AutoTap V2.04 V5 Manual
Contents
1. 5 2 1 Installing the software 6 2 1 1 Installing AutoTap from the CD ROM 6 2 1 2 Installing AutoTap from the web 9 2 2 Connecting the hardware 9 2 2 1 Connecting the cables to the hardware 9 2 2 2 Connecting to your PC and automobile 10 2 3 Software registration 11 2 3 1 First time installation 11 2 3 2 Using AutoTap for Windows 12 2 4 Saving Opening your configuration 14 2 4 1 Saving your configuration 14 2 4 2 Opening your configuration 15 Chapter 3 Setting up AutoTap to Display Data 17 3 1 Parameter Table Window 18 3 1 1 Defining a table 18 3 1 2 Advanced features of a table 19 3 2 Gauge Window 21 3 2 1 Defining a gauge 21 3 2 2 Advanced features of a gauge 21 3 3 Graph Window 22 3 3 1 Defining a graph2. 22 3 3 2 Advanced features of a graph 23 3 4 Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTC window 24 3 4 1 Defining a DTC window 24 Table of Contents AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 3 4 2 Clearing DTCs 25 3 4 3 Advanced features of the DTC window 25 3 4 4 AutoTap status bar 25 Chapter 4 Data Logging With AutoTap 27 4 1 How to log data 28 4 2 How to review a log file 29 4 2 1 Playing a log file with its config file 29 4 3 How to export a log file 30 Chapter 5 Troubleshooting 31 5 1 Helpful hints 32 AutoTap Technical Specifications 35 Appendix A1 Anatomy of Diagnostic Trouble Codes A2 OBDII Acronyms and Jargon A4 AT1 2303 Manual i B amp B Electronics
3. View data in list graph or gauge modes Record real time vehicle operation data for future analysis The AutoTap OBDII Diagnostic Scanner is the perfect scan tool whether you are simply diagnosing a problem or analyzing and tuning your vehicle for maximum performance Package Contents Check your AutoTap package for the following items AutoTap Hardware Converter Module OBDII Cable to Module 4 ft DB9 Serial Cable to Module 6 ft AutoTap CD Software Registration Certificate Quick Start Guide User Guide NOTE If any of the above items are damaged or missing please contact B amp B Electronics immediately AT1 2303 Manual 3 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 AutoTap My Car and My PC The AutoTap OBDII Diagnostic Scanner is designed to operate on USA spec OBDII equipped cars This includes model year 1996 and newer cars light trucks and SUV s The software bundled with the AutoTap hardware is designed to run on any desktop or laptop PC equipped with one serial port and running Windows 95 or newer Let us begin with a few basics to become familiar with the hardware software compatibility between your car and PC How do I find out if my vehicle meets OBDII specifications Begin by looking under the hood for a sticker stating that the vehicle meets OBDII compliance specifications NOTE All USA spec v
4. pin serial cable of the AutoTap module to your PC The serial port on your PC may be marked as COM or RS 232 or have a modem symbol on it 2 IMPORTANT Some personal computers do not have a serial port If your PC does not have a serial port you will need to use a serial port to USB port converter module You will need to order part number UC232A for Windows 95 98 Me and 2000 computers and Edgeport 1 for XP machines from B amp B Electronics in order for the AutoTap hardware and software to work as designed 3 Once the cable is connected to the PC turn your computer on and let it boot into Windows Now you are ready to connect the AutoTap OBDII hardware module to your automobile 4 With the key turned to the ON position engine does not have to be running plug the OBDII cable end of the module into the automobile s 16 pin OBDII connector refer to Section 1 2 of this manual to identify the connector The AutoTap hardware is now ready for software startup AT1 2303 Manual 11 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 2 3 Software Registration 2 3 1 First time installation 1 Make sure your computer is booted to Windows and that all your programs are closed If your computer is not on turn on and let it boot up 2 Ensure that the AutoTap hardware is connected to your vehicle as described in the previous section and that your vehic
5. Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 About this guide This user manual contains complete information for the use of the AutoTap OBDII Diagnostic Scanner How this guide is organized Chapter 1 Product Introduction An introduction to product features and content Chapter 2 Getting Started A guide to installing the software and making the connection Chapter 3 Setting up AutoTap to Display Data See the data and various ways to view it with AutoTap Chapter 4 Data Logging with AutoTap Capturing and reviewing your vehicle s data for analysis Chapter 5 Troubleshooting Some answers to issues that you may run into and how to solve them Appendix Explaining the codes and other industry jargon Conventions used in this guide To make sure that you perform setup tasks properly take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual WARNING Important information to prevent injury CAUTION Information to prevent damage to components IMPORTANT Information that is critical to success of task NOTE Tips and other helpful information ii AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 WARNING DO NOT attempt to operate or observe a computer while driving Most readings can be obtained while stationary If data must be obtained while driving have a passenger operate
6. blank graph will be displayed on the screen 3 Click Insert You will be presented with a Category Item window in which you simply check the parameter s you want displayed in your graph Once you have selected your parameter s click on OK Here is a picture of what your graph may look like AT1 2303 Manual 23 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 3 3 2 Advanced features of a graph The advanced button gives you control over the look and feel of the graph From the advanced tab you can change the color size and fonts used in the graph You can also set up alerts to have AutoTap notify you when a parameter s data is above or below a value you supplied 24 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 3 4 Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTCs Window 3 4 1 Defining a DTC window When there s a problem with your car and your check engine light is on the first thing you ll want to do is read the trouble codes AutoTap makes it easy AutoTap automatically checks for DTCs when you connect to your vehicle and start the software AutoTap displays any trouble codes stored in the vehicle s computer as well as any pending DTCs that have not yet caused the MIL to illuminate If your vehicle has stored trouble codes your DTC window wo
7. by OBDII but included by manufacturer to assist in trouble shooting specific vehicles Also Enhanced readings PTC Pending Trouble Code RPM Revolutions Per Minute SAE Society of Automotive Engineers professional organization that set the standards that EPA adopted for OBDI and OBDII Scan Tool Computer based read out equipment to display OBDII parameters SES Service Engine Soon dash light now referred to as MIL SFI Sequential Fuel Injection Stoichiometric Stoy kee o metric Ratio Theoretical perfect combustion ratio of 1 part gas to 14 7 parts air TBI Throttle Body Injection TPI Tuned Port Injection TPS Throttle Position Sensor VAC Vacuum VCM Vehicle Control Module the in car computer that oversees engine management transmission operation anti lock brakes and other functions not directly related to emissions control VIN Vehicle Identification Number Yes VIN Number is redundant but that s what everyone says VSS Vehicle Speed Sensor WOT Wide Open Throttle Today s politically correct version of WFO
8. bypass the parameter scan process the next time you connect to the vehicle Save the file with a name that will easily identify the vehicle i e 98 Chevy Malibu NOTE The first time a vehicle is connected AutoTap must complete a full parameter scan You are now connected and running the AutoTap software You may continue on to configuring the AutoTap screen with data NOTE AutoTap automatically loads the last used config file if the VIN matches the connected vehicle If the VINs don t match you will be prompted to open a previously saved config or scan the current vehicle for supported parameters 14 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 2 4 Saving Opening Your Configuration NOTE It is recommended that you save your configuration whenever you connect to a new vehicle for the first time or make a change to one of the configured windows in your current configuration This will save you time in future sessions with the same vehicle and will allow you to make configuration changes without being connected to the vehicle 2 4 1 Saving Your Configuration Saving your configuration is as simple as 1 2 3 You can save your vehicle configuration information file at any time once AutoTap is running Here is how 1 Click on File at the top of the AutoTap screen 2 Click on Save Config File in the drop down menu 3 Y
9. e mail or write to request a Return Material Authorization RMA number Duties taxes and customs charges are the buyer s responsibility B amp B Electronics Contact Information B amp B Electronic Manufacturing Co Address 707 Dayton Road PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Telephone 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5105 Website www autotap com AutoTap www bb elec com B amp B Electronics www obdii com OBDII Information Email support autotap com Support orders autotap com Sales dealerprograms autotap com Resellers AT1 2303 Manual 1 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Chapter 1 Product Introduction 2 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Welcome Thank you for buying an AutoTap OBDII Diagnostic Scanner The AutoTap OBDII Diagnostic Scanner coupled with a personal computer allows you to access your OBDII vehicle s computer modules Vehicle data which was once only available to dealership technicians using expensive factory scan tools is now only a few mouse clicks away at your PC AutoTap is the prime choice for users ranging from the do it yourself beginner to the professional service personnel Read Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTCs Reset Check Engine light trouble codes View real time vehicle operation data
10. in the lower left corner of your Windows screen 2 Move your mouse up from the Start Menu and click on Run 3 In the Run dialog box type D Setup and click on OK If you are installing from a different CD ROM drive substitute the correct drive in place of the letter D AT1 2303 Manual 7 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 3 Click on the Next button to begin installation of the software This will bring you to the Destination Folder screen as seen below The software will then prompt you to specify the directory in which the software will be installed The default directory is listed and it is recommended that the default directory be used for most installations If you need to change the installation location then you will need to click on Browse at this time and make the necessary directory changes 4 After you have selected your destination folder for the software installation click on Next 5 You will now be taken to a confirmation screen At this point you can go back to the destination screen to make changes if needed If no changes are needed click on Next to continue 6 AutoTap software installation will now begin as seen below 8 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 7 Once the file co
11. or other hardware that may be inconvenient for regular use CAUTION AutoTap Hardware as well as your personal computer PC is sensitive to static electricity Do not touch any of the connector pins on the cables module or your PC as damage may result to the component 2 2 1 Connecting the Cables to the AutoTap Hardware Module NOTE The cables are attached to the AutoTap module in the factory before shipping If you disconnect your cables from the hard ware module and must reattach them follow the instructions below 1 Plug the OBDII cable to the VEHICLE end of the converter module This is the large SAE J1962 connector OBDII on one end and a 9 pin connector on the other end 2 Plug the long PC cable into the COMPUTER end of the module This is the cable with two small 9 pin connectors 10 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 The AutoTap module is now ready for use NOTE The PC cable two small DB9 connectors may be extended up to 50 feet by adding additional lengths of high quality cable We recommend that you use B amp B Electronics Model 9PAMF25 extension cable to add 25 feet to the cable Should you require more than 50 feet total length please contact B amp B technical support 2 2 2 Connecting the AutoTap Hardware to your PC and Automobile 1 With your personal computer PC turned off connect the 9
12. s you want displayed in your table Once you have selected your parameters simply click on OK This will insert your selected parameters into your table AT1 2303 Manual 19 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 NOTE If you want to select all of the available parameters simply click on the Select all items box in the lower left hand corner We recommend that you save one config file with all parameters selected Once you have this file saved you can configure additional screens and make other configuration files without being connected to your vehicle 3 1 2 Advanced features of a table The advanced button gives you control over the look and feel of the table From the advanced tab you can change the color size and fonts used in the table You can also set up alerts to have AutoTap notify you when a parameter s data is above or below a value you supplied 20 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 NOTE For instant graphs and gauges point your mouse at a parameter in your table and right click on it This will bring up a menu allowing you to instantly graph or setup a gauge for that item NOTE Do not place the same parameter in more than one display at a time In other words if you have Engine Speed in a table do n
13. AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Anatomy of the Diagnostic Trouble Code A DTC is made up of 5 digits The figure below demonstrates the composition of a DTC With this information it is easier to trouble shoot a DTC without knowing the description of the code X X X X X Fault 00 99 1 Fuel and Air Metering 2 Fuel and Air Metering Injector circuit 3 Ignition Systems or Misfire 4 Auxiliary Emission Controls 5 Vehicle Speed Control and Idle Control System 6 Computer Output Circuit 7 Transmission System 8 Transmission 0 SAE 1 MFG B Body C Chassis P Powertrain U Network AT1 2303 Manual A 3 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Types of DTC s There are two categories of DTC s that apply to OBDII They are listed below with Type A being the more severe Type A 1 Emissions related 2 Requests illumination of the MIL after one failed driving cycle 3 Stores a freeze frame DTC after one failed driving cycle Type B 1 Emissions related 2 Sets a Pending Trouble Code after one failed driving cycle 3 Clears a Pending Trouble Code after one successful driving cycle 4 Turns on the MIL after two consecutive failed driving cycles 5 Stores a freeze frame after two consecutive failed driving cycles A list of common O
14. AutoTap Manual AT 2303 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 User s Manual This product designed and manufactured in Ottawa Illinois USA by 1998 2003 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co AT1 2303 Manual Table of Contents B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Table of Contents About this guide i How this guide is organized i Conventions used in this guide i Safety ii Warranty iii Repair iii B amp B Electronics contact information iii Chapter 1 Product Introduction 1 Welcome 2 1 1 Package Contents 2 1 2 AutoTap My Car and My PC 3 Chapter 2 Getting Started
15. BDII Diagnostic Trouble Codes can be found on our website www autotap com A 4 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 OBDII Acronyms and Jargon OBDII is thick with acronyms jargon shorthand and code phrases sometimes seeming to serve to keep the rest of us at bay Here is a start on untangling these codes AFC Air Flow Control ALDL Assembly Line Diagnostic Link Former name for GM only Data Link Connector the connector socket into which the scan tool plug is inserted sometimes used to refer to any pre OBDII computer signals CAN Controller Area Network CARB California Air Resources Board CFI Cross Fire Fuel Injection CO Carbon Monoxide DLC Data Link Connector Driving Cycle A specific sequence of start up warm up and driving tasks that tests all OBDII functions DTC An acronym for Diagnostic Trouble Code It is also referred to as a fault code code or history trouble code Any code stored in the PCM memory ECM Engine Control Module usually the main in car computer controlling emissions and engine operation EEC Electronic Engine Control EEPROM or E2PROM Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory EFI Electronic Fuel Injection EGR Exhaust Gas Recirculation EMR Electronic Module Retard Enhanced readings Parameters shown by on board computers which are not required b
16. and watch the computer or use the AutoTap s logging option for later review WARNING DO NOT turn your engine on indoors unless you have proper ventilation A running engine produces carbon monoxide an odorless colorless gas that can kill you WARNING Do not use the Radio Shack universal laptop power supply to power your laptop while using AutoTap This power supply will damage your AutoTap AT1 2303 Manual iii B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 WARRANTY INFORMATION All B amp B Electronics products carry a one year limited warranty Product warranty or service will not be extended if the product is modified or altered Returns If for any reason you wish to return a hardware product purchased direct from us you may return it via UPS or insured Parcel Post undamaged with the receipt within 30 days of purchase for a full refund less shipping charges Call fax e mail or write to request a Return Material Authorization RMA number and routing instructions Packages returned without prior authorization will be refused All products returned to B amp B after 30 days may be charged a 20 restocking fee Duties taxes and customs charges are the buyer s responsibility Products purchased from resellers must be returned through the reseller REPAIR SERVICE We offer a repair service for products that are out of warranty Please call fax
17. are ready to log simply depress the Spacebar on the keyboard AutoTap will prompt you to name your log file 2 Type in a name for your log file and click on save The background of the AutoTap screen will change to red indicating that logging is in progress 3 When you want to stop logging simply depress the Spacebar one more time and it will stop The screen will return to normal color when logging is completed AT1 2303 Manual 29 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 4 2 How to review a log file You can review the data that you have logged in multiple ways You can review it using the screens used to originally record the data or you have the option to export it as discussed below in Section 4 3 IMPORTANT It is important that you have a configuration of your vehicle saved so that when you load a log file you will be able to define the tables graphs or gauges If you do not have a saved configuration of your vehicle connect to the vehicle and save a configuration file for it 4 2 1 Playing a log file with its associated config file Not connected to vehicle 1 Start the AutoTap software and select Open a Log file for Playback from the main screen 2 Next click on File and select Open Config File From the Open dialog box select the config file you used when you recorded the log file The screen will now look id
18. commended CD Rom Drive Only used for installation 9 pin male RS 232 Serial Port Please contact B amp B Electronics for USB Port to Serial adapters AT1 2303 Manual 5 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Chapter 2 Getting Started 6 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 2 1 Installing the software IMPORTANT It is important that you understand the basic operation of the Windows operating system and have a basic understanding of your personal computer PC If you have questions about Windows or your computer hardware please have the user guides that came with the computer available 2 1 1 Installing AutoTap from the distribution CD ROM 1 Make sure your computer is booted to Windows and that all your programs are closed Open programs may cause the AutoTap software installation to fail 2 Insert the AutoTap CD ROM into the CD ROM drive and close the drive The Windows CD ROM autorun feature will now begin installing the program NOTE If your computer does not start the installation program after you put the AutoTap CD into your CD ROM then your PC may not support the autorun feature and manual startup of the installation program is required Please follow these steps to begin installation 1 Use the mouse and click on Start
19. ct without VIN AutoTap will connect to your vehicle and display OBDII generic parameters IMPORTANT If you are registered for manufacturer s enhanced parameters you must enter your VIN Connecting without the VIN will only allow viewing of OBDII generic parameters 4 Once AutoTap has retrieved your VIN or you have entered it AutoTap will check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTC which may be stored in the onboard control module The software will then retrieve a list of all scan tool parameters supported by the vehicle Note that this may take a few minutes depending on your vehicle and the speed of your computer AT1 2303 Manual 13 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 5 Once the parameter detection process is complete you will be prompted with a popup dialog box stating To Begin Select Display from Menu 6 Click on OK to continue and you will be placed at a blank AutoTap screen with only a DTC list window box open NOTE By default the AutoTap software will check for DTCs each time the software starts If you would like to disable this feature click on Options from the toolbar and deselect Read DTCs at startup NOTE It is recommended that at this time you go to the File menu and select Save Config As in order to save the configuration file for the particular vehicle you are connected to This way you can
20. dard for OBDII scan tools J1979 SAE established standard for diagnostic test modes J2012 SAE established standard accepted by EPA as the standard test report language for emission tests MAF Mass Air Flow MAP Manifold Absolute Pressure MAT Manifold Air Temperature MIL An acronym for Malfunction Indicator Lamp The MIL was formerly called the service engine soon or check engine lamp on your dash NOx Oxides of Nitrogen O2 Oxygen OBD On Board Diagnostics OBDI An acronym for On Board Diagnostics Generation One An on board automotive diagnostic system required by the California Air Resources Board since 1988 which uses a microprocessor and sensors to monitor and control various engine drivability functions A 6 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 OBDII or OBD II An acronym for On Board Diagnostics Generation Two OBDII expands upon OBD I to include emissions system and sensor deterioration monitoring Updated On Board Diagnostics standard effective in cars sold in the US after 1 1 96 Parameters Readings on scan tools representing functions measured by OBDII and proprietary readings PCM Powertrain Control Module the on board computer that controls engine and drive train PCV Positive Crankcase Ventilation Proprietary Readings Parameters shown by on board computers which are not required
21. ect to Vehicle AT1 2303 Manual 33 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 No AutoTap found In the event that the window pictured below appears the AutoTap software cannot communicate with the AutoTap hardware The problem is most likely due to a faulty connection Check the serial port connection to both the computer and the AutoTap Also check the connection between AutoTap and the vehicle If you are still getting this error after you checked the connection check and make sure that your computer has the appropriate serial port defined in its hardware configuration No power to the AutoTap hardware The AutoTap hardware is powered from the vehicle s battery through pins 5 and 16 of the OBDII connector If you have an AutoTap with an LED the LED should illuminate when the OBDII cable is plugged into your vehicle If the LED does not illuminate you may have a blown fuse or another issue that affects power at the OBDII port 34 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Many vehicles use the same electrical circuit to provide power to the cigarette lighter and the OBDII port If your cigarette lighter is working but your AutoTap s LED does not illuminate or if you have an AutoTap without an LED check for 12 volts DC between pins 5 and 16 on the OBDII connect
22. ehicles manufactured in 1996 and later are OBDII compliant However 1997 and newer vehicles may not have the OBDII sticker under the hood OBDII vehicles have a 16 pin connector under the dash or in another location near the driver s seat Sometimes there is a plastic cover that is slightly larger than the AutoTap connector concealing the vehicle s OBDII port This cover is usually labeled OBDII Remove this cover if your vehicle is equipped with it The 16 pin OBDII port pictured below is the connector that you will see and be attaching to the AutoTap Scanner shortly CAUTION There are some 1994 and 1995 vehicles with this connector Although the connector is the same as OBDII most of these vehicles will have an OBD I compliance sticker under the hood and will NOT work with the AutoTap scanner However there are a few pre 96 vehicles that will work with AutoTap A list of these vehicles is available at www obdii com connector html 4 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Will my laptop or desktop PC work with AutoTap Typically a PC that has a serial port and runs Windows 95 or newer will be enough to run AutoTap Here is a list of minimum PC hardware requirements Pentium 233Mhz or better or equivalent AMD processor Windows 95 98 NT ME 2000 or XP 50 MB of free hard drive space 32 MB RAM 64 MB re
23. entical to when you recorded the log file 3 Now click on Playback at the top of the screen 4 Click on Play to begin You will notice that the file is now being replayed Connected to vehicle 1 Click Playback on the toolbar and then select Open File 2 Select the file that you wish to playback 3 Now click on Playback at the top of the screen 4 Click on Play to begin You will notice that the file is now being replayed NOTE If you would like to change the configuration of the screen for playback add tables graphs and or gauges as described in section 3 When you click Insert to add parameters the recorded parameters will be listed first followed by the remainder of the parameters which are preceded by a These parameters were not recorded and are not available for playback Make note of the VCR like buttons on the toolbar at the top of the screen These buttons will allow you to play pause stop rewind fast forward etc Become familiar with these and viewing your log files will be simple 30 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 4 3 How to export logged data AutoTap has the ability to export the data in your log file to a Comma Delimited csv file This format is easily opened with most popular database and spreadsheet software This gives you the ability to perform
24. in depth analysis of the data collected by AutoTap Here is how to export data once you have logged it with AutoTap 1 Once you have your log file loaded into AutoTap click on Logging at the top of the AutoTap screen 2 Click on Export to Comma Delimited File At this point a Save As window will open prompting you for a file name 3 Type in a filename and click Save When the process is complete the progress bar window will disappear Now you are ready to open the csv file in your favorite database or spreadsheet application and begin your analysis of the data collected AT1 2303 Manual 31 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Chapter 5 Troubleshooting 32 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 5 1 Helpful Hints Lost communications with the vehicle If AutoTap loses communications with the vehicle it will display the following message If a Retry fails refer to Chapter 2 of this guide to make sure a critical step in the connection process was not omitted No communications with the vehicle on startup In the event that AutoTap is not connected to a vehicle when the program is started the window below will appear Ensure that all of the cable connections are good and the key is in the On position Then select Conn
25. le s key is in the On position 3 Double click on the AutoTap Diagnostic Scan Tool icon on your Windows desktop screen 4 The AutoTap software will search for the AutoTap hardware module and check for a valid software registration number Since this is the first time you are running the software connected to the hardware you will be prompted to enter the registration number before continuing 12 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 IMPORTANT Please locate the Software Registration Certificate supplied by B amp B Electronics with the AutoTap product If you cannot find this item please contact B amp B Electronics customer service 5 Enter the product registration number and click on Register Your AutoTap is now registered Save your registration information in case you need to re install the software on this or another computer 2 3 2 Using AutoTap for Windows Software 1 After you have successfully registered your software AutoTap will attempt to retrieve your vehicle s VIN If your vehicle supports automatic VIN retrieval skip to 4 below 2 If AutoTap does not retrieve your vehicle s VIN you will be prompted to enter it It is important that you enter all 17 characters of the VIN or AutoTap will not work properly Click Connect with VIN 3 If you elect not to enter your VIN you can select Conne
26. on Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Parameter Table Window The AutoTap OBDII Diagnostic Scanner software can display diagnostic information in a variety of formats This includes data tables graphs and gauges You can use the different display methods to fit your logging or viewing needs For example if you are logging data for future review a data table display may be preferred Or you can use the gauges to create a virtual dashboard The flexibility of these formats allows for hundreds of combinations supplying you with maximum flexibility not only in diagnostics but also in vehicle data acquisition for performance tuning IMPORTANT It is natural to want to see all data available However the more data you view the slower each parameter s value is refreshed This is very important to remember as we cover viewing data and especially logging We recommend you display only the data related to the issue you re working on This will maximize the update rate 3 1 1 Defining a table Defining a Table is as simple as 1 2 3 You can setup a few parameters in a Table and view data in no time Here s how 1 Click on Display at the top of the AutoTap screen or right click anywhere on the screen 2 Click on Add Table A blank table will be displayed on the screen 3 Click Insert You will be presented with a Category Item window in which you simply check the parameter
27. or with a volt meter If there are 12 volts at the OBDII connector call AutoTap tech support at 815 433 5100 for further assistance HotSync conflict If you are a Palm PDA user your computer may load Palm s HotSync manager each time the computer starts up You ll know HotSync is running if the HotSync icon is in your systems tray in the lower right hand corner of your computer screen When HotSync is running it captures the serial port making it unavailable to AutoTap as seen in the picture below When you re using AutoTap disable or close the HotSync manager or any other program that captures your PC s serial port AT1 2303 Manual 35 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 AutoTap Technical Specifications Supported OBDII protocols J1850 VPW J1850 PWM ISO9141 ISO14230 Output RS 232 serial signal Car to converter cable 4 custom molded J1962 male connector to DB 9 female included Converter to PC cable 6 DB 9 female to DB 9 male included May be extended up to 50 with standard PC cable Software media CD Rom Dimensions 4 long x 1 75 wide x 875 thick plus cables Warranty One Year Replacement See Warranty Information for Details AT1 2303 Manual A 1 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 AutoTap Appendix A 2
28. ot also place it in a graph or gauge AT1 2303 Manual 21 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 3 2 Gauge Window 3 2 1 Defining a gauge Defining a Gauge is as simple as 1 2 3 You can quickly setup a gauge and display data 1 Click on Display at the top of the AutoTap screen or right click anywhere on the screen 2 Click on Add Gauge A blank gauge will be displayed on the screen 3 Click on Change You will be presented with a Category Item window in which you simply check the parameter you want displayed in your gauge Once you have selected your parameter click on OK Here is a picture of what your gauge may look like 3 2 2 Advanced features of a gauge The advanced button gives you control over the look and feel of the graph From the advanced tab you can change the color size and fonts used in the gauge You can also set up alerts to have AutoTap notify you when a parameter s data is above or below a value you supplied 22 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 3 3 Graph Window 3 3 1 Defining a graph You guessed it defining a Graph is also as simple as 1 2 3 1 Click on Display at the top of the AutoTap screen or right click anywhere on the screen 2 Click on Add Graph A
29. ou will be prompted with a standard Windows Save As window Type in the name you wish to use for the configuration file and click on SAVE NOTE If you select Save Config File you will overwrite the existing config file AT1 2303 Manual 15 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 2 4 2 Opening Your Configuration Opening your configuration file is also as simple as 1 2 3 You can open your configuration file while connected to the vehicle or simply working at your desk setting up configuration screens Here is how 1 Click on File at the top of the AutoTap screen 2 Click on Open Config File in the drop down menu 3 You will be prompted with a standard Windows Open window Click on the name of the configuration file you wish to open and then click on Open NOTE There are buttons in the toolbar that contain the Save Configuration and Open Configuration functions These are there to provide you with a quick means of performing these tasks Move the mouse over the buttons to become familiar with what they are and they will save you time using drop down menus AT1 2303 Manual 17 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Chapter 3 Setting Up AutoTap to Display Data 18 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayt
30. py is complete click on Close to complete the installation process An AutoTap Diagnostic Scan Tool icon will be placed on your Windows Desktop A program group will also be created in your Windows Start menu CONGRATULATIONS You have successfully installed AutoTap on your PC AT1 2303 Manual 9 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 2 1 2 Installing AutoTap from the Internet 1 Make sure your computer is booted to Windows and that all your programs are closed Open programs may cause the AutoTap software installation to fail 2 Log on to the Internet and open your Internet browser 3 Type www autotap com into the Address bar of your Internet browser 4 Click on Downloads 5 Click on Windows software in the middle of the page Here you will be presented with a variety of options Please read the page carefully 6 Once you have selected your download you will want to save the download to a location on your hard drive which you will be able to easily find 7 Once the download is complete run the downloaded file and refer to Section 2 1 1 of this manual for complete software install procedures 2 2 Connecting the Hardware The AutoTap OBDII Diagnostic Scanner Hardware is designed to provide a link between the automobile s OBDII computer and your computer without using complicated cabling bulky translation boxes
31. uld look similar to this In the example above the vehicle has five History codes identified with an H in the first column and one pending code identified with a P The vehicle s computer stores freeze frame data at the time the DTC is set When you Click for Failure Record Info you ll see the conditions that were present at the time your check engine light illuminated AT1 2303 Manual 25 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 3 4 2 Clearing DTCs To clear the DTCs and turn off your MIL simply click on the Clear DTCs button Clearing the DTCs also clears the freeze frame data You can click the Read DTCs button at any time to check your vehicle for trouble codes If you ve deleted the DTC table from the screen and need to add it manually here s how 1 Click on Display at the top of the AutoTap screen or right click anywhere on the screen 2 Click on Show DTC A DTC table will be displayed on the screen 3 4 3 Advanced features of the DTC window From the advanced tab you have the ability to save your DTC and Freeze Frame data You can also instruct AutoTap to check for DTCs or the illumination of your MIL on a regular basis These options are disabled by default To enable them remove the check mark in the appropriate box 3 4 4 AutoTap status bar At the bottom of the main AutoTap windo
32. w you will see a status bar that gives you information about the config and log files you re using as well as whether you re connected to the vehicle and whether your MIL is on If you re playing back a log file the status bar keeps track of what record of the log file is being displayed Config file name Log file name Connected to vehicle Log file playback record Currently logging MIL status AT1 2303 Manual 27 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Chapter 4 Data Logging with AutoTap 28 AT1 2303 Manual B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 4 1 How to log data The AutoTap OBDII Diagnostic Scanner not only displays real time data it also allows you to record and save data to be viewed at a later time These log files can be exceptionally powerful tools for diagnosing intermittent problems and for performance monitoring IMPORTANT It is natural to want to log all data available However the more data you log the slower the response rate from the vehicle computer Display only the parameters needed in order to maximize the vehicle computer s update rate Only the parameters visible on the screen are logged One of the most powerful features of AutoTap is its simplicity in logging the vehicle s sensor data Here is how 1 When you
33. y OBDII but included by manufacturers to assist in trouble shooting specific vehicles Also Proprietary Readings EPA Environmental Protection Agency Federal agency Office of Mobile Sources is the branch concerned with auto emissions ESC Electronic Spark Control EST Electronic Spark Timing AT1 2303 Manual A 5 B amp B Electronics Mfg Co Inc 707 Dayton Rd PO Box 1040 Ottawa IL 61350 Ph 815 433 5100 Fax 815 433 5104 Fuel Trim Engine computer function that keeps the air fuel mixture as close to the ideal 14 7 1 stoichiometric ratio as possible HC Hydrocarbons HEI High Energy Ignition HO2S Heated Oxygen Sensor ISO 9141 International Standards Organization OBDII communication mode used by Chrysler and most foreign cars One of five hardware layers defined by OBDII ISO14230 Also known as Keyword Protocol 2000 or KWP 2000 SAE established OBDII communication standard used by some import cars One of five hardware layers defined by OBDII J1850PWM Pulse Width Modulated SAE established OBDII communication standard used by Ford domestic cars and light trucks One of five hardware layers defined by OBDII J1850VPW Variable Pulse Width Modulated SAE established OBDII communication standard used by GM cars and light trucks One of five hardware layers defined by OBDII J1962 SAE established standard for the connector plug layout used for all OBDII scan tools J1978 SAE established stan
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