Serial Data

DATA LINK CONNECTOR SCAN TOOLS
The Engine Control Module (ECM) can communicate a variety of information through the Data Link Connector (DLC). This data is transmitted at a high frequency which requires a Tech 1 scan tool diagnostic computer or scan tool for interpretation. There are several scan tools available for reading this information.

With an understanding of the data which the tool displays, and a knowledge of the circuits involved, the tool can be very useful in obtaining information which would be more difficult or impossible to obtain with other equipment.

Tech 1 scan tool and scan tools do not make the use of diagnostic charts unnecessary, nor can they indicate exactly where a malfunction is in a particular circuit. Diagnostic charts incorporate procedures using a Tech 1 when it is applicable.

A scan tool that displays faulty data should not be used and the problem should be reported to the manufacturer. The use of a faulty scan tool can result in misdiagnosis and unnecessary parts replacement.