Omega Owners Forum

Omega Help Area => Omega General Help => Topic started by: markey mark on 24 February 2008, 19:54:23

Title: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 24 February 2008, 19:54:23
has any one near me got a cheapo tech 2 i could borrow for an evening to try a nd sort out my dads facelift 2.2 please  :y
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 00:06:40
ok then weres the best place to buy one from ?? and get it here quickly !! :y
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Jimbob on 25 February 2008, 10:47:10
Mine was the cheapest on ebay, took about a week from china.
was £20 near enough.
Spend £30, and there was a company in london doing them, would have thought they could get you one in a day or 2
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Marie on 25 February 2008, 11:07:42
this is something i would be interesting in getting too. can any body recommend any of ebay????
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Jimbob on 25 February 2008, 11:38:55
1st of all, have you got a laptop with a real serial port you can use it with?
Usb ones, or usb to serial adapters seem very flaky, if they even work :(

at least you with a 2.0 can paperclip, Mark cannot with a 2.2.

If you can use them very handy for checking for codes, ive also had to reset my airbag light a fair few times, well worth the money.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: mkaminski100 on 25 February 2008, 12:16:27
What software do you use? Most of them can only read and delete codes and read car parameters.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Jimbob on 25 February 2008, 12:22:11
I use the dodgy hungarian software...
Am also testing a slightly amended more english Omega specific one.

Reading reseting codes is all it is good for.
It won't talk to most ECU's, but does to talk to engine and airbag, which has been enough for me so far.

Very limited I admit, but for about £30, it has paid for itself many times over for me.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Kevin Wood on 25 February 2008, 12:59:11
Cheapo Tech2 does seem better on later cars. It will read codes from most systems on my MY03 car. It is a bit fussy about what it runs on, though, and most modern lap tops are out due to lack of a serial port.

Kevin
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Andy B on 25 February 2008, 16:28:39
Quote
.......
Very limited I admit, but for about £30, it has paid for itself many times over for me.

.... and if you already have (access to) a compatable lap top it pays for itself the very first time you successfully use it.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 16:41:39
i have a good laptop but what does a serial port look like ???? bit of dumb question i know but not that well up on laptops !!! ;D
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 16:43:59
Quote
i have a good laptop but what does a serial port look like ???? bit of dumb question i know but not that well up on laptops !!! ;D
If your laptop is new, you wont have one.  Its a 9 pin D plug - similar to vga, but only 9 pins rather than 15
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: mark.adams on 25 February 2008, 16:44:28
a bit like a VGA port but with fewer pins ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Kevin Wood on 25 February 2008, 16:45:10
Quote
i have a good laptop but what does a serial port look like ???? bit of dumb question i know but not that well up on laptops !!! ;D


A 9 pin male "D" type connector with a symbol like "0101010" next to it, normally. Similar to the VGA connector that goes to the monitor, except that's got 15 pins and will be female, not male.

kevin

Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 16:52:47
talking gibberish to me boys !!! anybody got a picture of one please laptop is about 18 mths old toshiba sat pro ps210e running xp celeron chip ! has 3 usb ports and two funny looking ports !! :D
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Andy B on 25 February 2008, 16:56:16
Quote
talking gibberish to me boys !!! anybody got a picture of one please laptop is about 18 mths old toshiba sat pro ps210e running xp celeron chip ! has 3 usb ports and two funny looking ports !! :D

(http://www.ergocanada.com/ergo/tips/serial_port.jpg) ...    This is the plug!
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 16:58:26
Quote
talking gibberish to me boys !!! anybody got a picture of one please laptop is about 18 mths old toshiba sat pro ps210e running xp celeron chip ! has 3 usb ports and two funny looking ports !! :D
Unlikely to have on on a newish Satelite Pro...
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 17:00:36
Quote
Quote
talking gibberish to me boys !!! anybody got a picture of one please laptop is about 18 mths old toshiba sat pro ps210e running xp celeron chip ! has 3 usb ports and two funny looking ports !! :D
Unlikely to have on on a newish Satelite Pro...
yes you are right  jaime no port like that !! are the usb ones no good then ??  >:(
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 17:01:11
cheers for picture andy mate !! :y
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 17:04:40
Quote
Quote
Quote
talking gibberish to me boys !!! anybody got a picture of one please laptop is about 18 mths old toshiba sat pro ps210e running xp celeron chip ! has 3 usb ports and two funny looking ports !! :D
Unlikely to have on on a newish Satelite Pro...
yes you are right  jaime no port like that !! are the usb ones no good then ??  >:(
If your really good with computers you *may* be able to get it to work, though doubtful on a celeron
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 17:08:05
thats the problem bud bit of an computer idiot !!  ;D
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Auto Addict on 25 February 2008, 18:23:21
Would Scantool work?
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: mkaminski100 on 25 February 2008, 18:42:44
I am using something similar to this http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/USB-2-0-to-9-pin-RS232-COM-Port-Serial-Adapter-Cable_W0QQitemZ280203722127QQihZ018QQcategoryZ41995QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem and must say that it works fine with mine.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 18:47:07
Quote
I am using something similar to this http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/USB-2-0-to-9-pin-RS232-COM-Port-Serial-Adapter-Cable_W0QQitemZ280203722127QQihZ018QQcategoryZ41995QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem and must say that it works fine with mine.

 that looks like it will help matey cheers !! and it works fine with yours ??  :y
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 18:47:53
Quote
Would Scantool work?

dont know ! never heard of it bud !!  :-[
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 18:59:06
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Would Scantool work?
scantool wont work with 2.0/2.5/3.0 as not OBDII compliant.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 19:02:00
Quote
Quote
I am using something similar to this http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/USB-2-0-to-9-pin-RS232-COM-Port-Serial-Adapter-Cable_W0QQitemZ280203722127QQihZ018QQcategoryZ41995QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem and must say that it works fine with mine.

 that looks like it will help matey cheers !! and it works fine with yours ??  :y
Thats what I said earlier - if you are good with computers, you may be able to get that to work.  On a Celeron, you may struggle, as it doesn't have the performance required for the extra layering of the usb interface.

Try and get a option for full refund should it not work with your pc
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Marie on 25 February 2008, 19:03:34
so if i got a cheap tech 2 and a USB to serial adaptor .......would it work on my 2.0ltr???????
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Jimbob on 25 February 2008, 19:04:54
ive just placed a bid on that cable, if i win, will test it on a few laptops and report back.


Marie - maybe ;)
The tech2 will, the adaptor / laptop is the maybe
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 19:05:45
Quote
Quote
Quote
I am using something similar to this http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/USB-2-0-to-9-pin-RS232-COM-Port-Serial-Adapter-Cable_W0QQitemZ280203722127QQihZ018QQcategoryZ41995QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem and must say that it works fine with mine.

 that looks like it will help matey cheers !! and it works fine with yours ??  :y
Thats what I said earlier - if you are good with computers, you may be able to get that to work.  On a Celeron, you may struggle, as it doesn't have the performance required for the extra layering of the usb interface.

Try and get a option for full refund should it not work with your pc

 i am not brilliant but know a few guys that are !! will ask the question about refund before i buy cheers jamie :y
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 19:06:34
Quote
so if i got a cheap tech 2 and a USB to serial adaptor .......would it work on my 2.0ltr???????
If you are really quite good with computers, you may get it to work if your pc has the legs to run it.

Probably best option for cheapo is to pick up a cheap 600Mhz - 1Ghz PIII laptop with a real serial port.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Marie on 25 February 2008, 19:09:04
ill keep my eyes open then. cheers
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 25 February 2008, 19:09:08
Quote
ive just placed a bid on that cable, if i win, will test it on a few laptops and report back.


Marie - maybe ;)
The tech2 will, the adaptor / laptop is the maybe

ill not bid on that then littlejimmym  ;D :y
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Marie on 25 February 2008, 19:10:42
Quote
Quote
ive just placed a bid on that cable, if i win, will test it on a few laptops and report back.


Marie - maybe ;)
The tech2 will, the adaptor / laptop is the maybe

ill not bid on that then littlejimmym  ;D :y

what specs would the laptop need mine is only 6 months old
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 19:15:25
Quote
Quote
Quote
ive just placed a bid on that cable, if i win, will test it on a few laptops and report back.


Marie - maybe ;)
The tech2 will, the adaptor / laptop is the maybe

ill not bid on that then littlejimmym  ;D :y

what specs would the laptop need mine is only 6 months old
A 600Mhz or faster WITH A REAL SERIAL PORT.  I doubt yours will have the later.  Sometimes it is possible to get it working on a usb to serial adapter.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Marie on 25 February 2008, 19:18:07
i thinks i shall wait for jimbob to get back with the results of his tests. before i spnd any more pennies as the hubby will have a fit if i spend any more!
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Shaman61 on 25 February 2008, 19:21:13
Just received one of these, no laptop required.

http://ngvi.ebay.co.uk/vi?ngvi&backtoid=3&ppsp=0&li=0&pdp=0&sspagename=WDVW&dsr=0&item=120224902880&backto=http%3A%2F%2Fsearch.ebay.co.uk%2Fobd2_W0QQ_trksidZm37QQfromZR40QQfrtsZ200&pass=m%2FGMNDVQkNNFSUFKUY7vRRA2qTs%3D

Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 19:21:40
Quote
i thinks i shall wait for jimbob to get back with the results of his tests. before i spnd any more pennies as the hubby will have a fit if i spend any more!
Try to borrow one and test with your laptop first. When you are in the realms of usb converters with cheapo tech2, you really are in the realms of luck if it works with your specific laptop.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Andy B on 25 February 2008, 19:25:42
Quote
Just received one of these, no laptop required.



So ..... this reader is OK just for the later cars with drive-by-wire, not decrepit 99 3.0 mini-face-lifts like mine?  ;D
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: mkaminski100 on 25 February 2008, 19:28:37
Yes. it works fine with mine. All you have to do is to connect all together and plug it into USB. Computer will ask you for a drivers. Install the cable with provided drivers. Then, go to ControlPanel -> System -> Hardware Device Manager. Then find "Ports (COM&LPT)" And you may find your USB-COM device. If you do the right click-> Properties, You will be able to change COM port (1 to 20) to match your software.
You should also check connectivity tab in your software to find which COM is it trying to use. Make it same as in Device Manager.
Mine was 14 so I changed that to 2 as my software only search 1-12 COM ports.
Most of these will work but it's better to ask people who bought is it works for them.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Marie on 25 February 2008, 19:31:39
Quote
Quote
i thinks i shall wait for jimbob to get back with the results of his tests. before i spnd any more pennies as the hubby will have a fit if i spend any more!
Try to borrow one and test with your laptop first. When you are in the realms of usb converters with cheapo tech2, you really are in the realms of luck if it works with your specific laptop.

now that i will try to do, need to get a new key programed when it arrives,
is there anybody who lives in my area with a tech 2 ?????? or i might have to part with some cash to the dealers. :'( :'(
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 19:35:24
Quote
Quote
Quote
i thinks i shall wait for jimbob to get back with the results of his tests. before i spnd any more pennies as the hubby will have a fit if i spend any more!
Try to borrow one and test with your laptop first. When you are in the realms of usb converters with cheapo tech2, you really are in the realms of luck if it works with your specific laptop.

now that i will try to do, need to get a new key programed when it arrives,
is there anybody who lives in my area with a tech 2 ?????? or i might have to part with some cash to the dealers. :'( :'(
Cheapo tech2 cant program keys.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Marie on 25 February 2008, 19:37:31
 :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

ok need to find someone close to reprogram my key( when it arrives)

anybody????????

Jaime you too far away, just to get my key programed  :'( :'( :'( :'(

Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 19:39:41
Quote
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

ok need to find someone close to reprogram my key( when it arrives)

anybody????????

Jaime you too far away, just to get my key programed  :'( :'( :'( :'(

Can it wait until the next planned meet?

Also, do you have a carpass?
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Marie on 25 February 2008, 19:41:20
Quote
Quote
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

ok need to find someone close to reprogram my key( when it arrives)

anybody????????

Jaime you too far away, just to get my key programed  :'( :'( :'( :'(

Can it wait until the next planned meet?

Also, do you have a carpass?

yeh i supose it could ........ the carpass ( thing with all the codes on it if so yes) its coming with th key Andy C is sorting i out for me.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 19:48:35
Quote
Quote
Quote
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

ok need to find someone close to reprogram my key( when it arrives)

anybody????????

Jaime you too far away, just to get my key programed  :'( :'( :'( :'(

Can it wait until the next planned meet?

Also, do you have a carpass?

yeh i supose it could ........ the carpass ( thing with all the codes on it if so yes) its coming with th key Andy C is sorting i out for me.
Yes, carpass has mech key number, immobiliser/car security number, radio code (if applicable) and cd code (if applicable) :)
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Shaman61 on 25 February 2008, 20:12:48
Quote
Quote
Just received one of these, no laptop required.



So ..... this reader is OK just for the later cars with drive-by-wire, not decrepit 99 3.0 mini-face-lifts like mine?  ;D

From the description..."Works with all 1996 and newer vehicles that are OBD2 compliant(including CAN)."

Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: iggy21uk on 25 February 2008, 20:14:15
My Opel Auto Scanner is up for sale  more advanced than cheapo versions hence higher price.

See for sale.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 25 February 2008, 20:36:38
Quote
Quote
Quote
Just received one of these, no laptop required.



So ..... this reader is OK just for the later cars with drive-by-wire, not decrepit 99 3.0 mini-face-lifts like mine?  ;D

From the description..."Works with all 1996 and newer vehicles that are OBD2 compliant(including CAN)."

The seller, as normal, is talking out of his backside.  Whilst the actual wording is correct, the implication is not.  2.0/2.5/3.0 Omegas are NOT OBDII compliant.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Andy B on 25 February 2008, 22:10:33
Quote
....The seller, as normal, is talking out of his backside.  Whilst the actual wording is correct, the implication is not.  2.0/2.5/3.0 Omegas are NOT OBDII compliant.

Thanks.
Thought as much. I'll stick with my Cheapo Tech II & my Dad's lap-top!
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: perfferle on 25 February 2008, 22:58:15
Hey guys,
Is something wrong with the USB version Tech2's on E-by? why go RS232?
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Kevin Wood on 26 February 2008, 10:47:35
Quote
Hey guys,
Is something wrong with the USB version Tech2's on E-by? why go RS232?

The cheapo Tech 2 relies on doing some very time-critical signalling over the RS232 port. Putting a USB adaptor in the way almost always screws this up completely. The only reliable way is to use a PC with a real serial port.

Kevin
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Andy B on 26 February 2008, 11:00:04
Digressing slightly .........  ::)
I've just lined the pocket f a local auto-spark to turn off the air-bag light on my lad's Astra F. The auto-spark used one of these (http://www.sun-diagnostics.com/catalog/product_detail.asp?GID=123&PID=117&item_id=3111)
30 secs from start to finish & no lap top in sight. Having a look at the screen it seemed as though it had the capablity to 'talk' to varius makes of car. I notice there's no price  though.  :-?
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Kevin Wood on 26 February 2008, 11:11:49
Quote
Server.MapPath() error 'ASP 0174 : 80004005'

Invalid Path Character(s)

D:\WEBS\SUNEQUIPMENT\CATALOG\../catalog/leftpanelproducts.asp, line 12

An invalid '/' or '\' was found in the Path parameter for the MapPath method.

I hope they're better at making code readers than they are at remembering whether to use *NIX or Windoze path delimiters.  ;D

Kevin
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Andy B on 26 February 2008, 11:17:28
Quote
........

I hope they're better at making code readers than they are at remembering whether to use *NIX or Windoze path delimiters.  ;D

Kevin

Errr?  :-? That's completely over my head!  :-?  ;)
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Kevin Wood on 26 February 2008, 11:57:13
Quote
Quote
........

I hope they're better at making code readers than they are at remembering whether to use *NIX or Windoze path delimiters.  ;D

Kevin

Errr?  :-? That's completely over my head!  :-?  ;)

Their web site appears to be breaked.

Kevin
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Andy B on 26 February 2008, 12:08:14
Quote
.....
Their web site appears to be breaked.

Kevin

 :-? No problem here. Their prices however ......  :o
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 26 February 2008, 18:49:15
what about one of these jaime
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/PCMCIA-RS232-RS-232-Notebook-Serial-I-O-PC-Card_W0QQitemZ230224413647QQihZ013QQcategoryZ96913QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem computer mate of mine sent it to me ?? :-[
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 26 February 2008, 20:59:41
Quote
what about one of these jaime
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/PCMCIA-RS232-RS-232-Notebook-Serial-I-O-PC-Card_W0QQitemZ230224413647QQihZ013QQcategoryZ96913QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem computer mate of mine sent it to me ?? :-[
The fact that it says software compatible if 16550 probably means its no good (or at least no better than usb adapter)
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: markey mark on 26 February 2008, 21:14:10
Quote
Quote
what about one of these jaime
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/PCMCIA-RS232-RS-232-Notebook-Serial-I-O-PC-Card_W0QQitemZ230224413647QQihZ013QQcategoryZ96913QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem computer mate of mine sent it to me ?? :-[
The fact that it says software compatible if 16550 probably means its no good (or at least no better than usb adapter)
bugger thought id sorted then !! >:(
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Jimbob on 27 February 2008, 21:19:20
Right cable arrived today....

Plugged it into vista core 2 laptop....

Searching for drivers, and gets em off windows update.

Installs fine as com4
(I know tech2 software can be very dodgy if not com1)
Into device manager and set it to COM1, no other amendments.

Plug it in, load the software.....


Happy days, worked 1st time no problem.

All I have done so far is check engine codes, but that worked fine.

Will do some more tests over next few days, time allowing
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: Icelander on 27 February 2008, 22:18:23
Would this not work then? :-?
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/OBD2-II-Vauxhall-Opel-tech2-USB-Diagnostic-Code-Reader_W0QQitemZ310025884999QQihZ021QQcategoryZ30921QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: TheBoy on 27 February 2008, 22:20:30
Quote
Would this not work then? :-?
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/OBD2-II-Vauxhall-Opel-tech2-USB-Diagnostic-Code-Reader_W0QQitemZ310025884999QQihZ021QQcategoryZ30921QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Will be flakey, and may not work at all with slower laptops.
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: tmx on 28 February 2008, 11:07:43
you can still get new laptops with comports! Panasonic Toughbook CF18 series and CF29

celerons may struggle i think the boy is correct they have a limited amount of processer memory

my toshiba sat pro m60 doesnt have a serial port and its 2 years old i think toshiba phased them out a while ago! i dont have much confidence in usb serial port replicators they dont seem to work and often re asigned ports that software wont list like com100 etc
Title: Re: cheapo tech 2
Post by: alanfp on 01 March 2008, 00:50:22
My laptop doesn't have Dolby - does that matter?  ;)