Hardware Overview    Click here for IDS ordering information.
VCM
The Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) communicates with all Ford vehicles via the 16-pin diagnostic link. This single device will be used by all Ford diagnostic software and is the core of the modular strategy. A VCM license provides access to all diagnostic software that uses the VCM.

VMM (Launched January, 2006)
The Vehicle Measurement Module (VMM) handles electronic and transducer based measurements. The VMM connected to a laptop offers the following functionality:

Hardware Functionality
Use the functionality chart below to determine what hardware should be purchased. IDS is a modular system composed of software and hardware. Use your business needs and budget to determine what pieces are needed.

 

Diagnostic Functionality	PDS (VCM + Pocket PC)	IDS (VCM + Laptop + VMM)
		VCM Required	VMM Required
Self Test
Retrieve CMDTC's	X	X
KOEO (Key-On-Engine-Off)	X	X
KOER (Key-On-Engine-Running)	X	X
Data Logger
Body	X	X
Chassis	X	X
Electrical	X	X
Powertrain	X	X
Pressure/Vacuum Tests		X	X
Network Test	X	X
Module Programming
Programmable Module Installation    (PDS - Some vehicles and some modules)	X	X
Module Reprogramming    (PDS - Some vehicles and some modules)	X	X
Programmable Parameters    (PDS - Some vehicles and some modules)	X	X
Body Tools
PATS Functions	X	X
Remote Keyless Entry	X	X
Factory Keyless Entry Code	X	X
Restraints	X	X
Chassis Tools
ABS Service Bleed	X	X
IVD Initialization Sequence	X	X
Ride Height Calibration	X	X
Pneumatic Test		X
Accurate Trim Test		X
Electrical Tools
Charging System Test		X	X
Parking Aid Switch Test	X	X
Audio		X
Powertrain Tools
EVAP Test	X	X
Fuel Economy Test		X
Fuel System Test/Relative Injector Flow Test    (IDS - Some vehicles require only VCM)		X	X
Ignition System Test		X	X
Spark Duration PIDs		X
Power Balance Test	X	X
Relative Compression Test		X
Transmission Test    (IDS - Some vehicles require only VCM)	X	X	X
Engine Checks and OBD Tests    (Drive Cycle, Mode 01, Mode 06 & Mode 09)	X	X
EGR Test		X
Other Powertrain tests & functions	X	X
Digital Multimeter
Basic DMM functions    (Volts, resistance, frequency)			X
Current measurements (50 Amps/500 Amps)			X
Pressure/Vacuum measurements with PVT			X
Oscilloscope Tools
Oscilloscope			X
Alternator ripple			X
COP (Coil-On-Plug) stress test			X
Signal Generator Monitor (SGM)		X	X
Vehicle Data Recorder (VDR)		X

Notes:

• Current measurement and current probes are new for IDS
• IDS uses a new, digital PVT, which has a built-in microprocessor
• VDR requires a new adapter cable and VDR power supply to work with IDS, click here for more information.
• On certain vehicles that also require the use of a VMM, the IDS Fuel System Test/Relative Injector Flow Test requires a new optional diagnostic cable, called a "16-way adapter", Part No. 164-R9537

VMM Kit Contents

VCM Kit Contents

VCM to Laptop Cable Kit Contents:
          Includes the IDS 4m PC Ethernet-USB Host Cable and the VCM DVD.

Converting a VCM from NGS+ to IDS use

1. The VCM must be reprogrammed by the NGS+ Diagnostic Base Station (DBS) PC to an NGS+ level of 24.3 or higher.
2. Use a VCM to Laptop Cable to connect the VCM to the IDS laptop