Vgate vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0 OBD2 Scanner User Manual

1. Introducció

The Vgate vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0 OBD2 Scanner is an advanced diagnostic tool designed for use with Android and Windows operating systems. This device transforms your mobile or desktop device into a sophisticated vehicle diagnostics and performance monitoring system. It is an upgraded version of the Vgate iCar Pro, specifically engineered for coding applications that require substantial data transmission.

The vLinker MC supports both standard OBD2 protocols and proprietary vehicle networks, including SW-CAN and MS-CAN for General Motors and Ford vehicles, respectively. This broad compatibility allows access to a wider range of vehicle data and diagnostic functions.

Image 1.1: Vgate vLinker MC device showing Power, Host, OBD, and Bluetooth indicators, along with the Connect Button.

2. Característiques del producte

• Enhanced Protocol Support: In addition to the 5 standard OBD2 protocols, it supports SW-CAN and MS-CAN protocols, enabling access to proprietary GM and Ford networks.
• Alt rendiment: Features a USART data buffer up to 2K bytes and a baud rate increased to 500Kbps for faster and more reliable data transmission.
• Diagnòstic avançat: Capable of reading and clearing check engine lights and may offer advanced diagnostic functions for modules like ABS, SRS (airbags), driveline, and air conditioning, depending on the application and vehicle support.
• Tecnologia d'estalvi de bateria: Incorporates auto sleep and wake-up modes, over-voltage, and battery drain protection. Operates at 51mA and enters a low-power sleep mode (3mA) when idle to prevent vehicle battery drain.
• Àmplia compatibilitat: Fully compatible with ELM's AT command set (ELM327, ELM329) and STN's ST command set.
• Actualitzacions de firmware: Supports free firmware updates to ensure ongoing compatibility and performance improvements.

Imatge 2.1: acabatview of Vgate vLinker MC3.0 key features and capabilities.

3. Setup Instructions (Android & Windows)

Follow these steps to connect your Vgate vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0 to your Android or Windows device. Please note that this device is not compatible with Apple iOS products.

3.1. Connexió de maquinari

1. Insereix el dispositiu: Locate your vehicle's OBD-II port (typically under the dashboard on the driver's side) and firmly insert the Vgate vLinker MC into the port.
2. Encès: Turn your vehicle's ignition to the 'Key On Engine Off' (KOEO) position. Do not start the engine.

3.2. Bluetooth Pairing (Android)

3. Activa el Bluetooth: On your Android phone or tablet, go to your device settings and ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
4. Activa el dispositiu: Press the black 'Connect' button located on the Vgate vLinker MC device. This makes the device discoverable.
5. Parella el dispositiu: In your phone's Bluetooth settings, search for available devices. You should find a device named "vLinker MC". Tap on it to initiate pairing.
6. Introduïu el PIN: When prompted, enter the pairing code: 1234.
7. Confirmeu la connexió: Once pairing is successful, you can open your preferred OBD2 application to complete the connection setup within the app.

3.3. Bluetooth Pairing (Windows)

For Windows devices, the pairing process is similar to Android. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your Windows laptop or PC, then search for "vLinker MC" and use the PIN "1234" to pair. After pairing, configure your chosen OBD2 software to connect to the vLinker MC via Bluetooth.

Nota: Application-specific connection steps may vary. Refer to the official website or documentation of your chosen OBD2 application for detailed instructions on how to establish a connection after Bluetooth pairing.

4. Instruccions de funcionament

Once the Vgate vLinker MC is successfully paired with your device, you can begin using it with a compatible OBD2 diagnostic application. The functionality will largely depend on the capabilities of the chosen application.

4.1. Aplicacions recomanades

The Vgate vLinker MC is compatible with a variety of popular OBD2 applications for Android and Windows. Some recommended applications include:

• FORScan (for Ford/Mazda specific diagnostics)
• Carista
• Torque (Android)
• DashCommand
• JScan
• BimmerCode (for BMW specific coding)

Important: While the vLinker MC adapter is compatible with these software applications, some features or the applications themselves may require an additional purchase or subscription fee directly from the software developer.

Image 4.1: The Vgate vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0 and examples of compatible diagnostic applications.

4.2. Basic Diagnostic Functions

With a compatible application, you can perform the following basic functions:

• Llegir codis de diagnòstic d'errors (DTC): Retrieve current, pending, and permanent diagnostic trouble codes from the vehicle's Engine Control Unit (ECU).
• Esborra els DTC: Erase diagnostic trouble codes and turn off the Check Engine Light (MIL).
• View Congela les dades del fotograma: Access a snapshot of vehicle operating conditions at the time a fault code was set.
• Monitoritzar dades en directe: View real-time sensor data, such as engine RPM, vehicle speed, coolant temperature, fuel system status, and more.
• Estat de preparació I/M: Comproveu l'estat dels monitors relacionats amb les emissions per determinar si el vehicle està preparat per a una prova d'emissions.

Image 4.2: List of communication protocols supported by the Vgate vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0.

5. Compatibilitat

5.1. Compatibilitat del sistema operatiu

• Android: Compatible amb telèfons intel·ligents i tauletes Android.
• Windows: Compatible with Windows laptops and PCs.
• No compatible: This specific model (vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0) is not compatible with Apple iOS devices.

5.2. Compatibilitat del vehicle

The Vgate vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0 is suitable for:

• All 12V gasoline vehicles manufactured in 1996 and later that support the OBD2 protocol.
• 12V small diesel vehicles (with a load capacity of 6.5 tons or below) manufactured in 1996 and later that support the OBD2 protocol.
• Vehicles utilizing SW-CAN and MS-CAN protocols (e.g., certain GM and Ford models).

Avís: Do not use this device on 24V power diesel vehicles.

Image 5.1: Comparison of vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0 and vLinker MC+ models, highlighting system and app compatibility.

6. Manteniment

The Vgate vLinker MC is designed for durability and minimal maintenance. Follow these guidelines to ensure optimal performance and longevity:

• Emmagatzematge: Guardeu el dispositiu en un lloc fresc i sec, allunyat de la llum solar directa i de temperatures extremes quan no l'utilitzeu.
• Neteja: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Actualitzacions de firmware: Regularly check for and install available firmware updates to ensure the device has the latest features and bug fixes. Information on updates can typically be found on the Vgate official website or through compatible applications.
• Protecció de la bateria: The device features automatic sleep mode (drawing only 3mA) to prevent vehicle battery drain during prolonged connection when the vehicle is off. However, for very long periods of inactivity (e.g., weeks or months), it is advisable to disconnect the device from the OBD-II port.

7. Solució De Problemes

If you encounter issues with your Vgate vLinker MC, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• El dispositiu no s'encén: Ensure the device is fully inserted into the vehicle's OBD-II port and the vehicle's ignition is in the 'Key On Engine Off' position. Check for any vehicle-specific issues with the OBD-II port.
• Error d'emparellament Bluetooth:
  • Confirm Bluetooth is enabled on your Android or Windows device.
  • Press the 'Connect' button on the vLinker MC to make it discoverable.
  • Ensure you are searching for "vLinker MC" and using the correct PIN "1234".
  • Try restarting both the vLinker MC (by unplugging and re-plugging) and your smart device.
  • Oblida't del dispositiu a la configuració de Bluetooth i intenta emparellar-lo de nou.
• Application Connection Issues:
  • Verify that the vLinker MC is successfully paired via Bluetooth with your device.
  • Check the settings within your chosen OBD2 application to ensure it is configured to connect to the correct Bluetooth device.
  • Ensure the application is up-to-date.
  • Some applications may require specific permissions (e.g., location services) to be enabled.
• Sense dades o lectures incorrectes:
  • Confirm your vehicle is OBD2 compliant (1996 or newer for gasoline, 12V small diesel).
  • Ensure the application is correctly configured for your vehicle's make and model, if applicable.
  • Try a different compatible OBD2 application to rule out software-specific issues.

For persistent issues, refer to the support section of your chosen OBD2 application or contact Vgate customer support.

8. Especificacions

Image 8.1: Physical dimensions of the Vgate vLinker MC3.0 device.

9. Garantia i Suport

The Vgate vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0 OBD2 Scanner comes with a one-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and ensures product satisfaction.

For any questions, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please contact the VgateDirect after-sales service team directly. They are available to provide support and resolve any issues you may encounter.

Contact information for VgateDirect can typically be found on the product packaging, the Vgate official weblloc web o a través de la vostra plataforma de compra.

Image 9.1: Contents included in the Vgate vLinker MC Bluetooth 3.0 product package.