Connection Methods
OBD: Read and write from the diagnostic port.
OBD mode is the most immediate way to work on a control unit. You connect directly to the vehicle diagnostic port, without disassembly, and manage reading (also in Virtual Read – VR mode) and writing quickly.
It is the ideal solution for fast, non-invasive operations: select the vehicle in Alientech Suite, follow the guided procedure and complete the operation in just a few steps.
Despite its simplicity, every vehicle has specific characteristics. That is why dedicated technical manuals are always available, indicating all necessary precautions, such as using a stabilized power supply or checking any specific vehicle conditions.
The connection also varies depending on the application: not all vehicles use the same standard OBD cable. Specific cables are therefore available for each protocol, designed to ensure stable communication and safe operation.
Bench: Direct access to the control unit via connector, for reading, writing and cloning without opening the control unit.
With Bench mode, you work directly on the control unit by connecting through the connector, without having to open it.
This approach offers more complete access than OBD because it allows total reading/writing of the control unit content and is used when communication through the diagnostic port is not available, when greater stability is required during reading and writing, or when operations such as cloning are needed.
In the workshop, this means working “on the bench”, using dedicated multicolour wiring and specific accessories to ensure a safe and precise connection. Depending on the vehicle, you can work either with the control unit removed or directly from the engine bay.
Here too, the process is guided: Alientech Suite provides pinouts, wiring diagrams and detailed operating steps, always supported by official manuals.
Boot: Full access to the internal memories, for total control with the control unit open.
Boot mode is the most advanced level of operation. It requires opening the control unit to directly access the internal memories and obtain maximum control.
It is the solution used when in-depth operations are required, locked or damaged control units need to be recovered, or simply when you need 360-degree access to the control unit content.
As in BENCH mode, you can read the full content of the control unit or work selectively on specific components, with a very high level of precision.
In this case, the work is more technical: operations are carried out on the bench with dedicated tools, using accessories such as the frame, adapters, probes and dedicated boards to connect correctly to the points on the board. In some applications, soldering may also be required, so manual skill and attention to detail are essential.
It is a complete approach, designed for those who want maximum control and want to work like a true tuner.
In Boot mode too, every operation is guided: detailed manuals show exactly where to connect and how to carry out the process safely, reducing the margin of error.