Tyresure.com, the UK’s sole distributor of ATEQ Trigger Tools and TPMS equipment has announced a superb new development to the software of its best-selling VT55 handheld unit.
The new ‘Version 51’ software has been developed in direct response to dealer feedback and makes life even easier and quicker for the technician. A new, easier to read car graphic allows instant recognition of which sensor is being programmed, with an easy ‘one button’ operation allowing cycling between each wheel.
The software update also includes every new vehicle release, bringing it bang up to date. So comprehensive is the fitment list, that even low-volume supercars rarities like the US-made Fisker and Tesla come already pre-loaded! The new software also allows the trigger tool to automatically ascertain the frequency of the new sensor being fitted, rather than the technician having to identify which geographical region it is from and then inputting it. For instance, if someone buys an American sensor and installs it, the new part will not work because it operates at 315 MHz.
The VT55 tool will physically display the frequency from the sensor, rather than having to choose the region, i.e. USA, Europe, Asia. The VT55 unit simply wirelessly ‘grabs’ and learns the signals from each sensor to allow the unit to interrogate and recognise each unit. Plugging the enclosed OBD lead into the vehicle’s integrated central electronics system then lets the VT55 ‘marry’ any new TPMS sensors to the car. Not only is the ATEQ hardware compatible with ALL currently known TPMS sensors, but it also has in-built synchronisation software that ensures that it stays up to date with all new TPMS sensors introduced each year. Already in use at franchise level with manufacturers like Chrysler and Peugeot, the tool can communicate with manufacturers’ systems like Renault, Citroen, Chrysler, Peugeot, Honda, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Nissan to name but a few. On Asian produced cars, the VT55 can also bring up detailed fault codes, when triggered, to significantly speed up diagnostic times – something that very few competitors can claim.
With a high-capacity internal Li-ON rechargeable battery, the VT55 is used as a hand-held device in the workshop for ease and convenience. Its large, clear graphic display easily displays all salient tyre sensor information and allows quick and easy vehicle selection by manufacturer. In addition to the latest advanced stream coding technology that can trigger and decode sensors much faster and far more accurately than previous generation tools, the unit also features a USB interface to allow rapid interface and upgrade via the internet. This ensures that as the market and technology advances, business owners can stay at the forefront of the latest developments by having free access to any new models, fitments or coding changes for 12 months. This service can be subsequently extended for a small fee.
But, the VT55 has a few more tricks up its digital sleeve. It also includes a key tester to allow technicians to ascertain whether integral remote locking/alarm functions are working and all data like sensor ID, pressure, battery status and temperature can be stored onto a client’s service record or printed for their convenience. Another new function on the VT55 is a scan function which allows the user to scan for erroneous signals which might interfere with the tool in a main dealer operation where multiple sensor equipped vehicles are present. In operation, the VT55 is blissfully simple, with only 5 control buttons performing every single function and on-screen prompts and a logical operating system negating the need for in-depth training.
To protect from the everyday knocks and scrapes of a busy workshop, the VT55 also comes with a smart rubber case and protective pouch to ensure that it’s always ready for business and the VT55 the OBDII connector and the leads and charger are all housed in a rugged polypropylene carrying case. With franchised dealer TPMS resets currently costing anywhere from £65-£ 125, the ATEQ at just £895 + VAT should recoup its original purchase price within a very realistic period – Typically 25 resets for a specialist outfit based on a unit price of £35-£40. The ATEQ VT55 OBDII is available from Performance Wheels Limited who is the exclusive ATEQ distributor for the UK.
For more information: 01530 517920 or www.tyresure.com