Symptom analysis This allows direct access to specific tests relating
to reported driveability problems.
Waveforms A comprehensive range of digitised waveforms
can be displayed with colour highlights. The dis-
play can be frozen or recalled to look for intermit-
tent faults. A standard lab scope mode is available
to allow examination of EFI (electronic fuel injec-
tion) or ABS traces for example. Printouts can be
made from any display. An interesting feature is
‘transient capture’ which ensures that even the
fastest spikes and intermittent signals are captured
and displayed for detailed examination.
Adjustments Selecting specific components from a menu can
make simple quick adjustments. Live readings
are displayed appropriate to the selection.
MOT emissions (annual UK test) Full MOT procedure tests are integrated and dis-
played on the screen with pass/fail diagnosis to the
department of transport specifications for both gas
analysis and diesel smoke if appropriate options
are fitted. The test results include engine rev/min
and oil temperature as well as the gas readings.
These can all be printed for garage or customer use.
The connections to the vehicle for standard use
are much the same for most equipment manu-
facturers. These are listed as follows.
Connection
Purpose or one example of use
Battery positive
Battery and charging voltages
Battery negative
A common earth connection
Coil positive
To check supply voltage to coil
Coil negative (adapters
To look at dwell, rev/min and
for DIS – distributorless
primary waveforms
ignition systems)
Coil HT lead clamp
Secondary waveforms
(adapters are available
for DIS)
Number one cylinder
Timing light and sequence of
plug lead clamp
waveforms
Battery cable amp clamp
Charging and starting current
Oil temperature probe
Oil temperature
(dip stick hole)
Vacuum connection
Engine load
Figure 3.12 shows a digital oscilloscope engine
analyser. This test equipment has many features as
listed previously and others such as the following.
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