The Motoplat VC-212RT is a parts tester designed for diagnosing the operational performance of 12 and 24-volt alternator regulators. It is a useful and easy-to-use device for car garages, diagnostic stations, authorized service stations, and rebuilders. This small and lightweight tester was developed to meet the requirements of service stations and operates without the need for additional testing or measuring devices.
Function Description:
The VC-212RT supports all control interfaces for modern voltage regulators, including LIN/BSS and PWM. It features automatic detection of regulator load control types, A or B. The device checks the operational performance of a channel for monitoring the regulator and simulates two outputs from alternator stator phases. It can also simulate overvoltage and alternator shutdown mode, and includes short circuit protection. The device automatically switches off after a set period of inactivity of the FLD inputs.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Voltage (V): 12/24
- Dimensions (MM): 252 x 158 x 79
- Weight (KG): 1.71 (net. weight)
Usage Features:
- 13V/14V/15V: Simulates commands for setting the corresponding regulator voltage at the RC output. Operable in all modes except LAMP. When pressed, the regulator should react to these voltage commands.
- OV (Overvoltage): Simulates an overvoltage condition. Press again to turn off this mode. When activated, the display shows "Over voltage" and then "Voltage," indicating the regulator shows the maximum regulated voltage.
- ST off (Stator Off): Switches off stator signals at the ST outputs, simulating an alternator belt rip. Press again to switch on the signals. The ST outputs are activated on startup. When switched off, the display shows "Stator Off," and the regulator should not charge anymore. When switched on, the display shows "Stator On."
- Mode: Selects a regulator control mode from LAMP, SIG, COM, RLO, P-D (D), C, L-F (L).
- On/Off: Powers the device on or off. Holding this button down selects the regulator voltage (24 V in LAMP mode only) and returns to 12 V. The device starts in 12 V mode.
Front Panel Connections:
- B-: Negative terminal.
- B+: Positive terminal.
- FLD: Regulator load. The outputs are connected to both brushes in any order. For brushless regulators, one terminal connects to FLD and the other to + or -.
- ST: Stator signal outputs with a phase shift of 120°.
- L: Control lamp input.
- M: Monitor input for connecting terminals P, FR, DFM, M, LI.
- RC: Regulator control output for connection to the terminals SIG, COM, RLO, P-D (D), C, L-F (L).
- LAMP mode: Displays "Lamp."
- C mode (Nissan): Displays "C."
- P-D mode (Mazda, KIA): Displays "P-D."
- RLO mode (Toyota): Displays "RLO."
- SIG mode (Ford, Landrover, and Motorcraft): Displays "SIG."
- COM mode (LIN/BSS): Displays "COM."
- L-F mode (General Motors/Opel): Displays "L-F."
- Not charging: Icon shows a battery with a minus sign. Result: Battery lamp ON.
- Charging: Icon shows a battery with a plus sign. Result: Battery lamp OFF.
DFM or Feedback to ECU (M) Display:
- Displays signal frequency and duty cycle, e.g., "DFM: 35% 100 Hz." Result: Should show a percentage and/or frequency.
Field (FLD) Display:
- Displays parameters of the active brush FLD, e.g., "FLD: 45% 135 Hz."
- Switching mode of the regulator switching element:
- "A" Circuit (low side): One side of the field is connected to positive, and the negative side is supplied through the regulator. Displayed as "Mode A."
- "B" Circuit (high side): One side of the field is connected to ground, and the positive side is supplied. Displayed as "Mode B."
- Result: Regulator should charge.
COM LIN/BSS Display:
- No connection: If there is no connection to the regulator in COM mode, "No connection" is displayed.
- LIN or BSS protocols detected: Displays "LIN: A," "LIN: B," or "BSS," followed by a regulator identifier.
- LIN protocol interface operating speeds: After the identifier, "LMH" is displayed, corresponding to low, medium, and high baud rates or communication speeds.
Example of Regulator Connection and Operation in COM mode:
- When connected, the display shows information like "LIN: A 25 LMH 12," "DFM: 12%," "Errors: - Mechanical," "FLD: 17% 201 Hz," and "Mode B." This indicates Protocol LIN, type A, identifier 33, regulator operating at three speeds, DFM from the regulator (12% rotor load), a mechanical error (no stator signal), and switching mode of the field.
- When the stator signal is turned on by pressing the ST OFF button, the regulator starts working, enters operating mode, and sets a voltage value. The display updates to show "DFM: 46%," "FLD: 51% 201 Hz," and a voltage reading (e.g., "13.3 V").
- The actual voltage value should comply with the set value (e.g., "Set 15V"). If it does, the result is that the regulator is working properly with no errors.
Maintenance Features:
- Fuse: The device includes a fuse (15A / 125 VAC) on the back panel. Users should check if the fuse is tightened properly. If replacement is needed, turn it counter-clockwise to remove it from the tester.
Environment:
The tester should be installed in a weather-protected area where heat, humidity, or any other climate situation cannot damage the tester. It should be installed on a level surface that is clear of debris and obstructions. When connecting the tester to the test object, users should strongly request to install and operate the tester on a non-conducting surface.