, such systems operated with failures and errors. Fortunately, electronic technology does not stand still, and progress is moving forward. Contemporary software and modern electronic chips, allow you to control many car systems with your voice.

If earlier the system required the exact pronunciation of a certain command, today it is enough to say part of the command and the system will recognize what you want.

The new speech recognition system allows you to conveniently control the navigation system. Previously, in order to set the address of the route by voice, it was necessary to pronounce the name separately locality, street, house, etc. then today most mobile navigation automotive systems can recognize the exact destination address when speaking the full address at once.

6) Remote control of the car

Do you think it is possible with a vehicle remote control system. For this, there are special applications in the App Store or Google Play. So with these programs, you can disable or enable the alarm. Also at a distance you can block the car if necessary. Some vehicles allow smartphone applications to receive indoor and outdoor temperature data, view related diagnostic data such as fuel level, fuel consumption, range, as well as receive vehicle location data from satellite navigation and many other information.

7) Blind spot monitoring system

World studies show that a large proportion of accidents occur due to the blind spots of the car. In an attempt to stop this epidemic of accidents, most automakers have begun equipping their vehicles with blind spot monitoring. Everything works very simply. If, while the car is moving, there is a car or other object in a dead, not visible zone, the system warns the driver about it. On side mirror or a warning sign appears on the dashboard.

8) Strip control system

This technology is designed to help drivers control their lane. Special touch sensors and cameras monitor road markings. In the event of a lane crossing, the car warns the driver about this either by giving an audible signal or by vibration, which is transmitted to the steering wheel. In many luxury cars such as Acura, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi, a new generation of such a system has recently appeared, which, with certain settings, can automatically change the position of the steering wheel itself in order to align the car in the event of an uncontrolled lane departure.

9) Telematics

This new technology allows you to not only connect your smartphone to your car's infotainment system, but also get a range of . If the car is equipped with a mobile Internet modem and is connected to an unlimited tariff plan, then you can make calls from your phone via the car Internet using the car interface. This will not only save you mobile phone traffic, but will make communication more convenient.

Telematics functions also include programming information system car to make emergency calls using your cell phone in the event of an accident. In this case, the system will automatically send an emergency call via your smartphone.

Among other things, some automakers are integrating a concierge service into the multimedia system, which you can call using your smartphone, which automatically connects to the car system as soon as you get into it or simply press a special button in the car. In fact, the telematics option is a guardian angel.

10) Adaptive cruise control

Many auto industry collision warning systems are in the field of safety. In the near future, they will appear on almost all modern cars. It is also extremely necessary, as are airbags, without which not one car can do now.

Most collision warning systems work with millimeter-wave radar or stereoscopic cameras to monitor the environment around the car and scan the area for possible hazards. When an obstacle is detected, the system warns the driver of the danger of a collision.

More advanced versions of collision avoidance technology can independently (without driver intervention) apply the brake pedal in an emergency (if the system determines that a collision is imminent).

Based on this system, car manufacturers have invented a new generation of the most beloved and popular car cruise control system. So the new feature was called adaptive cruise control. For its operation, the same stereoscopic cameras or radar are used to detect obstacles while moving. When this function is enabled and the settings cruising speed movement, the system automatically maintains a set speed and a certain distance to the vehicle in front.

In some expensive luxury cars, the system is extended with the ability to automatically brake without the driver's participation in the event of a car approaching an obstacle, avoiding a collision. As soon as the danger of a collision disappears, the vehicle will pick up the required speed again.

Normally, adaptive cruise control works when the vehicle is moving at speeds between 40 and 150 km/h.

An article about what software is modern car. Software features, processes and technologies. At the end of the article - interesting video about 5 necessary life hacks for your car!

Review content:

No modern car is conceivable without electronic stuffing, which involves complex software. When driving a car, we almost never think about what processes are going on inside it - it’s like a computer doesn’t have a monitor, which means that the actions of programs are not visualized, as if they don’t exist. But they are.

Automotive software features

Modern software for your car is very reliable: the hardware failure rate is only one in a million operations during the year, and then as an exception.

Now in every car there are several electronic control units (ECU) - electronic control unit, ECU, which interact with each other through the car's electronic network.

The interaction between these blocks is carried out thanks to bus architectures, which are a combination of controllers - CAN, controller area network, as well as a special network designed to transfer information from special digital equipment - MOST, media-oriented systems trans, FIexRay, as well as the Local interconnect system, (LIN).

If you compare the listed buses with Ethernet, which is designed for PCs, they work at a reduced speed, since the amount of data processed in cars is small. But this minimum amount of information should be processed literally in a matter of milliseconds.

As the number of ECUs grows, designers have to create more complex intra-vehicle network structures that require a more complex design. Consider the main difference between car software and digital technologies for other purposes.

• Reliability - the system programs of the car in a fairly complex network of ECUs must work as reliably as possible throughout the entire period of use;
• Safety of the functions performed - ESC and the braking system must operate without fail, and this already implies quite serious requirements for the software and the very process of their development;
• The speed of interaction - the instantaneous reaction of the electronic components of the car (up to milliseconds) is impossible without a special software architecture and advanced operating systems;
• Robust Architecture - The vehicle's software must implement maximum electromagnetic compatibility, as well as not be influenced by distorted signals;
• Connection of nodes of the electronic-mechanical cycle.

Attention: Never reset the ECU during operation!

Main components of the ECU

The ECU is a rather complex board, which, in addition to the microcontroller, has hundreds of other elements. Let's look at the main details.

1. Analog-to-digital converter (ADC) - this equipment is designed to take indicators from certain automotive sensors, and from the oxygen sensor as well. The fact is that the processor is able to perceive only digital values, and, for example, the oxygen indicator produces only electrical signals with a voltage of 0 to 1.1V. ADC converts this data into a ten-bit binary number, and it becomes understandable to the processor.
2. Driver - a program designed to control digital equipment by converting signals.
3. Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) - Provides analog signals to run certain components of a car's engine.
4. Communication Chip - These chips enable the implementation of a wide variety of communication standards available in the vehicle. There are several such standards in production, but the most common of them is CAN - Controller-Area Networking. It provides a speed of 500 k / bps, which is essential for modules that perform up to hundreds of operations per second.

Processes and technology

A lot has changed since the first automotive software. If initially only one manufacturer could control the software, now it has become almost impossible.

Initially, in the last century, assembler was used as software. The C language began to spread in the 90s. Robert Bosch and many other vendors have started developing software using Mathlab/Simulink and ASCET (Control and Simulation Technology).

Systems CAN bus make the software of the car quite complicated. The reason is that they do not exclude interaction between programs of different ECUs. Modern luxury cars can contain a complex network of 80 ECUs with up to 100 million lines of code in total.

Due to the fact that software is constantly becoming more complex, there is a need to improve engineering technologies. Therefore, parallel technical and organizational processes are constantly emerging in the industry for the consciousness of new software.

Engineering solutions at the level of processes and architecture are also becoming one of the main conditions for outsourcing. In connection with this circumstance, Bosch began to give away some developments to the side since the beginning of the 90s of the last century.

Currently, work on software for cars is carried out by several associations distributed around the world. And this kind of activity has become quite optimal for business.

Engine management

The provisions of international legislation on environmental issues require a reduction in the fuel consumption of vehicles and a corresponding reduction in environmental pollution. This means that there is an incentive to improve the transmission in order to guarantee optimal fuel injection timing and ignition response.

For example, modern diesel engines are capable of injecting fuel at a minimum of seven times per cycle. And this for a four-cylinder engine that develops a speed of rotation up to 1800 rpm, is 420 times per second. All this requires new software features and more thoughtful control algorithms to minimize any deviations.

The need to reduce harmful emissions demanded updated technologies and methods for providing propulsion. Therefore, adding conventional engines internal combustion, in the future, the lion's share of the car market will be owned by electric motors and mixed developments. In addition, the need for alternative fuels will increase, and software will be the main lever to solve these problems.

The engine control module is the vehicle transmission control center. Modern modules have more than 2 megabytes of digital memory and operate at clock rates up to 160 MHz. At the same time, programs up to 300 thousand lines of code are involved.

Standardization

When developing modern digital programs for cars, the specifics of the required ECU are clearly taken into account: the software directly interacts with certain equipment. With the ever-increasing number of automotive ECUs, software recycling is becoming a priority. Therefore, in such a situation, it is appropriate to talk about standardization.

In 2003, Automotive Open System Architecture (Autosar) was formed by suppliers and manufacturers. The purpose of the organization is to fulfill common standard and unified technologies. Today, this association includes over 150 organizations that together develop a new ECU structure, basic software and everything necessary to create working software.

This kind of interaction involves the creation of nodes that are independent of the hardware. This enables suppliers and manufacturers to share designs and reuse them on a wide variety of ECUs.

The structure of Autosar consists of several abstract layers in which the software is separated from the hardware. At the very top is the application software that implements all application activities. Below is the basic, nominal software. It guarantees the necessary abstraction from the hardware in the same way as it does, for example, in a personal computer. The Autosar Runtime Environment (real-time execution environment) communicates within the ECU.

Autosar technology contains all the necessary exchange formats and templates that are used both to generate and configure the infrastructure, and to describe it.

Buses (high-speed) Ethernet are the most common in today's automotive industry. They reliably support communications between ECUs, as well as new options, including those regarding safety.

The most diverse information is qualitatively analyzed in order to create an objective model of the environment, which allows the formation of new options that support the driver in extreme cases.

For example, the driver was distracted by a passenger while driving. In this case, the application detects the braking of the vehicle in front, then warns the driver or automatically applies the brakes. By the way, the driver may not even immediately know about the presence of such software until he is in a dangerous position.

Conclusion

In today's automotive industry, the prerequisites for the next scientific and technological revolution in the field of software development are emerging, because digital technologies and the possibilities of consumer electronics are beginning to be used more widely. Not far off is the time when cars will begin to connect to the Internet through all stationary and mobile devices. And at the same time, the role of free software for solving practical problems will increase.

5 necessary life hacks for a car - in the video:

In car designs, electronic control systems are increasingly being used. Carrying out diagnostics of a modern car without using tools for analyzing the operation of electronic control systems may not give enough full information about its technical condition.

Diagnostic tools for determining technical condition Electronic control systems can be divided into three categories:

1. stationary (bench) diagnostic systems
2. on-board diagnostic software that allows you to indicate faults with the corresponding codes
3. on-board diagnostic software that requires a special additional reader to access

Bench diagnostic systems

These systems are not connected to the on-board electronic control units and are therefore independent of the vehicle's on-board diagnostic system. They usually diagnose individual engine mechanisms and ignition systems, which is why they are often called motor testers. The main elements of the motor-tester are sensors, as well as a block for processing and displaying the results of measurements of perceived signals. Sensors and recording devices are connected to cables using plugs and clamps.

Rice. motor tester

Motor-testers are based on computers, have a keyboard, display, disk drives, CD-ROM drive. The kit usually includes a set connecting wires and cables, a stroboscope, and in some cases an exhaust gas analyzer. Information is entered into a computer using an appropriate analyzer, which contains analog-to-digital converters, comparators, amplifiers and other signal pre-processing devices. The analyzer is connected to the necessary elements on the car using a cable set, which is a set of wires connected to the negative, positive terminals of the battery and the ignition coil, wires high voltage to the ignition coil and to the spark plug of the first cylinder, and in addition, a non-contact current sensor on the battery charging bus, an engine oil temperature sensor (inserted instead of a probe), a vacuum sensor in the intake manifold, etc.

The main part of the motor tester is an oscilloscope, on the screen of which various oscillograms appear, reflecting the mode of operation and the technical condition of the tested parts and devices of the ignition system. The evaluation of the signal appearing on the oscilloscope screen is based on the analysis of changes (in the presence of faults) in the nature of electrical processes occurring in low and high voltage circuits. By separate parts of the image, one can also judge the operation of some elements of the power supply and ignition systems, and the nature of the change makes it possible to identify the causes of malfunctions.

The motor tester's computer processes the information received from the engine and presents the results on the display or as a printout on a printer. The motor tester can be supplied with a set of laser CDs with technical information about various car models, as well as with instructions to the operator on how to connect the motor-tester to the car and on the sequence of control operations.

Before diagnosing, the car model, type of engine, transmission, ignition system, fuel injection and other parameters characterizing the object of diagnosis are entered. Motor testers are capable of diagnosing most automotive systems, including starting, power supply, ignition systems, assessing cylinder compression, and measuring power system parameters.

Modern motor testers can provide information about the state of the ignition system in the form of numbers or an oscillogram of the process. An example is the motor-tester M3-2 (Belarus), with which you can determine the condition of the engine (by developed power, power balance by cylinders, relative compression), starter, generator, relay-regulator, battery, breaker-distributor, electrical wires, candles ignition, lambda sensor, injectors of the injection system of gasoline engines, diesel fuel equipment, measure with a stroboscope the ignition timing for gasoline engines and injection for diesel engines.

As automotive electronics become more complex, the functionality of stationary systems expands, since it is necessary to diagnose not only engine control, but also brake systems, active suspension, etc.

The versatility of computer motor testers is determined by their software. Many of them work in the Windows operating system familiar to most users.

The disadvantages of motor testers include the fact that they are difficult to detect non-permanent faults in complex electronic systems, when a fault in one system manifests itself in the form of symptoms in other systems that are functionally related to the first.

Onboard diagnostic software that allows fault codes to be indicated

Automotive software systems in most of the leading countries of the world since the 80s of the XX century. are provided with the function of reading fault codes using a warning lamp, for example check engine- check the engine. This is the simplest type of on-board diagnostics, which consists in conditionally assigning digital codes to a number of faults in the electronic control system. These codes, when their corresponding faults appear, are stored in the memory of the electronic control unit of the system. After certain manipulations, these codes can be displayed by a control light in the form of a series of long and short pulses. After visual reading of the pulses, their meaning can be deciphered using special tables.

Rice. Example of placement of the Check engine indicator (position 1)

On-board diagnostic software that requires a special optional reader to access

Reading information from such software is carried out using special devices - scanners. Controlled parameters and fault codes are read directly from the electronic control unit and interpreted by service specialists.

A scanner, or a scanning device, is a portable computer tester used to diagnose various electronic control systems by reading digital information from the vehicle's diagnostic connector.

The scanner, as a rule, has a small LCD display, so viewing data on it, even using frame scrolling, is not always convenient. It is usually possible to connect the scanner to a computer via a serial port for data transfer. Special software allows you to view data from the scanner in tabular and graphical form on a computer monitor, save them, and create databases for serviced vehicles.

Rice. Programmable scanner DST-2M (Russia) without a personal computer

Scanners differ in their functionality and range of tested vehicles.

Specialized scanners used to diagnose cars of only one brand have the widest capabilities. The use of such scanners, due to their narrow specialization, is limited to individual car service enterprises servicing cars of specific models. Scanners designed for diagnosing injection systems and other mechanisms, assemblies and systems of cars of various models have become more widespread.

There are programs that allow you to enter information directly into the computer through the serial port from the car diagnostic socket using the appropriate connecting cable. In this case, a personal computer performs the functions of a scanner, it is sometimes called a computer scanner. When using a personal computer, there is no need to have a set of software cartridges for various systems and models, since the capacity of the computer's hard disk allows you to store all the necessary data and programs on it.

The self-diagnosis system of the vehicle during its operation continuously compares the current values ​​of the signals with the reference values ​​in the memory of the electronic control unit. In addition, it monitors the reaction of the actuators. Any inconsistencies between the parameters to each other or to the reference values ​​are regarded as a malfunction, each of which has its own code. Previously, control systems could determine and remember 10-15 codes, modern systems store up to several hundred codes related not only to the engine, but also to automatic transmission, anti-lock braking system (ABS), airbags, climate control, etc.

In some control units, self-diagnosis allows you to adjust the ignition timing, and on vehicles without a converter, to adjust the carbon monoxide content in the exhaust gases. In addition, on modern models of scanners, the so-called test diagnostics is implemented: input signals are given at a certain moment, followed by checking the sensors and the response of the actuators.

The scanner checks the input and output parameters of electrical circuits and informs the operator about their value. Thus, it only fixes the presence or absence of faults in any node, but does not allow determining their causes, which can be many for the same values ​​of controlled parameters.

According to the method of storing information, hardware scanners are divided into cartridge and programmable. To bring the cartridge scanner into working condition requires a cartridge with a diagnostic cable that matches the model of the vehicle being checked. The set of such a scanner consists of three main parts: the scanner itself, replaceable cartridges and connecting cables designed to be connected to the diagnostic socket of the vehicle being checked. Each cartridge is designed to work with its own type of control unit.

Rice. Cartridge scanner for diagnosing cars of one or certain brands

Programmable scanners do not have this drawback. Their built-in memory (Flash-memory) can be repeatedly reprogrammed using a personal computer. Older versions of the software can be updated online or via a CD supplied by the vehicle or scanner manufacturer. Such scanners are well adapted for operation in a car service. Moreover, they allow you to diagnose the systems of a moving vehicle.

More informative are scanners connected to a personal computer. An adapter is used to coordinate the data received by the computer from the control unit.

Rice. Programmable scanner with personal computer

Currently most widespread received Bosch KST-500 and KST-520 scanners used with a personal computer, as well as DST-2, DST-10-Kf scanners (Russia), etc.

Scanners have several modes of operation. In the "Errors" mode, the screen displays digital codes one or another malfunction stored in the memory of the control unit on the car. The "Parameters" mode allows you to evaluate the operation of the engine when the car is moving: the voltage in onboard network, detonation, engine speed, mixture composition, driving speed, etc. To view changes in engine operation parameters in dynamics, the "Data acquisition" mode is provided. Some scanners, such as KST-520, for monitoring the operation of the injection system and other vehicle systems in dynamics, can display a graphical representation of the signals on the screen, i.e. allow them to be observed visually. The possibilities of scanners when checking the injection system specific car mobile are determined by the diagnostic functions of the control unit of a given vehicle, however, as a rule, all scanners read and erase fault codes, display digital parameters in real time, and can actuate some actuators (injectors, relays, solenoids).

The scanner is connected through a special connector on the car to a specific control unit or the electronic system as a whole.

Until 2000, most vehicles were equipped with diagnostic connectors, having a different number and arrangement of pins, which did not allow the use of universal scanners for reading information. Therefore, in 2000, most manufacturers Vehicle The OBD-II standard for electronic control systems equipment was adopted. The requirements of this standard include:

• standard diagnostic socket
• standard location of the diagnostic connector
• standard communication protocol between the scanner and the automotive onboard system diagnostics
• standard list of fault codes
• saving the parameter values ​​in the memory of the electronic control unit of the frame when an error code appears (“frozen” frame)
• monitoring by on-board diagnostic tools of elements, the failure of which can lead to an increase in toxic emissions into the environment
• access to both specialized and universal scanners to error codes, parameters, "frozen" frames, testing procedures, etc.
• a single list of terms, abbreviations, definitions used for elements of electronic systems of a car and error codes

The illustration shows the 16-pin diagnostic connector, which is standard on OBD-II compliant vehicles.

Rice. Standard diagnostic socket

The diagnostic connector is located in the passenger compartment (usually under the dashboard) and provides access to system data. Any scanner can be connected to this connector.

Reading diagnostic codes

Fault codes can be read in two ways. The first (for self-diagnostic systems that are already becoming a thing of the past) - with an LED probe connected to the diagnostic connector, or using a diagnostic control lamp. The codes are deciphered using the already mentioned tables that are part of the operational documents for the car. The second, modern, way is to receive codes with a scanner. As a rule, these devices not only extract error codes, but also decrypt them.

To warn the driver about a malfunction of the electronic control system, there is a warning lamp on the instrument panel. After turning on the ignition on a serviceable car, the lamp burns for 3 ... 10 s, and then should go out. If the lamp does not go out, this indicates a malfunction of the control system, and this system should be checked for certain codes. According to requirements normative documents According to the traffic safety of some countries, a car with active fault codes of certain electronic control systems is not allowed to operate.

Fault codes are sometimes conventionally divided into "slow" and "fast".

Consider "slow" codes. If a malfunction is detected, its code is stored in memory and the corresponding control lamp turns on on the instrument panel. You can find out which code this is in one of the following ways (depending on the specific version of the control unit):

1. read information from the LED on the control unit case, which periodically flashes and goes out
2. connect certain terminals of the diagnostic connector with a conductor or short a certain terminal of the connector to ground and turn on the ignition, after which the control lamp will flash periodically, transmitting information about the fault code
3. connect an LED or an analog voltmeter to certain contacts of the diagnostic connector and, by flashing the LED (or fluctuations of the voltmeter needle), get information about the fault code

Since "slow" codes are intended for visual reading, their transmission frequency is very low (about 1 Hz), the amount of information transmitted is small.

Codes are usually issued in the form of repeated sequences of flashes. The code contains several digits, the semantic meaning of which is then deciphered according to the fault table, which is part of the operational documents for the car. Long flashes (1.5-2.5 s) transmit the senior (first) digit of the code, short (0.5-0.6 s) - the junior (second) digit.

An example of displaying code 1-3-1-2, corresponding to a malfunction of the electronic injection nozzle of the first cylinder of the Hyundai engine, is shown in the figure:

Rice. Example of displaying a fault code

After a malfunction is detected, it is localized by sequentially checking those elements of the electronic control system that are in electrical circuit, responsible for generating the read code (sensors, connectors, wiring, etc.).

"Slow" codes are simple, reliable, do not require expensive diagnostic equipment, but are not very informative.

"Quick codes" provide a selection of a large amount of information from the memory of the electronic control unit via a serial interface. This interface and the diagnostic connector are used both for testing and tuning the vehicle at the factory, and for diagnosing.

One of the functions implemented by scanners is to check the sensor signal for rationality, i.e. for compliance with the required (standard) signals. The sensor may be faulty and send incorrect information to the control unit. If the control unit program does not provide for checking the sensor signal for rationality, then control algorithms are implemented in them using incorrect sensor information. This will incorrectly calculate important output parameters, such as the ignition timing and the duration of the injector release pulse, which will lead to a deterioration in the vehicle's driving characteristics, the engine may stall after starting, etc. However, as long as the incorrect signal from the sensor is within the normal range in quantitative terms, no error codes will be recorded in the memory of the electronic unit and the malfunction will not be indicated in any way.

To detect a malfunction, the function of disabling the "suspicious" sensor is implemented. Then the electronic unit will write the error code into memory and change the signal from the sensor to the calculated (backup) value. For example, when the mass air flow sensor is disabled, its signal is replaced by a backup signal calculated from the position throttle valve and engine speed. If, after disconnecting the “suspicious” sensor, engine performance improves, this means that the sensor is faulty.

In modern control units, as the software improves, it becomes possible to detect such malfunctions. This is the so-called test for rationality and correct functioning, which is implemented in onboard diagnostic systems second generation (OBD-II). It lies in the fact that the current values ​​of the signals from all sensors are constantly checked for one-to-one compliance with the standard signals for a given engine operation mode. The nominal values ​​of the signals are stored in the permanent memory of the microprocessor of the electronic unit.

For the convenience of measuring the input and output signals of the electronic control unit, a signal splitter is used. It is a set of cables and connectors connected between the electronic control unit and the wiring harness for access to input and output signals. The splitter includes a patch panel for connecting instrumentation to any harness circuit.

Rice. Signal splitter RS-2 (Russia)

The operation of individual sensors can be simulated by a special sensor simulator, for example, ID-4 type. It is designed to simulate the output voltage of potentiometric and resistive sensors of the electronic control system of injection engines. This simulator allows you to simulate the signal of the throttle position sensor, carbon monoxide adjustment potentiometer, intake manifold pressure sensors, atmospheric pressure, mass air flow and other sensors. The cables included in the simulator allow you to connect to various types of connectors.

Rice. Sensor simulator ID-4 (Russia)

Deleting trouble codes

After repair, all codes should be deleted from the memory of the control unit, otherwise the unit will erroneously take them into account when subsequently controlling the vehicle's systems.

There are three methods for deleting (erasing) fault codes:

1. Erasing codes on command from a scanner connected to the diagnostic socket. On some vehicles early models this procedure is not possible because it is not supported by the control unit. This method is the most preferred and recommended by manufacturers.
2. If there is no scanner or the electronic unit does not support erasing codes with a scanner, turn off the power to the unit by removing the appropriate fuse. Together with the error codes, information for adaptive control will also be erased from the unit's memory.
3. Disconnection from the "mass" of the battery bus. It should be borne in mind that in this case, along with the codes, other information is also erased (setting the time on the electronic clock, radio codes, etc.).

Little Preface

Instead of writing 3 separate articles on similar topics, I decided to combine these 3 articles into one. I just wrote them at first, and they were already ready for me, and then I already intended to make such a combination 🙄 ➡ .

What are these records?

1. Overview of automotive scanners for diagnostics.
2. Diagnostic equipment for cars.
3. Multi-brand scanners for car diagnostics. Which to choose?

Article 1. Overview of automotive diagnostic scanners

Automotive scanners are designed to diagnose the electronic control unit of a car. They can not only identify possible cause malfunctions, but also to optimize system parameters.

Classification of automotive scanners

Currently, there are several types of automotive scanners. In addition to the manufacturer's brand, they differ in a set of functions, the principle of operation and a set of valid diagnostic protocols.

But despite these differences, they are designed to perform tasks of the same type - diagnosing vehicle parameters, determining the causes of a malfunction, or improving actual performance. With a special connector
The scanner is connected to the machine's on-board computer.

Main selection parameters:

• Availability of OBD-II protocol. Although it was originally intended only for machines manufactured in the United States, the protocol began to be applied in Europe. Since 2001 - for brands with gasoline engine and since 2004 - for models with diesel;
• Autoscanner type: multi-brand or single-brand. With the help of the first model, you can diagnose almost all car models. Single-brand belong to the category of professional diagnostic equipment;
• way to output information. There is a conditional division according to this criterion - connection to a computer or the presence of a graphical display of information and changing parameters in the instrument kit;
• Russification of the interface. In the menu of most models, there is Russian in the language selection option. If this is not the case, then firmware is required to obtain an autoscanner for car diagnostics in Russian;
• Possibility of updating the software.

After analyzing these characteristics, you can begin to select the optimal scanner model for car diagnostics.

Multi-brand scanners: an overview of popular models, prices

Multi-brand scanners for car diagnostics and firmware are designed to test cars of various brands. Their disadvantage is the relatively low degree of data reliability. Despite its versatility for
analysis of the characteristics of a particular car, you must purchase special software that is not supplied as standard.

Carman Scan AT

Belongs to the category professional equipment. Externally, the device is a large LCD screen with controls. There is a set of adapters for connecting to various types of on-board computers.

The device is intended for a complete set of HUNDRED, use for personal purposes is impractical because of the high cost.

The average price for a Carman Scan AT autoscanner is 203,000 rubles.

Technical and operational features:

• Work with almost all Asian car brands, some European and American brands. It is possible to activate the Russian interface language;
• Full set of diagnostic functions and fixes of found errors;
• Connecting to a computer and installing additional units via a USB connector.

The disadvantage of this model is partial Russification. Professional firmware is required to solve the problem, and then you will get an excellent autoscanner for car diagnostics in Russian.

Launch X-431 for Android

The main difference from the device described above is the ability to connect to a smartphone or tablet that runs on Android and IOS systems. Consists of an adapter that connects the PC to the on-board computer. The menu can
choose Russian.

Thanks to constantly updated software, the user can download a software package for diagnosing a specific car brand. But, like all scanners of this type, there is a relatively small set of functions:

• Reading and troubleshooting;
• Control over the current parameters of the system;
• Output information about the car.

Within a year after the purchase, the user can download updated software for free from the developer's website. You will have to pay later. The average price of the X-431 autoscanner is 30,700 rubles.

Ultrascan Pro

Belongs to the category of professional scanners for car diagnostics and firmware. The package includes an electronic unit with a liquid crystal display and a set of adapters for connecting to a car. The advantage is
the presence of a four-channel oscilloscope.

With this device, you can diagnose various makes and models of machines. Apart from standard set functions for such equipment, the following technical features of the Ultrascan Pro scanner can be distinguished:

• Obtaining current information from sensors: the number of engine revolutions, the mains voltage, the actual speed of the car, etc.;
• Black box function. The device captures data on the operation of the components of the car during its movement. In the future, using this information, you can optimize the parameters, identify a hidden malfunction;
• Ability to reset service intervals.

The price of this device is high and amounts to 290 thousand rubles. However, its versatility and the ability to perform several operations at the same time will help optimize the work of the service station.

Single brand scanners

These models are designed to diagnose cars of specific brands. The main area of ​​application is the equipment of specialized service stations and car services. Often, machine manufacturers are engaged in the manufacture of such devices:

• Rheingold-BMW;
• VIDA DiCE - Volvo;
• Toyota Mini VCI - Toyota.

They have advanced functionality and determine the actual parameters of the car much more accurately than multi-brand scanners. But the narrow specialization does not allow them to be used in standard service stations.

Article 2. Diagnostic equipment for cars

Technological progress and the steady improvement of automotive technology require the creation of special instruments and devices that allow timely detection and correct diagnosis of emerging malfunctions in various
blocks, units and assemblies of the machine.

Today, almost no service station or car repair shop can do without special diagnostic equipment. After all, the number of car service customers, and, consequently, the success of the business, largely depends on its availability and quality.

Already from the very term "diagnostic equipment" it follows that it is intended for diagnosing various systems and assemblies of the car. With its help, a specialist can check almost all the parameters and characteristics of the machine, and the success of the repair depends on the exact detection of a breakdown.

The range of modern diagnostic equipment is quite wide - these are universal portable and stationary multi-brand scanners, motor testers, diagnostic computer centers, adjustment and adjustment stands, as well as equipment that has a narrow specialization - smoke meters, backlash meters, gas analyzers, detectors, installations for cleaning injectors, stands for adjusting lighting equipment and so on.

It is worth noting that if the first samples of autoscanners were enough simple devices, allowing only to read error codes, today's universal diagnostic equipment for cars has become
complex multifunctional complexes.

The basis of diagnostic scanners, which are often called autoscanners, is a portable or stationary computer with pre-installed special software, equipped with a special communication cable
to connect to the vehicle's diagnostic port.

Depending on the model, autoscanners can be either a stand-alone device equipped with a built-in microprocessor and software, or a special attachment connected to a personal computer.

Diagnostic scanners are equipped with an electronic unit that is connected to a universal diagnostic connector and reads information received from sensors installed on the main components and assemblies of the vehicle.

The information read by autoscanners is displayed in the format of error codes - special numeric and alphabetic indices, each of which corresponds to a particular malfunction. In addition, with the help of diagnostic scanners, even the most minor malfunctions in components and assemblies that are not equipped with sensors can be detected. Diagnosis in these cases is carried out taking into account the analysis of indirect signs.

Thus the main and essential function of all autoscanners is the possibility of carrying out complex diagnostics. Carrying out complex diagnostics allows us to consider the car as a single system of components and assemblies and conduct an analysis taking into account the interaction and connection of all elements.

The most important, but not the only criterion when choosing diagnostic equipment is coverage - i.e. a list of car brands and models compatible with the scanner, as well as a list of electronic systems and sensors from which
the device can receive information.

According to this parameter, all diagnostic equipment is divided into three broad categories - brand scanners, multi-brand scanners and dealer scanners. The main buyers of these devices are car services, stations
maintenance, private repair shops. Naturally, when purchasing autoscanners, it is necessary to take into account the specialization, capabilities and list of services offered by the servicing company.

Let's talk in more detail about the devices included in the above categories.

Vintage autoscanners- the most massive and relatively cheap category of diagnostic equipment. They are usually designed to work with certain brands of cars. So, VAG-COM model scanners are compatible with
car brands produced by the VAG group, which includes VW, Audi, Skoda and SEAT, Opel OP-COM scanners work with Opel cars, MB Star Mersedes devices - designed for cars of the same name.

It should be borne in mind that these devices cannot work equally effectively with all models of cars manufactured by companies. It is simply impossible to achieve an equally high level of unification and functionality of diagnostic scanners. In the line of branded scanners offered on the market, the largest
the above-mentioned Opel OP-COM and VAG-COM models have the functionality. However, it is worth noting that for all the breadth of their capabilities, these devices cannot compete with dealer autoscanners, which we will talk about.
below.

As a rule, the main users of branded autoscanners are small auto repair shops and service points that do not provide services for in-depth comprehensive diagnostics. Often they are also purchased by motorists who want
independently diagnose your car. It should be noted that the popularity of branded scanners among motorists is growing year by year, which is facilitated by their relatively affordable prices and ease of operation.

Multi-brand autoscanners have more opportunities, since the functionality of these devices allows you to diagnose about forty different brands of cars. This segment includes a wide range of the lineup devices
from different manufacturers among which there are undisputed leaders. However, when choosing devices, it should be borne in mind that an ideal option suitable for all service centers without exception has not yet been created.

Experienced diagnostic specialists note that the ideal option for wide-profile car services is to purchase two or three multi-brand scanners with different coverage. So, one of the devices may be compatible with
most European car models, the other must be adapted to the most popular Asian brands.

Thus, for the right choice, many parameters should be taken into account, such as the model range of cars serviced in a car service, the depth of the diagnostics carried out, the age of the cars serviced - some devices are designed to diagnose cars manufactured in 1990-2000, others are compatible with younger cars. In addition, it is necessary to pay attention to the format of the autoscanners. Currently on the market there are compact stand-alone devices with a color display, which are most convenient to use due to the fact that they do not restrict the movement of the specialist conducting the diagnosis. True, for this comfort you will have to pay a lot of money. Compared to standalone scanners, stationary devices with a black and white monitor are more
affordable. In addition, in the segment of multi-brand scanners, special software consoles are also presented, which are connected to a standard personal computer. The advantages of such devices include
user-friendly interface, work with a well-known operating system, the ability to operate with wide information databases, the ability to save diagnostic results in the computer's memory, etc. Well, the disadvantage of these scanners is the impossibility of using them without connecting to a computer or laptop.

Note that there is a widespread misconception among users that the price of equipment for car diagnostics through a computer should be lower. However, this is not the case, because the market value of the device is not formed at the expense of its cost.

Well, since we started talking about prices, we will dwell on this in more detail. important parameter, which often becomes decisive when choosing diagnostic equipment.

Multi-brand scanners by price can be classified into three main groups:

• devices based on the K-L-Line adapter, depending on their functionality and configuration, are sold at prices ranging from 80 to 300 dollars.
• The equipment based on the Uniscan adapter has the functionality and capabilities of devices based on K-L-Line, and also allows you to diagnose some electronic systems of cars manufactured before 2001. Such
  scanners can be purchased for 350-700 dollars, depending on the parameters and configuration.
• the most expensive are multi-brand scanners with maximum coverage by region and brand. Their cost ranges from 2200 to 3000 dollars.

Another important parameter when choosing a device is the interface language. Russified diagnostic equipment for cars on our market is widely represented, the Russian language has been introduced into the interface of most scanners. True, the quality of the translation is noticeably lame, which can lead to errors during diagnostics. In general, experienced specialists prefer to use the original, English-language version of the software in order to avoid various inconsistencies with the technical documentation. However, if the English version does not suit you, the problems that have arisen can be solved using specialized automotive dictionaries.

And finally, a few words about the so-called dealer autoscanners.

These devices are manufactured by car manufacturers and supplied to dealer stations service. Unlike multi-brand scanners, they are only compatible with one or a few specific vehicle brands of a particular
manufacturing company.

Dealer scanners are designed for comprehensive vehicle diagnostics and support all the functionality included in electronic blocks control systems and components of a particular brand.

The cost of such devices is quite high - their prices start from 2 thousand dollars - however, the presence of dealer scanners is prerequisite For service centers specializing in in-depth comprehensive diagnostics.

As noted above, diagnostic equipment is becoming increasingly popular among motorists. Do-it-yourself car diagnostic devices have become relatively affordable, but for self diagnosis car enthusiasts need to have certain knowledge and skills.

As a rule, the need for self-diagnosis among motorists arises in the following cases:

• assessment of the technical condition of the car upon purchase;
• identifying the causes of the “check engine” error indication on the car dashboard;
• self-assessment and quality control of service.

To diagnose a car, motorists will need a diagnostic adapter or scanner with appropriate software and a personal computer connected to the Internet to decipher information and codes
errors. In the absence of an Internet connection, the databases must be downloaded in advance from the relevant resources on the Web. For routine diagnostics of the main systems of vehicles manufactured between 1996 and 2004,
The KKL USB diagnostic adapter supplied with special software is quite suitable. For more modern models of machines, the diagnosis of which is carried out via the CAN bus, you will need to select a branded
autoscanner compatible with the brand of a particular car.

Motorists will also need to know the location of the diagnostic connector on their car. On most models, it is located near the steering column or on the instrument console, however, some manufacturers
install the connector under the hood.

Article 3. Multi-brand scanners for car diagnostics. Which to choose?

Modern automotive technology literally crammed with all sorts of electronic devices and sensors. Wherein " smart systems» not only flagship models of leading companies are equipped, but also basic configurations the most massive budget cars. So, an anti-lock brake system, an injection engine, airbags are present in almost every modern car.

Naturally, all these units, components and blocks need regular maintenance and repair. However, if earlier an auto mechanic could simply inspect the car and detect a malfunction visually, with today's technology, everything is a little different. Even the most experienced diagnostician is not able to carry out an effective diagnosis of a car without the use of special electronic equipment - autoscanners and other electronic devices.

The most common devices for car diagnostics are multi-brand scanners. Different models of multiscanners have certain functionality and are compatible with different car models. There are many models of these devices on the market from various manufacturers, and it is not easy for an inexperienced user to decide on the choice of the gadget he needs.

In our review, we will try to give some recommendations on the question of which multi-brand scanner to choose for car diagnostics?

First of all, it should be taken into account that multiscanners are designed for superficial diagnostics, and none of them, even the most “advanced”, can compete with dealer scanners supplied by car manufacturers to their dealer organizations. The difference between these devices is primarily in the software. The cost of software for dealer autoscanners starts from 15-20 thousand rubles, and it is simply not advisable to pay such amounts to small repair shops and motorists for occasional use of the device. In addition, such equipment requires high professionalism of the operator and regular software updates.

Now, actually, about multiscanners. Despite the fairly wide selection on the market, devices manufactured by leading companies of this segment, which include Launch, Autel, UltraScan, CarmanScan, Texa. With all due respect to other manufacturers that supply the market with sufficiently high-quality and efficient equipment, the leadership of these companies is beyond doubt and, first of all, it is achieved through regular and timely software updates.

It should be noted that the most popular in the segment of diagnostic equipment for cars is the products of the Launch company. The first devices under this brand appeared at the beginning of the 2000s and within a few years won a significant market share.

The Launch X 431 multiscanner model is the most popular in Russia and the CIS countries. High quality, affordable price, high coverage, regular software updates are the components of the success of this device.

It is worth noting that some Chinese automakers position this model as a dealer autoscanner. For all its merits, the Launch X 431 is not without its drawbacks. The device does not always correctly decode errors, especially when diagnosing new European models. A paid software update can also be considered a disadvantage, however, you won’t need to pay much for an upgrade. It should be borne in mind that there are many fakes of Launch X 431 on the market, the software update of which cannot be carried out in Russia.

In recent years, the recognized leaders have faced serious competition Italian manufacturer universal scanning devices - Texa. The product line of this company includes several multi-brand autoscanners of various classes, the most popular of which are the following devices:

• multi-brand software scanner AXONE Smart, equipped with a 3.5-inch LCD display. This is a stand-alone device with embedded software that does not require connection to a personal computer.
• a series of Navigator hardware scanners that work in conjunction with personal computers. These scanners are equipped with IDC4 software, which allows not only to carry out full-fledged system diagnostics, but also contains global databases. The Navigator series includes the TXC and TXT models.

The first one is compatible with a large number of models cars and motorcycles, and the second can be used to diagnose trucks, agricultural and construction equipment, moto and quad bikes.

Note that another popular scanner designed to diagnose trucks and special vehicles is the Multi Diag Trucks device from Actia.

In addition to the mentioned companies, Autoboss, Autel, Scanmatic, Bars companies supply their products to our market.

Autoboss diagnostic equipment stands out from this range with its quality and functionality. The company's latest developments are multi-brand V-30 software scanners with a liquid crystal display and PC-MAX hardware scanners that work in tandem with a personal computer. These scanners attract the attention of users due to their user-friendly intuitive interface and high functionality. Both models have scale coverage and are compatible with most European, Japanese, American and Chinese vehicles. Devices allow you to read, decrypt and erase errors recorded electronic sensors vehicle, activate actuators, reset service intervals.

In addition to these standard features, Autoboss multiscanners have features that are only found in expensive dealer devices, such as adaptation and coding of electronic control units.

Multi-brand autoscanners produce and Russian companies. It should be noted that, contrary to popular belief, domestic devices in terms of quality and functionality are not only not inferior, but also surpass foreign analogues in a number of parameters. An example of this is the Scandoc scanner, developed and manufactured by Quantex Lab. The device is distinguished by high build quality, sophisticated software, large coverage of car brands and regions. At the same time, Scandoc is much cheaper than its counterparts. Developers are constantly improving the scanner, trying to cover a larger range of compatible vehicle models.

Another Russian development is the Scantronic 2 multi-brand scanner, which, in fact, is a copy of the Launch X431 with extended functionality. The device reads information from all vehicle sensors in real time. The cost of Scantronic 2 is quite high - about 1000 euros, but for this amount the buyer receives the entire set of previously released software, the possibility of free software updates and a 5-year warranty.

Another domestic model is Askan 10. This is a dealer device that is compatible exclusively with Russian VAZ, UAZ and GAZ cars. Askan 10 also covers some models foreign production, however, its direct purpose is a Russian car.

Diagnostic equipment is constantly being improved and modernized, as a result of which new devices regularly appear on the market offering original solutions for car diagnostics. However, it should be remembered that when choosing a scanner, you should pay attention not so much to its wide functionality, but to its compatibility with those car brands and forms of service that your dealer specializes in. service enterprise. So, if you repair exclusively Russian cars, you should take a device specialized for these tasks, and not spend money on acquiring universal scanners with a large coverage.

In any case, the main selection criterion multi-brand scanner should be comparing it technical parameters. In addition, it is not recommended to focus on cheap devices - high-quality equipment, by definition, cannot be cheap. You should also avoid fakes - it has long been known that even the highest quality copy is worse than the original.

On Geneva Motor Show, which took place just a few weeks ago, Apple officially announced the launch of the CarPlay product. As it became known, many car manufacturers have already bought the rights to this software. This means that, perhaps, in a few months, having turned to any salon where foreign cars are sold in Moscow, it will be possible to purchase new car with CarPlay installed.
What is fundamentally new in software from Apple? At first glance, this is just computer program, which provides an interface automotive innovations. Features list: entertainment features, maps, messaging, voice control. And why did car manufacturers become actively involved in software development in general?
Most likely in previous years automotive companies realized that their traditional approach to auto electronics in the modern world is doomed. When all in-car entertainment was radio and CD player, car companies felt they were within their comfort zone. But as soon as drivers have new needs, in response to which dashboards began to be equipped with software, car companies realized that they were not able to create an interesting product for the consumer on their own. Indeed, until now, navigation and entertainment systems installed as standard in cars remain much less functional than applications available for smartphones and tablets.
However, now times are changing and car software just needs to become more complex and convenient, it should include features such as the ability to store music files, the ability to listen to radio stations online, navigation, reminders, address book, social networking and much more. However, this should not be a device that is autonomously built into the car, but a system that helps us use the device we have (tablet or smartphone) to control the entertainment functions of the car. So this is exactly the function that CarPlay will perform.
It is likely that in the United States this invention will cause a surge in demand for new cars equipped with new feature. And also more and more smartphone users will exchange an old car for a new one, already containing the latest software.

About the author: Andrey Strashko

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