Why do you need both GDS2 and Tech2Win for GM MDI?

Because GDS2 works for the new GM MY2010 only while Tech2Win works for the old.
Attach a chart: GDS2 vs. Tech2Win

Functions/ Software	GDS2	Tech2Win
Tool to work with	GM MDI	GM MDI
Diagnostics	Yes	Yes
ECU Programming	No. But you can log in www.acdelcotds.com to do programming	No. But you can log in www.acdelcotds.com to do programming
Key Programming	Yes. But you have to program new keys online via www.acdelcotds.com	Yes. But you have to program new keys online via www.acdelcotds.com
SPS Programming	No	Yes
Vehicle Coverage	Working for new GM motors 2010-	Working for old GM motors

Part 1: GDS2
In 2010, GM made a change in their vehicles moving to a Global platform to simplify marketing their vehicles all around the world.
The communication systems changed and the Tech 2 scan tool was no longer able to access them.
In preparation for this change, years earlier, GM had released a laptop based Multiple Diagnostic Interface or MDI . The blue box.
Note that the MDI 2 is used for reflashing only but the dealers loved it because it is twice as fast because of its USB connection to the laptop. (The Tech 2 is a Serial connection system and slower to transfer data for reflashing)
Back to the MDI. Global cars like the 2010 :
Chevrolet Camaro
Chevrolet Volt gas/electric hybrid
Buick Lacrosse
Cadillac SRX SUV
GMC Terrain
Chevrolet Equniox
We are now onto GDS2 which is simply a newer and better version than GDS1.
GDS2 requires renewing of the license to use it by visiting the Tis To WEB website at least once a month (if you have a yearly subscription).
Tis To Web as it is called is GM's website to download the scan tool or reflash data to update a vehicles computer.
You download vehicle software to your laptop and then you run the vehicle choice or program to scan from your laptop with the MDI 2 as the interface between your laptop and the vehicle.
You do not HAVE to be 'online' to use GDS2, only download the latest software license to use it by visiting Tis To Web monthly.
When you start GDS2, the bottom of the screen shows how many days left till an update is required.
If expired, simply log in to Tis to Web before you work on a GDS2 vehicle and renew your license then.
The above license requirements don't apply with a 2 day paid pass to use GDS2.
Part 2: Tech2win
GM also came out with a software program called Tech2Win.  (Tech 2 for Windows)
This is a Tech 2 emulator that runs on your laptop and simulates the Tech 2 screen and keypad to operate it.
Unfortunately, it leaves something to be desired with limited functions and some lack of actuator tests and incomplete coverage. It does not replace a Tech 2 and is a yearly subscription purchase but it is cheaper.
  Tech2Win also cannot be used for Saab or Izusu or Suzuki! 
GM really needs a laptop with a Intel I5 quad processor and 4 GIG of RAM plus Windows 7 Professional.
I recommend a refurbished Panasonic Toughbook CF19 tablet with 2.5 GHZ I5 quad processor with 4 partitions. You can use 1 terabyte solid state hard drives for speed and durability.
1 year warranty though you will probably never have a problem with one of these since they
are solid as a rock. If something were to go wrong after the warranty, I can get it repaired very cheaply. No sweat.
Keep GM by itself to prevent software conflicts and still get use of other operating systems to maximize laptop use with other software programs like Ford, Mazda etc.
When you first start up, the laptop pauses and offers you a screen with the 4 Windows operating systems. Pick which one you want and you are on your way. I also label them to make it more clear what is being chosen.
Example :
Windows 7 GM MDI 2
Windows 7
Windows 7
Windows 7
It's easy to name them anything you want.

http://www.chinacardiags.com/

GM Diagnostic & Programming: Tech 2 vs MDI vs Snap On Solus

This is software and equipment to get on with GM cars (2003 Monte Carlo SS, and a 2009 Cadillac STS) for diagnostics and programming.
In order to perform "advanced functions" on GM Vehicles you are going to need something that talks with all the computers on the GM Vehicle.
The ones that I know of that do this are:
1) GM Tech 2 (will handle everything including programming the computers "updating calibrations") This tool is being phased out but it's still supported until they can get the MDI fully operational. Either way this works Stand Alone without a Laptop/PC.
2) GM MDI (Some say there are limitations with some model years but others say it's better since the updates) Of course using Tech2Win to mimic what the GM Tech 2 does) - This performs like a J2534 Programmer as a Pass Thru Device. DrewTech and companies like Ease Diagnostics make J2534 Pass Thru Devices that will do this as well. And they sell their own flavor of Diagnostics Scan Software. Keep in mind only the GM stuff will do EVERYTHING for GM Vehicles.
3) Snap On Solus (This will do a lot not only on GM Vehicles but others as well. And it can do some of the advanced functions like Automated Brake Bleed on the ABS unit just like the GM Tech 2 and GM MDI) - Keep in mind there are many functions that the Snap On won't do. The Tech 2 and MDI will allows you the option to access and control everything on GM Vehicles.
There are others but I haven't seen them nor tested them.
I started out with the Ease Diagnostics J2534 Programmer with the Programming Assistant software and Scan Diagnostics Software.
However I found for programming these devices work great and they are also a good scan tool. However when I needed to Bleed the ABS Pumps on both a Silverado Duramax Dually and a Tahoe I could actuate the Solenoids and the Motor but never was able to activate the GM Automated Brake Bleeding Procedure. You can search this on YouTube to see how it works.
Ultimately I ended up acquiring a GM Tech 2 to go along with my Ease Diagnostics setup.
If you purchase Scanners that are less featured and don't support Bi-Directional diagnostics you probably will only be able to communicate with the ECU only. In some cases mid-level scanners have access to the ABS system and sometimes also the SRS system (airbag) but won't allow you to talk with the computers like the BCM (Body Control Module).
Depending on your GM Vehicle it can have as little as 3 computers and up (my wife's Escalade has 8 computers).
Also you have to keep in mind that some of the Newer Vehicles us CAN Communication. In the case of the Tech 2 you have to also have a GM CanDi Module in order to talk withe CAN Bus cars.
I don't believe the GM Vehicles you mentioned have the CAN Bus but you can look that up.
If you decide to go with the Tech 2 it can get confusing especially if you are wanting one that isn't a Chinese Clone.
The Tech 2 has been manufactured by Hewlett-Packard, Vetronix and Bosch/OTC. Regardless of which one you get they should do the job the same.
If you want official updates from GM to update the Tech 2 it will cost you a minimum of $775 per year to update. The good news is the final update for the Tech 2 has already released. If you get a scanner with this version you will never need to update it again.
AcDelco allows you access to the Firmware "Calibrations" for the computers for $55 for unlimited 2 to 3 days access. So regardless of which device that supports programming you get that's what it will cost if you need to program the computers with the latest calibrations.
Ps. If you are looking for tool that is working well only, you can get a decent one from China, much more cheaper than the dealer. There are many good China clone, esp. Tech 2 scan tools

Original: GM Diagnostic & Programming: Tech 2 vs MDI vs Snap On Solus

VXDIAG VCX Nano GM working or not

I am using patched Tech2Win, as provided on CDROM purchased with device and VXDIAG VCX Nano GM off ebay and have not been able to communicate with any modules in a 2001 Holden Vectra JS, same as Opel/Vauxhall Vectra B, with a C22SEL engine. The ECU is identified as a Simtec 56.5.

I know that the ECU and Central Door Lock Modules and Immobiliser in the vehicle are not faulty because I can successfully communicate with them using Op Com v1.45 China Clone. I can read DTCs from the ECU module and I can perform Central Door Lock function tests and read the PIDs for the Central Door Lock Module and I have successfully programmed key to immobiliser.

I also have done a successful scan of ECU and Central Door Lock and immobiliser Modules using Autel MaxiDAS DS708.

I have installed the patched Tech2Win as provided on the installation disc with the VCX Nano GM device and it shows 42 days unlocked. It is installed on a Dell Inspiron 8600 Laptop, Intel Pentium M processor 2.00GHz, 2Gig of RAM, runninng Windows XP version 2002 Service Pack 3.

I am using Holden v157 and Opel v180 bins gratefully obtained from this forum with Tech2Win to communicate with the vehicle. The Tech2Win software appears to be communicating with the VCX Nano device, indicated by the green bidirectional arrows in the lower left corner of the Tech2Win app window.

When scanning the ECU Tech2Win indicates Identification Running … with green arrows in lower left of app window, then it would change to Loss of Communications with Vehicle… Then it will change to Unkown ECU. Then it would show the Abort and ID Data select keys at lower part of App Window. If I select the ID Data button, Tech2Win App will display the 5 ID Paramaters, usually with an asterix for all ids, only one time I was able to see the correct ID parameters, even though it said Unknown ECU. If I select MDI Bosch API at the interface select window instead of MDI2 Bosch API, No Communication Message is displayed on the Tech2Win app window.

I also tried to scan the Body Module – Central Door Lock, it would show waiting for data and never establish comms with module. With green bidirectional arrows displayed on the Tech2Win app in lower left corner.

I was using firmware version 1.2.2.1 and I updated the firmware to the latest version 1.2.3.11 from the VX Manager update window, did not help. I noticed in the firmware updates descriptions in some previous firmware updates are related to Opel KW82 protocol. Opel uses KW82 protocol on pin 3 for Body System Modules such as Central Door Locking and Immobiliser and uses KW2000 protocol on pin 7 for the ECU. I know this because Op Com Device shows this when it successfully connects to those modules.

I have not tried scanning any vehicles using GDS2 also provided on the CDROM with VCX Nano GM as I have not had access to any vehicles later than 2006.

Update: I saw this: http://blog.obd2diy.fr/2017/08/09/vxdiag-vcx-nano-gm-good-or-not/
decided to have another new one from obd2diy.fr

Update: Test on a 2009 GMC Savannah full size van:

So I just tested the VXDIAG VCX NANO GM interface and Tech2win on a 2009 GMC Savannah full size van. I was able to connect, read engine data, read other modules data ( BCM ETC) with no issues. Not sure if this vehicle uses the same low speed CAN in any way. But at least I know the interface and tech2win are working together.

I have screenshots if anybody is interested.

Test on 2008 Vauxhall Vivaro 2.0:

Have Vcx Nano GM with Tech2Win for speed limiter removal on a 2008 Vauxhall Vivaro 2.0 (90bhp m9r 782): success!

  

Test on a Buick 2008 GL8 Firstland:

Buick 2008 GL8 Firstland engine: (C) 3.0L V6 LZC

Worked perfect. Both OK in ECM & TCM programming! Online!

So far, satisfied with the second one from obd2diy.fr.

 Relate Product:  

Top Tech2 Clone Diagnostic Scanner For (GM SAAB OPEL SUZUKI ISUZU) with CANDI GM Tech 2 Scanner with tis2000 USBKEY by Carton

GM scan tool: MDI or Tech 2? original or clone?

Looking for a GM MDI interface or Tech 2 scanner and don’t know which one (original or clone) should you take?
Here you go.
Part 1: GM MDI or Tech 2
Part 2: Tech 2 original or clone?
- How to find the original or fake.
- worth to have a Tech 2 China clone?
Part 3: GM MDI genuine or fake?
- what’s the difference of MDI genuine & clone?
- GM MDI china clone any good?
Part 1: GM MDI or Tech 2
Tech 2 scan tool has become obsolete for shop use as of late. It still has a lot of capability and will do anything you need for the older platforms but it needs the CANdi module to work with any of the new stuff. The MDI is a 1 shot deal for all the newer PCMs and will still work on the older stuff too. I sold my Tech 2 and bought an MDI last year, haven't missed the Tech 2 since. Then again I've got a Genysis scanner I use for all my typical diagnostics & probing.
However, the MDI requires a GM log-in with monthly access to GM's website. That's it's only draw back for the enthusiast who wants a GM caliber scanner. The Tech 2 can be updated within itself and doesn't require the internet, the MDI does.
If you're running a shop, get an MDI. For the garage warrior or enthusiast, get a Tech 2. Just don't fall for these $350 pieces of garbage.
You can say that, Tech2win is a pain the the butt. It never updates security correctly for the 30 day window and that using GM computers and login info. The tech 2 is great for code reading, viewing data. The MDI is pretty much only used for programming but its needs on certain 10+ platforms and all 15+ to view data through GDS. All MDI functions require a GM subscription.
Part 2: Tech 2 original or clone?
First, How to find the original or fake.
It is very simple. The first thing I look, it's the memory card slot, open it up and look at the cover, if you see the stamp of the body exactly original. Next, the original at all wires and Candy use aluminum. As different numbers on the back cover, the photo you will see the difference. Sometimes it comes and all labels need to glue yourself.


Second, worth to have a Tech 2 China clone?
In short, that is a nice piece of equipment to have, very nice!
Aside from working beautifully with OBD2, the tech2 is the scanner for GM OBD1 to use. with the right software (plug in chips like nintendo cartridges) it’ll do some daewoo/suzuki, GM medium duty (meaning bigger than 3500 using non automotive OBD2 standards), and other in the GMdistant family tree too.
In addition to generic codes (P0000-P0999) It’ll do all the proprietary GM codes (P1xxx), actuators, and systems. you can also view fuel trims, emissions readyness (beyond a green LED for all OK) and It’ll talk to ALL the modules rather than just the ECM (and if you get into the $250+scanners, ABS) like BCM, SIR, entertainment, EVERYTHING on a GM. At school I used one with a 91+ cartridge on my 87 S10, so going back further is hit or miss but posible.
To adjust shift points and fuel consumptiona and Speedo, forget it.
The TECH2 can’t do any sort of modding/tuning, only upload GM flashes. At least with legitimate software. I’m sure someone has custom software to do it but there are easier ways nowadays.
Is it worth if you just want to read/clear codes on your own car once in a while, heck no. If you’re doing a lot of work on GMs or want to get a lot more in depth with your car, it’s worth the money.

No comment on China knockoff quality, I mean a working tech2, Chinese made or not.
Tech 2 scan tools are verified working:

Item NO.	Package	Weight(kg)	32MB Card	CANDI	TIS2000 USB Key	Hot Selling
SP23	Plastic Case	5.1	Yes	Yes	YES	★★★★★
SP23-1	Carton Box	3.5	Yes	Yes	yes	★★★★★
SP23-B	Plastic Case	4.8	Yes	Yes	yes	★★★★★
SP23-B3	Carton Box	3.2	Yes	Yes	yes	★★★★★
SP23-C	Plastic Case	8.9	Yes	Yes	yes	★★★
SP23-D	Plastic Case	8.9	Yes	Yes	yes	★★★
SP23-D1	Plastic Case	8.9	yes	yes	yes	just add 1*sp23-v vci module
All of GM Tech2 are same functions,they are just from different factory. SP23,SP23-1 the same,just the package case is different,one is with plastic case,one not. SP23-B,SP23-B3 the same factory,the packing is different,one is with plastic case,one not.

Reviews talk a lot. Use with relief.


Part 3: GM MDI genuine or fake?
First, what’s the difference?

This is a chart of GM Multiple diagnostic interface comparison: GM MDI 1 vs. GM MDI 2 kit.

Product	GM MDI	GM MDI 2
Photo
Price	$200 or so   (HQ clone)	$1200 or so   (genuine)
WiFi	Yes Gm mdi clones have USB & WIFI versions	Yes
Running speed	Fast	Faster
Update	YES	YES
Operation system	Windows 7 64bit	Unknown
Software	Global TIS GDS2 Tech 2 Win	Global TIS GDS2 Tech 2 Win
OBDII Diagnostics	Yes	Yes
ECU Programming	Yes	Yes
Key Programming	Yes	Yes
Pass-Thru Programming	Yes	Yes
Vehicle	Vauxhall Opel, Buick, Chevrolet 1996-2017	Vauxhall Opel, Buick, Chevrolet 1996-2017-future

Therefore, it’s easy to find that the GM MDI 2 multiple diagnostic interface only improves in hardware design and running speed.

But the price ($12000) of MDI 2 is 4 or 6 times as MDI 1 ($150-$300).
So, no matter it’s used for DIY fun or professional repair work, a GM MDI clone of high quality is definitely no issues. Note that there are different versions of GM MDI china clone; and the quality may vary coz they are produced in different factory, especially PCB design. And it would result in various prices. But you will get what you pay for.
Second, GM MDI china clone any good?
GM MDI China clone Working well. Tested with GDS2 v.12.
Device works with GDS2 (Opel).
Device works with Tech2Win. (Opel, Hammer)
Device not works with SAAB via Tech2Win.
Price: USD259 + shipping cost(based on your country)
Pay via Paypal
Upload photos

The MDI came ready to use with the software installed. It worked since I already had Tech2Win, GDS2 and GM MDI Manager installed on my laptop. It works extremely well and I have no problems with it. The product image at the time I order showed the cable keeper, A/C 12 volt adapter and multiple diagnostic interface user’s guide CD which is used to install the MDI manager software on your laptop. These items were not included. It also said it was Wifi but did not come with a wireless card but with a wireless interface instead. There are two versions of GM MDI interface on China market, cheaper MDI less than US$180 with only USB connection and the other more expensive with wifi wireless connection.
The product would work excellent if you had the MDI manager software already on your laptop.


My device tested with many cars for 4 months.
Device works with GDS2 (Opel).
Device works with Tech2Win. (Opel, Hammer)
Device not works with SAAB via Tech2Win.
Tested by my own, works with Saab 9-5, 2003, 3.0
It works with tis2000 and tech2win NAO.
My MDI clone works fine with tech2win and also TIS2000 software. Used it for diags and pcm flashing with no problem (through usb port only, cause wifi is unstable for programming functions).
Added a wireless card to that one too, same flawless performance.. Only issue for me is that they all have the same serial number.. So using 2 of them in the same shop with wireless would be impossible..
compared boards from a genuine to this clone, almost identical.. multiple layer pcbs, same tracers, didn’t see any difference except the board labeling was missing on the clone.
Wifi GM  mdi good, interface works online. update mdi 100%. offline not that good  for new cars.
Nissan Consult III Plus Ver.46.30 works on MDI interface as well (this is not tested by me, your are on your risk).

This from China OBD Diagnostic Online Supplier official blog:GM scan tool: MDI or Tech 2? original or clone?

Should I buy a Tech 2 hand held or GM MDI?

Thread: GM Tech2 Scanner hand held or GM MDI?

Tech2 hand held support more then Opel cars.
It support also Isuzu, Suzuki, GM and SAAB
Just changing the PCMCIA card or flash it the one you have if you have only one with the software for cars that you need.
But this tool cannot be used with GDS2 in newer cars models after 2008 ( here we are talking in newer cars as Insignia and Astra J not the models as Corsa D 2014 wich is still supportted by the Tech 2 hand held )

GM MDI can be used as Tech2 hand held in cars from 1997 till 2014 ( but models before 2008 ) using Tec2Win emulator and can be used with GDS2 in newer models cars as Insignia and Astra J
GM MDI doesn’t support Suzuki and SAAB

Both tools suport SPS Programming. But MDI is 20 to 70% faster compared to the Tech 2 for SPS programming, which helps alleviate battery drain on vehicles. This means flashing new ECU software is both quicker and more stable,for example, re-flashing an engine ECU using the Tech 2 could take up to 1 hour, with the MDI it’s just 10 minutes. You can therefore flash 6 cars with the MDI in the same time as it would take 1 with the Tech 2.

I’m also using a HQ OP-COM clone with the lastest version of softwear wich cover even Corsa D 2014 made in february 2014 ( it covers allmost all functions of Tech2 for cars between 2004 – 2013 and better connection for cars before 1997 even it is the same tool revision B hardwear ) and an AVDI ( using Tech2win and GDS2 )

If you need a better cover my advise to you is to buy a GM MDI but the GM Tech2 hand held it is still good

Anyway in the end it is your choice-this is only my opinion
Good luck

FAQ: GM MDI vs. GM Tech2 Diagnostic Scanner

1) Will I need a subscription to use the MDI?

yes currently you need seperate subscriptions for tech2win(tech 2 emulator)
gds2 (newer diagnostic application for global a cars and up) and sps (reflashing)

2) Will I be able to scan and tune without a subscription?

no

3) should I sell my tech 2 and buy a MDI?

they can pry mine from my dead lifeless fingers

4) are they cloning GM MDI’s or are all the GM MDI’s I see for sale the real deal?

i have seen clone mdi’s make sure its from a reputable source

I have zero experience with the GM MDI so any education is very much appreciated

i use my tech 2 on a daily basis (i own a repair facility)

i also use tech2win and gds2 and gm sps frequently using a cardaq-m interface

if you wanted a way to access tech2win and gds2 and sps (for factory flash updates) the cheapest way currently is the mongoose gm 2 interface by drewtech ($495 iirc)

however you will still need a subscription for the desired function
original: Should I buy a Tech 2 hand held or GM MDI?