Topdon Ultrascan OBDCAN PLUS User manual

2016-06-15
V1.00.00
Note: This manual applies to Ultrascan OBDCAN serial products
(including Ultrascan OBDCAN PLUS and Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite)
and is subject to change without prior written notice.

Ultrascan OBDCAN Series User’s Manual
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Disclaimer
To take full advantage of the unit, you should be familiar with the•
engine.
All information, illustrations, and specifications contained in this•
manual are based on the latest information available at the time
of publication. The right is reserved to make change at any time
without notice.
Safety Precautions and Warnings
To prevent personal injury or damage to vehicles and/or the
Ultrascan OBDCAN series, please read this user’s manual first
carefully and observe the following safety precautions at a minimum
whenever working on a vehicle:
Always perform automotive testing in a safe environment.•
Do not attempt to operate or observe the tool while driving•
a vehicle. Operating or observing the tool will cause driver
distraction and could cause a fatal accident.
Wear safety eye protection that meets ANSI standards.•
Keep clothing, hair, hands, tools, test equipment, etc. away from•
all moving or hot engine parts.
Operate the vehicle in a well-ventilated work area: Exhaust gases•
are poisonous.
Put blocks in front of the drive wheels and never leave the vehicle•
unattended while running tests.
Use extreme caution when working around the ignition coil,•
distributor cap, ignition wires and spark plugs. These components
create hazardous voltages when the engine is running.
Put the transmission in P (for A/T) or N (for M/T) and make sure•
the parking brake is engaged.
Keep a re extinguisher suitable for gasoline/chemical/ electrical •
res nearby.
Don’t connect or disconnect any test equipment while the ignition•
is on or the engine is running.
Keep this tool dry, clean, free from oil/water or grease. Use a mild•
detergent or a clean cloth to clean it if necessary.

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Ultrascan OBDCAN Series User’s Manual
Table of Content
1 INTRODUCTION...........................................................................1
2 General Information.......................................................................2
2.1 On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II ...................................................2
2.2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)...............................................2
2.3 Location of the Data Link Connector (DLC).................................3
3 Product Descriptions .....................................................................5
3.1 Outline of Ultrascan OBDCAN PLUS/Elite ..................................5
3.2 Specications ..............................................................................6
3.3 Accessories .................................................................................6
4 Connections & Settings .................................................................7
4.1 Install TF card (Only applies to Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite)..........7
4.2 Connections.................................................................................7
4.3 Settings........................................................................................8
4.4 Help .............................................................................................8
5 How To Diagnose ........................................................................10
5.1 OBDII/EOBD Diagnosing ..........................................................10
5.2 System Diagnosing (Only For Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite)..........13
6 OBD Review Data .......................................................................14
7 Update (For Ultrascan OBDCAN PLUS) ......................................15
7 Update (For Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite).........................................16
8 FAQ ..............................................................................................21

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1 INTRODUCTION
The Ultrascan OBDCAN Serial products include Ultrascan OBDCAN
PLUS and Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite, which are especially designed
for the DIY users and repair professionals of workshops.
Featuring the slim design and user-friendly function menu, the
Ultrascan OBDCAN PLUS supports all 10 models of OBDII test for
a complete diagnosis, which enables you to read/clear DTCs and
read data stream in live graphic form, retrieve VIN info, view I/M
readiness, freeze data and real-time O2sensor data.
In addition to the diagnosing function mentioned above, Ultrascan
OBDCAN Elite also allows you to diagnose the basic electronic
control systems of single vehicle model and diagnosis functions
include Read DTCs, Clear DTCs, Read data stream etc.
It can be upgraded via TF card: Download the update package into
the TF card and then insert the TF card into your tool to keep it
updated with the latest software version.
Note: The Ultrascan OBDCAN Serial products may automatically reset
while being disturbed by strong static electricity. THIS IS A NORMAL
REACTION.

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2 General Information
2.1 On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II
The first generation of On-Board Diagnostics (called OBD I) was
developed by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) and
implemented in 1988 to monitor some of the emission control
components on vehicles. As technology evolved and the desire
to improve the On-Board Diagnostic system increased, a new
generation of On-Board Diagnostic system was developed. This
second generation of On-Board Diagnostic regulations is called “OBD
II”.
The OBD II system is designed to monitor emission control systems
and key engine components by performing either continuous or
periodic tests of specic components and vehicle conditions. When
a problem is detected, the OBD II system turns on a warning lamp
(MIL) on the vehicle instrument panel to alert the driver typically by
the phrase of “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon”. The system
will also store important information about the detected malfunction
so that a technician can accurately find and fix the problem. Here
below follow three pieces of such valuable information:
1) Whether the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is commanded ‘on’
or ‘off’;
2) Which, if any, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored;
3) Readiness Monitor status.
2.2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
OBD II Diagnostic Trouble Codes are codes that are stored by the
on-board computer diagnostic system in response to a problem
found in the vehicle. These codes identify a particular problem area
and are intended to provide you with a guide as to where a fault
might be occurring within a vehicle. OBD II Diagnostic Trouble Codes
consist of a ve-digit alphanumeric code. The rst character, a letter,
identies which control system sets the code. The second character,
a number, 0-3; other three characters, a hex character, 0-9 or A-F
provide additional information on where the DTC originated and the

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operating conditions that caused it to set. Here below is an example
to illustrate the structure of the digits:
2.3 Location of the Data Link Connector (DLC)
The DLC (Data Link Connector or Diagnostic Link Connector) is the
standardized 16-cavity connector where diagnostic code readers
interface with the vehicle’s on-board computer. The DLC is usually
located 12 inches from the center of the instrument panel (dash),
under or around the driver’s side for most vehicles. If Data Link
Connector is not located under dashboard, a label should be there
telling location. For some Asian and European vehicles, the DLC

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Ultrascan OBDCAN Series User’s Manual
is located behind the ashtray and the ashtray must be removed
to access the connector. If the DLC cannot be found, refer to the
vehicle’s service manual for the location.
Figure 2-1

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3 Product Descriptions
3.1 Outline of Ultrascan OBDCAN PLUS/Elite
Figure 3-1
1 OBD-16 Connector Connects the handset to the vehicle’s
Data Link Connector (DLC)
2 USB Port/TF Card
Slot Cover
3 USB Port To connect on PC to update the rmware.
4 TF Card Slot Insert the TF card into it to update your
handset.
5 LCD Display Indicates test results.

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Ultrascan OBDCAN Series User’s Manual
6 OK Button Confirms a selection (or action) from a
menu list.
7▼Button Move cursor down for selection.
8 Handgrip
9►Button Move cursor right for selection; Or turn
page down when more than one page is
displayed.
10 Button To retrieve the DTCs in the database.
11 Button Exit the current program or return to the
previous screen.
12 ◄Button Move cursor left for selection; Or turn
page up when more than one page is
displayed.
13 ▲Button Move cursor up for selection.
3.2 Specications
1) Screen: 2.8” TFT, 320*240 LCD display
2) Input voltage range: 9~18V
3) Operating current: 150mA@12V (Typical)
4) Power consumption: 1.8W (Typical)
5) Operating temperature: 32°F~122°F / 0°C~50°C
6) Storage temperature: -4°F~158°F / -20°C ~70°C
7) Working humidity: < 80%
3.3 Accessories
1) Main Unit
2) User’s Manual
3) USB cable
4) TF card (Only available on Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite)
5) TF card reader (Only available on Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite)

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4 Connections & Settings
4.1 Install TF card (Only applies to Ultrascan OBDCAN
Elite)
1) Take out the TF card from package box.
2) Insert the TF card into the TF card slot perpendicularly. Make
sure is fully inserted in the right place with the “micro” label facing
upward.
Note: You can hear a clicking sound if you insert the TF card in the right
place. Press the card slightly, it will be ejected automatically.
4.2 Connections
1) Turn the ignition off.
2) Locate the vehicle’s DLC socket.
3) Plug one end of the diagnostic cable into the OBDII 16pin
connector of Ultrascan OBDCAN Serial products, and connect
the other end to the vehicle’s DLC.
4) Turn the ignition on. Engine can be off or running.
5) After nishing, the system will start initializing. After initialization,
the system will enter the main menu interface. See Fig. 4-1.
Figure 4-1 (For Ultrascan
OBDCAN PLUS)
Figure 4-1 (For Ultrascan
OBDCAN Elite)
CAUTION: Don’t connect or disconnect any test equipment with ignition
on or engine running.

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4.3 Settings
Select [Settings] in the main menu and press [OK] to enter.
Figure 4-2
1) Language
This option enables you to set the user interface language.
Note: Due to continuous software upgrade, language interface may differ
from different software versions.
2) Unit of Measure
This option allows you to set measurement unit.
3) Record Mode
It is used to turn on/off the record mode. Once it is set as “ON”,
an red solid circle appears and then the tool will record the DTCs,
datastream and freeze frame data.
4.4 Help
This menu enables you to view device information and OBD
introduction.
In main menu, select [Help] and press [OK] to enter Figure 4-3.

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Figure 4-3
1) DTC Library (Only applies to Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite)
This option enables you to retrieve the detailed denition of the DTC
from the DTC library.
Press [►]/[◄] to move the highlight bar to different position; press
[▲]/[▼] to alter the value, and then press [OK] to retrieve the
denitions of the DTC.
2) About OBD
This option allows you to have a general knowledge of OBD.
3) About Datastream
This item lists the abbreviation form and detailed denition of Data
stream items.
4) Tool Information
This item lets you to view the related information of the tool.
Note: You are strongly recommended to note down the Serial Number
and Register Code since these 2 pieces of information are required while
registering your Ultrascan OBDCAN Serial products.

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5 How To Diagnose
5.1 OBDII/EOBD Diagnosing
This option presents a quick way to check for DTCs, isolate the
cause of the illuminated Malfunction Indicator Lamp(MIL), check
monitor status prior to emissions certication testing, verify repairs,
and perform a number of other services that are emission-related.
Figure 5-1 (For Ultrascan
OBDCAN PLUS)
Figure 5-1 (For Ultrascan
OBDCAN Elite)
In Figure 5-1 (For Ultrascan OBDCAN PLUS), press [OK] and the
screen will enter Fig. 5-3.
In Figure 5-1 (For Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite), press [▲]/[▼] to
highlight the “OBDII Diagnose”, and then press [OK] to enter Fig.
5-2.
Figure 5-2

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Press [OK], a screen similar to Figure 5-3 will appear:
Figure 5-3
It mainly includes the following functions:
1. Read Codes
This option is used to identify which section of the emission control
system has malfunctioned.
2. Erase Codes
After reading the retrieved codes from the vehicle and certain repairs
have been carried out, you can use this function to erase the codes
from the vehicle. Before performing this function, please be sure the
vehicle’s ignition key is in the ON position with the engine off.
Notes:
Before performing this function, make sure to retrieve and record the•
trouble codes.
After clearing, you should retrieve trouble codes once more or turn•
ignition on and retrieve codes again. If there are still some trouble codes
in the system, please troubleshoot the code using a factory diagnosis
guide, then clear the code and recheck.
3. I/M Readiness
I/M refers to Inspection and Maintenance that is legislated by the
Government to meet federal clean-air standards. I/M Readiness
indicates whether or not the various emissions-related systems on
the vehicle are operating properly and are ready for Inspection and

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Maintenance testing.
The purpose of the I/M Readiness Monitor Status is to indicate which
of the vehicle’s Monitors have run and completed their diagnosis
and testing, and which ones have not yet run and completed testing
and diagnosis of their designated sections of the vehicle’s emissions
system.
4. Data Stream
This option retrieves and displays live data and parameters from the
vehicle’s ECU.
5. View Freeze Frame
When an emission-related fault occurs, certain vehicle conditions
are recorded by the on-board computer. This information is referred
to as freeze frame data. Freeze Data is a snapshot of the operating
conditions at the time of an emission-related fault.
Note: If DTCs were erased, Freeze Data may not be stored in vehicle
memory depending on vehicle.
6. O2 sensor test
The results of O2 sensor test are not live values but instead the
results of the ECU’s last O2 sensor test. For live O2 sensor readings,
refer to any of the live sensor screens such as Graph Screen.
Not all test values are applicable to all vehicles. Therefore, the list
generated will vary depending on vehicle. In addition, not all vehicles
support the Oxygen Sensors screen.
7. On-board monitor test
This function can be utilized to read the results of on-board
diagnostic monitoring tests for specic components/systems.
8. EVAP System Test
The EVAP test function lets you initiate a leak test for the vehicle’s
EVAP system.
9. Vehicle Info
This option displays the vehicle information, such as VIN (Vehicle
Identification Number), CID (Calibration ID) and CVN (Calibration
Verication Number).

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5.2 System Diagnosing (Only For Ultrascan OBDCAN
Elite)
This function is specially designed to diagnose all electronic control
systems of single vehicle model.
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)•
SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)•
Note: Before diagnosing, please make sure the diagnostic program
corresponding to certain vehicle model has been installed on your Ultrascan
OBDCAN Elite.
Refer to the owchart illustrated as below to diagnose a vehicle:
Select “Scan”
Automatic
(Note: This mode allows
your tool to scan the vehicle
test system automatically)
Manual Select
(Note: In this case, you need to choose the
desired system manually. Just follow the
on-screen instructions to proceed.)
Select test system
Select test function
Select Vehicle Model
(Note: For different vehicles,
vehicle make selection may
differ. Generally, we can
choose a vehicle via make
year. But for BENZ, we need
to choose it via chassis.)
Select Vehicle
Manufacturer
Read fault code
Clear fault code
Read data stream
Note: For vehicles manufactured by different vendors, it is possible that it
has different diagnostic menus. For details, please follow the instructions on
the screen to proceed.
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6 OBD Review Data
This function is used to review or delete the recorded Datastreams,
DTC, and Freeze Frame.
Select [OBD Review Data] in the Main Menu and press [OK] to enter.
CAUTION: About the record function, please refer to Chapter “4.3
Settings”.
1) Review DTC
This option is used to review the recorded DTC.
2) Review Datastream
This option is used to review the recorded datastream.
3) Review Freeze Frame
This option is used to review the recorded freeze frame data.
4) Delete DTC Data
This option is used to delete the recorded DTC data.
5) Delete Datastream
This option is used to delete the datastream record.
6) Delete Freeze Frame
This option is used to delete the recorded freeze frame data.

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7 Update (For Ultrascan OBDCAN PLUS)
Follow these steps to proceed registration and update:
1. Go to www.topdon.us and download the topdon update tool to the
computer.
2. Uncompress and install it on your computer (compatible with
Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8 & Windows 10).
3. After installation, connect the tool to the USB port of the
computer. The screen displays as follows:
Figure 7-1
Note: Please make sure your internet is well connected during the updating
period.
4. Launch the update tool, a screen similar to Figure 7-2 will pop
out:
Figure 7-2
5. Choose the desired interface language and then click [Device
Update] to enter update center.
6. Choose the software version and then click [Update] to start
updating.
7. Once update is complete, a “Upgrade success” message box will
pop up.

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7 Update (For Ultrascan OBDCAN Elite)
Prerequisite conditions:
1. Visit www.topdon.us and download the topdon updating tool to
the computer.
2. Operating system requirements: Windows XP, Windows 7,
Windows 8 or Windows 10.
There are 2 methods available to update your tool. You may choose
one of the following to proceed.
Method 1: Via TF Card
1. Launch the update tool, a screen similar to Figure 7-1 will appear:
Figure 7-1
2. In Figure 7-1, type in the Porduct Serial Number (located on the
back of the tool).
Note: Once the Serial Number is entered, “Restore System” will become
activated, which is used to restore system if a new TF card is replaced.
3. Click [Device Upgrade] to enter Figure 7-2. Input your Email
address and Register Code and then click [Submit].
Figure 7-2

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(If you need the Register Code, proceed to the steps 4-7)
(If you have the Register Code, proceed to step 8 directly)
4. The Register Code can be found in your tool. Connect one end
of the supplied USB cord to your tool, and the other end to the
computer.
5. After the tool has powered up, highlight “Help” icon and press
[OK].
6. Select [Tool Information], press [OK].
Figure 7-3
7. This is the Register Code for inputting in step 3.
Figure 7-4
(Return to step 3 and input the Register Code and then proceed)
8. Install the TF card from the tool into the supplied USB TF card
reader and insert into USB port of the computer.