GM Scan Tools Hardware and Software Guidelines

GM’s hardware (Tech 2, MDI, MDI2, VXdiag vcx nano gm, etc.) and software (Tech2win, GlobalTis, TIS2000, GDS2, etc) are designed and validated to work within specified hardware and software versions. This document details the ideal computer scenarios with which GM hardware and software will function as designed. Non-compliance could result in undesired results for which GM is not responsible and will not support.

GM hardware:

GM MDI:

http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/gm-mdi-diagnostic-interface-with-wifi.html

GM MDI2:

http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/wifi-gm-mdi-2-diagnostic-tool-sp163-e.html

GM Tech2:

http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/gm-tech2-gmtech-2-diagnostic-scan-tool.html

VXDIAG VCX NANO GM:

wifi version: http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/vxdiag-vcx-nano-for-gm-opel-gds2-scanner-wifi-version.html

wired version: http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/vxdiag-vcx-nano-for-gm-opel-gds2-scanner.html

GM software:

TIS2000:

http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/tis2000-cd-and-usb-key-for-gm-tech2-gm-car-model.html

Tech2win, GlobalTis, Gds2:

http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/gm-mdi-gds2-gm-mdi-gds-tech-2-win-software.html

Online programming subscription:

http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/one-year-gm-online-subscription.html

General Notes

The GM IT guidelines are organized as follows:

• Good – the minimum acceptable systems capability/components for conducting diagnostics and programming with related GM hardware and

• Better – the systems infrastructure capability/components that will deliver better performance and security while seeking to maximize the lifecycle of the

• Best – the systems infrastructure capability/components that will deliver best performance and security while seeking to maximize the lifecycle of the

NOTE: If you are looking to purchase new infrastructure, systems or solutions, please

adhere to the specifications outlined in the “Better or Best” sections.

Hardware

The following section details guidelines for required hardware and software as well as a guide for purchasing new hardware and software. NOTE: GM hardware and software must be utilized on a dedicated computer.

Consumer-Grade versus Enterprise-Grade: Most computer manufacturers offer two different grades of computers: consumer-grade hardware intended for home and personal use, and enterprise-grade hardware intended for businesses. While the price of consumer-grade hardware may seem attractive for independent businesses, oftentimes the total cost of ownership ends up being greater due to the limited functionality, higher failure rates, and more complex support.

	SUPPORTED		NOT SUPPORTED
Enterprise grade hardware (PCs and Access Points)		Consumer grade hardware (PC and Access Points), Apple or Mac tablets & PCs Non-branded, built by hand or thin client PC
Intel Core i3 / i5 / i7 processors 4th generation and above		ALL Intel Core i-series 3rd generation and below Processors plus AMD, Celeron, Pentium and Atom processors
Windows 7 Professional, 64 bit supported up to December 31, 2019 only. Windows 10 Professional, 64 bit		Windows 8.x, XP and Vista Business Windows 7 Professional, 32 bit All Home Operating Systems Tablets running Android or Mac operating systems
Java Run Time Environment 32 bit		All 64 bit versions of Java

Desktop PC

	Good	Better	Best
Processor	Intel Core i3, i5, i7 4th Gen	Intel Core i3, i5 5th & 6th Gen* & above	PC: Intel Core i7 7th & 8th Gen* & above
System memory (RAM)	4GB	8GB	16GB
Hard Disk Drive	256GB	500GB	1TB
USB Ports	4	4+	4+
Display	17” 1366 x 768 (HD)	21” 1366 x 768 (HD)	24” 1920 x 1080 (HD)
Network Adapter	Wired: Gigabit Wireless: 802.11n	Wired: Gigabit+ Wireless: 802.11ac	Wired: Gigabit+ Wireless: 802.11ac
Operating System	Windows 7 Professional, 64 bit	Windows 10 Professional, 64 bit	PC: Windows 10 Professional, 64 bit

* Note: 7th Generation or above have model numbers of 7000 or greater (example: Intel Core i5- 7400T).

* Note: For Service Technicians who perform Infotainment programming the 256GB drive size is not sufficient for large calibration files. Select from the Better or Best category.

For the Techline Service Technician applications (TIS2Web, GDS2, MDI, MDI 2, Tech2Win, and Service Information):

• Requires Local Windows Administrative access for software installation and updates to Windows registry
• Refer to section d.iv for a list of recommended firewall and security exceptions
• Recommends one (1) Multiple Diagnostic Tool (MDI / MDI 2) for every PC
• Recommends one (1) battery maintainer for every two (2) Multiple Diagnostic Interface (MDI) tools in use
• Recommends use of Tripp-Lite Keyspan USB to Serial adapter (Model: USA – 19HS) for computers without serial ports

Laptops & Tablet PCs

	Good	Better	Best
Processor	Intel Core i3, i5, i7 4th Gen	Intel Core i3, i5 5th & 6th Gen* & above	PC: Intel Core i7 7th & 8th Gen* & above
System memory (RAM)	4GB	4GB	8GB +
Hard Disk Drive	256GB	500GB	1TB
USB Ports	4	4+	4+
Display	13” 1366 x 768 (HD)	15” 1366 x 768 (HD)	17” 1920 x 1080 (HD)
Network Adapter	Wired: Gigabit Wireless: 802.11n	Wired: Gigabit+ Wireless: 802.11ac	Wired: Gigabit+ Wireless: 802.11ac
Operating System	Windows 7 Professional, 64 bit	Windows 10 Professional, 64 bit	Windows 10 Professional, 64 bit

* Note: 7th Generation or above have model numbers of 7000 or greater (example: Intel Core i5- 7400T). GM

* Note: For Service Technicians who perform Infotainment programming the 256GB drive size is not sufficient for large calibration files. Select from the Better or Best category.

For the Techline Service Technician applications (TIS2Web, GDS2, MDI, MDI 2, Tech2Win, and Service Information):

• Requires Local Windows Administrative access for software installation and updates to Windows registry
• Refer to section d.iv for a list of recommended firewall and security exceptions
• Recommends one (1) Multiple Diagnostic Tool (MDI / MDI 2) for every PC
• Recommends one (1) battery maintainer for every two (2) Multiple Diagnostic Interface (MDI) tools in use
• Recommends use of Tripp-Lite Keyspan USB to Serial adapter (Model: USA – 19HS) for computers without serial ports

Software

	Good	Better	Best
Web Browser	Internet Explorer, version IE11 (with current Service Pack) with the “compatibility view” enabled
Java	Current 32-bit version of Java Runtime Environment, or the version recommended by each application
System Recovery	Full Operating System Recovery Package, Ensure the PC manufacturer or reseller provides the necessary recovery software to restore the operating system in the event of a major software failure. (Note: See Business Continuity Section)
Desktop Anti-Virus	Enterprise Desktop Anti-virus solution that is updated automatically and managed through a centralized console.

Internet Speed

	Good	Better	Best
Speed	100 Mbps	1000 Mbps	1000 Mbps

Note:

The MDI and MDI 2 are not compatible with an open, unencrypted wireless network.

Desktop Security

	Good	Better	Best
PC Virus Monitoring	Enterprise-grade, antivirus products should be installed on all PCs and configured to automatically perform the following: ·         Download and install most current virus signature updates ·         Actively monitor for viruses ·         Quarantine and eradicate infected files ·         Antivirus solution should include antivirus, anti-spyware, intrusion prevention, application control, spam control and rootkit detection
Patch Management	·         GM recommends that patch management be performed on every PC to ensure each workstation has current patches. ·         Workstation Management should include remote monitoring of hardware/software failures, down servers, low disk space, excessive CPU usage and excessive memory usage. Install critical security patches within one month of release.
Password Protection	Employees have multiple user ID’s and passwords used to access the tools that support user’s job roles. Implementing a password management policy is a significant piece of data security and access control. All passwords should be promptly changed if suspected of/are being comprised, or disclosed to vendors for maintenance/support. •  Refrain from divulging passwords unless absolutely necessary (i.e., helpdesk assistance) •  Protect stored passwords – discourage employees from writing down access information and keeping it in plain sight of passerby (i.e., username & password written on post it note nearby workspace). •  Passwords should be encrypted when transmitted electronically. •  Passwords must be changed every 90 days. •  Users are not able to reuse their last five (5) passwords. •  User accounts are locked-out or suspended after the tenth (10) failed login attempts. •  Remove all employee credentials from all network devices immediately upon employment ending.

GM Application Security and Firewall Exceptions

All application updates and installations must be performed from an account with local Windows administrative privileges. Firewall Exceptions for TIS2Web applications:

• 64 bit Windows:
• C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jre<version number>\bin\jp2launcher.exe
• C:\Program Files (x86)\GDS 2\jre6\bin\javaw.exe
• C:\Program Files (x86)\General Motors\Tech2Win\bin\emulator.exe
• C:\Program Files (x86)\GM MDI Software\GM MDI Manager\GM_MDI_Manager.exe
• C:\Program Files (x86)\GM MDI Software\GM MDI Identification Service\GM_MDI_Ident.exe
• C:\Program Files (x86)\Vibe Programming\Cuw.exe
• 32 bit Windows:
• C:\Program Files\Java\jre<version number>\bin\jp2launcher.exe
• C:\Program Files\GDS 2\jre6\bin\javaw.exe
• C:\Program Files\General Motors\Tech2Win\bin\emulator.exe
• C:\Program Files\GM MDI Software\GM MDI Manager\GM_MDI_Manager.exe
• C:\Program Files\GM MDI Software\GM MDI Identification Service\GM_MDI_Ident.exe
• C:\Program Files\Vibe Programming\Cuw.exe
• Java Control Panel Security URL Exception:

o https://tis2web.service.gm.com

• Internet Explorer Trusted Sites URL Exceptions:

o *.gm.com

http://blog.obdii365.com/2019/11/26/gm-scan-tools-software-it-guidelines/

Download Tech 2 Saab 148.000 from TIS2Web

GM Tech 2 Scanner Saab 148.000 download instruction:

Important: The Tech 2 Saab software that is currently on the 32 MB memory card will be erased and the Saab software will be written over top of it.

(This process can be reversed to reload the service version back to North American Operations)

• Verify a 32 MB memory card is inserted in the Tech 2

• Connect the Tech 2 to a PC using the RS232 cable and DB9 adaptor.

Most modern laptops and desktops do not have a serial port, if yours does not please use a Keyspan adapter. Model number USA-19HS has been validated

• Open TIS2Web and select the SWDL tab

• Under “Select Diagnostic Tool” select Tech 2
• Under “Update Mode” select Custom and press next

• Scroll down in “Applications for Downloading” and double click on SAAB Automobile AB 148.000 – 32MB
• Click on the desired language
• Press the “Select” button in the middle of the screen and verify the information is correct in the box on the right
• Click the download button

The software that is on the 32 MB memory card will be erased and the Saab software will be written over top of it.

A confirmation screen will display when the software download has finished.

The Saab software is now loaded onto the 32 MB memory card and is ready for use. The home screen should appear as shown.

Note: if you cannot download Saab 148.00 yourself, here’s your way to go:

http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/32mb-card-for-gm-tech2gmopelsaabisuzuholden-1606.html

you can choose any program below for your memory card:

GM

GM-English         33.004 1991-2014

GM-Spanish       31.007   1991-2014

GM-French          32.007  1991-2014

GM-Portuguese  32.007  1991-2014

GM-Japanese     32.006

OPEL

OPEL-English      Newly Update to V180      1997-2014

OPEL-Italian        133.001 1997-2012

OPEL-Spanish    91.001 1997-2009

SUZUKI

SUZUKI-English   01.210.020

SAAB

SAAB-English     148.000

ISUZU

ISUZU-English  107.021 2006-2010

Holden

Holden-English　 149.000 1999-2013 (For North American Area Only)

http://www.obdii365.com/producttags/gm-tech2.html

How to Install Tech 2 Tis2000 on Windows/MacOS

It’s about GM computer programming – useful set up, software support and the stuff you cant learn in school!

Its old but still has its place in the tool box of today’s technician.

TIS2000 and Tech 2:

Consider purchasing a decent copy of TIS2000 software http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/tis2000-cd-and-usb-key-for-gm-tech2-gm-car-model.html

This will allow you to program and update controllers up to 2008 on most GM family vehicles. On the good side, you can use TIS2000 as well as TIS on WEB in both pass thru mode, as well as remote mode if your PC is not close to the car your working on. TIS2000 can also be configured to use a J tool in pass thru meaning if you were to acquire a J2534 unit or an MDI down the road, you can configure TIS2000 to work directly in concert with it. Another benefit to using TIS2000, even WITH a subscription to TIS on WEB is that TIS on WEB is no longer supporting VTD re-learning on a lot of pre CAN products. Its worth its salt just for that feature alone. TIS2000 allows you to use your Tech 2 as a pass thru unit and you would have the flashes resident to your PC. You do not need to have internet access to flash program cars from TIS2000. This is all upside!

Downside is that TIS2000 is not known to play nice with Windows OS beyond windows XP. It also does not work on a solid state hard drives or memory devices. It has to be a good fashioned platter drive. It takes up a good amount of HD space as well (as much as 4GB).

If you can believe it, OTC actually provided programming software to allow an OTC Genisys, Mentor, Taskmaster, Deturminator to do programming on ALL GM modules in Pre O8. As a matter of fact, the data disc updates are directly from GM and work with TIS2000 software to update it. The only catch is that you need to have the TIS2000 program installation disc and a software security key to make it work on a PC.

I have personally posted TIS2000 discs and security keys on auction sites and the feedback I get on how well it works is outstanding as to its usefulness and functionality.

For some newer vehicles, as new as 2007 (caddy’s and W body cars in particular), they love to tell you to go blow when it comes to pass-thru programming or even using a remote mode of programming with MDI, Tech 2 or generic J 2534 units. Believe it or not, I have had to use gm Tech 2 Legacy feature to get into some of these modules.

Yea, yea, it all sounds kinda overwhelming, but trust me, its all there, you just have to know what it means when you’re looking at it. Once you know where its at, you will know when its time to use it.

PC Selection for GM programming:

Now that Microsoft no longer supports Windows XP, lots of folks have moved away from XP as an OS. If you want to continue to use programs like TIS2000, better think it over before re-formatting your PC.

Windows XP:

I personally, use a Toughbook CF19 with windows XP on a platter drive specifically for the purpose of working with GM products. Its a little more expensive than the CF18’s or CF24’s that most folks use because they are much cheaper. The only reason I use CF19 is because it has SATA hard drive capabilities. The wonderful thing about Toughbook is that it has a removable hard drive caddy in the side. You can slide the hard drive, hard drive heater and caddy out in seconds, and slip in another unit with whatever load of windows you like. Personally, I have one platter drive equipped caddy with all my GM software using Windows XP. When I need some other application like Ford IDS, or Chrysler witech, or Honda HDS, I simply pop the GM HD out of my PC and slip in a Solid State HD with Windows 7 in and fire it up. Some folks are astonished that Windows 7 will work well on such a Puny processor, but with a little added RAM, (4 Gig total) and a SSHD, it works great! If your already using windows 7 on a platter drive, you can easily install a virtual windows XP onto it. There is actually a feature within windows 7 to do just that.

MacOS:

Afraid of an Apple Mac Book for programming? Think again! It may be the best unit out there!

I also like to use my MacBook Pro and a program called parallels to run OS10 for general computing, than I can do the 2 finger slide into windows 7 and 2 finger side into XP as I need to. I do not need to close down a virtual machine like Windows requires you to do when you want to toggle between multiple operating systems. You simply put two fingers on the mouse pad and SSSLLLLLIIIIIDDDDDEEEEE to whatever OS you want to use. Parallels shares the USB ports and wireless, so there is no loss of connectivity or functionality. Truth be told, MacBook is FAR superior to PC even with a windows OS on it. You can also use programs like Virtual Box on MacBook to jump from Apple OS10 to Whatever windows OS you like, but I find parallels to be far more user friendly and light years faster! I have not even broached Linux operating systems like Ubuntu which also work great with some of this software and are just incredibly fast!

Smart phone:

Connecting to the Internet……PICK UP THE PHONE!!!!!!!!

The last thing I want to discuss is how you can use your smart phone to connect your PC to the net to get on GM TIS ON WEB. Sure, you can make most smart phones like I phone and Android an internet “hot spot” BUT…..This is slow, and insecure! I prefer to use a cell phone app called “PDA NET.” This allows me to tether my cell phone directly to my PC through USB and gives me lightning fast internet service. The trial app can be had for free, but I’m telling you, spend the eight bucks to buy the app. Its way better, has far more features and folks, if you use this one single time to update a controller, it will more than pay for itself!

Finally, bear in mind, I am by no means a computer expert/geek! I am nominal in skill level at best! I rely on the kindness of others to show me the way. This is why our always welcome to reach out with questions.

Reference:

Windows xp/7/8 installation tips:

http://blog.obdii365.com/2018/03/14/install-tis2000-on-windows-xp-7-8-64bit-or-32bit/

TIS2000 programming instruction:

http://blog.obdii365.com/2018/04/22/gm-tech-ii-and-tis200-do-pass-thru-programming/