NEW AUTOTAP SOFTWARE COMING SOON!

Effective with the release of new hardware (V2.x) in early July, B&B Electronics will introduce a new version of our popular AutoTapâ Windows software. At the same time, they will be adding a “generic-data-only” version of the Windows software. This lowers the entry price of AutoTap ownership by almost $100. Additionally, they will also be introducing AutoTap for Palmä software. This easy-to-use software for the most popular handheld device can be added to an AutoTap Windows software sale, or sold separately with AutoTap hardware.

The new product line will also include a very exciting product targeted at the high-performance marketplace. They recently entered into an agreement with Starr Performance, the makers of EFILiveV5, to distribute their high performance data acquisition and control software for the LS1 engine management system. Available in a standard and pro version, the Pro version contains bi-directional controls. Utilizing AutoTap hardware and EFILiveV5 Pro software, your customers can now control IAC, idle speed, gear selection, injectors, spark advance, and much more.

All of the software products are on one CD. During installation customers will be prompted to enter a registration number that “unlocks” the software package(s) they’ve purchased. No waiting for software to be mailed and no large files to be downloaded…it’s all on the AutoTap CD.

UPDATES AND UPGRADES

AutoTap Windows software:
The new Windows software (V2.x) is considered an UPDATE for existing customers and is a free download from our website. The software will work with your customer’s existing hardware. Please refer to the attached FAQ section for differences between V1.x hardware and software and V2.x hardware and software.

AutoTap V2.x Hardware
B&B Electronics has a program in place where the customer can simply return their “old” hardware. They will replace it with “new” hardware (V2.x) for just $75.00 between now and August 31, 2002. After that, the upgrade price will be $99.95. For simplicity, these transactions will be conducted between B&B Electronics and the customer. All forms and instructions for this upgrade program will be on their website.

AutoTap for Palm software:
In order to use the Palm software, the customer will need to have our new (V2.x) hardware. They will also need to purchase a special AutoTap/Palm cable.

EFILiveV5 Software:
Starr Performance has 3 versions of its EFILiveV5 software. One version has been written to work with our “old” hardware. It does not have bi-directional controls. Two versions, standard and pro, have been written to work with our “new” hardware. The “Pro” version has bi-directional controls.

Questions and answers -

What is the difference between V1.x hardware and software and V2.x hardware and software?

There are several technical changes in the firmware that allow the V2.x hardware to update parameters as much as 30% faster than V1.x hardware. On the software side, V2.x implements many suggestions we’ve received during the last few years. There is now a default configuration screen. Additionally, the user can now view charts, gauges, graphs and meters all on the same screen. The previous version required separate screens for each view. Also, new styles and custom colors are available for graphs, gauges, charts and meters. Now the user can create and save configuration files while not being connected to the vehicle.

What equipment is required for the PC or Palm versions of AutoTap?
For Windows Operation:
IBM-compatible 486-66. Windows 95, 98, NT, ME, 2000 or XP. 16 MB RAM. CD drive (used only to load software, software may also be downloaded from the internet). 9-pin male RS-232 port.
Monitor that supports graphics recommended.
Included are a 4-foot cable to connect your vehicle to the AutoTap scanner and a 6-foot cable to connect the AutoTap scanner to your PC. You can extend the PC cable up to 50 feet.

For Palm:
Supported Palm Models: Palm IIIx, VII, M10x, M125, M50x, 70x, HandEra 330, HandEra TRGpro
Supported Palm Operating Systems: OS 3.1 and higher
AutoTap for Palm requires a special serial (9-pin) HotSync® cable (purchased separately) to connect AutoTap to your Palm This cable is different than the one used to connect to your Palm to your computer. Not all Palms use the same cable.

Included are a 4-foot cable to connect your vehicle to the AutoTap scanner and a 6-foot cable to connect the AutoTap scanner to your PC. You can extend the PC cable up to 50 feet. You MUST purchase the special HotSyncâ cable separately.

Does AutoTap for Palm include the popular data logging feature?
Yes. In order to play back a stored log file, the user must perform a HotSync with their PC. Even if the customer doesn’t buy a version of the Windows software, they will be able to replay log files on their PC.
Why do I need a new HotSyncâ cable for the AutoTap for Palm?
In its native mode, a Palm acts like a device that gets controlled by a computer. Technically speaking, a Palm is DCE (Data Communications Equipment). To work with the AutoTap scanner, a Palm needs to act like a computer, i.e. it needs to become DTE (Data Terminal Equipment). This change is accomplished by using our special cable.
Palm V isn’t one of the models you have special cables for.

Can a customer still use AutoTap for Palm with a Palm Vx?
Yes, a customer can still use AutoTap for Palm with a Palm V. They just need to purchase our part number 9PMMNM. They’ll connect this device, known as a null modem, in between the Palm V and the AutoTap. Your customer may also want to purchase a regular HotSyncâ cable from Palm or another retailer. This HotSyncâ cable will replace the HotSyncâ cradle making it easier to use the Palm V while it is connected to the AutoTap.

How much are software updates?
AutoTap software updates which include bug fixes and updated model year information are free as downloads from the B&B Electronics website. There are nominal charges for software upgrades, i.e. adding Palm software or going from the Windows generic version to the Windows enhanced version.

How long does it take to get a registration key for a customer that wants to add a software product?
Registration keys can be generated while you’re on the phone with the B&B Electronics customer service department. Remember, they will need to know your serial number and hardware version (V1.x or V2.x) in order to generate this code.

What cars can use EFILiveV5?
EFILiveV5 is for use on General Motors’ vehicles with the LS1 engine management system.

What is the difference between the versions of EFILiveV5 Software?
There are three versions of EFILiveV5 software: EFILiveV5 Standard, EFILiveV5 PRO, and EFILiveV5 V1 Standard.

All three versions are similar, with the following differences;

a. EFILiveV5 Standard and PRO utilize AutoTap V2.x hardware. The PRO version includes bi-directional controls, the Standard version does not.

b. EFILiveV5 V1 Standard utilizes AutoTap V1.x hardware. This version of the software does not include bi-directional controls.

What bi-directional controls are available with the PRO version of EFILiveV5?

Controls
Idle speed - Sets the idle speed to an rpm value in the range 0-2040 rpm.
IAC - Sets the idle air control pintle position to a step value in the range 0-127
Gear - Sets and holds the currently selected gear to one of
1. First
2. Second
3. Third
4. Drive
Injector Off - Allows the operator to perform an injector balance test by selectively turning off individual injectors. Only one injector will be turned off at any time.

Switches
M.I.L. - Illuminates the Malfunction Indicator Lamp. This feature is not available on some vehicles.
Shift skip - Illuminates the Shift Skip lamp where fitted. This feature is not available on some vehicles.
CC inhibit - Inhibits the cruise control from operating.
A/C clutch - Turns the Air Conditioner compressor clutch on or off.
Fan 1 - Turns on low speed thermo electric engine fan(s).
Fan 2 - Turns on high speed thermo electric engine fan(s).
Lift/Dive - Turns Lift/Dive compensation on or off.
A.I.R. sol - Turns the Air Injection Reaction solenoid on or off.
A.I.R. pump - Turns the Air Injection Reaction pump on or off.
Fuel pump - Turns the fuel pump on or off.
Fuel learn - Turns fuel learn mode on or off.
Closed loop - Sets fuel mode to open or closed loop.
Rev lockout - Turns reverse lockout on or off - manual gearboxes only.
TCC - Engages or disengages the Torque Converter Clutch - automatic gearboxes only.

Modes
Use spark map - Overrides the PCM's normal spark advance by substituting the values found in the currently loaded spark map.
Use fuel map - Overrides the PCM's normal air fuel ratio by substituting the values found in the currently loaded fuel map.
Evap service bay test - Puts the PCM into a mode that allows evaporative emission controls to be tested.
Fuel trim reset - Resets the learned fuel trims.
Tooth error learn mode - Puts the PCM into a mode where it can learn the crank tooth error correction

I know that this is alot of info to digest. We're still working through it too <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="gr_stretch.gif" /> Pricing will be available on our website in the next few days.

Tom

 

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by tbyrne:
<strong>NEW AUTOTAP SOFTWARE COMING SOON!

What bi-directional controls are available with the PRO version of EFILiveV5?

Controls
Idle speed - Sets the idle speed to an rpm value in the range 0-2040 rpm.
IAC - Sets the idle air control pintle position to a step value in the range 0-127
Gear - Sets and holds the currently selected gear to one of
1. First
2. Second
3. Third
4. Drive
Injector Off - Allows the operator to perform an injector balance test by selectively turning off individual injectors. Only one injector will be turned off at any time.
</strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Does this idle speed reset work while autotap is not plugged in? Like ls1edit? that way people with A4's and cams can raise idle speed?

 

That sounds like an awesome setup..

 

it does not program the pcm

it over rides the commands while connected.

so you can in real time on the dyno or what have you tweak a/f, spark, etc.... find what works then take that infomation and have your computer programed via a 3rd party or do it yourself via ls1-edit.

if you want the bi-directional ability then you have to buy the new cable. otherwise you can monitor/log with your existing atap cable. The new cable will be faster though.

I have been working with the efi-live guy for a while now doing beta testing so my info should be accurate. If not I am sure someone will correct me <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="gr_stretch.gif" />

 

EFILive V5 does NOT reprogram your PCM like LS1Edit does. If you want to reprogram you'll still need LS1Edit.

EFILive will override the PCM by sending bi-directional commands (similar to the TechII). Changes made to the PCM will revert to the factory calibrations in the PCM when EFILiveV5 is disconnected.

Exactly like Blackbird said: It's a very easy way to quickly try out spark/fuel changes to see what works best before spending time re-flashing with LS1Edit. You can change spark and fuel in real-time (on the fly) using the spark and fuel map editors built into EFILiveV5. Once you have figured out the areas that need more/less spark of fuel you can use LS1Edit to program in those changes.

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif"> hmmmm.... i wonder if the 'controls' are more powerful than on the tech 2 - the tech 2 will do most of what is listed, but it will 'snap out' of your command/control when the engine exceeds the allowable value, rendering most of the controls somewhat useless </font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">EFILive will send whatever overrides you request - it does not "snap out" like the Tech2. Sometimes the PCM will "see" something out of range and refuse to perform the override - that's just a safety thing.

I believe the Tech2 "snaps out" as a courtesy to the technician so that the technician will realise that the PCM has refused the control.

EFILive will keep sending the control - you have the ability to monitor the controls while you are in override mode. Its very easy to see which ones are being refused by the PCM. Therefor EFILiveV5 does not need to "snap out" of bi-directional control.

Regards
Paul

 

So it sounds like autotap 2.0 does not implement "fast reads" like eflive or EASE software do? Why the new hardware when the old hardware was not hindering the transfer rate, the software was?

Gary

 

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif"> Why the new hardware when the old hardware was not hindering the transfer rate, the software was?
</font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Speed is not the only benefit of the new hardware.

Having developed software using both the old and new hardware I can say that the new hardware is way better than the old hardware.

It provides many features that remove signal processing requirements from the software into the hardware interface.

It has variable length message capability which means it can cope with many different OBD-II protocols now and in the future.

It fully supports bi-directional controls where the old interface does not.

It provides a "monitor mode" - very useful for snooping the class-2 data line.

At a more technical level the designers did a great job implementing a fully extensible API that can be easily used and updated while maintaining full backward compatabiliy with earlier models.

I believe the API provides the abstraction necessary to allow developers (like Starr Performance - EFILiveV5) to write software that use SAE J1850-VPW today and CAN in the future(when/if GM moves to the CAN protocol) with little or no change to the software.

Please note: I do not work for B&B, these opinions are my own personal view and may not represent those of B&B.

<small>[ June 25, 2002, 06:03 PM: Message edited by: EFIliveV5 ]</small>

 

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by red ws6 99:
<strong>So it sounds like autotap 2.0 does not implement "fast reads" like eflive or EASE software do? Why the new hardware when the old hardware was not hindering the transfer rate, the software was?

Gary</strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">First thought that came to my mind was $$$

Overall, this sounds pretty interested though. I will definately look into it.

 

Article is a little confusing.

Right now the only thing that really puzzles me is how many cars can you reprogam if you get the EFILIve Professional and the new v2 cable? Also how much is the professional as I already would have to spend $75 to get the new cable (which I might do anyway if it is %30 faster logging).

 

That palm option is looking GREAT.

 

hmmmm.... i wonder if the 'controls' are more powerful than on the tech 2 - the tech 2 will do most of what is listed, but it will 'snap out' of your command/control when the engine exceeds the allowable value, rendering most of the controls somewhat useless.

 

can someone simplify that for me <img border="0" title="" alt="[Embarrassed]" src="gr_emb.gif" />

it sounded like you got free software if you already OWN autotap? that part was unclear.

do i have to buy the new hardware for 70 bucks if i want to be able to program?

sounds like an interesting alternative to ls1edit. especially if i dont have to dish out 500 extra bucks.

 

sweet!!!

 

SO CAN THIS REPROGRAM OUR COMPUTERS LIKE LS1EDIT AND DATA LOG? <img border="0" title="" alt="[Eek!]" src="gr_eek2.gif" />

 

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by horsepower:
<strong>hmmmm.... i wonder if the 'controls' are more powerful than on the tech 2 - the tech 2 will do most of what is listed, but it will 'snap out' of your command/control when the engine exceeds the allowable value, rendering most of the controls somewhat useless.</strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">I got a dollar that says that this is how it operates. I'll probably upgrade anyway, tho. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="gr_stretch.gif" />

Anyone care to take my bet? <img border="0" title="" alt="[Big Grin]" src="gr_grin.gif" />

-Andrew

 

TechII makes temporary changes - as soon as it's disconnects the changes are not saved to the pcm.

Will this new software save the changes?

 

Well interesting....but I don't see EGR delete, rear 02 delete, etc

 

I believe I read that you can make these changes on the fly to see how your car responds but they are not saved. Basically its more for "what if"scenarios....then if you like the result, you use ls1edit to enter the changes into your pcm permanently.

 

ok, i read it again. apparently you only get the monitoring software free. i think you have to pay for the writing software- but only the professional is "bi-directional". doesnt that mean read and write? whats the other one do then?

 

I guess no one is going to answer both of my quesitons. Does autotap 2.0 implement fast reads, if not its a waste of time.

Gary