Abstract: A data link tester comprises a computer capable of a connection with a communications bus in a piece of equipment having at least one component in selective contact with the bus. The computer contains instructions for (1) building a roster comprising at least one identifier of the component and (2) then performing a diagnostic step comprising at least one of (i) analyzing communications received from the communications bus to determine the condition of communications with respect to the component, (ii) determining whether a message that contains the identifier has been received from the communications bus within a specified period of time, and (iii) diagnosing at least one fault condition in CAN communications in the communications bus by performing at least one CAN message check comprising determining whether a CAN message has been received from the communications bus and then performing at least one second diagnostic step. In some embodiments, the piece of equipment is a vehicle.

Abstract: A pre-assembled, connectionless data link assembly provides electronic communication between the engine controller and the transmission controller. The connectionless data link assembly comprises a back bone or trunk portion and one or more stub branches spliced into the trunk portion. An engine shunt portion and a transmission shunt portion are spliced into the trunk portion to provide electronic communication to engine and transmission controllers, respectively. In addition, an anti-lock brake system shunt portion can be spliced into the trunk portion. A pair of termination resistors housed in a barrel mold is located at each ends of the data link assembly. In addition, an anti-lock shunt portion may be sliced into the trunk portion to provide communication to an anti-lock brake controller.

Abstract: A ground strap and vibration mount assembly (10) effectively mechanically isolates an electronic component from vibration while also providing an electrically conductive path to ground potential. The assembly (10) includes a vibration dampener (16) mounted through an opening (28) formed in a tab (12) projecting from the housing of the vibration sensitive electronic component. An insert (18) is provided therein and a mounting bolt (54) is positioned through a suitable opening (36) formed through the insert (18). An electrically conductive ground strap (40) is wrapped partially around the tab (12). An aperture (52) is formed in one portion (50) of the strap (40) and the bolt (54) passed therethrough. Opposing ends (42) of the electrically conductive connector (40) are secured to the tab (12).