Abstract: A diagnostic tool includes a security system which prevents the unauthorized downloading of updated software. In one embodiment, a first external storage device includes a first security signature and is electrically coupled to the diagnostic tool. A second external storage device includes software and is also electrically coupled to the diagnostic tool. When a second security signature located within the diagnostic tool is the same as the first security signature included within the first external storage device, the diagnostic tool downloads the software into an internal storage device located within the diagnostic tool. In another embodiment, an external storage device includes software and is electrically coupled to the diagnostic tool. Upon initial use, a first security signature which is the same as a second security signature located within the diagnostic tool is written by the diagnostic tool to the external storage device.

Abstract: A test instrument includes a cartridge adapter for receiving existing vehicle diagnostic cartridges programmed for use with an 8-bit microprocessor. The adapter is coupled to a field programmable gate array (FPGA), which is programmed to emulate the operation of the 8-bit microprocessor and supply information to a 32-bit microprocessor coupled to a display and control panel to emulate the operation of a system for which the cartridges have been programmed. Additionally, the 32-bit microprocessor includes programming for new vehicles as well as the ability to read and store updated vehicle information through flash memory to be continuously updated.

Abstract: A wireless communication module communicates with a remote station and a plurality of motor vehicle control units that implement at least two different communication protocols within a single motor vehicle. The wireless communication module includes an RF interface, a processor and a selectable multiple protocol interface. The processor communicates with the RF interface and thereby communicates with the remote station. The processor executes diagnostic routines and thereby provides commands to one of the plurality of motor vehicle control units. The selectable multiple protocol interface is coupled between the plurality of motor vehicle control units and the processor. The selectable multiple protocol interface converts processor commands into a format that is readable by the selected motor vehicle control unit and converts received diagnostic information into a format that is readable by the processor.

Abstract: A diagnostic tool communicates with a plurality of motor vehicle control units and implements at least two different communication protocols within a single motor vehicle. The diagnostic tool includes a processor and a field programmable gate array. The processor executes diagnostic routines and thereby provides messages to one of the plurality of motor vehicle control units. The field programmable gate array provides a selectable multiple protocol interface that is coupled between the plurality of motor vehicle control units and the processor. The selectable multiple protocol interface converts processor messages into a format that is readable by the selected motor vehicle control unit and converts received control unit information into a format that is readable by the processor.

Abstract: A wireless communication module communicates with a remote station and a plurality of motor vehicle control units that implement at least two different communication protocols within a single motor vehicle. The wireless communication module includes an RF interface, a processor and a selectable multiple protocol interface. The processor communicates with the RF interface and thereby communicates with the remote station. The processor executes translation routines and thereby provides requests to one of the plurality of motor vehicle control units. The selectable multiple protocol interface is coupled between the plurality of motor vehicle control units and the processor. The selectable multiple protocol interface converts processor requests into a format that is readable by the selected motor vehicle control unit and converts received diagnostic information into a format that is readable by the processor.

Abstract: A diagnostic tool, for communicating with a plurality of motor vehicle control units, includes a processor, a main memory and a non-volatile storage device. The processor executes an operating system and a plurality of diagnostic applications. The non-volatile storage device is coupled to the processor and stores the operating system and the plurality of diagnostic applications. Each of the diagnostic applications is compiled and linked separately from the operating system. Each of the diagnostic applications is also separately downloadable into the storage device of the diagnostic tool. The diagnostic applications when executed by the processor function to provide at least one message to one of the control units and to receive control unit information from one of the control units in response to the at least one message.