Product Reviews and Write Ups
Voltage Readings (operating health indicators)
Posted by Josh Carton on
A quick check of available voltage at an automotive battery would show you around 12.6v. No need for a graph to show a static number. However, if checking to see how much voltage signal is being returned from a throttle position sensor (TPS), a graph would be quite helpful. This voltage signal would likely travel upward vertically from 0vdc to 5vdc as the pedal
Amperage Readings (Amps)
Posted by Josh Carton on
In the case of an electric motor, amps are the “pushing force” that are needed to turn that electric motor… initially pushing a completely stopped motor will take more amps (known as inrush), then eventually once those amps get that motor spinning there are less required to keep it moving so that value is known as (operating amperage).
Resistance Measurements
Posted by Josh Carton on
Depending on the type of circuit and operational health of that circuit an ohm measurement can be variable (Thermistors, etc...), non existent (or very very low) or visible but not expected. With the ability to give live readouts and graph resistance measurements you are able to see the resistance value of a circuit or component immediately (live) and in its past in relationship to time. Although this seems obviou
Graphing Voltages and Ranges
Posted by Josh Carton on
The graphing of the voltage quickly lets you visualize a problem that more than likely would not have been seen on a standard multimeter.
Why scan tools are great but are only the first step in the process
Posted by Ben Edwards on
You’ve been here before. A vehicle’s ‘Service Engine Soon’ light appears and the customer is looking for answers. You get out the diag-shovel and start to chip away. First stop is a quick scan of the diagnostic trouble codes. A seemingly simple P0xxx performance code. The diagnostic chart says that this code can be caused from the engine computer noting an unexpected drop in sensor signal. You hop over to the data stream to see what all the fuss is about. Then, without warning, a flash of lightning and a booming thunder clap