Picodiagnostics Users Guide 18

PicoDiagnostics®
Automotive Software
User's Guide
pd.en r18
PicoDiagnostics User's Guide I
Table of Contents
1 Welcome .................................................................................................................................... 1
2 Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 2
1 System requirements .......................................................................................................................... 2
2 Using PicoDiagnostics for the first time ................................................................................................ 2
3 Licence agreement .............................................................................................................................. 3
3 Menus ......................................................................................................................................... 4
1 File menu ........................................................................................................................................... 4
1 User Details dialog .................................................................................................................. 5
2 View menu ......................................................................................................................................... 5
1 Customer details dialog ........................................................................................................... 6
3 Tests menu ......................................................................................................................................... 8
4 Options menu ..................................................................................................................................... 8
5 Help menu ......................................................................................................................................... 8
4 Tests ........................................................................................................................................... 9
1 Cylinder balance ................................................................................................................................. 9
1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 9
2 Test conditions ....................................................................................................................... 9
3 Wizard ................................................................................................................................. 10
4 Options ................................................................................................................................ 11
5 Running the test .................................................................................................................... 11
6 Controls ............................................................................................................................... 12
7 Signal graph .......................................................................................................................... 13
8 Failed test ............................................................................................................................. 14
2 Compression test .............................................................................................................................. 15
1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 15
2 Test conditions ..................................................................................................................... 15
3 Connections .......................................................................................................................... 16
4 Test setup ............................................................................................................................. 16
5 Options ................................................................................................................................ 16
6 Running the test .................................................................................................................... 17
7 Failed test ............................................................................................................................. 19
3 Battery test ...................................................................................................................................... 20
1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 20
2 Connections .......................................................................................................................... 21
3 Setup .................................................................................................................................... 22
4 Options ................................................................................................................................ 23
5 Running the test .................................................................................................................... 24
6 Interpreting the results .......................................................................................................... 25
4 Propshaft balancing ........................................................................................................................... 26
1 Preparing the vehicle ............................................................................................................. 26
Copyright © 2009-2016 Pico Technology Ltd. All rights reserved. pd.en r18
II Table of Contents
2 Running PicoDiagnostics ........................................................................................................ 26

3 Options ................................................................................................................................ 39
5 NVH ................................................................................................................................................ 40
1 Equipment ............................................................................................................................ 40
2 Terminology ......................................................................................................................... 40
3 Connecting the PicoScope and sensor .................................................................................... 41
4 Running the PicoDiagnostics software .................................................................................... 41
5 Selecting the NVH test .......................................................................................................... 41
6 NVH Wizard ........................................................................................................................ 42
7 NVH Setup page ................................................................................................................... 43
8 NVH Vehicle Information page .............................................................................................. 48
9 NVH Record and Analyze page ............................................................................................. 51
10 Viewing the results .............................................................................................................. 51
11 NVH Options ..................................................................................................................... 63
12 NVH Advanced Options ...................................................................................................... 64
13 Load Audio dialog ............................................................................................................... 67
14 Function Generator ............................................................................................................. 68
Index ........................................................................................................................................... 71
pd.en r18 Copyright © 2009-2016 Pico Technology Ltd. All rights reserved.
PicoDiagnostics User's Guide 1
1 Welcome
Welcome to PicoDiagnostics, the automotive fault-finding software for your
PicoScope Oscilloscope.
With a PicoScope, PicoDiagnostics turns your PC into an automotive diagnostics tool.

The program includes a range of built-in tests that are easy to operate, even if you
haven't used them before.
If you need to go beyond the built-in tests, an additional program is available:

PicoScope Automotive. This software will have been downloaded and installed along
with PicoDiagnostics. This gives you all the features of an advanced oscilloscope and
can be used to diagnose almost any electrical component in any vehicle.
2 Introduction
2 Introduction
PicoDiagnostics supports the PicoScope 3000 Automotive and 4000 Automotive
Series diagnostic oscilloscopes.
How to use PicoDiagnostics

· Getting started: see Using PicoDiagnostics for the first time.
· For further information: see descriptions of Menus.
2.1 System requirements

PicoDiagnostics software: runs on a PC or laptop running a Windows 7 and later*
operating system.
*Earlier versions of PicoDiagnostics remain compatible with Windows XP SP3,

Windows Vista SP2.
2.2 Using PicoDiagnostics for the first time

We have designed PicoDiagnostics to be as easy as possible to use, even for
newcomers to automotive diagnostics. Once you have followed the introductory steps
listed below, we hope that you will soon become an expert.
Plug in your PicoScope oscilloscope. Windows will recognise it

and make the necessary changes to allow your computer to
1.
work with it. Wait until Windows tells you that the device is
ready to use.
2. Click the new PicoDiagnostics icon on your Windows desktop.
3. Click the button for the test you wish to perform.
Follow the on-screen Setup Wizards or instructions on

4.
connecting your scope and running the test.
2.3 Licence agreement

The material contained in this release is licensed, not sold. Pico Technology grants a
licence to the person who installs this software, subject to the conditions listed below.
Access. The licensee agrees to allow access to this software only to persons who have
been informed of these conditions and agree to abide by them.
Usage. The software in this release is for use only with Pico products or with data
collected using Pico products.
Copyright. Pico Technology claims the copyright of, and retains the rights to, all
material (software, documents etc.) contained in this release. You may copy and
distribute the entire release in its original state, but must not copy individual items
within the release other than for backup purposes.
Liability. Pico Technology and its agents shall not be liable for any loss, damage or
injury, howsoever caused, related to the use of Pico Technology equipment or
software, unless excluded by statute.
Fitness for purpose. No two applications are the same: Pico Technology cannot
guarantee that its equipment or software is suitable for a given application. It is your
responsibility, therefore, to ensure that the product is suitable for your application.
Mission-critical applications. This software is intended for use on a computer that

may be running other software products. For this reason, one of the conditions of the
licence is that it excludes usage in mission-critical applications, for example life-
support systems.
Viruses. This software was continuously monitored for viruses during production, but
you are responsible for virus-checking the software once it is installed.
Support. If you are dissatisfied with the performance of this software, please contact
our technical support staff, who will try to fix the problem within a reasonable time. If
you are still dissatisfied, please return the product and software to your supplier within
14 days of purchase for a full refund.
Upgrades. We provide upgrades, free of charge, from our website at

www.picotech.com. We reserve the right to charge for updates or replacements sent
out on physical media.
Trademarks. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Pico

Technology, PicoScope and PicoDiagnostics are internationally registered trade marks.
4 Menus
3 Menus
Menus are the quickest way to get to the main features in PicoDiagnostics. The
Menu bar is always present at the top of the PicoDiagnostics main window, just
below the window's title bar. You can click any of the menu items, or press the Alt key
and then navigate to the menu using the cursor keys, or press the Alt key followed by
the underlined letter in one of the menu items.
The list of items in the menu bar may vary depending on which test you are running.
3.1 File menu

Click File on the Menu bar.
Load. Allows you to load a test from disk to review the result. Loading a test
result from disk will clear any captured data and results.
Save. Some tests allow you to save test data to disk.
Print. Opens a standard Windows print dialog, which allows you to choose a
printer, set printing options and then print the selected view.
Print Preview. Opens the Print Preview window, which allows you to
preview the report before printing it with the Print command.
Preferences. Opens up the User Details dialog.
Exit. Close PicoDiagnostics without saving any data.
3.1.1 User Details dialog

This dialog appears when you select Preferences on the File menu. It allows you to
enter details about your company and your name. These will appear on the report.
How to use the dialog

Enter all the values you want.
Click OK to close the dialog and save the changes.
Click Cancel to close the dialog and discard the changes.
The items in the dialog
Company: The name of your company. This will be displayed on the report if no
logo has been selected.
Name: Name of the technician, or the contact name, to appear on the

report.
Telephone: The contact number that the customer will see on the report.
Address: The address of your company. There is space for four lines.
Logo: Your company logo (selecting a file here will enable it to appear on
your reports).
3.2 View menu

Click View on the Menu bar.
Details. Edit the customer and vehicle details and notes.
6 Menus
3.2.1 Customer details dialog

This dialog appears when you select Details on the View menu. It allows you to enter
details about the customer and the vehicle you are testing. There is also a space for
entering notes about the test.
How to use the dialog

This dialog is for you to store data about the customer and the vehicle that the test
applies to. The data in this dialog will be saved with the test and printed on the report.
Click OK to close the dialog and save the changes.
Click Cancel to close the dialog and discard the changes.
Customer details
Name. The customer's name.
Phone. The customer's phone number.
Address. The customer's address. There is space for 4 lines.
Vehicle details
Make. The make of the vehicle. The makes of vehicles are stored in a database. If you
manually enter a make which is not already saved, a message box will pop up.
Model. The model of the vehicle. When a make has been selected, this list is
populated with all the currently known models of that make.
Year. The year of the vehicle.
ID. An identification number for the vehicle. Can be the VIN or anything else you
choose.
Notes
In the Notes field you can enter additional information that you want stored with the
test.
8 Menus
3.3 Tests menu

Click Tests on the Menu bar.
This menu lists all the tests available. Click one of the tests to proceed.
3.4 Options menu

The Options menu changes depending upon which test you are carrying out at the
time. Please see below for links to the test options you require:
· Cylinder balance options

· Compression test options
· Battery test options
· NVH test options
· Propshaft balancing options
3.5 Help menu
Click Help on the Menu bar.
These are the standard Windows options for access to this help file.
Note: Show Vibrate Help option only appears when within the NVH test.
4 Tests
PicoDiagnostics is a collection of specific automotive tests. They are all designed to
be easy to use, even if you have little or no experience of automotive diagnostics.
To begin any test, click the PicoDiagnostics icon on your computer:
These tests are available with this installation of PicoDiagnostics:
· Cylinder Balance
· Compression Test
· Battery Test
· NVH
· Propshaft Balancing
4.1 Cylinder balance

4.1.1 Introduction
The cylinder balance test measures how much each cylinder contributes to the
engine's total power output. There are a number of things that can cause a cylinder to
contribute less than the other cylinders. These include but are not limited to:
· low compression
· faulty injector
· faulty spark plug.
A slightly uneven balance does not necessarily mean that there is a fault in the engine.
During warm-up, most engines run slightly unevenly. Deposits and engine wear may
also have an effect on the engine's performance.
To use the cylinder balance, start PicoDiagnostics and set the test conditions.
4.1.2 Test conditions

The following test conditions must be met before running the test:
· The engine must be at normal running temperature. This can be confirmed when
the cooling fan has activated twice, and by referencing the temperature gauge on
the vehicle's dashboard.
· The engine must be off before connecting the oscilloscope.
If this is the first cylinder balance test you are running, load the test using the Tests
menu. Follow the on-screen wizard instructions to connect your PicoScope to the
vehicle. If however you have already run a cylinder balance test, simply click Setup
and follow the on-screen wizard instructions.
10 Tests
4.1.3 Wizard
The cylinder balance setup wizard consists of 4 screens.
Screen 1: Contains a notice about using the software.
Screen 2: Gives you guidance on connecting the PicoScope ready for the Cylinder
Balance test.
Connect the oscilloscope
Connect the scope to a USB port on your PC using the USB cable.
Connect one of the general test BNC cables to Channel A on your oscilloscope. On the
other end, connect a large red crocodile clip to the red cable and a large black
crocodile clip to the black cable. Connect the red clip to the battery positive (+) and
the black clip to the battery negative (-) as shown in the picture above.
Screen 3: Lets you specify how many cylinders the vehicle to be tested.
Screen 4: Shows the signal strength between the PicoScope and the vehicle to be
tested.
Note: If the signal strength is low you can improve it by switching on various
ancillaries such as mainbeam lights, fog lights, interior fan (full), rear demister.
4.1.4 Options
This dialog appears when you click the Options menu on the main Menu bar while
the Cylinder Balance Test is selected. It allows you to set whether the Cylinder
balance wizard appears before running the test.
4.1.5 Running the test

To start the test click Start. If the test successfully starts, a new window with a
progress indicator will briefly appear on the screen. The data is now being analysed
and shown in real time on screen with the results appearing in the bar graph as shown
below.
The result
If the test could not produce a result see: Failed cylinder balance.
You can stop the test at any time by simply clicking Stop. It is possible to then scan
through the results by clicking Play. The results are always scaled to show the highest
cylinder at 100%.
Controls
During the test you can right-click on the bar graph to get a control menu. See:
Cylinder balance controls.
12 Tests
4.1.6 Controls
Right-click the cylinder balance bar graph to bring up a menu with display options. You
can use this menu to access more information concerning the test and its result.
Variation
Displays the variation in contribution for
each cylinder as an overlaid blue bar.
Misfire
Displays suspected misfires as a separate
bar for each cylinder.
Signal
Not required for basic testing
Brings up a second graph, the signal

graph, that can display the engine speed
or the contribution for each cylinder over
time. To zoom in on the data, click and
drag to select the range to display.
4.1.7 Signal graph

The signal graph displays the captured data as engine speed or cylinder contribution.
Zooming
You can use the mouse to zoom in on the data. Use the context menu (right-click) to
zoom out again.
Signal graph context menu

Right-click the graph to bring up a menu with display options. You can use this menu
to access more information concerning the test and its result.
Zoom out
This zooms out to display the full dataset.
View
You can choose to view the engine speed, the cylinder contribution, or view the
Trigger Signal with Speed Signal.
14 Tests
4.1.8 Failed test

If the test could not produce a result, make sure that:
· the connection to the battery is good

· the tension of the alternator belt is adequate.
It may also help if you switch the headlights on full beam and switch on other
electrical loads, such as the rear windscreen heater and fog lights.
There are some engines for which the test has difficulties producing a result.
These include:
· engines with more than 8 cylinders

· some engines with dual mass flywheels
· engines with inertial dampers
· some engines with smart alternators
· vehicles with xenon lights
If there is still a problem

If you have checked the points mentioned above and the software still cannot
produce a result, we would like you to send us a copy of the of the failed test
data. Please enter as much information as possible about the vehicle tested. This
is done via the Details dialog. Save the test to a file using the File > Save menu
and email the file to us on picodiagnostics.feedback@picotech.com.
4.2 Compression test

4.2.1 Introduction
The compression test is meant to be a first check. If the compression looks good, you
can quickly move on and investigate other components which might be the cause of
the fault. If the test detects a low cylinder, you should perform a manual compression
test to verify the results and to work out which cylinder is low.
To use the compression test, start PicoDiagnostics and click Compression Test.
Compression test - before starting the test
There are two types of compression test:
· Relative compression - requires no pressure transducer, only a connection to the

battery.
· Absolute compression - requires a connection to the battery and a pressure
transducer connected to a spark plug port.
Follow the instructions below to connect your PicoScope to the vehicle and run the
test.
· Set the test conditions

· Connect the oscilloscope
· Connect the pressure transducer (only for the absolute compression test)
· Disable the engine
· Run the test
· If the result is blank
4.2.2 Test conditions

The following test conditions must be met before running the test:
· The engine must be at normal running temperature, which is indicated by the

cooling fan switching on.
· The engine must be off before connecting the oscilloscope.
· The cranking speed must be normal (battery must be charged).
16 Tests
4.2.3 Connections
Connecting the oscilloscope
Connect the oscilloscope to a free USB port on your PC using the USB cable.
Connect one of the general test BNC cables to Channel A on your scope. On the other
end, connect a large red crocodile clip to the red lead and a large black crocodile clip
to the black lead. Connect the red clip to the battery positive (+) and the black clip to
the battery negative (—).
Connecting the pressure transducer (absolute compression test only)

Remove the spark plug from any convenient cylinder. Fit a compression hose into the
empty spark plug socket, then attach it to the pressure transducer's inlet port, as
shown in the picture below. Then connect a BNC to BNC cable from the pressure
transducer to Channel B on your scope.
Disabling the engine

The compression test can only be performed when the engine is cranking, so it must
be prevented from starting. This can be done by removing the engine management
relay from the fuse box or disabling the injectors.
4.2.4 Test setup

The compression test should be performed according to the vehicle manufacturer's
specification.
If you are using the pressure transducer, click Pressure.

Next, click the numbered button corresponding to the number of cylinders in the
engine.
4.2.5 Options
This dialog appears when you click either the Options menu on the main menu bar
while the Compression Test is selected, or the Pressure button, located at the
bottom of the screen. It allows you to set special options before running the test.
These options apply only to the absolute compression test, and not to the relative
compression test.
Compensate: Check to use the Cylinder Volume, Compression Ratio

and Sensor Volume parameters. Leave unchecked to
ignore these values.
Cylinder Volume (l): The volume of the cylinder in litres.
Compression Ratio (X:1): The compression ratio of the cylinder. For example, if
the compression ratio is 11:1, enter 11.
Sensor Volume (l): The volume of the pressure sensor in litres. This
information should be available from the manufacturer
of the sensor. If in doubt, do not alter the value in this
box.
Engine Capacity: The size in CC of the engine under test.
Use Pressure Sensor: Indicates whether a WPS500X pressure transducer is

being used during the test.

To start the test, click Start.
A new window with a progress indicator and instructions will appear on the screen.
Wait until the message in the window is "Crank engine".
With the throttle wide open (accelerator pedal fully pressed), crank the engine until
the progress indicator reaches 100%.
The data is now analyzed and the result appears in a bar graph, as in one of the
examples below:
Compression test result - Compression test result -

without pressure sensor with pressure sensor
(relative mode) (absolute mode)
18 Tests
In relative compression mode, the result In absolute compression mode,

is always scaled to show the highest PicoDiagnostics shows the true
cylinder at 100%. The bars are ordered compression in each cylinder. As in
according to the engine's firing order. The relative compression mode, the bars are
cylinders are named A, B, C and so on, named A, B, C and so on.
because with only a connection to the
battery the software has no way of
knowing which cylinder is number one.
This may cause the result to be shifted if
you run the test on the same engine
more than once.
The result
If the test could not produce a result, see Failed compression test.
4.2.7 Failed test

If the test could not produce a result, make sure that:
· the connection to the battery is good

· there is not a battery charger connected to the vehicle's electrical system.
If there is still a problem

If you have checked the points mentioned above and the software still can't
produce a result, we would like you to send us a copy of the of the failed test
data. Please enter as much information as possible about the vehicle tested.
This is done using the Details dialog. Save the test to a file using the File | Save
menu and email the file to us at support@picotech.com.
Note: Some engines fitted with a flat-plane crank can give spurious low
compression readings.
20 Tests
4.3 Battery test

4.3.1 Introduction
To use the battery test, start PicoDiagnostics and click Battery Test.
Tip: If the battery has been recently charged, there is a risk of “surface charge”
affecting the state-of-charge results. To eliminate the surface charge, switch the
lights on full beam for about 2 minutes and then wait for about 2 minutes before
performing the test. If you are only measuring cold cranking amps then you can
ignore this precaution.
Follow the instructions below to connect your PicoScope to the vehicle and run the
test.
· Connect the PicoScope

· Set any special test options
· Run the test
· If the result is blank
4.3.2 Connections
Connect the PicoScope
Connect the PicoScope to a free USB port on your PC using the USB cable.
Channel A: Battery voltage

Connect one of the general test BNC cables to Channel A on your PicoScope. On the
other end, connect a large red crocodile clip to the red lead and a large black crocodile
clip to the black lead. Connect the red clip to the battery positive either on the battery
or in the fuse box. Connect the black clip to a secure earth (ground) point as shown in
the picture below.
Channel B: Starter motor current

Connect the 2000 A or 600 A current clamp to Channel B on the PicoScope. Place the
current clamp so that it is positioned around the positive cables which are connected
to the positive battery terminal. More importantly make sure the current clamp is
positioned around the starter motor positive or negative cable in order to record the
cranking current from the starter.
If you have a 4-channel scope then you can run the optional extended drop test.
Additional connections for extended drop test
In addition to connecting channels A and B as described above, Channels C and D

must also be connected as follows:
Channel C: Starter motor positive terminal

Using a BNC to 4 mm lead, connect the red 4 mm plug to the positive terminal of the
starter motor using the appropriate clip / connector. This is the terminal that the main
positive cable from the battery connects to.
Channel D: Starter motor negative terminal

Using a BNC to 4 mm lead, connect the red 4 mm plug to the negative terminal of the
starter motor using the appropriate clip / connector.
Note: Most modern vehicles don’t have earth cables to the starter motor. In this case
connect to one of the mounting bolts by which the starter motor is attached to the
engine or gearbox bell housing, as the starter will earth through to chassis and/or
battery.
This will enable PicoDiagnostics to separate the cable resistance from the starter
motor resistance.
All connections must be clean and free from oil, grease and dirt to ensure the readings
are accurate.
22 Tests
4.3.3 Setup
First, click either 12 V or 24 V depending on the voltage of your electrical system.
Tip: If you have a 24 V system with two 12 V batteries, test each battery separately.
Otherwise one good battery could hide a fault in the other battery.
Next, set the Type of battery to match the battery you wish to test.
Set the Temperature to the local air temperature in °C or °F depending on

preferences.
The battery capacity in cold cranking amperes (CCA) should now be entered, along
with its standard (CCA Unit).
Now, set the battery test options (see Battery test options).
4.3.4 Options
This dialog appears when you click the Options menu on the main menu bar while
the Battery Test is selected. Here you can:
· Enable the Extended drop test options

· Adjust the capture time of the test
· Click OK to confirm
24 Tests

Click Start.
Note: Because the engine is not drawing any current at this stage, the program will
draw a horizontal line showing zero amps of current. If this line is not at zero
amps, the current clamp may need to be adjusted. Press the "Zero" button or turn
the "Zero" dial on the clamp until the horizontal line is at zero amps.
Start the engine.
While the test is running, the program shows the voltage on Channel A and the
current on Channel B, and a graph is drawn from left to right. The program
automatically stops recording data when it has enough information, so there is no
need to click the Stop button unless you wish to stop the test early.
The program then analyses the data and shows the results in a table, as in the picture
below:
If the program reports "Battery has failed the test - refer to help file for advice", see
Interpreting the Results.
4.3.6 Interpreting the results

If the state of charge is low then recharge the battery and re-test.
If the state of charge is all right but the CCA (cold cranking amps) is low then check
these things before replacing the battery:
· Check the battery connections. If they are loose, they could increase the internal
resistance.
· If the battery is not a sealed type, check the fluid levels in each cell.
26 Tests
4.4 Propshaft balancing

The propshaft needs to be balanced after removing one or more components of the
transmission system. This is done using the PicoDiagnostics Propshaft Balancing
program, by fitting balancing weights on the differential coupling flange, using off-the-
shelf hose clamps on the propshaft, or attaching a single balancing weight to the
propshaft.
4.4.1 Preparing the vehicle

Raise and support the vehicle according to manufacturer directions. Remove the two
rear wheels and secure the rotors or drums to the hub assembly. Position the vehicle
on mounts in order to hold the vehicle level and at the same height as if the wheels
were fitted.
Remove any balancing weights from the flange stud bolts before starting the balancing
procedure.
4.4.2 Running PicoDiagnostics

The propshaft balancing procedure is divided into four stages:
Initial Run
Calibration Runs
Verification
Free run
Click Balancing:
Click which format you would like to use to complete the propshaft balancing test.
The program displays step-by-step instructions in the form of a Wizard for both
formats of this test. We recommend that you follow your chosen procedure carefully.
4.4.2.1 Pinion Flange Trial Balance Wizard

The Pinion Flange test wizard will run you through the various steps required to
complete your test. These will steps will cover:
· Connections to the scope

· Mounting the accelerometer to the vehicle
· Fit the magnetic mount and optical sensor (if required) in order to read the
propshaft rotation speed
· Entry of required technical data
4.4.2.1.1 Initial Run
Before you begin
· Insure the vehicle is properly supported (refer to service information)

· Remove rocks and debris from the tires
· Ensure all the leads are clear of rotating components
· Disable ABS and Traction control if equipped
· Turn off the AC and other accessories
Find a suitable shaft speed. Run the engine with the transmission in high gear to
highway speed (65-70 mph or 105-113 km/h typical). The software will capture the
RPM when held stable for more than 3 seconds or you can click the Edit Manually box
and enter in the desired shaft speed.
The balancing is ready to begin. When ready press the green “Initial Run” button in
the software. This step takes an initial measurement of the shaft.
28 Tests
Accelerate to the required speed. The RPM graph will be green when in the specified
RPM range. Data will only be gathered while the RPM is in the specified range. As
data is collected the % Completed bar will fill. When complete, place the vehicle in
neutral and turn off the engine.
4.4.2.1.2 Calibration Run 1
Place 4.5 grams of weight at location 1 by stacking 3 of the balancing weights (1.5 g
each). Click the green Calibration Run 1 button to proceed. Note that the weights
can be mounted to the front or rear of the flange.
Accelerate to required speed until the % complete bar reaches 100%. When complete,
place the vehicle in neutral and turn off the engine.
Remove the balancing weights from position 1 and install them at position 3. Click the
green Calibration Run 2 button to proceed.
30 Tests
Remove the balancing weights from position 3 and move them to position 5. Click on
the green Calibration Run 3 button to proceed.
4.4.2.1.5 Balance the shaft
Remove the balancing washers from position 5. Install the balancing washers at the
location(s) directed by the software to balance the shaft. Click the green Verification
button to continue.
32 Tests
4.4.2.1.6 Verification run
The final imbalance will be displayed by the software. If the imbalance exceeds the
minimum requirement the software will suggest removing the rear tires (ensure the
rotors or drums are secured to the hub) and restarting the test.
If restarting the test, remove all the balance weights. The ”Initial Run” button can be
clicked to restart the test or the “Balancing” button can be clicked to go back through
the setup wizard.
4.4.2.2 Hose Clamp Trial Balance Wizard

The Hose Clamp wizard will run you through the various steps required to complete
your test. These will steps will cover:
· Connections to the scope

· Mounting the accelerometer to the vehicle
· Fit the magnetic mount and optical sensor (if required) in order to read the
propshaft rotation speed
· Entry of required technical data
4.4.2.2.1 Initial Run
Before you begin
· Insure the vehicle is properly supported (refer to service information)
· Remove rocks and debris from the tires
· Ensure all the leads are clear of rotating components
· Disable ABS and Traction control if equipped
· Turn off the AC and other accessories
Find a suitable shaft speed. Run the engine with the transmission in high gear to
highway speed (65-70 mph typical). The software will capture the RPM when held
stable for more than 3 seconds or you can click the Edit Manually box and enter in the
desired shaft speed.
Place the first clamp on the rear of the shaft. Clearly mark its location – this is going
to be the reference point for all other measurements. Label the mark as “0 mm”.
Measure the distance specified by the software to place the second clamp. Place the
second clamp next to the first.
When ready press the green “Initial Run” button in the software.
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Accelerate to the required speed. The RPM graph will be green when in the specified
RPM range. Data will only be gathered while the RPM is in the specified range. As
data is collected the % Completed bar will fill.
Once the % Completed bar is filled the software will direct you to place both clamps at
the 0 mm mark and to click on the green Calibration button when ready.
Accelerate to required speed.
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Measuring in the direction of forward shaft rotation, measure and mark the point
indicated by the software. Place both clamps and press the green Calibration button
when ready.
Measure the distance specified from the 0 mm mark and place both clamps.
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4.4.2.2.5 Balance the shaft
Measure and mark the locations directed by the software and place the clamps.
4.4.2.2.6 Verification run
The final imbalance will be displayed by the software. If the imbalance exceeds the
minimum requirement the software will suggest removing the rear tires (ensure the
rotors or drums are secured to the hub) and restarting the test.
If attaching a single weight is desired the hose clamps can be removed and replaced
with a single weight as indicated by the software at the location of the blue arrow.
4.4.3 Options
This menu is found under Tools in the main menu bar when the Propshaft Balancing
test is selected.
Choosing Options reveals the Propshaft Balancing Wizards selection screen.
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4.5 NVH
NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) is the study of unwanted movements and
sounds generated by a vehicle. The PicoDiagnostics NVH software can analyze
vibrations and help to diagnose NVH problems. All you need is a PicoScope Automotive
oscilloscope, the PicoDiagnostics NVH kit and a software license key (available from
Pico Technology support).
4.5.1 Equipment
PicoScope oscilloscope: receives signals from the microphone or accelerometer, or
other vehicle component, converts them to digital data and feeds this to the computer
for analysis.
Accelerometer: a vibration-sensing device connected to the PicoScope oscilloscope. It

must be attached rigidly to a vibrating part of the vehicle using the magnet or
mounting screw supplied.
NVH interface: allows microphones and accelerometers to be connected to the

PicoScope oscilloscope. The NVH interface supplies power to the amplifier while
transmitting vibration and sound signals to the oscilloscope.
Optical sensor interface: allows optical sensor to be connected to the PicoScope

oscilloscope. The optical sensor interface supplies power to the optical sensor while
transmitting data signals to the oscilloscope.
Microphone: a sound-sensing device connected to the PicoScope oscilloscope. It can

be used to pick up noise inside the vehicle cabin, or from outside the vehicle in cases
such as brake squeal.
4.5.2 Terminology
NVH is a specialist area of engineering that has its own terminology. Some of these
terms are from signal processing mathematics and might not be familiar to technicians
without NVH training.
Amplitude: the strength of a vibration or the loudness of a sound. On the graphs

produced by the PicoDiagnostics NVH software, higher peaks indicate larger
amplitudes.
Frequency: the speed at which a component rotates or vibrates. The most common
measures of frequency are RPM (revolutions per minute), CPM (cycles per minute) and
hertz (vibrations per second). A rotation rate of 60 times per minute (60 RPM or 60
CPM) is equal to one rotation per second or 1 hertz (abbreviated to 1 Hz). The graphs
produced by the PicoDiagnostics software show vibrations arranged by frequency.
Lower frequencies are always shown on the left, higher frequencies on the right.
Fundamental: see Harmonic.
Harmonic: when a component rotates or vibrates at a certain frequency, it can also

cause vibrations at higher frequencies—two, three or more times its own frequency.
The frequency of the original rotation or vibration is called the fundamental frequency,
and the faster frequencies are called harmonics. Twice the fundamental frequency is
called the second harmonic, three times is called the third harmonic, and so on.
Order: another word used to describe harmonics. A vibration at twice the speed of a
rotating component is called a second-order vibration; three times the speed is a
third-order vibration, and so on.
Resonance: a marked increase in the transfer of energy from one vibrating

component to another at a particular frequency. For example, if a body panel is
normally quiet but vibrates strongly at a particular engine RPM, resonance is the likely
cause. The body panel is said to 'resonate' at that RPM.
Spectrum: a graph that shows sounds and vibrations. The horizontal position of the
vibration shows its frequency: lower frequencies are on the left, higher on the right.
The vertical position of the vibration shows its amplitude: higher amplitudes (stronger
vibrations) are at the top, lower at the bottom.
4.5.3 Connecting the PicoScope and sensor

a) Connect the oscilloscope to your computer
using the blue USB cable supplied with the
oscilloscope.
b) Plug your chosen sensor into the NVH or

Optical sensor interface.
Note: When using the TA143 or TA183

accelerometer for NVH measurements observe
the handling instructions supplied with the
accelerometer and magnet.
c) Connect the NVH or Optical sensor interface

box to the PicoScope oscilloscope channel
referred to from the software setup tab.
4.5.4 Running the PicoDiagnostics software

Click the PicoDiagnostics icon on your Windows desktop:
or run PicoDiagnostics from the Windows Start menu.
4.5.5 Selecting the NVH test

Click NVH:
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4.5.6 NVH Wizard

Once the NVH test has been selected you will be presented with the Setup tab and
NVH Wizard screen.
Within the Wizard there are four options:
Start a new test: This option guides you through the various steps in order to correctly
setup the NVH test parameters.
Load a saved test: This option opens the familiar Windows Open dialog box. Navigate
to your chosen file and choose Open to see your test data on the Record and Analyze
tab.
Skip the wizard process. Use the last settings I entered: This option takes you to the
final Wizard screen. Clicking Finish shows the Record and Analyze tab (no data), with
previously used settings applied.
Cancel: Canceling the NVH Wizard returns you to the Setup tab for NVH Manual setup.
4.5.7 NVH Setup page

If the NVH Wizard has been canceled but an NVH test is required, the Wizard can be
restarted by clicking the NVH button, or by choosing NVH from the Tests menu. As an
alternative to using the Wizard, you can enter settings manually in the Setup page as
follows:
4.5.7.1 RPM Signal

An RPM Signal source needs to be selected. Choose either:
· J2534 / MDI approved Scan Tool

· Square Wave / Tach
· Static RPM
J2534 / MDI approved Scan Tool
a) Plug the MDI scan tool into a USB port on the computer.
b) Check that the program recognizes the scan tool.
c) Plug the J2534/scan tool into the vehicle’s 16-pin (OBD-II or EOBD) diagnostic
socket.
d) Check that the RPM signal is being received:
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Square Wave / Tach
For this option connect any signal proportional to RPM, such as camshaft, to either
Channel A of a 2-Channel automotive scope or Channel D of a 4-Channel automotive
scope.
Static RPM
If the vehicle will remain at a static RPM during the test, enter the RPM value here.
4.5.7.2 Vibration Signal

The Vibration Signal settings also require confirmation.
Mode informs the software of the equipment you have connected to the oscilloscope.
The available choices are Single Channel, 3-axis, 3-axis plus Single Channel, or
Multiple Sensors.
Single Channel
This mode is for use with a single-axis accelerometer, and when using a single channel
of a 3-axis accelerometer.
Box refers to which NVH interface you have connected to the PicoScope oscilloscope
(refer to rear label).
Sensor is used to select the type of sensor attached to the NVH interface.
Orientation
While this setting makes no difference to the way in which the

software records data, it is a useful feature for stating the
orientation in which the accelerometer is placed during the test.
Location
Indicates where the sensor will be placed. If the vibration can be

felt when sat in the vehicle, Passenger compartment would be
selected. If the software then identifies the problem vibration as
originating from the engine, the accelerometer can be moved into
the engine bay, and this setting adjusted to Engine
compartment.
Notes are used to record specific information about the test. The notes will appear as
a tooltip while viewing the bar graph data and hovering over each graph with the
mouse pointer. Each interface box has its own notes area, and each note entry field is
limited to 1000 characters.
3-axis
The 3-axis option from the Mode selection alters the user interface slightly, revealing
additional setup options:
Box as above.
Sensor as above.
Channel A (X) If checked, this instructs the program to record signal data for the X
axis.
Channel B (Y) If checked, this instructs the program to record signal data for the Y
axis.
Channel C (Z) If checked, this instructs the program to record signal data for the Z
axis.
Note: The Z axis is unavailable if the NVH Interface has been connected to a 2-
channel automotive scope.
Location as above.
Notes as above.
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3-axis plus Single Channel
Note: The 3-axis plus Single Channel mode is unavailable if the NVH Interface has
been connected to a 2-channel automotive scope.
The 3-axis plus Single Channel option from the Mode selection alters the user
interface slightly, revealing additional setup options:
Box as above.
Sensor as above.
Channel A (X) If checked, this instructs the program to record signal data for the X
(Fore/aft) axis.
Channel B (Y) If checked, this instructs the program to record signal data for the Y
(Vertical) axis.
Channel C (Z) If checked, this instructs the program to record signal data for the Z
(Lateral) axis.
Location as above.
Orientation as above.
Notes as above.
Multiple Sensors
The Multiple Sensors option from the Mode selection alters the user interface
slightly, revealing additional setup options. You must inform the software of how many
interface boxes you have attached to your PicoScope oscilloscope, and specify the type
of sensor attached to each. The number of interfaces connected can be adjusted in the
box next to the Mode option, and can have the value of 2, 3 or 4.
Signal quality check
The Vibration Signal on the Setup tab includes a Signal Quality bar. Here you are
able to check the software is registering the signal from the accelerometer. Tap the
accelerometer with your finger and check that a pulse is shown on the signal bar:
No vibration: Vibration detected:
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4.5.7.3 Signal Options

This setting is used to set the desired capture time, which can be from 50 to 500
seconds.
This box is not displayed on the setup screen by default. You can change this by
ticking the Enable Advanced Options box in the Advanced Options dialog.
4.5.8 NVH Vehicle Information page
Under the Vehicle Information tab,

select the vehicle's drivetrain
configuration, and enter the make,
model and year of manufacture.
There is an added feature for

managing and using Parameter IDs
(PIDs), click the Configure PIDs
button to use it.
4.5.8.1 Advanced button

Select the Advanced button to enter
more specific vehicle details.
4.5.8.2 Configure PIDs button

PIDs are codes that are used to request data from a vehicle for diagnostics. The SAE
standard J/1979 defines several PIDs, but many more PIDs are specified by the
respective vehicle manufacturer's. Typically, technicians use PIDs with a scan tool
connected to the vehicle's OBD-II connector.
The PID is sent to the vehicle's controller-area network, a device on the bus recognizes
the PID and reports the value for it back to the bus, from which it is sent to the scan
tool and displayed to the technician.
Note: You can only view the values from the PIDs in the Time Domain view on the
record and analyze tab.
The Configure PIDs dialog includes

two lists, along with several functions.
The first list is called Available PID
Library. This list contains PIDs that
you can select to capture, edit, delete
or export. The Second list is the
Current Capturing PIDs, which
shows you the PIDs in use and their
current values.
When you select one or more PIDs

from the Available PID Library list
you have the option to click on the
Start Capturing button. By clicking
this button you move the selected
PIDs to the Current Capturing PIDs
list and will be able to read the
values.
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If you want to remove PIDs from the

Current Capturing PIDs list you
select them and click the now active
Stop Capturing button, which will
move them back to the library list.
You can export PIDs as .pdpid files by

selecting one or more PIDs from the
Available PID Library list and
clicking on Export. You will then be
asked if you want to export only the
selected files or the entire Library,
before you select the directory to save
to.
You can import exported .pdpid files to

add to the Available PID Library list.
You can create new PIDs by clicking

the Create button. You will then see
the Create PID dialog box. Enter the
PID (hex) along with its description
formula and unit. Click OK to create
the PID.
4.5.9 NVH Record and Analyze page

To begin the test:
· Click the Start button:
The time chart at the bottom of the screen will show the signal from the
accelerometer. Start the engine.
Note: If the vibration can be felt while the vehicle is stationary then the test can be
done in the workshop. Otherwise, a road test will be necessary.
Run the road test or workshop test while PicoDiagnostics captures data from the
vehicle. You will see data appearing in the time chart at the bottom of the window.
This chart also shows RPM, road speed and gear selection for the duration of the test.
When the test is finished, click the Stop button:
To reset the current capture and clear any recorded data while retaining the test
settings, click the Reset Capture button: .
4.5.10 Viewing the results

For the clearest results, select the region of the test where the vibration was at its
strongest. Do this by dragging the mouse over the time chart from the beginning to
the end of the region of interest.
You can now view the results in a number of ways. Clicking one of the view buttons
will display the chosen view.
4.5.10.1 Frequency graph

The frequency graph displays the relevant spectrum for the senor in use. (0-200 Hz for
an accelerometer)
In the example below, the main vibration detected is clearly identified as an E2

(second order engine vibration) An E2 vibration is quite normal with a 4 cylinder 4
stroke engine, as the crankshaft is subjected to two firing events every revolution.
(Twice the fundamental frequency of the engine - E1) The accelerometer will detect
the level of E2 vibration and display the amplitude in “mg” units in the frequency
graph. Each individual axis of a 3-axis accelerometer can be displayed by selecting
Display Mode and Single by
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right-clicking on the Frequency graph. Each axis is represented by a different color and
its respective amplitude indicted along the Y-axis.
An excessive amount of E2 could indicate a problem with engine mounts or the

"contact" between the engine and the chassis.
4.5.10.2 RPM order graph

By selecting RPM Order you will see the Frequency Display converted to indicate
vibration levels relevant to engine speed/frequency. The RPM Order display is now
scaled in multiples of the fundamental engine speed (E1) allowing the NVH software to
track and display engine vibration orders in a fixed position regardless of engine
speed. This is particularly useful should you wish to monitor engine vibration orders at
varying engine speeds and loads. The images below highlight the effects on a second
order engine vibration from a four stroke four cylinder engine under acceleration
(Figure 1) deceleration (Figure 2) and cruising (Figure 3)
Figure 1
Figure 2
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Figure 3
A high second order engine vibration is characteristic of a four stroke four cylinder
engine, given the crankshaft is subjected to 2 x combustion events or shocks per
engine revolution (E2). During acceleration (Figure 1: 3146 rpm) the crankshaft
loading will increase due to driver demand. (High E2) Under deceleration the opposite
will occur
(Figure 2: 1725 rpm) where fuel is cut during over-run and crankshaft combustion
load is removed. (Minimal E2) When cruising (Figure 3: 1748 rpm), fuelling and
combustion are present but with reduced load upon the crankshaft (Low E2)
Referring to all the images of the RPM Order above, the position of E1 and E2
markers remain fixed throughout the entire engine speed / frequency range, and the
scale indicates partial, or multiples of, engine vibration orders assisting with clear
identification of offending engine vibrations.
4.5.10.3 Road speed graph

In this graph, frequencies are scaled to road speed, so wheel and axle-related
harmonics appear at fixed positions regardless of road speed. This makes it easier to
spot propshaft and wheel-related vibrations during a road test.
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4.5.10.4 Bar graph

This view lists all the selected vibration harmonics and shows their values in real time.
Below, Unknown (U) vibration peaks have been enabled under Add Vibration.
With 3-axis plus single channel and Multiple sensors you have the option of
adding a microphone as a sensor. When you add a microphone, the Bar Graph view
in Record and Analyze will change to show the measurement dB as well as a
different color on the bar compared to the vibration bars.
Single Channel
3-axis (in default view)
3-axis (in Channels view)
3-axis plus Single channel (in Channels view)
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3-axis plus single channel (in default view)
4.5.10.5 3D frequency graph

The 3D frequency graph creates a record of how the vibration spectrum changes over
time during a test drive. Selected vibrations are plotted as colored path allowing users
to monitor the change in frequency of a specific vibration over time. Such a feature
will assist with the detection and measurement of resonance that is present for a brief
moment in time when a forced vibration matches the natural frequency of a
component (for instance the exhaust resonance at a specific engine RPM). The axes
can be dragged to change the vertical and horizontal scales along with the viewing
angles.
4.5.10.6 Time Domain

Time domain is a real time feature you can use to measure harshness, such as knocks,
creaks and squeaks. Noises and harshness like these are annoying but are only
present for a very short period of time, with insufficient energy to be transferred to
and displayed in the Frequency display (FFT) of the NVH user interface. The time
domain feature will capture and display the momentary amplitude of these noises.
Events (e.g. pothole strikes) are captured in the signal history as it displays the input
of the attached microphone or accelerometer live (relative to time). These events are
not transferred for display in the FFT as it requires a minimum of 2.5 seconds of
continual disturbance in order to process the event.
Until now, symptoms like these would be reserved for listening devices, letting the
technician listen to the intensity of noises delivered to a headset from microphones
placed around the offending area of the vehicle. The results, however, would be
subjective and open to misinterpretation.
For instance:
Given the vehicle chassis is a single structure, any momentary noise is dissipated
throughout the chassis where it can be detected at strategic points about the chassis
by accelerometers or microphones.
The accelerometer/mic adjacent to the knock will detect the highest amplitude and the
accelerometer/Mic furthest away from the knock will detect the event but at a reduced
amplitude.
The Time Domain display gives the technician the ability to detect the source of a
momentary knock, squeak, creak or click, despite their presence only being felt/heard
for just a split second.
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Above: Note that the Time Domain view is the only view that displays the data from
capturing PIDs.
4.5.10.7 Graph features

General features
Drag left and right on the graph to position the

order markers. The markers are automatically
positioned at the fundamental frequency and its
harmonics.
Drag the vertical axis up and down to change the

vertical scale.
Drag the box at the bottom of each frequency

ruler to move the ruler.
Right-click on any graph to reveal the context

menu:
Scale To Fit. Only available in Time Domain.
Link Scales. Only available in Time Domain.
Display PID Configuration. When this is

enabled the PID will be displayed in with the PID
ID (hex) and the formula.
Auto Scale. This will enlarge or reduce the

vertical scale to make the signal fit on the graph.
Reset the scale. Resets the scale view to

default.
Reference Waveforms. Available in Frequency

view, use this function to add previously saved
data as a reference.
Channels In View. Lets you to display/hide

individual channels of data from the scope.
PIDs In View. Available in Time Domain view.

Lets you display/hide individual PIDs from the
screen.
Display Mode. See below:
Vector Sum. Only available when 3-axis Mode

or 3-axis plus single channel has been
selected. Displays the magnitude of the vector
sum of all three axes.
Single. Displays the amplitude of each of the

selected Channels in View individually.
Peak. Shows the highest amplitude of the

selected Channels in View.
Average. Averages the amplitude of all the

selected Channels in View.
Only available when 3-axis Mode or 3-axis plus

single channel has been selected, these buttons
switch between Vector Sum and Single display
modes (see above).
Clicking this accesses the Customer Details

information screen.
Clicking this button will preview the report ready

for printing.
Click any vibration marker for more information.
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Use this button to show or hide specific vibration

orders on each graph.
Right-click on the recorded data at any time to

reveal the context menu:
Place Signal Marker. This will place a signal

marker at the point the right-click was made,
regardless of the time delay between the right
and left mouse button clicks.
Remove Marker. Right-click on a previously

placed Signal Marker to reveal the context menu.
This option will remove the marker at the point
the right-click was made.
Export Selected Region To CSV. This will save

a CSV file containing all the vibration data that is
currently within the selected region of recorded
data.
Export Selected Region to WAV. This will save

a WAV file containing all the audio data that is
currently within the selected region of recorded
data.
These buttons are used to:
Place Signal Marker. This button is only available while

recording data, and is used to add a signal marker at the
currently recorded data point.
Scroll through signal markers. These buttons are used to

scroll backwards or forwards through placed Signal Markers.
Only available once recording has been completed.
Vibration order markers

In the various frequency graphs, vibration orders are marked with labels such as “T1”
and “E2”. The letter indicates the type of vibration:
• E = Engine
• T = Tires
• P = Propshaft
• U = Unknown
• AP = AC pump pulley
• A = Alternator pulley
• PS = Power steering pulley
• W = Water pump pulley
The number is the order of vibration. For example, “E2” is the second-order engine-
related vibration.
Click on any marker in PicoDiagnostics for more information.
4.5.11 NVH Options

Location: Options on the menu bar
Note: some of the commands shown below might not be available unless the Enable
Advanced Options box is ticked in the Advanced Options dialog.
Save Settings: PicoDiagnostics will remember any changes you made to the
program settings and use them next time you run the program.
Advanced Options: Opens the Advanced Options dialog, which controls the signal
processing algorithms used by PicoDiagnostics.
Calibrate: Opens the Calibration Wizard. Only available for single and 3-
axis mode.
Load Audio Files: Opens the Load Audio dialog for using a WAV format audio file
instead of using the microphone.
Function Generator: Opens the Function Generator dialog.
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4.5.12 NVH Advanced Options

Location: Options on menu bar, then Advanced Options.
The tabs contains various options related to frequency spectrum calculations. While
these are detailed below, we suggest you do not adjust them unless recommended to
do so by your Technical Support department.
Graph
Maximum Maximum frequency that will be displayed with the FFT views.
frequency of
interest
Frequency UnitsAdjusts the unit of measure along the X axis in the FFT views (RPM/
Hz/CPM).
SPL Weighting Allows you to adjust the weighting for Sound pressure level (SPL).
The available options are: dB(A), dB(B), dB(C), and dB(SPL).
Harmonic Lets you choose the number of harmonic markers to use on the
Marker Count capture.
G Scaling Lets you choose the scale. The dBg is a logarithmic scale while g is a
linear scale.
FFT
Windowing: Lets you select one of the standard window functions for
spectrum analysis. The available options are: Hann,
Rectangular, and Flat-top.
FFT Bin Count: Adjust points of FFT sacrificing processing time.
Responsiveness Allows you to adjust the length of the scan time. Reducing
the scan time reduces resolution of frequency in the FFT.
Filter
Low pass filter: Allows any frequency below the set threshold to be
detected.
High pass filter: Allows any frequency above the set threshold to be
detected.
Band Pass: When enabled allows frequencies between the Low pass
and High pass range to be detected.
Band Stop: When enabled allows frequencies outside of the Low pass
and High pass range to be detected.
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Features
Enable Advanced Some commands under the main Options menu are
Features: hidden unless this box is ticked.
Enable Wizard: By default this option is enabled. To stop the NVH Wizard
from appearing uncheck this box.
Calculate Road Speed: Enable this to calculate the road speed through the gear
ratios in order to derive the tire and propshaft vibrations.
This can be used instead of gaining the vehicle speed via
the OBD port.
Note: If a Square Wave/Tach is used for RPM signal, this
option is on by default.
Enable OBD Logging: Adds additional information to the trace file (for Technical
Support).
4.5.13 Load Audio dialog

Location: Options > Load Audio Files on the menu bar
This dialog is only available when the Enable Advanced Options box is ticked in the
Advanced Options dialog.
By using this dialog you can analyze previously recorded audio, for example of vehicle
noise recorded by a customer. The file must be in WAV format.
1. Click Load and locate the audio file.

2. Verify that the Sound Properties are correctly shown.
3. If desired, click Play to listen to the file.
4. To convert the file for vibration analysis in PicoDiagnostics, click Create Signal.
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4.5.14 Function Generator

The inbuilt function generator can generate sounds using your laptop to stimulate
resonance, causing an object to vibrate with a greater amplitude at its specific natural
frequency. This means that the technicians can listen to audio played back at specific
frequencies and match it to sounds present in the vehicle.
The feature can be manipulated to playback audio through the vehicle’s In Car
Entertainment system (ICE) via the PC headphone socket, streamed from the PC via
Bluetooth, or FM modulator if the vehicle does not have Aux or Bluetooth.
This is a very useful feature when customers complain about interior rattles. They will
often have difficulty describing the sound or pinpointing the origin. If you playback
variable low frequencies via the ICE with the Function generator, and increase the
volume, you can generate rattles inside the cabin that can be confirmed by the
customer and help the technician find the origin. All safely done in a parked car.
Source
There are several different sources to choose between: Fixed frequency, T1, T2, T3,
E1, E2, P1 and P2
You can output fixed frequencies through the speakers and compare them to the
vibrations heard during a road test, or you can select other frequency sources to
output to the strobe light hardware to identify faulty components.
Frequency
Number of Hz to use when creating the playback sound. Use the arrow buttons to
adjust it up or down.
Wave type
Sine wave is used to replicate frequency vibrations through the speakers. Square wave
is used for controlling the Strobe light function.
Hz bar
You can also adjust the number of Hz by dragging the blue button right or left on the
bar. This is useful if you do not know the number of Hz, as you can drag this back and
forth while playing the sound to hear the difference and use for matching.
Mute button
By clicking this button you can toggle the sound on and off.
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Sweep mode
By ticking this box you enable sweep mode. In sweep mode you can sweep up or down
between the start frequency and the end frequency at a specified sweep time.
Sweep Down
Makes the function generator sweep from the high frequency to the low frequency.
Sweep up
Makes the function generator sweep from the low frequency to the high frequency.
Pause
Temporarily stops the sweep.
Resume
Starts the sweep again from where you paused it.
Start frequency
The lowest number of Hz that you want to sweep to/from
End frequency
The highest number of Hz that you want to sweep to/from
Sweep time
The time you want to do the sweep in.
Index Export 60
F
3 Filter options 64
Fitness for purpose 3
3-axis 44
Frequency 40
3-axis plus single channel 44
Frequency graph 51
3D frequency graph 58 Function generator 68
Fundamental 40
A
Accelerometer 40 H
Access 3
Harmonic 40
Add vibration 60
Help menu 8
Amplitude 40
L
B
Legal statement 3
Bar graph 56 Liability 3
Battery test 20, 22, 24
Licence agreement 3
Connections 21
Load Audio dialog 67
Options 23
Load command 4
Results 25
M
C
Menu bar 4
Calculate Road Speed 64
Microphone 40
Compression test 15, 16, 17
Misfires 12
Conditions 15
Mission-critical applications 3
Connections 16
Multiple sensors 44
Failed 19
Options 16
Configure PIDs 48
N
Copyright 3 Notes form 6
Customer details 60 NVH advanced options 64
Customer details form 6 NVH graph features 60
Cylinder balance 9, 9, 11 NVH interface 40
controls 12 NVH options 63
Failed 14 NVH results viewer 51
Options 11
Cylinder variation 12 O
D Order 40
Details dialog 6 P
Display mode 60
Display PIDs data 59 PIDs 48
PIDs in view 60
E Preferences command
Print report 60
4
Enable Advanced Features 64 Propshaft Balancing 26

Enable OBD Logging 64
Exit command 4
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R
Record and analyze 51
Resonance 40
Road speed graph 55
RPM order graph 52
RPM signal 43
S
Save command 4
Scan tool 43
Signal graph 13
Signal markers 60
Signal options 48
Signal quality check 44
Single channel 44
Spectrum 40
Square wave 43
Static RPM 43
Support 3
T
Tach 43
Tests menu 8
Time Domain 59
Trademarks 3
U
Upgrades 3
Usage 3
User details 5
V
Vehicle details form 6
Vehicle information 48
Vibration order markers 60
Vibration signal 44
View menu 5
Viewing the result 51
Viruses 3
United Kingdom headquarters United States headquarters
Pico Technology Pico Technology

James House 320 N Glenwood Blvd
Colmworth Business Park Tyler
St. Neots Texas 75702
Cambridgeshire United States
PE19 8YP
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 1480 396 395 Tel: +1 800 591 2796
Fax: +44 (0) 1480 396 296 Fax: +1 620 272 0981
sales@picotech.com
support@picotech.com
www.picoauto.com
pd.en r18 2016-11-11

Copyright © 2009-2016 Pico Technology Ltd. All rights reserved.

Picodiagnostics Users Guide 18

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Picodiagnostics Users Guide 18

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PicoDiagnostics®

2 Running PicoDiagnostics ........................................................................................................ 26

With a PicoScope, PicoDiagnostics turns your PC into an automotive diagnostics tool.

If you need to go beyond the built-in tests, an additional program is available:

How to use PicoDiagnostics

2.1 System requirements

*Earlier versions of PicoDiagnostics remain compatible with Windows XP SP3,

2.2 Using PicoDiagnostics for the first time

Plug in your PicoScope oscilloscope. Windows will recognise it

2. Click the new PicoDiagnostics icon on your Windows desktop.

3. Click the button for the test you wish to perform.

Follow the on-screen Setup Wizards or instructions on

2.3 Licence agreement

Mission-critical applications. This software is intended for use on a computer that

Upgrades. We provide upgrades, free of charge, from our website at

Trademarks. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Pico

3.1 File menu

Save. Some tests allow you to save test data to disk.

Preferences. Opens up the User Details dialog.

Exit. Close PicoDiagnostics without saving any data.

3.1.1 User Details dialog

How to use the dialog

Click OK to close the dialog and save the changes.

Click Cancel to close the dialog and discard the changes.

The items in the dialog

Name: Name of the technician, or the contact name, to appear on the

3.2 View menu

Details. Edit the customer and vehicle details and notes.

3.2.1 Customer details dialog

How to use the dialog

Click OK to close the dialog and save the changes.

Click Cancel to close the dialog and discard the changes.

Name. The customer's name.

Phone. The customer's phone number.

Address. The customer's address. There is space for 4 lines.

Year. The year of the vehicle.

3.3 Tests menu

3.4 Options menu

· Cylinder balance options

To begin any test, click the PicoDiagnostics icon on your computer:

These tests are available with this installation of PicoDiagnostics:

4.1 Cylinder balance

4.1.2 Test conditions

Screen 1: Contains a notice about using the software.

Connect the oscilloscope

4.1.5 Running the test

Brings up a second graph, the signal

4.1.7 Signal graph

Signal graph context menu

4.1.8 Failed test

· the connection to the battery is good

· engines with more than 8 cylinders

If there is still a problem

4.2 Compression test

Compression test - before starting the test

There are two types of compression test:

· Relative compression - requires no pressure transducer, only a connection to the

· Set the test conditions

4.2.2 Test conditions