Dealer Tools Explained
In a series of mini-blogs, our Technical Director, ‘Awesome Knowledge’ Dave, explains the hardware and software for each manufacturer’s dealer tool. His first blog is about the BMW, Mini and Rolls Royce dealer tools.
Hardware
The current hardware available for BMW, Mini, and Rolls Royce is the Integrated Communication Optical Modules, more commonly called the ICOM Next. This includes the ICOM Next A, B, C, D and E. As well as the ISSS Next desktop system.
ICOM Next A
The BMW ICOM Next A is the main VCI unit that connects to the 16-pin OBD socket.
ICOM Next B
The ICOM Next B is required for use in vehicles with MOST access. MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport) is the fibre optic network that allows communication to the entertainment modules. The ICOM Next C is the pre-OBD 20-pin cable adapter.
ICOM Next D
The ICOM Next D and ICOM Next E are specific cables for use with the BMW Motorrad motorcycles.
ISSS Next
The ISSS Next is a desktop PC without a screen, keyboard, or mouse. This is not a device normally seen outside the dealership network, very similar to the Integrated Service Information Display (ISID Next). The ISID Next is basically a Panasonic CF-54 or Getac S410 Rugged Laptop built to the specifications BMW recommends.
Software
The current software used in conjunction with these hardware units and devices is located within the website portal Aftersales Online System, more commonly called AOS.
The AOS portal houses all the software needed and used to service, repair, and program all BMW, Mini, and Rolls Royce vehicles.
Some functionality within AOS can be used without any subscriptions, for example, the Electronic Parts catalogue and the more commonly used KaSIO (Service and Key Information).
The KaSIO application can be used with or without the additional desktop key reader or KeyReader Plus devices. The main function of the KaSIO application is to create a digital service history entry for uploading to BMW central servers.
Two of the main applications used within the AOS portal are the ISTA workshop system and ISTA/P – E series programming. These two applications are used to cover BMW, Mini, and Rolls Royce diagnostics and programming.
Key Reader
The BMW desktop key reader is an optional extra. It’s a user-friendly tool. Simply place the key on the Key Reader, and the device will begin to read the data.
The Key Reader operates through the BMW AOS web portal.
Where to Buy the Genuine BMW Dealer Tool
You can find out more about buying the genuine BMW dealer tool and bundle options and prices here.
Dealer Tool Training
When you purchase a dealer tool through Maverick Diagnostics, initial training is included. One of our Maverick Help Desk technicians will take you through the basics of functionality, software updates and subscriptions during an online training session.
If you want to find out more, call one of our advisors on (+44) 1978 856 190.
In-depth training for the BMW tool is coming to our sister company, the Automotive Training Academy, very soon and Maverick Diagnostics directors, Dave Jones and Andy Brooke recently held a Live Q&A session to explain. If you missed the session and want to find out about what this course will cover, you can catch up here.
