OBD test gear

[Fritz1]

I have a 2000 Ranger XLT with the 3.0 engine and manual transmission. Not exactly happy with myself today as I was unpackaging the new test gear I bought I discovered that it takes a Windows computer to update it with. I bought a Autel Autolink AL519 test unit so I could read the test codes from the truck computer so I can do maintenance etc... on my ranger. My usual mechanic recently became disabled so I'll have to takeover.
Anyway, can someone please recommend a test unit that does not require Windows?

 

[Blmpkn]

I have a 2000 Ranger XLT with the 3.0 engine and manual transmission. Not exactly happy with myself today as I was unpackaging the new test gear I bought I discovered that it takes a Windows computer to update it with. I bought a Autel Autolink AL519 test unit so I could read the test codes from the truck computer so I can do maintenance etc... on my ranger. My usual mechanic recently became disabled so I'll have to takeover.
Anyway, can someone please recommend a test unit that does not require Windows?

It won't work at all without an update? That's annoying.

I have a cen-tech obd2+abs scanner from harbor freight.. it came with a CD for future updates but it did not need one to work out of the box.

 

[Fritz1]

The paper in the box indicated I needed to download an app from them and configure it before it would work. This cen-tech you have, would it work on other brands of cars? I recently updated my fleet and now I have no computerless vehicles except my chevy.

 

[Blmpkn]

The paper in the box indicated I needed to download an app from them and configure it before it would work. This cen-tech you have, would it work on other brands of cars? I recently updated my fleet and now I have no computerless vehicles except my chevy.

Just for shits n giggles I'd try it without the update and see if it works anyways.

The unit I have has worked with ford's, subarus, chevys, and a Buick.. all without needing to update or anything. I have a feeling that they generally come updated for at least all current vehicles comparative to when the scanner was made... so if the scanner was bought in '15 it should work on all models pre-15... but might need updating to work on a '23 or whatever. Not positive.

 

[Curious Hound]

Generally speaking, the usb reader is just a communications interface. The real work of interpreting data and codes is done with the app in your phone or computer. Some apps may be more specific to one brand of vehicle or another. “OBD II” is an industry standard. I’ve used my dongle and the torque app on fords and Chevys.

 

[RonD]

Ask around, you should know someone with a PC or laptop running windows
They or you can use that computer to "activate" the unit and download any current software updates
You don't need any more updates or downloads to do general maintenance on 95% of vehicles sold in US or Canada

OBD2 is a "language" not specific to a vehicle maker, all new vehicles, with computers, sold in the US/Canada since 1996 were required by Law to speak "OBD2"
So once your new reader has been activated and updated it will be fine to use as is for many many years with/on any major car maker brand

 

[Fritz1]

Hey, thanks for the help. I ordered a Blcktec bluetooth dongle, blcktec said it would work on my other car too, which has an issue with obd2 of some sort as O'reilly's said they couldn't read my car with their tool. I'm going to give the Autel to my friend for xmas as he's a windows guy and I'm not. Problem solved!