The Blue Point Microscan 3 Scan Tool is designed for automotive diagnostics, offering technicians the ability to access and interpret vehicle data. Initial experiences reveal some operational characteristics that are important for users to understand. One notable aspect is the loading speed when entering live data mode. Users have observed that the Microscan 3 can be slow to load live data, and in certain situations, such as creating custom views, it may become unresponsive. This unresponsiveness sometimes necessitates disconnecting and reconnecting the OBD2 connector to restore functionality.
Within the live data mode, the Microscan 3 provides various display options, including custom screen configurations. However, a key limitation identified is the absence of a feature to save user-selected live data parameters (PIDs). By default, the tool selects all available live data PIDs, which might contribute to the loading delays experienced.
The user interface of the Microscan 3 utilizes icons instead of text-based menu items. This icon-driven approach requires users to familiarize themselves with the meaning of each icon to navigate the tool effectively. Unlike some contemporary scanners that automatically configure vehicle specifics, the Microscan 3 appears to operate without requiring manual vehicle identification. It primarily focuses on reading and displaying OBD2 data PIDs, rather than prompting for vehicle-specific details like make, model, or engine type before initiating diagnostics.
Comparing the Microscan 3 to older scan tools like the MT2500 highlights some differences in vehicle information handling. The MT2500, for instance, offers more vehicle-specific selections, such as VIN type, make, model, and engine. This raises the question of whether the Microscan 3 relies on VIN reading capabilities to obtain detailed vehicle information, or if it operates solely on generic OBD2 data. Older vehicles may lack advanced “Info” functions, such as VIN reading, which could affect the Microscan 3’s ability to gather comprehensive vehicle details. Similarly, older vehicle systems may not support all diagnostic tests available on newer vehicles, such as specific O2 sensor tests or Mode 6 non-continuous test results.
Protocol selection is another crucial aspect of using scan tools effectively. The Microscan 3 is initially set to “Auto” protocol selection. For Chrysler and Jeep vehicles, manually selecting ISO 9141 protocol may be necessary to ensure proper communication. Understanding OBD2 protocols is essential for diagnostics, as different manufacturers and vehicle models utilize varying protocols. Common OBD2 protocols include:
- ISO 9141-1 & 9141-2: Used by Chrysler, European, and Asian vehicles.
- ISO 15765-4 CAN (SAE J2480): Employed in vehicles not strictly subject to OBD2 standards.
- ISO14230-4 (KWP2000): Found in Asian cars.
- SAE J1850 PWM: Used by Ford.
- SAE J1850 VPW: Used by GM.
The physical OBD2 connector, standardized as the J1962 connector, comes in two types, differentiated by pin configuration:
Type A
Type B
The protocol used by a vehicle can be identified by examining the pins present in its OBD2 connector. Vehicles manufactured post-2008 typically utilize the CAN protocol, featuring a consistent pin configuration (pins 4, 5, 6, 14, and 16 are commonly populated). Pre-2008 vehicles exhibit greater variability in pin usage depending on the protocol employed.
Understanding the OBD2 connector pinout is crucial for diagnostic work:
TOP:
- Pin 1: OEM Reserved
- Pin 2: J1850 Bus+
- Pin 3: OEM Reserved
- Pin 4: Chassis Ground
- Pin 5: Signal Ground
- Pin 6: CAN High (J-2284) – Common in modern cars (2008+)
- Pin 7: ISO 9141-2 K-line
- Pin 8: OEM Reserved
BOTTOM:
- Pin 9: OEM Reserved
- Pin 10: J1850 Bus-
- Pin 11, 12, 13, 14: OEM Reserved
- Pin 15: ISO 9141-2 L-line
- Pin 16: Battery Power (Unswitched) – Powers the scan tool.
In conclusion, the Blue Point Microscan 3 scan tool offers essential diagnostic capabilities, particularly for accessing live data. However, users should be aware of potential loading delays, the icon-based interface, and the importance of correct protocol selection for effective vehicle communication. Understanding OBD2 protocols and connector configurations enhances the utility of the Microscan 3 and similar diagnostic tools.
