The Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) is a high performance, ruggedized, vehicle serial communications gateway. This device provides multiple vehicle serial communication interfaces to meet the requirements of all Ford Motor Company vehicles.

The VCM unit is housed in a magnesium enclosure with a tough, protective, plastic cover for the PCMCIA expansion slot which can, for example, be used for wireless LAN cards or memory expansion.

The VCM device contains five LED status indicators to provide the user with a visual mode of internal VCM, vehicle, and host device (e. G. NGS Classic's T-Handle, PC, Pocket PC/PDS, and Laptop/IDS) operation.

The VCM also has detachable cables for connection to industry standard high-speed host interfaces as well as to the vehicle under test.

The VCM 2007.7 DVD includes both IDS (Integrated Diagnostic Software) and PDS (Portable Diagnostic Software) tools.

Diagnostic coverage includes most 1996 to 2008 MY (produced 1995 to 2007) Ford, Lincoln/Mercury & Mazda vehicles.

Application Overview

() is the next generation diagnostic tool. integrates WDS software modified to run on an off-the-shelf laptop with the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) currently used in NGS+ and PDS, and a new Vehicle Measurement Module (VMM).

Vehicle Diagnostic Connectors

The VCM 16-pin DLC cable is used to connect the VCM to the vehicle. The VCM and VMM connect to the laptop through the Ethernet-USB Adapter Cable (H406/H416).

Interface Devices

The interface devices that are used with this application are:

VCM to Vehicle Communication Module to This device provides all link based functionality including: Data logger, Self test, Service Functions, Module Configuration and Programming, etc. VMM to Vehicle Measurement Module to This device provides the following functionality: Oscilloscope, Digital Multi-Meter, Ignition System Test, Fuel System Test, and SGM.

Note that the application will detect the interface device that is connected to the laptop. Indicator icons will appear at the bottom right-hand corner of the IDS screen when the VCM and/or VMM are connected.