OBDII Scanner or Vida basics

[Eddystone]

Please check me out on my basic understanding of VIDA compared to a scan tool.

(Note: I have had VIDA set up on a Win7 computer and used it in the past as a reference tool, but not connected to a car. I also have a bluetooth scan tool I use with my 1998 V70. I'm considering adding a post-1998 car to the collection.)

1. Any scan tool can read generic OBDII codes. Most are limited to engine codes.
2. Some dedicated scan tools are able to read Volvo enhanced OBDII codes including things like ABS codes.
3. Scan tools can read codes and clear them but may not be as specific as we would like.
4. Moving up to VIDA is much more cumbersome because you have to load the Volvo software onto a laptop and then connect tothe car with a dedicate interface similar to this: https://www.ebay.com/itm/VOLVO-VIDA-DIC ... SwrlRZyamU
5. Upside of the VIDA/DICE is you get access to a) Service Procedures b) Parts Diagrams c) A full interface with the car's computer that will give you specific diagnostic information beyond what you can get with just a scan tool. For example, you may be able to diagnose the ABS system down to input from a specific wheel.

So, the VIDA/DICE setup is definitely more useful than just a scan tool, but it's a pain in the a$$ to juggle a laptop and all those cords.

[Georgeandkira]

Any "juggling" of an interface unit (DICE) and the wire to the computer is the least of your worries. There is no "all those cords".

I've read Windows10 (with some qualification-one version vs another) and a chunk of memory is required. Since most people would dedicate a laptop to their VIDA/DICE the exact amount of memory isn't an issue.

Besides diagnostic information you'd be able to actuate anything in the car. A person could run the windows and air conditioning from VIDA. Early on, I saw a few unpracticed dealership employees trying their hands on the new tool.

I believe the kicker is obtaining a copy of the program. Illegal pirated copies frequently don't load well. Only a few who've torn their hair out have posted their woes. I'd bet the majority of those who've been stung keep it to themselves.

There is a guy in England, Simon Robb, who loads VIDA onto refurbed laptops. If someone here did that, he'd have my business.

Others will chime in shortly.

[RickHaleParker]

I believe the kicker is obtaining a copy of the program. Illegal pirated copies frequently don't load well. Only a few who've torn their hair out have posted their woes. I'd bet the majority of those who've been stung keep it to themselves.

Read this. There is over 14,000 people who have done it, look at the number of downloads for the 2099 patch.

but it's a pain in the a$$ to juggle a laptop and all those cords.

Its not that much trouble. Place the laptop in the other seat, on a cart next to the car or get a "steering wheel desk" and work the laptop on top of the steering wheel. You can pick steering wheel desk at most Truck stops.

I have gotten VIDA to run on a Windows tablet.

There is one other advanage with VIDA DiCE. You are more likely to get help with a problem when you use Volvo codes and terminology.

[jonesg]

Any "juggling" of an interface unit (DICE) and the wire to the computer is the least of your worries. There is no "all those cords".

I've read Windows10 (with some qualification-one version vs another) and a chunk of memory is required. Since most people would dedicate a laptop to their VIDA/DICE the exact amount of memory isn't an issue.

Besides diagnostic information you'd be able to actuate anything in the car. A person could run the windows and air conditioning from VIDA. Early on, I saw a few unpracticed dealership employees trying their hands on the new tool.

I believe the kicker is obtaining a copy of the program. Illegal pirated copies frequently don't load well. Only a few who've torn their hair out have posted their woes. I'd bet the majority of those who've been stung keep it to themselves.

There is a guy in England, Simon Robb, who loads VIDA onto refurbed laptops. If someone here did that, he'd have my business.

Others will chime in shortly.

I paid $185 for fully installed ready to go on a HP laptop, $90 for dice.
Either someone on this forum or the volvospeed forum. Best money i spent, i had a good $240 autel which i sold once i got vida.
I usually put the computer on the hood or roof.
Theres no shortage of guys selling preloaded fully functioning used laptops in the us.

[dionescu]

There is a guy in England, Simon Robb, who loads VIDA onto refurbed laptops. If someone here did that, he'd have my business.

Hi,could you provide a contact for Simon Robb? Email, phone, WhatsApp. I would need him for an installation of VIDA and DICE. I have the older version, VADIS

[jonesg]

sorry I've been offline for 6 months.
just search SiRobb on youtube.

[abscate]

[You can pick steering wheel desk at most Truck stops.

I forgot to get Ratnalle one of these for Xmas , to contemplate that Americans want to be able to drive and use their laptops , too.