Noregon has released a new test that lets technicians apply a temporary termination condition to a supported CAN network and compare ECU communication before and after the test.
The feature is available in the latest version of CAN Mentor, Noregon’s vehicle network diagnostic software, or JPRO users can add the capability to their diagnostic software for an additional fee.
“This is more than just a software update, it’s brand-new technology,” says Zach Jones, product manager at Noregon. “The test gives technicians another way to see how ECU communication changes when a controlled termination is applied. That can help narrow whether to investigate a module, its connection, or the network backbone.”
[RELATED: ASE seeks technician input for annual industry survey]
The terminating resistance feature displays all modules that are detected on the CAN network(s). When the technician selects to inject the terminating resistance, the on-screen ECUs turn green if the module began communicating when termination was applied and orange if that ECU stopped broadcasting after termination was applied.
Guided steps help technicians across different experience levels perform a more consistent first-pass network check. Just like measuring voltage or resistance within the software, injecting terminating resistance doesn’t involve lifting the hood, removing batteries, or a deep understanding of electrical properties.
“Communication issues often lead to service centers outsourcing the work to a dealer or adding to the workload of their lead tech,” says Jones. “CAN Mentor upskills the entire shop by giving technicians the ability to diagnose network issues that traditionally required in-depth knowledge of electrical systems.”
Terminating resistance is now available in CAN Mentor software when users update to the latest version. With the JPRO update, users can select the test from the application to purchase the module. JPRO’s update also includes a new emissions assistant that provides detailed emissions information for vehicles and off-highway equipment. Additionally, new support and tests are available for major manufacturers including Cummins, Freightliner, WABCO, Sprinter and John Deere.
Existing customers can update their JPRO or CAN Mentor applications directly from the software or from the company’s website.
