40 Auto Brakes Copyright by Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. to as mass storage cartridges. Mass storage cartridges allow the user to update the cartridge. Th is is done by connecting the scan tool to a computerized analyzer or personal com- puter (PC) and downloading an updated program from a CD-ROM disc to the cartridge through the scan tool. Some scan tools have self-contained programming on Personal Computer Memory Card Industry Association (PCMCIA) cards, that are about the size of a charge card. No external program cartridges are needed for the scan tool to operate. Most of these scan tools also have slots for one or more PCMCIA cards, Figure 3-31. Th is type of scan tool can be updated by downloading new information as needed from a personal computer or computerized analyzer. Rules for Scan Tools Usage Th e following are several hints for using scan tools properly and safely. A scan tool may look fairly harmless, but may cause damage or create a very dangerous situation if it is used or placed in the vehicle improperly. Ensure the cables are located away from the accelerator, brake pedal, and all moving parts. Do not shut off the ignition key unless prompted to do so by the scan tool. Any scanned information may be lost. Do not disconnect the scan tool cable from the data link connector during any programming or learn procedure. Damage to the vehicle’s ECM may result. Do not remove the program cartridge or card from the scan tool while power is on. Do not expose the scan tool to excessive or direct sunlight for extended periods as it can damage the display screen. Do not hang the scan tool from the rear view mirror. Th is will place it in a location where the cables or the scan tool itself may become caught in the steering wheel. Th e tool’s weight may pull the rear view mirror off its mounting, possibly damaging the mirror or windshield. If the data link connector is located under the hood, use an extension cable that allows the scan tool to be located inside the passenger compartment. Be aware of any special operating conditions that exist while the scan tool is connected to the data link connector. Th e scan tool will usually warn you if certain system or vehicle functions will be disabled. Do not drive and monitor scan tool functions. You will not be able to devote full attention to either the scan tool display or the road. If it is necessary to monitor scan tool functions during a road test, have someone (not the vehicle’s owner) drive the vehicle for you. Do not perform any actuator or scan tool tests while driving the vehicle. Doing so may disable the brake system. Do not perform any system learn functions during a road test. If you must leave the vehicle for more than a few minutes, disconnect the scan tool from battery power. Scan tools draw a great amount of power and can drain the battery if the engine is not running. When you are fi nished using the scan tool, put it back in its case. Remove any external program cartridges, cables, and any adapters and place them in their respective com- partments. Close the case and return it to the tool room or location where it is normally stored. Th is way, you or any other technician in the shop can easily fi nd the scan tool the next time it is needed. Brake System Cleaning Tools For effi cient brake work and personal safety, proper clean- ing cannot be overemphasized. Not only is the fi nished job better if every related part is clean, the hazards of brake dust are reduced by safely removing as much of it as possible at the start of the repair process. Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 3-30. Scan tools require many cables and adapters. Open PCMCIA slot PCMCIA card Installed PCMCIA slot Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 3-31. Some scan tools use PCMCIA cards, which slide into the scan tool and can be reprogrammed.
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