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Actron Cp9580 Scanner Codeconnect Trilingual
Only $151.24 @ Amazon
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Actron Cp9580 Scanner Codeconnect Trilingual
I was happy with my purcase of the Astron CP9580 UNTIL I tried to do the set up which would allow the AutoScanner Plus CP9580 to upload the units memory results to my PC and print them. I have an intermitent MIL and I want to keep a hard copy of the selective information for assorted weeks. The problem with the CP9580 occurred when I tried to install the PC drivers that come with their Scanning Suite 3.0. software which I had downloaded from the Actron (SPX Corp) web web sites Installing the software driver enables the CP9580 to commune with a PC thru the USB cable provided with the unit. Communication with a PC is as well a function principal to perform on-line updates for the CP9580′s internal database. M/S Windows XP Pro (SP3) did not recognize the drivers. I did eventually coax Windows to install a generic USB/COM port driver but this driver did not work either. I am familiar with PCs and drivers thru my profession and this installing procedure is not rocket science when you have the rectify driver. I contacted SPX technological aid and I spoke with 3 people to work through the difficultnesses Tech support was friendly but they were unable to solve the difficulties I was ultimately told that the unit was “too new” for them to have drivers that work and they “might” have them by December (they did’t say of what year). I have now read the reviews (back to 2008) of other Actron units, such as the CP9185, and this driver problem seems to be systemic with Actron code scanners. Do NOT purchase this unit whether or not you need the information dump and print to the PC function or whether or not you purchase new cars oftentimes and need updates for the internal database.Actron CP9580 Auto Scanner with CodeConnect Trilingual OBD II, might and ABS Scan Tool
Hi,
I read just in regards to every reveiw I could find on OBDll scanners. I was ready to purchase the Innova 3160, but didn’t like the allocation when it comes to charging $14.99 for mend info. Then I got a email for a discount on the Actron 9580, very good deal or call me cheap. So I purchased the Actron 9580 with code connect with the software problems per every review I had read, but before I bought it I called Actron Tech support and was told that their was no troubles Well after in regards to three hours of attempting to down load their Actron Launch Pad with no luck, their is an issue. Then I find out that whether or not their is not a Code Connect answer to the given code they charge you for the answer.
The scanner has worked fine on every car I have applied it on, and is easy to applied Hopefuly they will get the software issue limited so you may update your scanner and print out the info from the scanner.
But for the saving of a few bucks I wish I would have gone with The Innova 3160 for in regards to fifty more dollars.
After looking at scanners for several years, I ultimately decisive to purchase this one because it seemed to have the most usable features (including live data, graphing, recording, etc.) and in addition had the unique “Code Connect” feature for reporting the most likely fixes that work for specific makes and models based on a big reported & verified repair database. I was not disappointed. So far, the “top reported fixes” for the detected disturb codes and vehicle model have been the ones which in truth worked on my own car and on friends’ cars that I repaired. although so a heap of reviewers lay claim that the Code Connect may not work well for sure car models which had very limited production numbers, it worked well for my repairs which included a Toyota Echo which was not a very standard model.
Despite the fact that Code Connect is normally right on target with it is fixes, a few of the fixes that come up would almost never work and look instead ludicrous and unrelated to the disturb codes. I suspect that the reason may be such a good deal of bad selective information that comes from incompetent or dishonest shops in the reporting info base. So whether or not you on occasion see fixes that look ridiculous, don’t be astonished – they most likely ARE ridiculous.
Certain “cars” such as Jeep and SUV’s are classified as trucks, so you may need to select truck on the scanner to find the make and model. The specific model list presently goes up to model year 2008, so you will need to select the generic “Global OBD II” on the menu for more recent vehicles or vehicles not on the list. Code Connect does not work for the generic Global OBD II selection, but you will still get the disturb codes with definitions.
Although powertrain (including emission) diagnostic upset codes work for almost all domestic, Asian, and European vehicles, the ABS upset codes will only come up for GM, Ford, and Chrysler vehicles 1996-2008. There is not much Code Connect fix info for ABS, but the ABS code definitions are usually sufficient to lead you to the problems A few domestic vehicles are not ABS covered. You may check vehicle coverage by going to actron.com and selecting products, scan tools, Auto Scanner Plus 9580, and clicking the CP9580 ABS coverage chart link on the bottom of the page.
I commend downloading and printing the User Manual which is over 100 pages and tells you much more than the Quick commence Manual included in the scanner package. You may get it on actron.com when you click client service and then click user manuals.
You do not need the computer software download at all unless you want to transfer car diagnostic information from the scanner to your computer to save it or print its Software program updates for the CP9580 unit itself are not yet available at the time of this review, so don’t undertake to get it is Although there are reports that the software package does not install on 64 bit and Windows 7 systems, it seems to work fine on Windows Vista and earlier systems. Go to the Actron web internetlocation and click updates. Scanning Suite 3.0 is the one to download for the CP9580 even altho the CP9580 is not yet listed on the web page as one of the supported scanners.
After you install the scanning suite and you want to use print capture (also called print selective information on the CP9580 scanning tool) to transfer scanner selective information to your computer, you could have a problem because the USB port instructions are unclear when you click on print capture. You need to select a com connection port on the computer drop down menu such as com1, com2, com3, com4,…etc. even though you are using a USB rather than a serial port. To find the port number, connect the CP9580 to a USB terminal using the provided cable, and select the print info menu on the CP9580 so that “print data” appears on the top of the scanner display. Then go to control panel on your computer and select device directors Click the + on the “ports” in the device manager list to get the com number for SPX (Actron). After you transfer vehicle info from the scanner to your computer, you may click edit on the print capture document which puts the information in Windows Notepad text format for editing, saving, copying, printing, etc. whether or not you save the notepad itself, select save as and select an existent known folder, or it may decrease rapidly into a nonexistent scanning suite location.
Although I have employed the print capture to see how it works, I have not found it necessary to use for my repair work. The stand-alone CP9580 works fine.
I did call client technological support one time, and found the representative to be knowledgeable and friendly.
Update January 2011. Actron altered their internet internet web internet website a small so that Scanning suite 3.0 is now listed as supporting the CP9580. However, it still will not work on 64 bit or Windows 7 systems. They say that a 64 bit & Windows 7 version will be available very soon, but it is still very late considering how long the new Windows operating scheme has been out. Actron in addition added CP9580 printing (print capture) instructions which are alike to my instructions above, accept that they go to Device Manager by right clicking computer (my computer) rather of using Control Panel classic opinions Software program updates for the CP9580 unit itself are not expected for a long time. I may comprehend that at least a couple of years of repair info are necessitated to get significant Code Connect information, but they genuinely need to update ABS information sooner for the vehicles not yet covered on the scanner.
Almost wrote this one off after reading the 2 other reviews pointing out pc driver problems. The price was right so I thought I’d give it a undertake anyway. I necessitated to discern the ABS trouble codes for my 2002 Explorer and this told me what I needed to know. Was looking at the Equus 3160 but didn’t like the idea of connecting to the PC with a serial port or buying USB converter. I downloaded the Scanning Suite 3.0 software from the Actron website and installed on my VISTA based PC. I connected thru the supplied USB cable which also powers the unit. The unit does not load the driver until you request to print information from the handheld menu screen. Note the com port displayed when the driver is loaded the 1st time. Mine was 6. From the scanning suite take the print capture option and set to rectify com port. Report data is sent to a print capture screen that may be printed or copied and pasted to another program like MS Word and saved. Tool update feature also appears to work although no updates are presently available. Burn date in the unit was 7/20/10 so it hasn’t sitting on a shelf very long. So far I’m pleased. Make certain your vehicle is compatible before you buy.
My ABS code is displayed below. Other data was omitted. Problem hasn’t been fixed yet but I’m going to get started by checking the speed sensor
DTCs (Codes)
C1233 ABS $28
Wheel Speed Left Front Input Signal
Missing
FREQ REPORTED FIX
1-Replaced Antilock
Brake System (ABS)
Control Module
As a stand alone unit, this thing is awesome!!! ABS/TRAC lights rolled up on my 2000 300M, and after a bit of exploration on the internet, I figured that whether or not I could locate the problem, I would be able to fix its Plugged it in,,,left rear wheel speed sensor signal diagnotic came up…removed the tire….pulled the sensor….noted numerous build up of “moon dust”…no proof of oil or grease from a seal….cleaned with a toothbrush…re-assembled and cleared the diagnostic and all is back to normal. A twenty minute occupation and the unit has remunerated for itself. I didn’t have “Code Connect” for this problem,since it was finelooking straight forward, but having it is a DEFINITE ADVANTAGE for the DIY’er….IMHO worth the extra money.
HOWEVER….Nothing is as discouraging and hindering as screwed up software. I haven’t attempted to install the software, based on the reviews of not only this unit, but other Actron products whose users are very disappointed with the software offered. I personally don’t feel that I would see much of a use for it anyway. For now, I’ll watch and wait. Hopefully, Actron will realize that they could leave Equus in the dust with a bit more venture from their software developers.
NOTE: whether or not purchasing for the ABS functions, be certain that your vehicle will be covered.
The Takeaway….This scanner is head and shoulders above it’s competition…the software not so much.
There’s a boatload of code scanners to choose from so the question one might ask is: “Which one?” The answer, after two days of exploration and a follow-up day of research after ordering this unit, in the short, this one. Why? Because it hits the middle ground amongst price and features smartly.
First things first, all of the units I checked out had galore various negative reviews. To me, negative reviews are very telling as what to expect. The point, all the code checkers have negative reviews, not just this one. I let negative reviews be my guide to the positive reviews, not the other way around.
Second: Over the last few days, I’ve had several contacts with SPX’s (Actron) customer service to ask sales and tech associated questions before buying. My experience, to a one, each fundamental interaction was a positive one. A positive consumer attitude might have something to do with this point as the folks answering the phones are human also.
Third: I asked a customer service rep with regards to warranty issues in regards to online Amazon receipts and was told there’s no problem with warranty returns using an online Amazon receipt.
Fourth: I asked in regards to available software compatible with Win 7/64 and was told that Win 7/64 software was expected a couple of months out. Time will tell on that point. whether or not you’re XP/2000/Vista, 32bit compliant, you’ll be good to go.
(As of 14SEP2011, Win 7/64 drivers ARE available)
actron.com/downloads/
Fifth: I without apparent effort scanned, found and corrected (erased) the error code which caused me to buy this unit in the initial place; 2000, Dodge Durango.
Details: The quick start manual is quick and dirty. I was up and running in minutes, not hours.
…………Batteries are not included. You’ll need four AAA batteries on stand-by if you want to use this unit without delay on arrival.
…………The comprehensive, downloadable manual (pdf) is a hundred and eighteen pages. Wow!
…………The unit scans many vehicles for Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) error codes.
…………The unit comes with a six foot tether that’s easily connected/disconnected but it don’t come with no case. Bummer. Of course, for seventeen additional dollars plus shipping, you may buy a soft case from SPX. But they’re currently out of stock. I employed an available case I had hanging around the house to give this unit the shelter a piece of high-tech gear of this kind deserves. Works great and saves money. The six foot tether is long sufficient so one may use the unit while sitting in the driver’s seat. The code scanner a past mechanic used, had a two foot pigtail and he was stuck below the steering column on a hot sweaty day with me feeling guilty as if I were abusing my mechanic.
……….You can’t download and install available software (Scanning Suite) if you’re running Win 7/64. Double bummer.
……….Restating, not compatible with Win 7/64. Supposedly compatible with 32bit OS such as XP, 2000 or Vista. I write supposedly as I haven’t check out compatibility issues with any 32 bit OS’s.
……….Unit looks good so it has a high cool factor.
……….I commend becoming an inexpensive copy of OBD-II & ELECTRONIC ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS TECHBOOK (Haynes Techbook) to augment this piece of gear’s instruction set.
……….I also, commend becoming a Cable Extension, J1962m to J1962f, 15ft (144203) if you’re wanting to scan from the engine compartment. I ordered one that arrived today.
If you’re wanting a code scanner to keep you away from mechanic/dealership pricing, that hits the middle ground between being a full featured unit that’s not, by comparison, overly priced (yes, this is a bit of a pricy unit), my opinion, this is the unit you want. Remember to offset the price of this unit against legitimate mechanic fees (they have to compensate their utility bills also) and the comfortableness of being competent to scan, clear and correct error codes yourself by way of constituents replacement. And if you let friends and family members know you have one of these babies, your popularity index will immediately go through the roof.
A final thought, if going on a roadtrip, I highly commend throwing this unit into your bugout bag as when the “check engine” light comes on, you won’t have to worry with regards to what the light is trying to tell you as you can immediately pull over and find out what’s up. Very cool.
Hope the above helps.
If you have an older car (I do, 1996) you most likely figure you’ll save such a heap of cash reading your own codes and DIY repairs. However, the highly-touted “Code Connect” feature doesn’t work for every car, and didn’t for mine, so I would have been as well off with a much fewer highpriced scanner. I realize that ’96 is the basi year that OBD II was implemented, but the CP9580 packaging and ad material didn’t say anything regarding Code Connect not working with such a lot of models and years.
To be fair, this CP9580 is the wave of the future. Some day your scanner will go well beyond giving you obscure codes and interpretations and in truth tell you what the most likely fix is, model specific. The Actron CP9580 is a good step in that direction but only IF your car is in their database, and I suspect that only newer cars are supported by Code Connect. The problem for us old guys is, new cars don’t have problems as ofttimes as older cars. The old car you actually need it for is probably least supported.
Actron would do it’s customers a service by without doubt or question telling them on the package or on a web site whether their car is supported by the Code Connect feature so they can decide before buying. I wouldn’t have returned mine to the store if I even had a clue in regards to WHEN my car would be supported, if every But I looked beauteous exhaustively on the web site and couldn’t find any such information. So consumer beware, all the whistles and bells MAY work for you or it may end up giving you info you could have got for around $50.00.
The product doesn’t come with a CD, you have download software from their web site (slow). The web site and the software are finelooking retro in look and navigation. But the really annoying thing is that the software redirected me to a “subscription” – I’d have to recompense additionally to get a better diagnosis. I just paid $200.00 for the CP9580 at the store and now I have to pays more to get what it was supposed to do anyway.
That was the final straw for me. I took it back for a refund. I’m sure this is an progressed concept, but not for everyone. Contrary to what the packaging would make you think.
As others have noted, it reads codes. I bought it for the graphing feature but apparently it does not send graphs to your PC—only raw data. And getting it to send data to a PC is terribly complicated. Here is what I figured out (for a Windows XP PC):
How to Connect Actron CP9580 Auto Scanner to a PC -
Download the Scanning Suite 3.0 software from[...]website and install on your PC. (There is a Windows 7 driver available now.)
After you install Scanning Suite, you can use “Print Capture” in the Scanning Suite on your PC (and the “Print Data” selection on the CP9580 scanning tool) to transfer saved scanner data to your computer.
You will have a problem because the USB port instructions are unclear when you click on “Print Capture”. Here is step by step what you require to do:
Connect the CP9580 via the supplied USB cable which also powers the unit.
The PC does not load the driver until you click the “Print Data” icon on your PC.
You must select a COM connection port on the computer drop down menu such as COM1, COM2, COM3, COM4,…etc. even though you are using a USB rather than a serial port.
To find the COM port number, with the CP9580 connected to the PC’s USB terminal using the provided USB cable, select the “Print Data” on the CP9580. “Print Data” must appear on the top of the CP9580 display.
Next go to Control Panel on your computer by selecting Start–>Settings–>Device Manager–>Administrative Tools–>Computer Management–>Device Manager.
Click the + on the “Ports” in the Device Manager list to get the COM port number for SPX (Actron). It will look something like this: “SPX Virtual COM Port (COM 8)” NOTE THE COM PORT NUMBER. YOUR COM PORT NUMBER WILL NOT NECESSARILY BE 8.
Make sure the CP9580 is connected via the USB cable, and on the CP9580 make sure that you have chosen “Print Data” and highlighted “Print All”.
On your PC, in Scanning Suite, click “Print Capture”.
Scanning Suite on your PC will tell you to select a COM Port. Select the one you identified above, then “Next” then click “Finish”.
Now on the CP9580 with “Print All” highlighted in the “Print Data” screen click “Enter” on the CP9580.
The data will populate on the PC screen.
You can copy and paste it to a text editor and save it or print it.
If that unit CP9580 is not capable of troubleshooting ABS on your frequent GM or Ford make of a vehicle,
it is NOT worth the money, since engine troubleshooting can be done with anything else,
even with those obd ii scanners for $20 to 50 bucks.
If the unit is supporting your vehicle ABS, it is a dissimilar story, it is well worth to buy it.
And certain standard models have been left out by the manufacturer of this scanner – are not supported.
That is because ABS system is a money maker for dealers and car OEMs.
this type of general description: “ABS code read/erase capability for most 1996 and newer GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles”,
is something potential buyer ought to not take at its face value, but verify that his/her popular brand of vehicle is supported
by this CP9580 ABS scanner.
good luck!
I did not follow the suggestions of the former reviewers. I bought this CP9580 and I really liked it is It worked well when I connected to the car and found the code. Even the codeconnect was very convenient. Went to my PC, installed Suite 3.0 and the drivers. I connected the CP9580 and my PC did not see the unit. I uninstalled the program and the drivers at least 6 times. Did not work on windows XP (netbook). I installed the drivers and the program on my Windows vista 64 PC and as expected did not work. So I installed it in another PC windows vists 32 bit and did not work. I wrote to Actron asking if they have a solution and did not get an answer after a week.
I gave up and returned the unit. You need a PC connection to update this unit. Also if you want to dump data or print data you need a PC connection. I will give Innova 3100 a try.