Autel MaxiVCI Mini - User Manual

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Contents

GENERAL NOTICE ........................................................................................... 1

INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................ 2

WIRELESS COMMUNICATION ................................................................................... 3

USB CONNECTIVITY .............................................................................................. 3

POWER SOURCE ................................................................................................... 3

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION ........................................................................... 4

STATUS LEDS ..................................................................................................... 5

VEHICLE DATA CONNECTOR ................................................................................... 6

USB PORT .......................................................................................................... 6

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS................................................................................... 6

CAPABILITIES ....................................................................................................... 7

PRODUCT TROUBLESHOOTING ..................................................................... 8

VEHICLE LINKING ERROR ....................................................................................... 8

PC COMMUNICATION ERROR .................................................................................. 8

DRIVER SETUP ................................................................................................. 9

FIRMWARE UPDATE ...................................................................................... 12

UPDATE ONLINE ................................................................................................. 12

COMPLIANCE INFORMATION ........................................................................ 14

WARRANTY AND SERVICE ............................................................................ 16

LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ............................................................................ 16

SERVICE INFORMATION ........................................................................................ 16

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Summary

Introduction

Wireless Communication

Details the Bluetooth communication capabilities and operational range of the device.

USB Connectivity

Explains the USB 2.0 connection option for PC or diagnostic tool linkage, emphasizing ruggedness.

Power Source

Describes how the device receives power from the vehicle's 12V port or via a PC connection.

Functional Description

Vehicle Data Connector

Describes the 16-pin connector for interfacing with the vehicle's Data Link Connector (DLC).

Power LED

Explains the function and color indications of the device's power LED for operational status.

Connection LED

Details the connection LED states for USB and Bluetooth communication with other devices.

USB Port

Explains the function of the USB port for PC connectivity and device control.

Status LEDs

Details the working status indicated by the two status LEDs on the device's front panel.

Product Troubleshooting

Vehicle Linking Error

Provides troubleshooting steps for communication errors between the device and the vehicle.

PC Communication Error

Offers troubleshooting steps for communication failures when connecting to a PC.

Firmware Update

Update Online

Guides on how to update the device's driver software through an online PC connection.

Compliance Information

FCC Compliance

Details FCC compliance statements, including conditions and warnings for operation.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement

States compliance with FCC radiation exposure limits for uncontrolled environments.

RoHS Compliance

Declares compliance with the European RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU.

CE Compliance

Declares conformity with essential requirements of EU directives and the CE mark.

Warranty and Service

Limited One Year Warranty

Outlines the terms and conditions for the product's one-year limited warranty.

Service Information

Provides contact information for questions, support, and repair services.

The MaxiVCI Mini is a wireless diagnostic interface designed to connect to a vehicle's diagnostic connector (DLC) and communicate wirelessly with Autel Diagnostic Tools (such as MaxiCheck MX808TS and MaxiTPMS TS608) or a standalone PC. It functions as a Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) for vehicle data transmission, utilizing Bluetooth (BT) technology for wireless operation, allowing users to work freely around the vehicle. The device is compact and rugged, with all electronics contained within its shell.

Function Description

The MaxiVCI Mini facilitates communication with a vehicle's electronic control units (ECUs), ensuring efficient and fast multi-brand diagnostics. When used with a display tablet or OEM software on a PC, it performs several key functions:

Auto Diagnostics: Reads and clears error memory, displays system parameters, and shows the status of the ECU.
Activation, Adjustments, and Configurations: Essential for complete repairs.
Resetting Service Lights: Resets service lights or airbag systems.
ECU Configuration: Configures ECUs, keys, and remote controls.

The device package includes the unit, a user manual, and a CD with the driver program and update agent.

Important Technical Specifications

Communications: BT V.2.1 + EDR, USB 2.0
Wireless Frequency: 2.4 GHz
Input Voltage Range: 12 VDC
Supply Current: 150 mA @ 12 VDC
Operating Temperature: 0°C to 50°C (ambient)
Storage Temperature: -20°C to 70°C (ambient)
Dimensions (L x W x H): 47 mm (1.7") x 23 mm (0.9") x 51 mm (2.0")
Weight: 33.1g (0.07 lb.)

The MaxiVCI Mini operates on 12-volt vehicle power, received through the OBD II/EOBD compliant data link connector (DLC). It powers on automatically when connected to the DLC. Alternatively, it can be powered via a USB cable connection to a PC, which is useful for firmware updates without needing to connect to a vehicle.

Usage Features

Wireless Communication: The MaxiVCI Mini supports BT communication, transmitting vehicle data wirelessly to compatible Autel Diagnostic Tools. The working range for BT communication is approximately 33 feet (10 meters). If the display unit moves out of range and loses signal, the connection automatically restores when brought closer to the MaxiVCI Mini.

USB Connectivity: For a direct connection, the MaxiVCI Mini can connect to compatible Autel Diagnostic Tools or a PC via a USB 2.0 full-speed connection. The USB port allows control of the device from software applications running on the PC.

Status LEDs: The device features two status LEDs on the front panel, providing visual indicators of its operational status and hardware conditions, which are helpful for troubleshooting communication or connection issues.

Power LED:
- Solid Green: Device is powered up and operating normally.
- Solid Red: Device is not operating normally.
- Flashes Red: System failure occurs.
- Note: The Power LED illuminates red during a normal self-test procedure upon power-up, then turns green when the device starts working normally.
Connection LED:
- Solid Green: Successfully connected via USB cable, but no communication with the vehicle.
- Flashes Green: Successfully connected via USB cable, and there is communication with the vehicle.
- Solid Blue: Successfully connected via BT, but no communication with the vehicle.
- Flashes Blue: Successfully connected via BT, and there is communication with the vehicle.

Driver Setup: To ensure correct operation with diagnostic applications on a PC, the device's driver must be installed. The program package is compatible with Windows XP, Windows 7 (32 or 64 bit), Windows 8 (32 or 64 bit), or Windows 10 (32 or 64 bit). It is crucial not to plug the MaxiVCI Mini into the PC until the driver program has been installed. The installation process involves inserting the provided CD, running "Autel Run.exe," selecting the MaxiVCI Mini icon, choosing the installation language, and following the on-screen wizard instructions. During installation, a temporary MS-DOS style window may appear; it should not be closed manually as it will close automatically upon completion of the driver installation.

Maintenance Features

Product Troubleshooting: Common issues and their solutions are provided to assist users.

Vehicle Linking Error: If the MaxiVCI Mini fails to communicate with the vehicle's control module:
- Verify the ignition is ON.
- Check if the device's vehicle data connector is securely connected to the vehicle's DLC.
- Turn the ignition OFF for 10 seconds, then ON again, and resume operation.
- Verify the control module is not defective.
PC Communication Error: If there are issues with PC communication:
- Verify the interface device is powered, and the Power LED is green.
- Check for firewall software interfering with the connection port.
- Check if the green status light is illuminated for USB communication.
- If problems persist after these checks, contact technical support.

Firmware Update: Autel periodically releases updates for the device's drivers to resolve specific problems and ensure proper operation with OEM software. Users are advised to keep the device software and drivers updated.

Update Online: This function allows driver software updates via a PC connected to the internet.
1. Connect the MaxiVCI Mini to the PC via a USB cable.
2. Verify that the Power and Connection LEDs on the front panel are illuminated green.
3. From the Windows Start Menu, locate and double-click the "MaxiVCI Mini" icon to open the program interface.
4. The update agent will automatically check for available online updates.
5. Press the "Next" button to install the newest firmware.
6. Press the "Cancel" button to exit.

Warranty and Service: Autel provides a limited one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship from the date of original purchase. The warranty covers repair or replacement at Autel's option, provided there is proof of purchase. It does not cover damage from misuse, abuse, negligence, accidents, unauthorized repairs, criminal activity, improper installation, normal wear and tear, or lack of maintenance. Autel is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. All information in the manual is based on the latest available data, and Autel reserves the right to make changes without notice. For questions or repairs, users should contact their local distributor or visit www.autel.com. This product is intended for professional use only.