Magneti Marelli FLEX diagnostic scanner User Manual

MAGNETI MARELLI
FLEX
User Manual
Magneti Marelli FLEX - User Manual - Rev. 2014.4.16
Magneti Marelli FLEX - User Manual - Rev. 2014.4.16
Trademarks
Magneti Marelli is a trademark of Magneti Marelli S.p.A., registered in the United States of America and other
countries.
All other marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
Copyright Information
©2012 Magneti Marelli S.p.A. All rights reserved
No part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of
Magneti Marelli S.p.A.
Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liabilities
The information, specifications and illustrations in this user manual are based on the latest information
available at the time of printing.
While the authors have taken due care in the preparation of this manual, nothing contained herein:
- Modifies or alters in any way the standard terms and conditions of the purchase, lease, or rental
agreement under the terms of which the equipment to which this manual relates was acquired.
- Increases in any way the liability to the customer or to third parties.
Magneti Marelli shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages
(including lost profits) in connection with the furnishing, performance or use of this material.
Magneti Marelli reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice.
All software screens shown in this manual are examples. Actual test screens vary for each vehicle being
tested.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Before operating or maintaining this unit, please read this manual carefully; paying extra attention to the
safety warnings and safety information
For additional information please visit our website:
www.magnetimarelli-aftermarket.us
Follow us:
https://www.facebook.com/magnetimarelli.aftermarketnafta
https://twitter.com/MMAftermarketNA
CONTACTS:
Magneti Marelli Holding U.S.A., Inc., d/b/a: Magneti Marelli Aftermarket
3900 Automation Avenue Auburn Hills, MI 48326 USA
email: [email protected]
Magneti Marelli FLEX - User Manual - Rev. 2014.4.16
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS.................................................................... 3
1.
Symbols used in the manual................................................ 7
2.
Safety information ................................................................ 8
2.1.
Lithium Battery – Pay attention ......................................... 10
2.2.
Dangerous Electrical shock - Pay attention....................... 10
2.3.
Skin Damage - Pay attention............................................. 10
2.4.
FLEX Damages ................................................................. 10
2.5.
FCC Compliance ............................................................... 11
3.
Maintenance and care ...................................................... 11
4.
General Warnings ............................................................. 11
5.
Upon receipt ...................................................................... 12
6.
Contents of the Package ................................................... 13
6.1.
Standard Item ................................................................... 13
6.2.
Optional items ................................................................... 15
7.
User License and Password............................................. 16
8.
Power Button, Keyboard & LCD Description .................... 17
9.
Connector Description ...................................................... 18
10.
Recharging the equipment ............................................... 19
11.
How to power on/off the equipment.................................. 20
12.
Switch On the First Time Flex .......................................... 22
12.1.
General information showed on LCD ............................... 22
12.2.
Stand Alone activity ......................................................... 23
12.2.1. Multimeter Voltage ........................................................... 25
12.2.2. Multimeter Resistance ...................................................... 26
13.
Flex Tester Setup ............................................................ 28
13.1.
Data & hour setup ............................................................ 28
13.2.
How to Read the Serial Number ...................................... 28
13.3.
How to read the Bluetooth ID ........................................... 29
14.
PC Software & Driver Installation .................................... 30
15.
Software Setup ................................................................ 31
15.1.
Language setup .............................................................. 31
15.2.
Password License setup ................................................. 32
15.3.
Screen Setup .................................................................. 34
15.3.1. Screen Resolution ........................................................... 34
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15.3.2.
15.3.2.1.
15.3.2.2.
15.3.3.
15.4.
15.5.
15.6.
15.7.
15.7.1.
15.7.2.
15.8.
15.8.1.
15.8.2.
15.9.
15.9.1.
15.9.2.
15.10.
15.11.
16.
16.1.
16.2.
16.3.
17.
17.1.
17.2.
17.2.1.
17.3.
17.4.
17.4.1.
17.4.2.
17.4.3.
17.4.3.1.
17.4.4.
17.4.5.
17.4.6.
17.5.
17.5.1.1.
18.
Screen Color Setup ........................................................ 34
Pre-set Scope Color Setup ............................................. 34
Customize Scope Color Setup ....................................... 34
Trace thickness setup .................................................... 36
Unit measure Setup ....................................................... 37
Workshop Data Setup .................................................... 39
Flex Tester – PC Setup Communication ....................... 40
Bluetooth Setup ............................................................. 41
Bluetooth Automatic installation..................................... 41
Emergency Bluetooth Setup for Windows 7 .................. 44
USB Setup ..................................................................... 48
USB Automatic installation ............................................ 48
Emergency USB Setup for Windows 7 .......................... 50
Wi-Fi Setup .................................................................... 55
WiFi automatic installation ............................................. 56
Emergency Wi-Fi Setup for Windows 7 ......................... 58
Change communication type ......................................... 62
Check the communication ............................................. 63
FLEX PC User Interface ............................................... 64
General information showed on sceeen........................ 64
Flex functionality ........................................................... 67
Software Version Information ........................................ 69
Diagnostics ................................................................... 70
Vehicle Selection .......................................................... 71
Connect FLEX to the OBD socket ................................ 76
How to connect FLEX and the OBDII socket ............... 77
Controller Selection ...................................................... 79
Diagnostic Page ........................................................... 79
PID Page ...................................................................... 81
DTC page ..................................................................... 83
Component Activations (Actuators) page ..................... 84
Advanced Component Activation ................................. 85
Coding/Setting page ..................................................... 86
Controller Info page ...................................................... 88
Report Diagnosis Page ................................................ 89
Road Test Page (graphical analysis) ........................... 89
Road test feature .......................................................... 90
OBDII Diagnostic ......................................................... 91
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19.
19.1.
19.2.
19.3.
20.
21.
21.1.
21.2.
21.3.
21.4.
21.5.
21.6.
21.7.
21.8.
21.9.
22.
23.
24.
24.1.
24.2.
24.3.
24.4.
24.5.
24.6.
24.7.
24.9.
24.10.
24.11.
24.12.
24.13.
25.
25.1.
25.2.
25.3.
26.
26.1.
26.2.
26.3.
Automatic Controller Search ....................................... 92
Software list - criteria selection ................................... 92
Controller Search ........................................................ 94
Controller check .......................................................... 95
Automatic Diagnostic Trouble Code Search ............... 95
Ok Functions ............................................................... 96
Ok Functions feature ................................................... 98
Service Reset ........................................................... 100
Oil quality Reset ....................................................... 100
Pads Brake Replacement ........................................ 100
TPMS coding sensor ................................................ 101
Steering Reset .......................................................... 101
Headlight Replacement ............................................ 102
FAP regeneration ..................................................... 102
Battery replacement ................................................. 103
Dashboard Procedure .............................................. 103
EASYDIAG ............................................................... 104
Oscilloscope ............................................................. 106
How to connect the cable scope adapter to Flex ..... 106
Oscilloscope Main Page ........................................... 107
Probe selections ....................................................... 111
Channel setting ........................................................ 113
Time base selection ................................................. 114
Trigger setting .......................................................... 115
Electrical Signal Measures ....................................... 118
Measure with cursor ................................................. 118
RAM Buffer 64MB (intermittent fault analysis) ......... 119
Reference waveform ................................................ 122
Math Functions & FFT ............................................. 123
EASY Scope ............................................................ 124
Multimeter ................................................................ 126
Voltage Measurement .............................................. 126
Multimeter – Resistance ........................................... 127
Multimeter – Continuity Test ..................................... 127
Combined Test ......................................................... 128
Sensor check ............................................................ 129
Component Test ....................................................... 129
Multimeter combined test ......................................... 129
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27.
27.1.
27.2.
27.3.
27.4.
27.5.
27.6.
27.6.1.
27.6.2.
27.6.3.
28.
28.1.
28.2.
28.3.
29.
29.1.
29.1.1.
29.1.2.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
34.1.
34.2.
34.3.
35.
Easyfix ...................................................................... 129
Introduction ............................................................... 129
DTC or Component Check ....................................... 131
Preliminary Analysis ................................................. 132
Depth Test ................................................................ 132
Controller coding after repair .................................... 133
Technical Data ......................................................... 133
Component Position ................................................. 134
Pin Description ......................................................... 134
Electrical Diagram .................................................... 135
Test Database .......................................................... 135
Last vehicle selected ................................................ 135
Last diagnosis .......................................................... 136
Last charts ................................................................ 136
Diagnostic Software Update ..................................... 137
Firmware Update ...................................................... 140
Automatic procedure ................................................ 140
Emergency procedure .............................................. 142
xTEST Procedure ..................................................... 145
FLEX – Galvanic Insulation ...................................... 147
FAQs ........................................................................ 148
Hardware & Software minimum PC Requirement .... 150
Technical features .................................................... 151
Diagnosis Module Technical Data ............................ 151
Oscilloscope Technical Data .................................... 151
Multimeter Technical Data ........................................ 152
FCC number homologation ...................................... 152
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1. Symbols used in the manual
This symbol calls attention to important
concerning overall operation and safety.
information
This symbol calls attention to important information and tips
aimed at ensuring proper operation of the equipment.
This symbol calls attention to important
concerning the maintenance of electrical parts.
instructions
This symbol calls attention to important service instructions.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
We suggest you store a copy near the product and in sight of
the operator.
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2. Safety information
For your own safety and the safety of others, and to prevent damage
to the equipment and vehicles upon which it is used, it is important
that the Safety Instructions be read and understood by all persons
operating, or coming into contact with; the equipment.
This product is intended for use by properly trained and skilled
professional automotive technicians. Operators shall exercise extreme
care when using this test tool.
There are many variations in procedures, techniques, tools, and parts
for servicing vehicles, as well as in the skill of the individual performing
the work. Because of the vast number of test applications and
variations in the products that can be tested with this instrument, we
cannot possibly anticipate or provide advice or safety messages to cover every
situation. It is the automotive technician’s responsibility to be knowledgeable of the
system being tested. It is essential to use proper service methods and test procedures.
It is important to perform tests in an appropriate and acceptable manner that does not
endanger your safety, the safety of others in the work area, the equipment being used,
or the vehicle being tested.
It is assumed that the operator has a thorough understanding of the
vehicle systems before using this product. Understanding of these
system principles and operating theories is necessary for competent,
safe and accurate use of this tool.
Before using the equipment, always refer to and follow the safety
messages and applicable test procedures provided by the
manufacturer of the vehicle or equipment being tested. Use the
equipment only as described in this manual. Read, understand and
follow all safety messages and instructions in this manual, the accompanying safety
manual, and on the test equipment.
DANGER: When an engine is operating, keep the service area
well ventilated or attach a building exhaust removal system to the
engine exhaust system. Engines produce carbon monoxide, an
odorless, poisonous gas that causes slower reaction time and
can lead to serious personal injury or loss of life.
WARNING: When working with the hydraulics of fuel lines,
liquids under pressure may escape and create a dangerous
condition. Use an adequate ventilator and make sure there are no
sparks or possibility of sparks present that may ignite potential vapors.
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WARNING: Set the parking brake and block the wheels before
testing or repairing a vehicle. It is especially important to block
the wheels on front wheel drive vehicles because the parking
brake does not hold the drive wheels.
WARNING: Wear an American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) approved eye shield when testing or repairing vehicles.
Objects propelled by whirling engine components or pressurized
liquids escaping may cause personal injury.
WARNING:
Maintain adequate clearance around moving
components or belts during testing. Moving components and
belts can catch loose clothing, body parts, or test equipment and
cause serious damage or personal injury.
Do not drive the vehicle and operate the diagnostic tool at the same
time. Any distractions may cause an accident. Have one person
operate the diagnostic tool as another person drives the vehicle.
Automotive batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce explosive
gases that can result in serious injury. To prevent ignition of
gases, keep lit cigarettes, sparks, flames, and other ignition
sources away from the battery at all times.
Refer to the service manual for vehicle servicing and adhere to all
diagnostic procedures and precautions. Failure to do so could result in
personal injury or otherwise unneeded repair.
After bleeding the brake system, check the brake pedal for excessive
travel or a spongy feel. Bleed again if either condition is present.
Use only specially designed replacement parts for ABS equipped
vehicles. When installing transmittal devices on the ABS equipped
vehicles, do not position the antenna near any ECU (electronic control
unit).
When activating the components with our tool, please be careful.
When deactivating the Electronic Parking brake, please carefully
check that the vehicle is on a horizontal floor and can’t move
autonomously.
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WARNING: When activating Filter Anti Particulate Regeneration,
please carefully check that the vehicle is far from combustible
material and in an open space. Exhaust temperatures can reach
1500°F.
2.1.
Lithium Battery – Pay attention
This product is equipped with lithium batteries, always dispose of a
lithium-ion battery pack according to local regulations, which vary for
different countries and regions. The battery pack, while non-hazardous
waste, does contain recyclable materials. If shipping is required, ship
the battery pack to a recycling facility in accordance with local, national, and
international regulations.
2.2.
Dangerous Electrical shock - Pay attention
WARNING: If the voltage you measure is more than 40V, do not
directly touch the signal to avoid electrical shock.
Use insulation
material to probe signals. Particular attention is needed for a hybrid or
electrical vehicle. Before connecting the probe, check that:


The engine is switched off and the dashboard is turned off.
To avoid electrical shock, keep your hand and any other part of your body always
isolated.
The FLEX is switched off.
2.3.
Skin Damage - Pay attention
WARNING: Some items in the voltage probe kit are very thin
and/or sharp, one such item is the needle probe. Please handle
carefully to avoid damage to the skin or other parts of the body.
2.4.
FLEX Damages
Maximum input voltage for each scope channel is 200V. When the
signal is more than 200V, please use the attenuator.
Maximum voltage to power the FLEX with a battery cable is 50V.
Damages to the FLEX may occur when the FLEX is powered directly
with a voltage more than 50V.
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To avoid damage when the ground termination of the red cable (ch1)
and the ground termination of the blue cable (ch2) are at different
voltages, a fuse has been installed in the ground cable termination of
the red cable (fuse: F5AL 250V).
A fuse is installed internally to the battery cable. Connect the negative
battery cable when needed only at the negative pole of vehicle battery.
In other cases fuses can interrupt the current and it would need to be
replaced. (fuse: F5AL 250V)
Prevent the FLEX from contact with water or other fluids.
Prevent the FLEX from mechanical shock.
2.5.
FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference’s in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his
or her own expense.
3. Maintenance and care
Please follow these instructions to avoid malfunction or unexpected failures:
- Do not drop or knock the equipment.
- Avoid spilling fluids on the equipment.
- Do not change the batteries.
- Do not service the equipment when it is in operation.
- Do not clean the equipment when it is in operation.
- Keep the case for transporting and safe handling.
- Perform monthly xTEST procedure to check devices.
4. General Warnings


It’s suggested to update the tool monthly by downloading the latest diagnostic
software. Use the tool password to carry out this action.
The scan tool functions follow exactly the manufacturer instructions, allowing you to
complete the operations in a simple and safe manner. A functions execution
(following the instructions on the screen) does not interfere with other electronic
components, so it is safe and won’t cause problems on the vehicle.
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Using diagnostic software, it is possible to program and setup
the vehicle controller and its components (requires knowledge
and experience in repairing).
5. Upon receipt
Upon receipt, check the packing and product components for damage in the presence of
the carrier. Liability for transport damage is the responsibility of the forwarding agent or
carrier. Report any damage, giving details of the nature and severity of the damage in the
shipping document; and file a claim against the forwarding agent or carrier.
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6. Contents of the Package
6.1.
Standard Item
The basic version contains the following items:
Items
Description
Flex tester
Battery cable
USB cable
Blue Oscilloscope cable
Red Oscilloscope cable
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OBD2 cable
OBD2 extension cable
Crocodile and voltage probe
Quick guide and manual
CD Rom with setup software
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6.2.
Optional items
Items
Description
20/60 Amperometric Clamp
600 Amperometric clamp
Breakout cables
Attenuator
Secondary Ignition
(not inverted)
Main power supply
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Cable Diagnostic kit USA Car
before 1996
7. User License and Password
Please check with the device that you also receive a sheet
with the password.
Use of the diagnostic software requires an user license. In the USA, there are 2 different
types of User License:
1. Car-MPV-VAN-Pickup user license. This license permits use of the OBD
diagnostics for the vehicle indicated.
2. Motorbike User license: This license permits use of OBD diagnostics for
motorcycles.
The User license includes Domestic, Asian and European
vehicles.
Each user license is activated with a password. The Password is released from your
distributor and without this password, the FLEX diagnostic software does not work.
Each password is released based on the following information:
1. Device Serial Number
2. Type of User License
3. The Expiration Date for the diagnostic coverage update.
If you decide to have both user licenses, you receive only
one password that enables both Car-Mpv-Van-Pickup
vehicles and the Motorcycle vehicles, both with the same
expiration date.
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When the password expires, you can download new
diagnostic updates but you can’t activate them. Please
refer to your distributor to subscribe to a diagnostic
software update for another year.
8. Power Button, Keyboard & LCD Description
POWER BUTTON. Use this button to switch the FLEX’s
internal battery on and off. To switch OFF the
equipment, press the button for at least 3 seconds.
The Flex switches on automatically when:

You connect the OBDII cable between the
Flex and the OBD diagnostic socket.
 You connect the main power supply at the
Flex.
 You connect the battery cable between the
Flex and the vehicle’s battery.
 You connect the USB cable between the PC
and the FLEX.
When the Flex switches ON automatically, it is not
possible to switch it off through the power button.
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KEYBOARD
Use the keyboard when the FLEX is used as a
standalone.
Button description:
- Enter to confirm the operation
- Esc to return back to the previous menu
- Arrow Up to move in the up direction
- Arrow Down to move in the down direction
- Arrow Left to move in the left direction
- Arrow Right to move in the right direction
COLOR LCD
Shows information in both PC and standalone
situations.
9. Connector Description
Connectors are available after opening the protection plugs at the top or at the bottom of
the tool.
OBDII CABLE CONNECTOR
The HD 26 pin connector is used to connect the FLEX to
the OBD2 socket on the vehicle.
DIAGNOSTIC LED STATUS
Indicates the status of the communication between the
FLEX and the controller on the car.
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POWER SUPPLY CONNECTOR The FLEX can be
powered through a battery cable adapter or the main
power supply.
CHANNEL 1 OSCILLOSCOPE Channel 1 signal for
the lab scope and the multimeter.
CHANNEL 2 OSCILLOSCOPE Channel 2 signal for
the lab scope and the multimeter.
USB PORT Supports the USB connection with the PC.
BATTERY LED STATUS Indicates the recharge status
of the internal battery when the FLEX is connected to an
external supply.
10. Recharging the equipment
The Flex tester has an internal Lithium battery. Charging the battery could take up to 5
hours. The battery recharge could be made through:
The Flex power supply connector linked to the main
power supply to recharge the device.
In case the battery recharges through the main power
supply, it is mandatory to use the power supply unit
included in the kit. Magneti Marelli shall not be liable for
damage to equipment in the event other power supply
units are used.
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The Flex power supply connector linked to the vehicle
battery through the battery cable supplied.
In case of recharging through the vehicle battery, please
check that the battery value is from 12V to 28V.
When recharging the Flex through the vehicle battery,
discharge the battery vehicle if it is switched off. The
vehicle can not restart because the battery voltage is too
low.
The Flex OBD connector linked to the vehicle battery
through OBD2 diagnostic socket.
Recharging the Flex from the OBDII vehicle socket can
discharge the vehicle’s battery if the engine is stopped.
The vehicle can’t restart because the battery voltage is
too low.
The Flex status charge can be read directly on the Flex
LCD. Please refer to section Switching On the Flex for the First
Time .
11. How to power on/off the equipment
Supplying the FLEX with power is possible in 4 different ways:
OBD2 Socket. The FLEX can be powered through its
OBD2 socket when connected to a vehicle using the
OBD cable.
The Flex will automatically switch on without pressing
any buttons and it can’t be switched OFF with the power
button until is connected to the OBD2 socket.
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Battery Adapter Cable. The FLEX can be powered
through a battery cable adapter.
The Flex will automatically switch on without pressing
any buttons and it can’t be switched OFF with the power
button until is connected to the OBD2 socket.
USB Port. The FLEX can be powered through its USB
port.
The Flex will automatically switch on without pressing
any buttons and it can’t be switched OFF with the power
button until is connected to the OBD2 socket.
Main Power Supply. The FLEX can be powered
through its main power supply adaptor.
The Flex will automatically switch on without pressing
any buttons and it can’t be switched OFF with the power
button until is connected to the OBD2 socket.
Internal Battery. It’s possible to switch on the
equipment also without external power using its internal
battery.
Touch the key
to power on the equipment.
Touch and press the key
for at least 3 seconds to
power off the equipment. The battery life when
completely recharged is more than 1 hour and 30
minutes.
If the Flex is connected through USB, and you
switch on the tool through the power button, the
Flex is powered by the internal battery and not by
the PC.
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12. Switching On the Flex for the First Time
Flex has a 2.8’’ LCD as a standalone; or it can also show specific information when it is
connected to the PC.
12.1.
General information showed on LCD
The following information is shown every time on the FLEX LCD.
Images
Step Description
1
In this position, the recharge icon
indicates
that the FLEX is recharging from a power supply
(OBDII adapter, battery cable adapter, main
power supply).
This battery
icon indicates that the FLEX
is using internal battery and the battery charge
level.
2
Date and hour. Indicates local date and hour.
3
Communication Type. Indicates when the Flex is
communicating with the PC and the type of
communication:

USB

Bluetooth wireless communication


Wi-Fi wireless communication
NO ICON: NO PC Communication
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12.2.
Stand Alone activity
The FLEX works as a standalone using its LCD and Keyboard. Please use the arrow to
move the cursor on the icon and confirm the selection with the
button on the
keyboard.
Activity
Icon on FLEX LCD
Description
Setup
Please refer to section Flex Tester Setup
Voltage
This selection allows the activation of the
internal multimeter and reads the voltage with
great accuracy. Please refer to section
Multimeter Voltage for more details.
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Resistance
This selection allows the activation of the
internal multimeter and reads the Resistance
with great accuracy. Please refer to section
Multimeter Resistance for more details.
Scope
This selection allows the activation of the
internal scope and illustrates on the screen the
waveform. It will be available in the near future.
OBD II DTC
This selection activates the internal diagnostic
module and shows the OBD II DTC on the
screen. It will be available in the near future.
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12.2.1.
Step
Multimeter Voltage
Images
Description
1
Switch ON the FLEX tool.
2
Select the Voltage Icon as depicted in section
Stand Alone activity.
3
Connect the Flex Channel 1 to the cable scope
(blue).
4
Select the right probe for proper reference (or
negative signal or ground signal) and connect it
at the end of the black cable. Then connect the
probe at the reference electrical signal.
5
Select the right probe to take the positive
electrical signal and connect at the end of the
blue cable and connect at the electrical signal.
6
On the screen is showed the Voltage value
measured by the Flex.
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Thanks to the internal scope/multimeter galvanic
insulation, it is possible to measure the voltage difference
even if both measure points are not grounded.
Voltage measurement is in AutoScale. This means that it
is not required to select the voltage range, because the
FLEX automatically adjusts the voltage range to give the
measurement the best accuracy.
12.2.2.
Multimeter Resistance
To capture Resistance, measurement is applied at 5V
voltage at the component. Please be sure that the
component is not supplied before executing this test. If
the component is supplied, the Flex or the component
could be damaged.
Step
Images
Description
1
Switch ON the FLEX tool.
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2
Select the Resistance Icon as depicted in
the section: Stand Alone activity.
3
Connect the Flex channel 1 to the cable
scope (blue).
Check that the components are not
supplied.
4
Select the right probe to connect a
component termination and connect it at
the end of the black cable. Then connect
the probe at the component termination.
5
Select the right probe to connect the
second component termination and
connect it at the end of the blue cable.
Then connect the probe at the second
component termination.
6
The Resistance value measured by the
Flex is shown on the screen.
The Resistance measurement is completed by AutoScale.
This means that it is not required to select the resistance
range, because the FLEX automatically adjusts the
resistance range to give the measurement the best
accuracy.
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13. Flex Tester Setup
13.1.
STEP
Data & hour setup
Images
1
Step Description
Switch on the FLEX tester.
2
With keyboard, select the configuration icon
and then confirm with the
button.
Place the flashing cursor on the data/hour field
that you want to change.
Use Up & Down Arrows to increase/decrease the
value.
To set the data, confirm with the
13.2.
STEP
1
How to Read Serial Number
Images
Step Description
Switch on the FLEX tester.
28
button.
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2
With the keyboard, select the configuration icon
and then confirm with the
button.
In the field Serial Number you can read the Flex
serial number.
The Flex serial number is very important because all passwords
used to activate user licenses are based on serial numbers. For
any communication with your distributor, it is important to supply
to your distributor the Flex Serial Number.
13.3.
How to read the Bluetooth ID
The Bluetooth ID can be useful in case of Emergency Bluetooth pairing.
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
Switch on the FLEX tester.
2
With the keyboard, select the configuration icon
and then confirm with the
button.
In the field “Bluetooth ID”, you can read the Flex
Bluetooth ID.
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14. PC Software & Driver Installation
When installing new software, please remove the old
version before the new installation.
Before software installation, please be sure that you have
“administrator” privileges.
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
Insert the CD-ROM into the PC. Setup
Software starts automatically.
If the setup installation doesn’t start,
use the following procedure:



Computer on the desktop or
Start button
CD-ROM/DVD unit
Double click on the setup
2
Select the language of the
installation.
3
Read carefully the “License
Condition”. If you agree, please select
“I accept”. Selecting “I don’t accept
the agreement” will result in the
software not being installed
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4
Select the path of installation.
5
Follow the other displayed indications.
At the end of the installation, the
setup requires that a PC restart.
6
After the PC restart, please check that
you have:


A new icon on the desktop
regarding the Flex software.
A new group program
regarding the FLEX software.
To avoid problems during the installation and the
software setup, it is suggested that the Firewall and the
Antivirus Software be deactivated until the processes are
complete.
15. Software Setup
15.1.
STEP
Language setup
Images
Step Description
1
On the main page, click on the
setting icon.
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2
Click on the «Language Selection»
icon.
3
Select the language/country and
confirm with the OK button.
4
Click on the «home» icon in the top
of the page to return to the main
page.
15.2.
Password License setup
The Password permits access to the diagnostic software
and the software updates. Passwords will be released
from your distributor. When your password expires, it is
possible to continue to use the diagnostic software
previously downloaded and activated. To continue to
download and activate the new diagnostic vehicle
software releases, please obtain a new password when
the old one expires.
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
On the main page, click on the
Setting icon.
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2
Click on the «Password» icon.
3
Insert the 26-digit password using
the virtual keyboard and confirm.
4
Click on the «home» icon in the
top of the page to return to the
main page.
The Password enables a license (car and/or bike). The
Password is related to the Serial Number of the Flex.
Please be sure to insert the password for the specific
Flex.
The Password contains an expiration date of the software
updates. If the password has expired, newly released
diagnostic vehicles are not enabled.
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15.3.
Screen Setup
15.3.1.
Screen Resolution
The Software automatically detects the screen resolution and adapts itself to display
all the data on the screen.
15.3.2.
Screen Color Setup
It is possible to customize the Color of the scope items based on specific needs (i.e.
white background could be useful during a training session; black background in
normal use). With an increased thickness of the trace, you can lose some of the
electrical signal detail but this may be useful when the screen is projected on the
wall (example: during a training session). It is possible to customize the Color of
more items in the scope: background, grid, trace, etc..
There are 2 ways to change the color scope: pre-set color or customize color.
15.3.2.1.
Pre-set Scope Color Setup
Using the button
present on the left top of the home page, it is possible to
change the background and trace of the scope at specific default values (white
background or black background pre-set). Every time this button is pressed, the
background scope color changes from white to black or vice versa.
15.3.2.2.
STEP
Customize Scope Color Setup
Images
Step Description
1
On the main page, click on the
Settings icon.
3
Select «Color Scheme». If
the line is not visible, please
use the scroll down bar to
locate it.
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When selecting the “Color
Scheme” item on the bottom
of the screen, the scope items
that you can change (colors)
will be listed.
4
Please click on the items
(colors) that you want to
change. Please use the scroll
bar to display all the
customizable items
5
The software will open the
window to change the color.
Select the color, this will place
the color in the preview area
and confirm by pressing “Ok”.
6
Repeat steps 4 and 5 for the
other items where you want to
change colors.
When you have finished
customizing colors, click on
the «home» icon on the top of
the page to return to the main
page.
7
Picture 1: Example of the
trace color scope
customization.
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8
Picture 2: example of the
background scope
customization.
15.3.3.
Trace thickness setup
It is possible to customize the thickness trace of the scope based on specific needs. Big
thickness can’t show detail of the electrical signal correctly but the increased thickness
could be useful when the screen is projected/enlarged, as it would be during a training
session.
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
On the main page, click on the
Settings icon.
3
Select «Color Scheme». If the
line is not visible, please use the
scroll down bar to locate it.
4
When selecting the “Color
Scheme” item in the bottom of
the screen, it will show the
scope items where you can
change the color.
Please scroll the bar until
“Trace Thickness” is displayed
and click on.
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5
The software will open the
window to change the trace
thickness of the scope trace.
Please select the value wanted
and confirm.
6
Click on the «home» icon on
the top of the page to return to
the main page.
15.4.
Unit measure Setup
Diagnostic data can be displayed with different measurement units. Normally, the vehicle
controller returns the data in System International units. This feature permits the tool to
show the data in the USA, UK or International Metric Systems. Please follow the
procedure depicted later to change the measure units showed. The software will
automatically convert data received from the controller into the data using the selected
measurement units.
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
On the main page, click on
the Settings icon.
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3
Select «Metric System». If
the line is not visible, please
use the scroll bar to show it.
4
When selecting “Metric
System”, new items will be
displayed on the bottom of the
screen.
The “Measurement Systems
Type Metrics” line shows the
value set.
Please select “Measurement
Systems Type Metrics” to
change this value.
5
The software will open the
window with the measure unit
types.
To change, please select the
metric systems desired and
confirm.
6
Select the «Home» icon at
the top of the page to return to
the main page.
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15.5.
Workshop Data Setup
Data and reports generated by the software can be customized. This includes workshop
data: Company name, First Name, Family name, Address, etc. These items will be
included in the report of the diagnostic operations.
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
On the main page, click on
the Settings icon.
2
Select «WORKSHOP DATA».
If the line is not visible, please
use the scroll bar to show it.
3
Select the item on the bottom
window to set/change (i.e.
Company Name, Name, email, etc). Use the scroll bar
to show all the items.
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4
Clicking on the item, the
software will show a window
to input/modify the item’s
value. After inserting the data,
confirm it with the “OK”
button.
5
Repeat steps 4 & 5 for the
other fields that you want to
change.
Select the «home» icon at
the top of the page to return to
the main page.
15.6.
Flex Tester – PC Setup Communication
Wireless communication reduces the number of
wires/cables in the workshop. This reduces both
obstacles interfering with people’s movement in the shop
and mechanical shock from the PC or FLEX due to
accidental collision.
The Flex Tester can communicate with PC in 3 different ways:
-
USB
-
Bluetooth wireless communication
-
Wi-Fi wireless communication
When using the Scope and the Multimeter for high
precision measurement, it’s better to use wireless
communication (Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) instead of wire
communication (USB) to avoid a ground loop or antenna
effect from the USB cable, as this can introduce big
measurement errors.
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Wireless communication removes any electrical
connection between the FLEX and the PC. This is safer
for the PC, as it can’t receive damage from a large
electrical signal coming from the vehicle (like injector
signal, alternator current, etc.).
When switching on the Flex, it creates the Wi-Fi network
to communicate with the PC. This operation takes about
20-30 seconds before this network can be seen from the
PC.
15.7.
Bluetooth Setup
Before proceeding with this section, be sure that the
Bluetooth driver for the Bluetooth peripheral on the PC is
correctly installed. If you are using the Bluetooth included
in the package, please follow the instructions included
with the Bluetooth to install the driver.
To avoid conflict with the driver and the software
management, please check that only 1 Bluetooth
peripheral is active on the PC.
The Bluetooth Flex is a device classified as Class 1 (1000
Feet) distance in open space (space without any
obstacle). Please use a Bluetooth peripheral device PC of
at least Class 1 to ensure proper communication in a
workshop area ranging between 30-40 yards from the car.
15.7.1.
STEP
Bluetooth Automatic installation
Images
Step Description
1
On the main page, click on the
Settings icon.
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2
Select the “Autodiagnosis
Connection Settings”. If the line is
not visible, please use the scroll
bar to show it.
3
Select “Automatic Configuration”.
4
Disable firewall and antivirus and
accept the message on the
display.
5
Switch on the Flex tester.
6
Then, select “Bluetooth” and
confirm the displayed message.
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7
Switch on the PC Bluetooth
peripheral. Disable all firewall and
antivirus software, and then
confirm the message on the
display.
8
The Flex software starts the
search for Flex tools in the area.
If more than one Flex Tester is
recognized, the software shows a
list of the Flex Testers detected.
9
On the back of the FLEX device,
please read the last 4 digits of the
serial number and then select the
FLEX with the same digits seen on
the FLEX label. Confirm this
selection.
(i.e.: in the image, the S/N is
4121159807. Use the last 4 digits
9807)
10
The software automatically pairs
the Flex tester and saves the COM
port for use during software activity
while communicating with the Flex
tester.
In case of fails, use “Emergency
Bluetooth Setup”
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11
Activate firewall and antivirus
disabled on step 4 and then
confirm the message on the
display
12
Click on the «Home» icon to
return to main page.
The Bluetooth icon
is
displayed on the top left of the
screen. This indicates that the PC
is able to communicate with the
Flex through the Bluetooth
wireless protocol.
Restart the software on the PC
when required.
15.7.2.
Emergency Bluetooth Setup for Windows 7
The procedure depicted in this paragraph is valid only for the Windows 7 operating
system. The same procedure can be followed for other operating systems using the
different windows and setups specific for that operating system.
Please carefully check that the Bluetooth driver is installed in and supported by your
operating system.
STEP Step Description
Images
Open in sequence the following
items on the PC:
1



44
Select the Windows Button
Select: Printer & Devices
Select: Add new device
Magneti Marelli FLEX - User Manual - Rev. 2014.4.16
2
Switch ON the Flex tool
3
Activate the Bluetooth peripheral
on the PC.
4
On the Bluetooth device window,
select “Add a device” and wait
until new devices are displayed.
If only one Flex device is
detected, click on the Flex Device
icon and confirm.
If more than one Flex device is
detected and displayed in the
window, please select the icon
with the 4-digit flex serial number
(as depicted on step 9 in the USB
Automatic installation) and
confirm.
Windows requires a password.
Please insert the following value
in capital letters, confirm and wait
until Bluetooth pairing:
6
MM
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7
A window with all Bluetooth
devices paired with the PC is
displayed.
Please select the Flex device,
press the right button (mouse)
and click on «Properties».
8
Click on the «Services» tab.
9
Read the Serial Port Number
(COM value).
10
Launch the Flex software from the
desktop icon. Click on the
Settings Icon.
Select “Autodiagnosis Connection
Settings”. If the line is not visible,
please use the scroll bar to show
it.
11
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12
Select “Bluetooth COM port”
13
Select the COM Port Number
read in step 9 and confirm.
14
Select “Connection Type”.
15
Select “Bluetooth” and confirm.
Click on the «Home» icon to
16
return to the main page.
The Bluetooth icon
is
displayed in the top left of the
screen to indicate that the PC is
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able to communicate with the Flex
through Bluetooth wireless
protocol.
Restart the software on the PC
when required.
In case of emergency you can read the Bluetooth ID on
the tool. Please refer to section: Flex Tester Setup
15.8.
USB Setup
The Flex internal battery is not recharged through the
USB connection to the PC.
15.8.1.
USB Automatic installation
The USB driver is installed automatically during the procedure setup. In case of a
failure during setup/installation, please go to EMERGENCY USB SETUP for
Windows 7.
STEP
Images
Step Description
Launch Flex software from desktop
icon, then click on the Settings Icon.
1
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Select “Autodiagnosis Connection
Settings”. If the line is not visible,
please use the scroll bar to show it.
2
3
Select “Automatic Configuration”
4
Disable firewall and antivirus.
Confirm the message on the display.
5
Connect the USB cable (provided)
between the PC and the Flex tester.
When connected to the PC through
the USB cable, the Flex switches on
automatically.
6
Select “USB” and confirm the
displayed message.
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7
Confirm the message displayed by
pressing the OK button.
8
The Flex software starts a search for
the Flex tool connected at the USB
port and saves the COM port for use
during the software activity, ensuring
strong communication with the Flex
tester.
In case of failures, use “Emergency
USB Setup”.
9
Activate the firewall and antivirus
disabled in step 4 and then confirm
the message on the display by
pressing the OK button.
10
Click on the «Home» icon to return
to the main page.
The USB icon, displayed on
the top left of the screen, indicates
that the PC is able to communicate
with the Flex through USB.
15.8.2.
Emergency USB Setup for Windows 7
The procedure depicted in this paragraph is valid only on Windows 7 operating systems.
The same procedure can be followed for other operating systems using the different
windows and setups specific to that operating system.
Connect the Flex to the PC through the USB cable (Flex switches ON automatically):
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

If the Flex device is not recognized, start the sequence in step 1.
If the Flex device is recognized, start the sequence in step 4.
If the Flex doesn’t switch on through the PC connection, please:
 Disconnect the USB cable from the PC.
 Switch ON the Flex using the main power supply adapter (refers to How to power
on/off the equipment)
 Connect the USB cable between the Flex and the PC.
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
Insert the USB cable on the Flex
and then on the PC.
2
Open the control panel.
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3
Select “System and Security”.
4
In the “System” Section, click on
“Device Manager”.
5
Right click on the device “Keil
MCB2300 VCOM” and select
“Update Driver Software”.
6
Select “Browse my computer for
driver software”.
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7
Select “Browse…” and select the
folder “x:\mm\Driver”.
And press “Next” to continue.
8
A security alert may appear.
Select “Install this driver software
anyway”.
9
At the end, press “Close” to
complete the installation of the
drivers.
10
Under the section “Ports (COM &
LPT)” of the Device Manager,
you can see a new device called
“MyUSB_CDC”. Write down the
COM number near the name.
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Launch the Flex software from
the desktop icon. Click on the
11
Settings Icon.
12
Select “autodiagnosis
Connection Settings”. If the line
is not visible, please use the
scroll bar to show it.
13
Select “USB COM port”.
14
Select the COM port Number
read on step 10 and confirm.
15
Select “Connection Type”.
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Select “USB-AD” and confirm.
16
The USB Icon is shown
on the top left of the screen to
indicate that the PC is able to
communicate with the Flex
through USB.
Click on the «Home» icon to
17
return to the main page.
Restart the software on the PC
when required.
15.9.
Wi-Fi Setup
Before proceeding with this section, be sure that the WiFi driver for the Wi-Fi peripheral is correctly installed on
the PC and works properly.
Please check that only 1 Wi-Fi peripheral is active on the
PC to avoid conflict in the driver and the software
management.
Wi-Fi Flex is a device classified for 1000 ft. range in open
space (space without any obstacle). Please use a PC WiFi peripheral device of at least Class 1 to ensure high
functionality in a workshop area 30-40 yards from the car.
When switching ON the Flex, it creates a Wi-Fi network.
This operation take about 20-30 seconds before this
network is seen from the PC and it can connect to the
Flex.
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15.9.1.
STEP
WiFi automatic installation
Images
Step Description
1
On the main page, click on the
Settings icon
2
Select “Autodiagnosis Connection
Settings”. If the line is not visible,
please use the scroll bar to show
it.
3
Select “Automatic Configuration”.
4
Disable firewall and antivirus, then
confirm the message displayed
5
Switch on the Flex tester and wait
for 20 seconds.
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6
Then select “WiFi” and confirm the
display message.
7
Switch on WiFi peripheral on the
PC. Disable all firewall and
antivirus software. Then confirm
the message displayed.
8
The Flex software starts a search
for Flex tools in the area.
If more than one Flex Tester is
recognized, the software shows a
list of the Flex Testers detected.
9
On the back of the FLEX device,
please read the last 4 digits of the
serial number and then select the
FLEX with the same digits seen on
the FLEX label. Confirm this
selection.
(i.e.: in the image, the S/N is
4121159807. Use the last 4 digits
9807)
10
The software automatically pairs
the Flex tester and saves the
communication data to use during
software activity, ensuring
communication with the Flex
tester.
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In case of failures, use
“Emergency Wi-Fi Setup”
11
Activate firewall and antivirus
disabled on step 4 and confirm the
message displayed
12
Click on the «Home» icon to return
to the main page.
Icon is displayed, on the
top left of the screen, indicating
that the PC is able to communicate
with the Flex through Bluetooth
wireless protocol.
Restart the software on the PC
when required.
15.9.2.
Emergency Wi-Fi Setup for Windows 7
The procedure depicted in this section is valid only for Windows 7 operating
systems. The same procedure can be followed for other operating systems using
the different windows and setups specific for these operating systems.
Please carefully check that the Wi-Fi drivers installed are supported by your
operating system.
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STEP
Images
Step Description
Open, in sequence, the following
items on the PC:
1




Select the Windows Button
Select Control Panel
Select “Network and
Sharing Center”
On the left panel select
«Change adapter settings»
2
Right click on “Wireless Network
Connection” and then click on
“Properties”
3
Select/enable Internet Protocol
version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and then
select the “Properties” button
4
Select «Use the following IP
address»
In the “IP address” field, put the
value «100.1.1.100».
In “subnet mask” field, put the
value «255.0.0.0».
Click OK to confirm.
Switch On the Flex tool and wait
for 30 seconds..
5
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Click on the “Wireless Network
Connection” icon on the task bar.
Select “FLEX_xxxx” network.
Click on “Connect”.
(xxxx are the last 4 digits of the
serial number)
6
On the main page, click on the
Settings icon.
7
Click on «Autodiagnosis
Connection Settings».
8
Click on «Wi-Fi Address».
9
Read the Flex Serial Number on
the Flex tool, this is located on the
label
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Type in the Wi-Fi Address
100.1.1.x where x are the last 2
digits of the Flex serial number.
Then Confirm.
10
Select «Connection Type».
11
Select “Wi-Fi”, then confirm.
12
Click on the «Home» icon to return
to the main page.
The WiFi icon
is
displayed, on the top left of the
screen, indicating that the PC is
able to communicate with the Flex
through WiFi wireless protocol.
Restart the software on the PC
when required.
If needed, it is possible to see the Wi-Fi IP number on the Flex
tester. Please refer to section: Flex Tester Setup
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Some PCs can’t perform the automatic connection. In these cases,
before starting the Flex software, select the wireless connection
icon
on the taskbar and manually connect to the «Flex_xxxx»
network.
.
15.10. Change communication type
During the operation, it is possible to change the communication method based on your
needs
STEP
1
Images
Step Description
Switch off the FLEX tester (disconnect from
OBD2/ USB/ Main Power Supply/ Battery
cable adapter and shut down the power with
the power button).
2
Click on the PC communication icon.
The Icon logo indicates the actual
communication method.
3
Select the new communication method and
confirm.
4
Click on the “Home” icon to return to the main
page.
5
Switch on the Flex tool. You can now begin to
use the tool with the new communication
method.
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15.11. Check the communication
(How to make sure the communication between the PC and the Flex is
working).
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
Switch off the FLEX tester (disconnect
from OBD2/ USB/ Main Power Supply/
Battery cable adapter and shut down
the power with the power button).
Wait some seconds and switch on the
tool again.
2
Click on the Oscilloscope feature
icon. The PC software begins
communication with the Flex.
.
3
On the Flex LCD, an image is displayed
that indicates PC communication.
4
If the electrical signal is displayed on
the PC, the communication is working
properly.
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16. FLEX PC User Interface
16.1.
General information displayed on the screen
The following information is displayed continuously on the bar at the top of the screen.
Feature
Images
Description
Indicates the local date and
hour.
Date and time
Indicates the type of
communication with the FLEX:

Communication
Type
USB

Bluetooth wireless
communication

Wi-Fi wireless
communication
It is possible to change “on the
fly” the communication type
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(USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) Change
communication type.
If the communication channel is
not already set, please refer to
sectionFlex Tester – PC Setup
Communication
Indicates the actual
scope background color.
Change Scope
color
background
Clicking on the icon allows
changing “on the fly” the scope
color. Please refers to Pre-set
Scope Color Setup
Click on this icon to
launch software updates (i.e.
new features and new
diagnostic coverage) through
the Internet. Please refer to
section Diagnostic Software
Update for more details.
Internet Update
Click on this button for
a print screen and then decide
where to print the images with
the printer dialog box.
Print Screen
Printing this information is a
great sales tool. It summarizes
the maintenance and repair
status of the vehicle for the
customer.
Software Setup
Clicking on this icon,
opens the setup of the software.
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When you first use the Flex
software, please configure the
software and set the
communication channel as
depicted in the Flex Tester
Setup section.
Software
Version
Information
Click on this icon to
view key information, such as
the password, the diagnostic
software release version and
the unit’s serial number. This
data is always required if you
need assistance/servicing.
Please refer to section Software
Version Information for more
information.
HOME
Using this button you
can go back to the main page
from any point of the software.
CLOSE
FLEX
SOFTWARE
Using this button, you
can close the FLEX software
application
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16.2.
Features
Flex functionality
Images
Description
CAR-MPV
Multibrand
Diagnosis
Pressing this button starts
the Cars and MPVs vehicle
selection to diagnose Car-Mpv
vehicles.
Please refer to the
Diagnostics
section for more
details.
Typical vehicle in this database, but
not limited to; include the Chrysler
C300, Toyota Rav-4, Ford Explorer,
Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata, Kia
Sportage, Chevrolet Volt, Bmw 5series, Volvo XC90, and the
Chevrolet Camaro.
The diagnostic coverage includes
Domestic, Asian and European
vehicles.
Van Pickup
Multibrand
diagnosis
Pressing this button starts
the Van/Pickup vehicle selection to
diagnose van and pick-up vehicles.
Please refer to the Diagnostics
section for more details.
Typical vehicles in this database
include, but are not limited to, are
the Dodge RAM, Ford F150,
Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota Hi-Lux,
Nissan Titan, and the Ford E-Series
etc.
The diagnostic coverage includes
Domestic, Asian and European
vehicles.
Pressing this button starts
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Motorcycle
Multibrand
diagnosis
the Motorcycles section. Please
refer to Diagnostics
section for
more details.
Typical bikes included in this
database
are
the
Ducati
MultiStrada, Honda CBR, BMW
1200, Vespa 125, Harley Davidson
Softail, and the Kawasaki Ninja.
The diagnostic coverage includes
Domestic, Asian and European
bikes.
Pressing this button starts
the OBDII diagnostics. Please refer
to the OBDII Diagnostic section for
more details.
OBDII
OSCILLOSCOPE
Pressing this button starts
the
oscilloscope
environment.
Please refer to the
After clicking on the hyperlink, the
PC software automatically starts the
procedure selected without any
other selection by the user.
Picture 19: After clicking on the
hyperlink, the codings automatically
start.
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EasyDiag is efficient and v
activation/coding/PID invo
necessary for the user to k
controller.
Oscilloscope section for more details.
MULTIMET
ER
Pressing this button starts
the multimeter environment. Please
refer to the Multimeter section for
more details.
Heavy Duty Truck diagnosis
Heavy
Duty, Bus,
Trailer
Diagnosis
Bus Diagnosis
Trailer Diagnosis
These features are not available at
this moment for the USA..
16.3.
Click on
Flex tool.
Software Version Information
on the main page for all important information regarding software and the
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Click on the “OK” button to return to the main page.
Different information can be shown in different parts of the software.
Main information displayes:
 Version FLEX, Displayed on the first line. This indicates the version of the user
interface.
 Password. The password code enables different user licenses and the diagnostic
coverage updates. The password code displayed is the latest password code used
to update the tool through the internet or used to activate the Flex software.
 Expiration Date Indicates the date of subscription expiration.
 Autodiagnosis Release Indicates the diagnostic release coverage installed on
your PC. The 3 different diagnostic releases:
 Car: is relative for diagnostic coverage for CAR-MPV, VAN and PICKUP.
 Bike: is relative for diagnostic coverage for motorcycles
 Truck: is relative for diagnostic coverage for heavy duty truck, bus and trailer
(this diagnostic software is not available at this moment in USA.)
 Serial Number: is the serial number of the latest FLEX tool that communicates
with the PC.
 ID line: is a reference for the controller/vehicle selection. This value is displayed
only when the Controller communication software is downloaded on the FLEX (i.e.
on diagnostic enviroment). Please use this value to communicate a diagnostic
controller problem.
17. Diagnostics
After the first selection (Car, MPV, Van, Pick-up, Motorcycle) the
sequence is the same for every type of vehicle.
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17.1.
Vehicle Selection
If during the vehicle/controller selection, you can not find your
vehicle/controller, please use “Automatic Controller Search”
(Automatic Controller Search) to find the possible diagnostic
software for your vehicle/controller.
After the vehicle type selection on the main page, you can use the following sequence to
select vehicles.
Picture 3: “Back Button”
In each Step of the Vehicle/Controller Selection, it’s possible to use the “Back”
button to return to the previous selection.
STEP Images
Step Description
1
Year Vehicle Selection. The vehicle
selection starts with the selection of the
vehicle production year. The VIN digit
relative to the year is shown in the
parenthesis.
Please select the production year of
your vehicle by clicking on the specific
line.
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2
The year selected in the previous step
is shown (see image).
Brand Vehicle Selection. After the
production
year,
select
the
brand/maker of the vehicle that you
want to diagnose. Click on the specific
line.
3
The brand selected in the previous
step is displayed.
Model Vehicle Selection. After the
brand selection, please select the
model of the vehicle you want to
diagnose. Click on the specific line .
.
4
The model selected in the previous
step is displayed.
Sub-Model Vehicle Selection. After
model selection, please select the submodel of the vehicle that you want
diagnose. Click on the specific line.
5
The sub-model selected in the
previous step is displayed.
Fuel-Engine Vehicle Selection. After
the sub-model selection, please select
the fuel/engine of the vehicle that you
want to diagnose. Click on the specific
line.
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Picture 4: Area with vehicle selection data at the end of vehicle selection
During the vehicle selection, you can select a new vehicle using the
“BACK” button. You can select new vehicles by clicking on the
field that you want to change; the software will automatically open
the appropriate page to select a new value for this field.
At the end of the vehicle selection, in the center
of the page, a list of controllers that are possible
to diagnose are displayed automatically. Use the
scroll bar to show all controllers available for the
selected vehicle.
Picture 5: Controller list
In addition to this controller list, another 4 icons
to access specific information/diagnostics are
displayed. When pressing one of these icons,
the center of the page displays the information
relative to the icon. The return to the four icons,
simply press the original icon.
Picture 6: feature selection area
In the following table, the 5 features available after the vehicle selection are depicted.
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Features
Images
Description
When pushed, this
button displays the controller list that
is available to diagnose in the center
of the page. Please refer to
Controller
list
How to connect the
OBDII socket
STEP Images
1a
1a
1c
1d
2
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FLEX at the
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3
4
Some vehicles have a bat
controller communication i
the vehicle into the low po
a loss in communication
activations/codings), pleas
the controller selection.
Controller Selection
OK
functions
When pushed, this
button displays the OK function list
that is available on the vehicle
selected in the center of the page.
OK functions allow the interaction of
specific features on the vehicle
without selecting controllers and
without selecting coding/activations.
All the operations on the vehicle are
carried out directly from the device.
Please refer to section OK Functions
for more details.
Vehicle
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DTC scan
Vehicle DTC scan allows
scan/delete DTC on all the vehicle
controllers without selecting the
controller one by one. At the end of
the procedure, the Flex shows all
DTCs present in all the controllers in
the vehicle. Please refer to section
Automatic Diagnostic Trouble Code
Search for more details.
OBD
socket
position
and cable
to use
OBD “Connector
position & Cable to use” displays the
position where the OBD socket is
located and which cable to use to
enable electronic operations on the
vehicle. This is very important,
especially on cars/pickups produced
before 1996 and for every motorbike.
Please refer to section Connect FLEX
to OBD socket for more details.
Search
Control
Unit
If the controller or
the vehicle to diagnose is not found, it
is possible to use the “Automatic
Controller Search” feature to start a
search for the appropriate software
that can diagnose the desired
controller. Please refer to the
Automatic Controller Search section
for more details.
Before continuing with the controller selection or other features,
please connect the FLEX at the OBD socket.
17.2.
Connect FLEX to OBD socket
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Picture 7: Cable adaptor to use and OBD socket position
When the OBD socket position
button is pushed, an image on
the left area of the screen will
illustrate the location of the
socket position with a short
description where to find the
socket.
In the right area, displayed is
the image of the adaptor cable
(connector) to use and the code
of this cable. The cable code is
printed also on the label on the
cable.
The standard Flex package includes the OBDII cable. Please refer
to the options section (Optional items ) for the listing of cables
available for the FLEX.
Vehicles before 1996 and all Motorbikes may require cable different
from the OBDII cable.
17.2.1.
How to connect the FLEX at the OBDII socket
STEP Images
Step Description
1a
Press the button on the OBDII cable
adapter to insert into the Flex.
1a
Open the plastic protector.
1c
Insert the OBDII cable into the Flex
connector.
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1d
Release the button on the OBDII cable
connector.
2
Connect the diagnostic cable (and
FLEX) to the OBD diagnostic socket on
the vehicle.
If you are using the OBDII cable or an
OBD1 that supplies the Flex, the Flex
automatically switches ON.
If the Flex doesn’t switch on, please
switch on with the power button.
3
Only for USB communication
between the PC and the Flex.
If
you
are
using
the
USB
communication, connect the USB
cable between the Flex and the PC.
4
Switch on the dashboard vehicle. In
case of a specific vehicle that has a
battery controller, after controller
selection,
please
follow
the
information displayed on the tool to
avoid losing communication with
the controller during diagnosis.
Some vehicles have a battery safe mode and will terminate the
controller communication if the engine is stopped. To avoid putting
the vehicle into the low power mode during diagnosis (this causes
a loss in communication with the vehicle and/or failures of
activations/codings), please follow instructions on the display after
the controller selection.
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17.3.
Controller Selection
After vehicle selection, select the controller to diagnose.
Select the controller with a
click on the line desired. The
car
may
use
different
controllers (i.e. for A/C plant
where Monozone, Bizone,
and Trizone are used).
When
the
controller
is
selected,
it
automatically
starts communication with the
Flex to download the specific
software to communicate with
the controller selected.
Picture 8: controller selection
Picture 9: PC uploads to the Flex the software to communicate with selected controller
17.4.
Diagnostic Page
The first time that you launch the diagnostic software, a message
explains the diagnostic operation and the skills required for the
Flex user. You must agree with this message or the tool is not
enabled.
.
When the software upload onto
the Flex is complete, the Flex
automatically
begins
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Picture 10: Communication between Flex and controller is
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communication with the vehicle’s controller.
After communication starts, an animation
will be displayed until communication
between the Flex and vehicle’s controller is terminated.
If the communication with the controller doesn’t start, a message is
displayed. Please check that the diagnosis adapter cable is well
inserted into the OBD socket on the vehicle and that the FLEX is
switched on.
When
the
communication
between the FLEX and the PC
begins, the power supply of the
Flex is displayed in the bar at the
top the window.
.
If this value is lower than 9V and
you are connected with a vehicle
through the OBDII socket, either
the OBDII cable adapter is not
connected appropriately or the
vehicle battery voltage is too low.
Picture 11: Flex Power Supply voltage value
Communication with the controller is not possible if the vehicle
battery voltage is lower than 11V. Please check the battery voltage
if there is a communication problem between the controller and the
Flex.
It is possible to start and stop
communication
with
the
controller using this button
.
This button works as a toggle.
Picture 12: Start/Stop Controller communication
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17.4.1.
PID Page
The PID page is activated automatically when the Flex starts communication with the
controller or when pressing this button.
.
Displayed here is the parameter
list. For each line, there is:
 Parameter description
 Instant value of the PID
 Measure unit
Use the scroll bar to see all PIDs
available on the controller.
Picture 13: PID page
It’s possible to set the measurement unit of a PID in the setup.
Please refer to the Unit measure Setup for more details
It’s possible to show PIDs in a graphical way. Please refer to Road
Test Page (graphical analysis) for more details.
More details are depicted in the following table:
Features
Images
Description
When clicking this button, the
software opens a window with all
PIDs available on the controller.
PID
selection
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Please select the PIDs that you
want to monitor and confirm.
PID print
Click on this button to save the PID
values displayed in the diagnostic
report.
Reference
Value at
idle Speed
Click on this button to display a
column with reference values
captured on a “good” car at idle
speed. To hide this value, please
click on the button again. To
compare this data with your vehicle
data, please run your vehicle at idle
speed.
Reference
Value at
2500 rpm
Click on this button to display a
column with reference values
captured on a “good” car at 2500
rpm. To hide this value, please click
on the button again. To compare
this data with your vehicle data,
please run your vehicle at 2500 rpm.
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DTC page
17.4.2.
The
DTC
page
.
is
activated
from
the
diagnostic
environment
by
selecting
When you are using other pages in the diagnostic environment, you
will have a flashing of the DTC icon
the controller.
to indicate that DTCs are present in
Upon selection, the DTC list will
be displayed. For each item, the
tool displays:
 DTC code
 DTC description
 DTC status.
Note: Status description can be ACT
(active: present in this moment) or MEM
(Memory: occurred in the past and stored
for review) or NVE (present but not
validated by Controller).
Use the scroll bar to see all the DTCs present in the controller.
If the DTC description is not present or the description is not
coherent, please carefully check that the controller/vehicle selected
on the Flex software is the correct controller/vehicle that you want
to diagnose. If you are confident about the controller/vehicle
selection, please contact our call center with the DTC code and ID
line (specific code for vehicle selection, please refer to the section
Software Version Information) to receive the proper description about
the DTC.
Some controllers can’t give a DTC status, so the Flex software only
displays “MEM” in these situations. If you need to test if the DTC is
present at this moment, delete the DTC, restart the engine, and
read the DTCs again. If the questioned DTC doesn’t occur, this
means that it was present only in the past and was removed from
the controller.
On the Ford controller, the P1000 DTC is always present. This is not
a DTC, but indicates that DTCs are not present in the controller.
Specific feature are depicted in the following table:
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Features
Images
Description
When
this
button is clicked the software
deletes the DTC from the controller.
During the operation, a message is
displayed.
DTC delete
At the end of the operation, old
DTCs disappear after a few
seconds.
17.4.3.
Component Activations (Actuators) page
.
When starting component activation, please be observant and pay
attention.
When deactivating the Electronic Parking Brake, please carefully
check that the vehicle is parked on a horizontal floor and can’t
move autonomously.
The actuator page is activated from the diagnostic environment by pressing the
button.
Displayed here is the list of
component activations. Displayed
on each line is the:
 Activation description
Using the scroll bar, it is possible
to see all the activations available
for the controller.
If, before the activation description
is present this icon
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feature available that uses a Bi-Directional activation while displaying the PID values when
the component is activated (please refer to Advanced Component Activation ).
Component activation can be engaged in different ways based on
the controller type or safety reason. In some cases, it is possible to
choose the ON/OFF position of the components. In other cases,
the ON/OFF cycle is realized automatically by the controller.
Some activations may return “Fail” messages from the controller.
This means that the activation is not supported by the controller.
This is common when a controller manages specific components
and these options are not installed in the car (i.e. a sunroof, heated
seats, 7th/8th cylinders).
Specific feature are described in the following table:
Features
Images
Description
Start
Component
Activation
Clicking this button commands the
software to activate the component
selected on the display.
17.4.3.1.
Advanced Component Activation
When an Advanced component Activation is selected, a page will display a button to start
the activation and a PID graphical value involved with the component activation. These
can be used to evaluate the component/sensor fault.
Features
Images
Description
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Component
Activation
These buttons may be used to
activate/deactivate the component.
The activation determines which
buttons are to be depicted.
PID instant
value
The PID instant values are
displayed for the PIDs that show
related conditions, but these may
not be influenced directly from the
component activations
PID
graphical
way
The PID displayed in a graphical
way are important in evaluating the
temporal signal evolution of a PID
during the activation phase.
Typical examples to use the advanced component activation are:
 EGR valve test: move EGR valve and check PID relative value
 EVAP test: set value for EVAP and check relative value
 Injector activation: change injector volume and check quantity correction
17.4.4.
Coding/Setting page
When initializing a Filter Anti Particulate Regeneration, please
carefully check that the vehicle is far from combustible material
and in open space. The exhaust temperature can reach 1500°F.
The codings write into the Controller and modifies its status.
Before starting a coding, please carefully review the operation that
you want to perform and ensure you are properly prepared to
perform this operation.
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The coding page is activated via diagnosis environment by pressing this button:
Displayed here is the coding list. For each
line:
 Coding description
Using the scroll bar, it is possible to see all
the activations available for the controller.
If the icon EASYDIAG
is
present near the activation description, there is an aided procedure available with detailed
explanations for this coding.
Some codings can return the “Fails” message from the controller.
Please carefully check that the operating conditions (i.e. fluid
refrigerant temperature is complied).
In some cases you can receive this message because the specific
controller can not support this coding.
Specific feature are depicted in the following table:
Features
Images
Description
When click this button software start
to realize the coding selected on the
display.
Start
coding
Please follow step by step the
message on the display and confirm
operation only when operation to do
is already realized.
If the operation indicated on the display during the coding
procedure is not followed appropriately, the coding normally fails.
Please double check the operation requirements on the display
during the coding procedure.
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17.4.5.
Controller Information page
The controller information page is activated from the diagnostic environment pressing the
button
.
It displays the controller information
list. Each line shows:
 Controller info description
 Value
The scroll bar displays to see all the
info available for the controller.
This page provides the:
 VIN value
 Diesel injectors code value
 ID TPMS sensor value
Specific features are depicted in the following table:
Features
Images
Description
When you click this button, you save
the information.
Save Value
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17.4.6.
Report Diagnosis Page
The report page is activated by pressing this button.
.
It displays the diagnostic report with all
the operations carried out…DTC found,
PID value saved, etc..
When you exit, the diagnostic report is
automatically saved. The database
captures the latest 50 diagnostic reports.
Please refer to section Test Database .
Specific features are depicted in the following table:
Features
Images
Print
17.5.
Description
When clicking this button, the report
is printed.
Road Test Page (graphical analysis)
When you are in the diagnostic
environment, it is possible to show
the PID in text mode only. If you
want to switch to the graphical
mode, press the Road Test
button.
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Picture 14: Activation Road test page
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To return back to the previous page, please click on the diagnostic button.
The Road Test page displays the
PID in a graphical mode. It is
possible to show the maximum 8
PIDs simultaneously.
Each PID is shown separately
and each PID has its proper
vertical scale.
It’s possible to start and stop the
communication with the controller
using
the
button.
. This button is
working as a toggle.
Picture 15: Road test page
17.5.1.1.
Features
Road test feature
Images
Description
When clicking this button, a window
displays all the PIDs available.
Please select the PID to diagnose
and confirm.
PID
Selection
When clicking
on this button, a window with the
actual time base is illustrated.
TIME BASE
REGULATI
ON
Use the arrows to modify the value
and press the OK button to confirm
the value. The longer the time, the
higher the quantity of data; but with
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lower resolution.
Click on this button to print.
PRINT
SCREEN
SAVE
This button saves the PID data in a
file. To review this data please refer
to Test Database.
18. OBDII Diagnostics
The OBDII protocol is available for car MPV van pickups produced later than 1996.
Before to clicking on the OBDII icon, please check the FLEX connection with the vehicle
and the PC as depicted in section Connect FLEX to OBD socket. Switch ON the vehicle
dashboard.
STEP Images
Step Description
1
Connect the Flex to the vehicle.
Click on the OBD button on
the main page.
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2
The Flex starts to scan the vehicle to
find the right protocol. At the
completion of the scan, a list of
controllers is displayed. Please select
one and confirm.
It is possible to rescan the OBD socket
with this button.
3
The Flex starts to communicate with
the
controller.
The
diagnostic
environment and relative features are
organized and consistent in the same
way for all the diagnostic protocols.
19. Automatic Controller Search
When the Automatic Controller Search finds the compatible
software for your controller, please verify the information. Please
check:
 PID value is correct
 DTC description (if present) is correct
Do not use the coding if you are not totally confident with the
software.
The Automatic Controller Search could be very useful when the controller/vehicle that you
want to diagnose is not included in the vehicle database. The vehicle and controller in the
database are included only if tested from our testing department, the same controller can
be mounted on different vehicles of different brands.
The Automatic Controller Search verifies if one or more of the controllers included in the
Flex (selected using year, brand, plant) can communicate with your controller and can
identify the DTC.
The software database is worldwide. (North America, South America, Europe and Asia).
19.1.
Software list - criteria selection
STEP Images
Step Description
1
Connect the Flex to the vehicle.
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2
Select the vehicle type from the home
page.
3
Select the production year and brand
of your vehicle as depicted in section
Vehicle Selection. It is mandatory to
select the correct brand of your
vehicle.
Please continue to select the Model,
Sub-Model and Fuel-Engine. If your
vehicle is not present, select another
vehicle with same brand and different
year production, model, sub-model and
fuel-engine.
4
Click on
5
button.
Select the controller type that you want
diagnose and confirm with the OK
button.
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6
Select the fuel and the engine type
only if you want to diagnose the engine
or the powertrain controller.
7
Year selection. It’s possible to select
more than 1 single year. Confirm your
selection.
8
A list of the compatible controllers are
displayed. Each line indicates a
different controller. The line description
indicates the vehicle or brand/model
controller that uses this software.
The Flex software starts automatically
and tries to communicate with the
controllers one by one.
19.2.
Controller Search
During the Scan, the magnifying
glass icon
indicates the
software the FLEX is using to
communicate with the controller.
If the Flex communicates with the
controller, the check mark icon
appears with the relative
DTC list.
If the Flex did not communicate
with the controller, this red icon
produced for printing.
is shown.
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It is possible that the different software can communicate with the
controller, although the DTC list may be completely different.
Please check as depicted in the following paragraph if the software
selected works properly.
19.3.
Controller check
At any moment of the scan, it is possible to click on a line with the ECU description. After
2 warning messages (confirm these messages stop the scan) the Flex starts the
diagnostic environment.
To check if the software could be compatible with your controller, select the PID page and
carefully check that the PID’s value is correct.
If you want to return back to the software list, please use the “BACK” button
located
on the top right of the page. The software scan doesn’t restart when you return back on
the software list. It is only possible to restart from the beginning or select a different ECU.
20. Automatic Diagnostic Trouble Code Search
This feature automatically scans all the controllers and displays all the DTCs identified on
the vehicle.
STEP Images
Step Description
1
Connect the Flex to the vehicle and
switch on the vehicle dashboard
2
Select the vehicle type from the home
page and select the vehicle year,
brand, model, sub-model, as depicted
in section Vehicle Selection.
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3
Click on the vehicle DTC
scan.
4
Click on “Complete Vehicle Scan”.
A list of the controllers available
diagnose is displayed.
for
The PC software automatically starts to
scan all the vehicle controllers and
displays a list of the DTCs.
The magnifying glass indicates that the controller is being checked. The
green
icon is shown on the screen if there are no DTCs present. The red icon
indicates if
there are DTCs present.
If you want to see the DTC code and description, click on the specific controller line.
At the end of the controller SCAN, a report is available to print.
It’s possible to diagnose the controller with a double click on the line description. Switching
between the controller list and the diagnostic environment is possible with the same
procedure depicted in the section Automatic Controller Search.
21. Ok Functions
Even without knowing the controller involved, the OK function
allows users to simply select an activity (i.e. the TPMS re-learn,
steering wheel reset, etc.) and the tool will automatically perform
the correct procedure.
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The OK functions execute the according to the methods and procedures required by the
manufacturer. Once you select the function, the software will automatically establish
communication with the affected control units to perform the correct operation.
Picture 16: OK function principle
As illustrated in the picture in a “traditional way” (available also on the Flex software) you
need to know:
 Which controller is involved in the procedure
 Which operation to perform for each controller
 The sequence of the operation
With the “OK function”, this knowledge is not necessary and you can simply select just the
function. The Flex software automatically performs the sequence of the operations.
STEP Images
Step Description
1
Connect the Flex to the vehicle.
2
Select the vehicle type from the home
page and select the year, brand,
model, sub-model, as depicted in
section Vehicle Selection.
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3
Click on the OK function.
4
A list of OK functions available for the
vehicle selected is displayed.
Click on one of the OK functions to
start.
21.1.
Features
Ok Functions feature
Images
Description
PID area
When the OK function starts, the
main page displays the PID
information relevant to the specific
functions.
If a DTC is present in the controller,
the DTC icon
will flash.
A list of the operations available is
listed, click on one. To activate,
Coding
Area
click on the
98
button.
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This area allows you to change
pages
in
the
OK
function
environment. Clicking on the
Page
Selection
Area
button displays the
main page.
Clicking on the
button displays the
DTC page. The data and how to use
information on this page is the same
already depicted in section
DTC page.
Clicking on the
button displays the
controller information page. The
data and how to use information on
this page is the same already
depicted in section
Controller Information page.
Clicking on the
button displays the
report. The data and how to use
information on this page is the same
already depicted in section Report
Diagnosis Page.
Clicking on the
button to Start or stop
the communication between the
Flex and the controller.
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Before executing the functions, check and delete all the trouble
codes in the memory.
The presence of trouble codes in the memory controller could
adversely affect the correct execution of the functions.
21.2.
Service Reset
This function allows the resetting of the dashboard light for service maintenance. This
function also allows the resetting of the other components like brake service or long
life reset (if available on the controller).
21.3.
Oil quality Reset
This function allows the resetting of the
maintenance.
21.4.
Pads Brake Replacement
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When deactivating the Electronic Parking Brake, carefully check
that the vehicle is on a horizontal floor and can not move
autonomously.
This function allows the replacing of the pad brakes when the vehicle is equipped with an
Electronic Parking Brake.
21.5.
TPMS coding sensor
This function performs a Tire Pressure Monitor System DTC check and ID coding for
vehicles equipped with TPMS direct systems.
21.6.
Steering Reset
This function performs steering calibration for vehicles equipped with ESP (Electronic
Stability Program) and/or Electronic Power Steering.
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21.7.
Headlight Replacement
This functions performs the electronic vehicle operation after a Xeno headlight
replacement.
21.8.
FAP regeneration
When performing the Filter Anti Particulate Regeneration, please
carefully check that the vehicle is far from combustible material
and in an open space. Exhaust temperature can reach 1500°F.
This function performs the Filter Anti- particulate Regeneration (diesel engine).
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21.9.
Battery replacement
This function performs the electronic vehicle operation after the Battery replacement.
22. Dashboard Procedure
Sometimes the diagnosis of the vehicle operation is made possible by pressing a specific
sequence of buttons on the dashboard. This procedure is displayed by the Flex when
needed.
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23. EASYDIAG
EASYDIAG is a very useful feature to use during diagnoses to perform specific operations.
Note that EASYDIAG:



prompts you to follow a step by step coding procedure.
indicates where it is possible to take codes or other information requests by the
coding procedure through an explanation or picture
utilizes hyperlink technology to aid in diagnostic operations without selecting
operations
In the Diagnostic environment, when
the EASYDIAG
coding page is
visible, this indicates that an
EASYDIAG procedure is available.
To activate, please click on the
description.
Picture 17: Coding Page with EASYDIAG procedure available
EASYDIAG starts with a main page where important information of the coding is displayed.
Picture 18: EASYDIAG start page
To carry out specific diagnostic operations, it is not necessary to return to the diagnostic
environment. Just click on the the “Carry Out Operation” section.
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After clicking on the hyperlink, the
PC software automatically starts
the procedure selected without any
other selection by the user.
Picture 19: After clicking on the hyperlink, the codings automatically start.
EasyDiag is efficient and valuable because the software knows the
activation/coding/PID involved in the procedure and is not
necessary for the user to know what coding/PID to select on the
controller.
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24. Oscilloscope
The electrical signal is very dangerous if higher than 40V. Please
carefully check that you are protected and safe from accidental
contact with the electrical signal.
Pay extra attention when working with electrical or hybrid vehicles
where voltages can be higher than 1000V.
24.1.
Step
How to connect the cable scope adapter to the Flex
Image
Description
1
Open the tab covering the scope area.
2
Connect the red cable scope to
channel 1 and the blue cable scope to
channel 2 (if needed). These
connections allow coherence between
the cable color and the relative trace
color on the scope page.
3
Before connecting the probe on the
vehicle:


4
Check that the engine is NOT
running
and
all
other
mechanical parts are stopped.
Check that you have adequate
protection to avoid accidental
contact
with
dangerous
electrical signals
On the side of the cable, opposite the
Flex, connect the probe for a more
convenient way to connect to the
electrical signal.
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24.2.
Oscilloscope Main Page
Click on the Oscilloscope icon on the main page to start the PC software to communicate
with the Flex. When the connection is made, the main page will be displayed with all
Oscilloscope sections active.
Picture 20: Oscilloscope Main Page & Main features
Feature
Image
Area Description
EasyScope
EasyScope is a great feature.
With EasyScope, a user can
confidently select a component
to test. The software will display
a short description about the
component, how to test it, and
provide a reference waveform to
compare the electrical signals.
Also,
Easyscope
provides
hyperlinks to automatically set
the scope to measure electrical
signals.
Channel
setting
1
In this section, it is possible to
set the properties of channel 1
(i.e. enable, input coupling,
amplitude (V/div), probe, offsets)
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Channel
setting
2
In this section, it is possible to
set the properties of channel 2
(enable,
input
coupling,
amplitude (V/div), probe, offset).
Time/ samplerate setting
In this section, it is possible to
set the properties for a base
time that provides a useful
waveform. The sampling rate is
adapted by the PC software (the
selection is not possible) to
capture the signal in the buffer
RAM. It permits an in-depth
investigation of the electrical
signal
to
discover
any
imperceptible variations that
could generate faults and
problems on the vehicle.
Trigger setting
In this section, you can select
the data capture method and
display (i.e. continuous way,
when signal has specific value,
one shot)
Zoom analysis
The Zoom analysis permits an
in-depth exploration of the
waveform and helps discover
electrical
problems
that
generate faults on the vehicle.
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The vertical resolution is 13 bits,
more than 8,000 points; which is
enough to capture every single
disturbance.
The resolution of the PC screen
is too low to display the
waveform at full size, so it is
important
to
magnify
the
waveform to discover the
problems that generate faults
Buffer
analysis
RAM
The built-in RAM creates a
buffer where all the captured
electrical signal values are
stored. This is used because
the sampling rate is much higher
than
the
speed
of
communication between the PC
and the Flex. The buffer permits
the tool to stop, capture, and
analyze signals at any point,
making it possible to validate the
value that generated a fault.
Signal
Measurement
The
signal
measurements
automatically display in real
time.
(Measurements
of
electrical signal; like max, min,
medium, period, frequency,
etc.).
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Cursor
It is possible to enable the
amplitude and/or time cursors
on
the
screen
to
take
measurements at a specific
point on the screen.
Math
Functions
FFT
&
Math functions are used to
execute simple mathematical
operations
between
the
electrical signals on the channel.
One useful application is the
multiplication function. If ch1
takes voltage of a signal and
ch2 takes the current, ch1x ch2
results in the power (i.e. the
power needed to open a valve).
Referece
waveform
management
The reference waveform creates
a new reference waveform or
opens a stored waveform to
compare
with
the
actual
captured data.
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24.3.
Probe selections
The FLEX is available with a complete range of electrical signal probes for automotive
acquisition. These are selectable in the software.
Image
Description
The selection of the probe types is available
in «CH1 Settings» and «CH2 Settings». The
default is «standard probe».
The NVH probe is not available at this time.
Standard
Voltage
Probe
Voltage
Attenuator
The standard probes can be used with many
terminal probes to access the electrical
signal.
When connected between the FLEX and the
probe, the Attenuator 20:1 multiplies the
input signal by 20 to increase the actual
value read by the scope. On this setting,
The FLEX SOFTWARE shows the real
voltage value on the screen.
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20A/60A
amperometric
clamp
Connect the standard probe to acquire the
current measurements. Check that the 9V
battery is inserted into the clamp, that the
selector is in the 20A position, and that the
green LED is on. On this setting, the FLEX
software displays the real Ampere value on
the screen.
Connect to the standard probe to acquire
the current value. Check that the 9V battery
is inserted into the clamp, that the selector
is in the 60A position, and that the green
LED is on. On this setting, the FLEX
software displays the real Ampere value on
the screen.
600A
amperometric
clamp
Coil Plug
Coil Plug
inverted
Select to acquire the current value. Check
that the 9V battery is inserted into the clamp
and that the green LED is on. On this
setting, the FLEX software displays the real
Ampere value on the screen.
The coil plug probe acquires the data on
the coil using the inductive principle, without
an electrical connection.
The coil inverted plug probe acquires the
data on the coil using the capacitive
principle, without an electrical connection.
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24.4.
Channel setting
Channels need to be set in accordance to the magnitude of the signal and the capture
mode. Channel 1 is depicted in the following pictures. Operation on Channel 2 is exactly
the same, with the same performance.
Setting
Image
Description
ON/OFF
The checkmark selection
enables/disables the trace on the screen.
DC/AC
DC/AC
DC/AC allows the input coupling
selection. Select between «DC» coupling
and «AC» coupling. When selecting AC
coupling, a capacitor is used in the input
channel to eliminate the DC portion of the
signal (i.e. to evaluate a voltage ripple on
the vehicle battery).
Amplitude.
V/div
Allows selection of the maximum range of
signals present on the screen. Possible
values are:









V/div
±500mV(100mV/div)
±1V(200mV/div)
±2V(400mV/div)
±5V(1V/div)
±10V(2V/div)
±20V(4V/div)
±50V(10/div)
±100V(20V/div)
±200V(40V/div)
Offset.
The offset selection captures and
displays the signal in a different vertical
position, mainly to compensate the DC
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component on the signal or to compare
with the signal on the other channel.
A RED or BLUE ARROW at the top or bottom of the screen means
that the electrical signal is present, but the amplitude signal is
greater/smaller than the amplitude value selected.
In this case, select the right value of V/div.
24.5.
Time base selection
All these scales are acquired without using «time equivalent
software». It means that the sampling is real, it is not virtual; the
screen displays the real signal.
The time base selection is very important because:
 A big period displayed on the screen permits an overview of the waveform
typology; but lessens the resolution.
 A short period in the screen illustrates a quick variation of the electrical signal, but
does not provide an overview of the waveform typology.
Setting
Image
Description
Timebase
Possible values are:












114
200 ns/div
400 ns/div
1 us/div
2 us/div
4 us/div
10us/div
20us/div
40us/div
100us/div
200us/div
400us/div
1 ms/div
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












2 ms/div
4 ms/div
10 ms/div
20 ms/div
40 ms/div
100 ms/div
200 ms/div
400 ms/div
1 s/div
2 s/div
4 s/div
10 s/div
20 s/div
Due to the 100MS/s sampling rate, the waveform resolution is very
high.
With the higher scales, the refresh period could be more than 1 second. For the scales
400ms/div, 1s/div, 2s/div, 4s/div, 10s/div, & 20s/div; the software is automatically set to
«roll mode».
“Roll Mode” means that the screen has a rolling or continuous update.
24.6.
Trigger setting
When «SLOW TRIGGER» appears on the top of the screen, it
indicates that the electrical signal doesn’t match with trigger
conditions.
Setting
Image
Description
CH1/CH2
Channel
Make the channel selection.
Auto/Normal/Single.
Trigger
Type
These selections allow you to capture the
signal in different ways:
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


«Auto» means the data is acquired
in a continuous way.
«Normal» means the
data is
acquired each time that the Trigger
condition is verified.
«Single» means the data is acquired
only the first time that the Trigger
condition is verified.
When Normal is selected, the software
shows a vertical and a horizontal line. Move
the vertical line to the value that you want
the signal to acquire and move the
horizontal line to the time that you want the
signal to acquire. The color of the line
depends on the trigger channel selected.
Select UP if you want to start acquiring the
signal on the next rising edge that passes
through the intersection of the horizontal
and the vertical lines.
Slope
Select Down if you want to start acquiring
the signal on the next falling edge that
passes through the intersection of the
horizontal and vertical lines.
If you don’t know the signal, set the scope in “Auto” mode, then you can set more easily
the trigger condition.
24.7.
Zoom Analysis
In standard mode, the PC software shows the signal captured with the screen resolution.
This is not enough to show all the data captured. Each “sampling” acquired with the Flex
has 13 bits of vertical resolution (8,000 points) and 10,000 points in horizontal resolution.
Using the zoom analysis permits the electrical signal to be shown with real 13 bits of
vertical resolution and always 1000 points in horizontal resolution.
The PC screen can not contain in the same time all the points
acquired with 13 bit resolution (8,192 points) and 100MS/s.
With the zoom feature, we capture the value of the details of the
waveform and the depth electrical analysis.
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Setting
Image
Standard
Zoom In
Description
After clicking on this button, point where
you want to zoom in and click on the diagram.
The software uses a prefixed zoom in %.
Standard
Zoom Out
After clicking on this button, point where
you want to zoom in and click on the diagram.
The software uses a prefixed zoom out %.
Customize
Zoom
After selecting this button, click and hold
the left mouse button to draw a diagonal line
through the rectangular area that you want to
zoom.
Zoom off
Select the specified button to disable the
zoom analysis.
When the Zoom analysis is active in the
bottom right of the diagram, you have a
preview of the complete screen.
To pan the zoom area, press and hold
the left right mouse button. Move and
then release the mouse.
Picture 21: Scope screen during zoom
The Zoom analysis can be made also during the continuous
capture of the data. In the screen you can view the data magnified;
in the little rectangle on the bottom right you can see the complete
waveform and a little rectangle shows the area magnified.
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24.8.
Electrical Signal Measures
When you enable the “measure”, the software automatically shows in the bottom the
“standard” measurements available. It updates this data for each data capture.
Picture 22: Value of measurement
To enable/disable the single measure, please select where the
value will be shown when activated.
If this “---” is showing in the rectangle, it means that is not possible
to calculate the value of this measurement (i.e. frequency value for
a not periodical waveform).
Measurements are available for each channel and values are calculated based on the
traces depicted on the screen.
The measurements available for each channel are:
 Maximum
 Minimum
 Period
 Frequency
 DC average
 Duty cycle
 Peak-Peak
 Fall time
 Rise Time
 High Pulse
 Low Pulse
24.9.
Measure with the cursor
Image
Description
Cursor
window
selection
Press on the cursor combo.
Select the cursor type to activate.
After the selection of the cursor, it
will be activated and the relative
value is displayed in the bottom
of the screen.
Drag and drop the cursor to move
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to the desired position.
Time Cursor
The Time Cursor is useful to
analyze the waveform in terms of
period and frequency.
Amplitude
Cursor
Amplitude Cursor is useful to
analize waveform in term of
amplitude
Time
&
Amplitude
Cursor
Value
cursor
Combine the time and amplitude
mode
at
In this case only 1 cursor is
shown. On the bottom, both the
values of CH1 and CH2 are
shown at the cursor time position.
24.10. RAM Buffer 64MB (intermittent fault analysis)
The built-in RAM is used to store the Real Time continuous electrical signals to avoid the
loss of data. The RAM storage allows you to capture intermittent electrical faults.
The built-in RAM allows us to detect the intermittent fault, because
the communication speed with the PC (also 100Mbit/s) is not
enough to transfer all the data acquired from the scope.
The built-in RAM saves all theacquired points and reviews step by
step the reasons of the intermittent fault.
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The buffer is organized in 1000 windows acquired in coherence with the trigger condition.
Image
Open
window
selection
Play
Button
Move
Description
Press the specified button to
show the window selection area. Select
the window to analyse with the horizontal
arrows and confirm. The waveform is put
in the main screen and can be analysed
with «ZOOM» and «CURSOR» features.
Click on the “Play” button to see
continuously play the 1,000 windows; click
on the Stop button to stop on the specific
window to check the signal(s).
Use the arrow buttons to change the
windows. Click on the “Double arrow” to
move to the start or end of the buffer data.
The value displayed in the middle indicates
the number of the buffer windows shown on
the screen.
Click on the “OK” button to select the
window. The PC software displays this
data on the main screen; you can use the
“Data Analysis feature” to check the data
acquired (zoom analysis included).
Use the save button to save the
buffer and review for another time if needed.
Saving data has high and low resolution.
High resolution permits to save all the buffer
data including data captured for the scope.
The amount of time needed to save a
window in high resolution is 5 seconds.
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Click on this button to open a list of
buffers saved on the PC. If the buffer was
saved in high resolution; it is possible to
use the zoom function to view more detail
on the data acquired.
.
Picture 23: Sequence to find window where intermittent fault is occurred and zoom feature to analyze
it in depth
The buffer scope has 2 modes: Auto Mode or Normal Mode (set the trigger mode in Auto
or Normal).
When the FLEX is in the Auto mode, the FLEX acquires the data in a continuous way and
it is possible to monitor the electrical signal constantly, as opposed to sampling the data in
an interval time. All the signals are captured and you can observe the continuity of
the electrical signal.
In Normal Mode, the FLEX waits for the event trigger, then acquires a window and saves
the data. This feature is useful when it is important to analyze what happens in a different
specific situation. It evaluates the difference and attempts to avoid analyzing windows not
relevant for the analysis.
Picture 24: Buffer feature in Normal mode Trigger
The buffer feature is available for time base setting from 2us/div to 200ms/div.
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24.11. Reference waveform
Image
Start/Stop
capture
data
Description
Start/Stop Acquisition.
Press the specified button to start/stop the
processing of the data.
When the «Play»
icon is visible, the
processing is stopped. When the «Pause»
icon is visible, the processing is in
progress.
The other buttons in this section are
disabled during the data processing.
Save
waveform
Open
Reference
Waveform
Remove
the
Reference
Waveform
Press this button to save the
waveform. The software will show a
window to with the option of adding a note to
the waveform.
Click this button to select the
waveform previously saved. The software
will automatically set the amplitude and the
timing.
Remove the
from the screen.
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Picture 25: Example of sequence to realize a comparison with signal captured on your vehicle and
reference waveform
24.12. Math Functions & FFT
Image
MATH/FFT
MATH
Selection
Description
Select the «FUNCTIONS» combo box to
activate the MATH or FFT analysis.
The MATH enables special functions to
manage the signals:
«Invert» Allows you to invert the signal.
«A+B» sums the CH1 and CH2 signals
«A-B» subtracts the CH1 and CH2 signals
«A*B» multiplies the CH1 and CH2 signals
«A/B» divides the CH1 and CH2 signals
Please select the functions and confirm to
activate the MATH analysis.
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The MATH analysis combines the data captured on the channel
scope. For example, if you are using subtract during the CAN
analysis, it shows the difference of the signal and identifies easily
the problem in the communication line.
FFT allows you to enable the Fast Fourier Transform of the signals. When
selecting this feature, the software displays the FFT results on the bottom of
the screen. Use the cursor to enable the vertical line and check the
frequency and the amplitude of the signal.
Picture 26: FFT, amplitude and frequency
The FFT analysis is very useful when you need to analyse the
signal spectrum (frequency).
24.13. EASY Scope
The Easy Scope is an innovative concept that integrates technical data with a guide to test
the component. The Easy Scope gives to you the reference waveform and by using the
hyperlinks, helps to set the amplitude/timing of scope/multimeter.
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Select component to investigate.
1. Click on the EasyScope ComboBox,
2. select the “Actuators”, “Sensors” or the “Communication Line”
3. Then select the component to test.
The Easy Scope Component database is updated continuously.
Update the PC software to integrate new component included in the
Easy Scope.
Image
Description
Full screen technical data.
Click on the specified button to show only
technical data on the screen.
Full screen scope.
Click on the specified button to show only
the scope on the screen.
Half screen scope/technical data
Click on the specified button to show the
scope and the technical data simultaneously
on the screen.
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The Easy Scope is based on the hyperlink technology. Click on “Carry out Operation”
to activate the Scope (or Multimeter). The PC software automatically sets the scope
and the user needs just to connect the probes on the vehicle to compare the vehicle
signal with the reference waveform.
Picture 27: EasyScope example
25. Multimeter
The 16-bit multimeter is available to add more features with the FLEX tool. The Multimeter
uses Channel 1 (CH1) for the measure. To activate the multimeter environment, click on
the Multimeter icon on the home page.
25.1.
Image
Voltage Measurement
Description
During the measurements, the software
shows actual, minimum, and maximum
values.
The value acquired is shown in the graphical
mode.
Use this button to reset the
minimum and the maximum values.
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Use this button to save the trace.
Use this specified button to recall the trace
and press «PLAY» to review.
25.2.
Multimeter – Resistance
Please be sure that the measured components are not supplied
from another source.
Before to applying a probe to measure resistance, be sure that 5V
won’t damage the components and that the components can
support the related current.
To activate resistance, click on the
icon on the multimter page. The data displayed
and the button functionality is the same as illustrated in the previous paragraph
25.3.
Multimeter – Continuity Test
Please be sure that the measured components are not supplied
from another source.
Before to applying a probe to measure resistance, be sure that 5V
won’t damage components and that the components can support
the related current
To activate the continuity test, click on the
icon on the multimeter page. When the
resistance is measured and it is lower than 50 ohms, a sound is emitted from the PC (if the
audio on the PC is enabled).
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26. Combined Test
The Combined Test allows you to compare electrical signals coming from the scope/
multimeter with serial data coming from the vehicle controller. This is very useful to
understand if a fault is due to:
 Sensor fault (electrical value and relative PID controller is wrong)
 Connection cable between the controller and the sensor; or the controller itself is
faulty (electrical value is good but relative PID controller is wrong). In this case, it is
possible to determine if the fault is on the cable or on the controller by checking the
electrical signal on the sensor side or in the controller sensor.
Image
Description
Select the vehicle.
1
Select the controllers to be tested.
When the controller begins communication
with the FLEX, select the scope
from the left vertical bar.
icon
At any time, you can move to a full screen
scope, full screen diagnosis or a half screen
diagnosis & scope; using these buttons in
the left bar:
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26.1.
Sensor check
To start this test, select the PIDs
related to the sensor - and set the
scope (probe type, timebase and
V/div) as depicted in section
Oscilloscope
As depicted in the picture, the
controller PID data and the
electrical signals are in the same
page that you can compare. It’s
possible to show the PID data in
a graphical way by clicking on the
Picture 28: Sensor test using combined test
button and selecting the PID desired.
26.2.
Component Test
To perform this test, select the component activation related to the actuator in order to
check as depicted in the diagnostic environment - Component Activations (Actuators)
page and set the scope (probe type, timebase and V/div) as depicted on section
Oscilloscope.
If an electrical signal from a component is coherent during the activation, but the
actuator doesn’t work, investigate the problem on the component.
If an electrical signal from a component is not coherent during the activation, please
check the cable between the actuator and the controller, and then check the controller
for issues.
26.3.
Multimeter combined test
If the electrical signal is slow, it’s possible to use the multimeter feature, instead of the
oscilloscope, during the combined testing.
27. Easyfix
27.1.
Introduction
This system is an Interactive and Integrated (diagnosis, scope/multimeter and
technical data) Troubleshooting hyperlink guide. One that leads the user step by
step to find problems related to faulty electronic components or DTC error
codes.
Easy Fix is an integrated environment. When you need to show technical data,
display a PID value, code a component, or see an electrical signal; this is carried
out simply by clicking on “Carry out operation”.
The Easy Fix system automatically selects the PIDs involved in the operation,
and/or sets the Time/div & V/div on the scope, and/or shows electrical
diagrams/waveforms referenced. It automatically sets the system to carry out
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the operation and doesn’t require the user to select specific PIDs, activations,
Time/divs, etc. This saves a lot of time.
The Easy Fix icons correspond to the diagnosis shows the DTC error codes. The Easy
Fix system is started by clicking on the DTC.
1. A Preliminary Analysis procedure is displayed. The software tries to enable/disable
the components related to the DTC error codes.
2. Afterwards, by using the self-diagnostic connection, the parameters are analyzed
and the tests are performed with the activations. The Component Connector Pinouts are identified and the Combined Tests are performed.
3. Once the Combined Test starts, the software shows, in real time; the diagnostic
parameters and the electronic signals (scope or Multimeter).
4. In the last section of the EasyFix procedure, it is possible to display the Electrical
Wiring, the Component(s) Position, and the Component(s) Description
The EasyFix assists in quickly identifying the fault source(s) and helps to avoid
replacement of unnecessary functional components.
Picture 29: Different environments integrated with hyperlink technology
The Easy Fix technology is a component (sensor, actuator, communication line) based
technology. Typical examples of testable components are injectors, fans, temperature
sensors, EGR valves, throttle sensors, and CAN lines.
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27.2.
DTC or Component Check
You can start Easyfix in 2 different ways:
 “EasyFix” will be displayed between the code and DTC description.

Select the EasyFix tab from the diagnostic page and then select the component
to check from the list.
The Easy Fix icons correspond to the diagnosis shows the DTC error codes. The Easy
Fix system is started by clicking on the DTC.
After the component/DTC selection, how to test the component and what operations to
perform is summarized.
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Click on the summary items to show subtitles or open technical sheets regarding how
to perform the operation selected.
Main items on this summary are:
 Preliminary Analysis
 Depth Test
 Controller coding after repair
 Technical Data
27.3.
Preliminary Analysis
The preliminary analysis is used to confirm, in a very quick manner, that the faulty
component is identified. Examples: You can have the controller that issues a DTC on
an EGR valve, but the problem is in the air-flow mass meter. Or you can have a fan
actuator DTC, but the problem is with the engine temperature, etc..
27.4.
Depth Test
Faults can be generated from the component (sensor/actuator) failures, cable failures,
and controller failures. Utilize the scope to detect the exact cause of the fault and to
avoid replacing a good component.
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



27.5.
The Pin Connector description is depicted to indicate the meaning of each
individual pin.
Reference waveforms are depicted to compare with waveforms acquired from
the vehicle to determine if the signal is accurate.
Value limit helps determine if values measured are out of limit.
Clicking on the hyperlink shows additional information and automatically
sets the diagnostic scope for the test.
Controller coding after repair
After a repair, it is important to indicate that a controller is active. Easy Fix determines
to delete the DTC or if more additional coding is required. On the page, it is explained
how to find the information required during the coding procedure. Clicking on “Carry out
Operation” starts this operation automatically.
27.6.
Technical Data
Sometimes during the Easy Fix test, technical data may be needed. Based on selection
“component oriented”, the technical data introduced is related only to the component.
This saves a lot of time searching i.e. component into electrical diagrams, meanings of
pin connections, etc..
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27.6.1.
Component Position
The component position feature shows where components are located.
27.6.2.
Pin Description
The pin description shows the meaning of the electrical signal for the pin on the
connector.
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27.6.3.
Electrical Diagram
The electrical diagram shows pin connections between the component and the
controller.
Easy Fix is a very powerful technology because it allows you to
perform a test directly from sequence tests. Hyperlinks
automatically set PIDs, scope and multimeter without any selection
from the user.
28. Test Database
This button, located on the left vertical bar (present throughout the software except on the
main page), accesses the history of the test.
Picture 30: Test Database Environment
28.1.
Last vehicle selected
opens a page that shows the latest vehicle selected.
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Click on the vehicle that you
want to diagnose.
Picture 31: Last vehicle selected
28.2.
Last diagnosis
opens a page that shows the latest diagnostic report.
The top area shows the list with the
diagnostic report stored. When you
select a line, in the bottom area of
the screen, you are shown the
report that you can review and
print.
Click on the selection Report
Diagnosis Page.
28.3.
Last charts
shows a list of latest road test performed.
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When a line is clicked, a Road Test page is automatically opened to show the PID
practical analysis.
29. Diagnostic Software Update
In order to update the tester, you will need: a PC with the software
supplied on the CD-ROM installed, Internet access and a password.
Obtain the password from your supplier.
The password is associated with the serial number of your tester
and the database release you want enabled.
If, after updating the tester, you select a vehicle and get “Vehicle
not available - Contact Service”, it means you have used a
password for an older release. Contact your supplier to obtain the
latest release password
1
Launch the FLEX software and press
the Update Button.
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2
Press “OK” to start the update
program.
Flex
software
will
automatically close after the OK
button is pressed.
3
When the update software starts,
press in the middle of the red oval to
launch the procedure.
4
Enter the password and press “OK”.
5
Enter the personal data and press
“OK”.
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6
Select the language to download and
press “OK”.
7
Press “OK”.
8
Wait until the update is complete.
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9
Press “OK” at the end of the update.
10
Close the update program to finalize
the process.
29.1.
Firmware Update
29.1.1.
Automatic procedure
For some major updates, it may be necessary to update the internal firmware of the tool.
When you try to use the tool and a new firmware is available, you will be informed that you
must perform the firmware update. The procedure is automatic, but you must follow some
important steps.
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
If you are using a different kind of
communication with the FLEX, it’s
necessary to switch to USB. Otherwise
this step is skipped.
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2
A pop-up message informs you that a
new firmware is available and the tool
must be updated. Press OK for the
next step.
3
This warning message alerts you to
disconnect the tool ONLY when
requested. Press OK to continue.
4
Disconnect the device from the USB,
and shut it down if necessary. Then
press OK.
5
Reconnect the device through the
USB. Windows may recognize the tool
as a new interface. Close this window
and press OK.
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6
Disconnect the device from the USB
and shut it down if necessary. Then
press OK.
7
Reconnect the device through the USB
and press OK.
8
The update of the firmware is
complete. You can see the new
firmware version on the bottom right of
the Flex’s LCD.
Press OK to exit.
29.1.2.
Emergency procedure
A firmware update is a delicate operation. If something went wrong, the tool is
stuck on the “Magneti Marelli” logo, and you can’t use it anymore. A recovery
procedure is available for the tool.
STEP
Images
Step Description
1
Turn OFF the tool completely.
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2
Keep the down arrow button
pressed on the tool and connect
the tool through the USB.
3
The FLEX must power up with
this
screen.
Windows
recognizes the tool as a Mass
Storage unit.
4
Open “Computer” to locate the
new Removable Storage called
“Flex”, and double click on it to
open.
5
Inside you can find a file
“firmware.bin”. Select the file
and delete it.
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6
Go back to the desktop. Right
click the Flex icon and select
“Open file location”. If this option
is not available, you can locate
the folder at this path:
x:\mm\mm_flex
(x is the drive where you have
installed the Flex)
7
Here you can find a folder called
“update_flex”. Double click on it
to open.
8
Locate the file “firmware.bin”.
Select it with the right button
and press copy.
9
Go back to the Computer and
open the Removable Storage
“Flex”.
Here paste your
“firmware.bin” that you copied
in the previous step.
10
Now you can unplug the USB
from the Flex, though the
display is still in the same
screen as step 3. The device
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now is updated and you can use
it normally.
30. xTEST Procedure
In case of the diagnostic communication fault, please check the device with
xTest procedure.
Power-up the tool with the power supply provided.
WARNING: during this test, the tool MUST NOT be connected to any vehicle.
Avoiding this warning can damage the tool and the vehicle itself.
In the Home page, select
Cars/MPV, and follow this path:
2013
XTEST DIAG MODULE
XTEST
In “System selection” select:
TEST DIAGNOSTIC MODULE
Verify the power supply of the
FLEX.
A normal diagnosis page will open.
Select “Active Test”
left menu.
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Select the “Diagnosis MODULE
test “and press the button
execute the test.
to
At the end of the test, press the
“Diagnostic error Codes”
button and verify that the DTC is
reported.
If the message “NO ERRORS” is
displayed, the Flex works correctly.
If errors are present, the failure Pins
are displayed.
If possible, see the result of the test
by clicking the
button and print it.
“Report”
All the reports can be displayed a
second time using this
vehicle” button and selecting
”Last diagnosis”.
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31. FLEX – Galvanic Insulation

It’s very important to avoid any possibility of short circuiting a component in the car.
The FLEX has an integrated galvanic insulation between the scope/multimeter area
and the other parts of the tool. This includes the PC connection.

WARNING: if the user connects and the Scope GND Probe creates a
differential signal, it can create a potential short circuit through the chain and
can potentially destroy the diagnostic tester, Scope, or Car component.
Other potential risks occur when using a battery charger connected to the car at the
same time a PC is connected to the main power supply.

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32. FAQ
The OK functions or the Plant cannot be used:
 Make sure that the password has not expired. Contact your local distributor to receive
the password, and then enter the correct password from the Configuration menu.
Failed communication with the vehicle:
 Ensure that the Diagnostics cable is correctly and completely connected.
 Ensure that the instrument panel is on.
 Check the Diagnostic connector fuse.
 Ensure you selected the correct Vehicle.
 Through the instrument indications, check whether it is necessary to connect the
Battery power cable to the vehicle.
 Check the vehicle battery voltage.
The instrument does not turn on:
Connect an alternative power supply (main power supply, vehicle battery power cable,
USB). If the unit turns on, the battery may need charging or may be defective.
The OK Function result is not successful:

Ensure that there are no errors in the ECU. If there are errors, fix the problem and
delete them.

Ensure the ECU is not in stand-by. In this case, although parameters could be
correctly displayed, the Activations or the Setup are may not be concluded successfully.
Stop communication with the vehicle, switch the instrument panel off and
back on, then perform the required operation within approximately 1 minute.
The parameter values or the status are not correct:

Ensure you selected the right vehicle/controller.
If the Flex doesn’t switch on through the PC connection, before continuing please:
 Disconnect the USB cable from the PC.
 Switch ON the Flex using the main power supply adapter (refer to How to power
on/off the equipment)
 Connect the USB cable between the Flex and the PC.
The PC can not recognize the Wi-Fi automatic connection.
In this case, select the wireless connection and connect to «Flex_xxxx» network,
before starting the Flex software.
The PC doesn’t communicate with the Flex
 Please check using the procedure illustrated in Check the communication
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
(How to make sure the communication between the PC and the Flex is
working


Check carefully that Bluetooth, USB or Wifi on your PC is properly working.
If the communication is not working, try to change the communication
method (Bluetooth, Wifi or USB) using the setup depicted in Flex Tester –
PC Setup Communication.
How to check the Flex Serial Number
The Flex serial number is very important because all the passwords used to activate
the user license is based on the serial number. For any communication with your
distributor , it is important to supply your distributor with the Flex Serial Number. Please
refer to paragraph How to Read Serial Number and compare this value with the serial
number written on the label attached on the Flex. If these two values are not the same,
please contact your distributor urgently.
I can’t find my vehicle.
Please check that you have selected the right “vehicle type” in the main page and also the
right year during the vehicle selection.
Loss of diagnostic communication after a few minutes
Some vehicles have the battery safe mode and terminate the controller
communications if the engine is stopped. Please follow the indication on the display
after the controller selection, to keep the dashboard on.
Activation and coding do not work after some time but the PIDS and the DTCs are
updating
Some vehicles have the battery safe mode and terminate the controller
communications if the engine is stopped. Please follow the indication on the display
after the controller selection, to keep the dashboard on.
I can’t find on the diagnostic PID page, the VIN, the Diesel injectors code, or the ID
TPMS sensor
 Please check if this value is in the Controller Information Page.
The diagnosis DTC description is not present or the description does not seem
valid
 Please carefully check that the controller/vehicle selected on the Flex software is
the controller/vehicle that you want to diagnose.
 If you are confident you have selected the right controller/vehicle, please contact
our call center with the DTC code and ID line (specific code for vehicle selection),
please refer to Software Version Information to receive the description about the
DTC.
Communication with the controller is not possible

Communication with the controller is not possible if the vehicle battery voltage is
lower than 11V. Please check the battery voltage if there is a communication
problem between the controller and the Flex.

The diagnostic cable is not inserted into the device or the OBDII socket.
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
In case the cable adapter is different from the OBDII, please check if it is also
required to connect the battery cable adapter (specially for motorbike) to take
the ground or the power supply for the Flex.
Diagnostic coding “fail”
 Be sure that you carefully followed the instructions on the display.
 Some codings can return the “Fail” message from the controller. Please
carefully check the operating conditions (i.e. the fluid refrigerant
temperature).
 In some cases you can receive this message because the specific controller
can’t support this coding.
The electrical signal captured with the scope/multimeter seems different than in
reality or appears floating
 Check that the negative termination of the cable scope (black color) is
correctly connected to reference signal (ground normally).
 Check that the negative termination of the cable scope is connected at the
same signal.
 Check that the fuse on the negative (black color) termination of cable scope
is not interrupted.
33. Hardware & Software minimum PC Requirement








Processor: Intel i3 or equivalent.
Hard Disk: 50 GB (5GB needed)
RAM 512MB
Operating system: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8
USB ports 1.1 or higher
Internet access to download Sw up-dates
Graphic resolution: 1280 x 800 display laptop, 1600 x 900 external monitor
Internet access for update software download
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34. Technical features
Size: 1.5’’x 3.9’’ x 5.9’’
Weight: 12oz
Operating temperature: 0 - 140°F
IP54. Anti-shock protection integrated (rubber over-molded)
LCD: 320x240 TFT 300cd/m2 - 2.8’’
Usb/Wi-fi/Bluetooth built-in
Keyboard 7 button
Galvanic insulation PC-Scope
Internal Lithium battery 7.4V-1000mA/h
34.1.
Diagnosis Module Technical Data
1GB built in flash memory for flight recorder
Full electronic OBDII multiplexer
Protocol supported: Pulse code
KL-ISO9141
K-ISO14230
SAE J1850VPW
SAE J18050PWM
CAN low/ high speed
RS485
ISO 15765
SAE J2610
SO 11992
SAE J2740
SAE J2411
SAE J1939
ISO 11992
SAE J2534-2 PASS-THROUGH compliant.
34.2.
Oscilloscope Technical Data
Vertical resolution: 13 bits
Channels: 2
Bandwidth: 20 MHz
Sensitivity: 10mV/div to 20V/div
Input Ranges: ±100 mV/div to ±40 V/div
Overload protection: ±200V on single input
Sample rate/channel: 100MS/s
Buffer Memory: RAM 64MByte
Time base range: 200 ns/div to 20 s/div
Galvanic insulation: YES
Input Impedance: 1Mohm – 47pF
Input Coupling: AC/DC
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34.3.
Multimeter Technical Data
Multimeter vertical resolution: 16 bit
Measured Values: Voltage – Resistance
Tolerance: 1% on full scale
Input coupling: DC
Input voltage: Max. ±100 V
Voltage scales: 10 positions 0.1 V/div – 20 V/div
Resistance scales:1 Ω /div – 100 kΩ/div
Time scales: 0.3s/div – 10s/div
Resistance values that can be measured: max. 50 kΩ
35. FCC number homologation
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